Top Rated Resistance Equipment with Screens for Fitness

Surprising fact: more than half of smart home gym buyers say a built-in screen changed how often they train.

The right smart machine can shrink gym trips and boost results at home. This guide compares top systems — Tonal 2, Tempo Studio, Speediance Gym Monster, MaxPRO SmartConnect, and mirrors like Alter Screen — so you can pick gear that fits your space and goals, and consider exploring structured home workout programs for additional techniques.

Expect clear testing notes on max pounds, program quality, and real ownership price. We cover subscriptions, setup needs, and how each system feels next to free weights.

Quick focus: learn which units excel for compact home spaces, who should pay for membership, and which add-ons are worth the cost.

Key Takeaways

• Tonal 2 and Tempo offer advanced digital feedback and class-style sessions for serious at-home training.
• Speediance is a compact, foldable option for small gyms that favors no-subscription use.
• MaxPRO is portable but packs high max load for travel or limited areas.
• Alter Screen and similar mirrors shine for live classes and personalized plans.
• Compare total price, space needs, and subscription costs before you buy.

What counts as resistance equipment with screens in 2025?

Modern home setups blend smart towers, mirrors, and camera coaches to replace bulky gear.

Smart cable trainers are wall-mounted or freestanding towers that deliver heavy digital load—Tonal 2, for example, goes up to 250 lb and gives guided plans and AI cues. These units feel most like a true strength machine and suit serious lifting at home.

Camera-based coaches such as Tempo Studio and Peloton Guide use 3D vision to count reps and correct form. They need clear floor space in front of the display so the sensor can see your movement.

Fitness mirrors like Alter Screen stream live and on-demand classes and offer personalized plans. They shine for bodyweight training, mobility, and guided workouts but are not ideal for maximal lifting.

Decide early whether you want heavy lifting or class-style variety. Many systems unlock their best features through a subscription, so factor ongoing fees and installation needs into the total cost.

For a quick comparison of top smart strength options, see this short guide: best smart strength training gear.

Editor’s quick picks: Best for home, small spaces, and heavy lifters

If you want powerful lifts at home or a tiny footprint for a studio apartment, these models stand out.

Top overall for home strength: Tonal 2 — compact wall-mount, up to 250 lb digital load and smart coaching that doubles as a cardio option.

Best portable pick: MaxPRO SmartConnect — almost travel-ready, under 10 lb unit that delivers up to 300 lb for real lifting on the go.

Best value for beginners: Speediance Gym Monster — free-standing, foldable, up to 220 lb at a lower price point for starter training.

Best for form coaching: Tempo Studio — 3D sensors, rep counts, and weight recognition. Needs about 6 ft of clear floor space in front of the display.

Best for guided classes: Alter Screen — a mirror that focuses on live and on-demand classes and personalized plans rather than heavy lifting.

Quick buying notes: match your goals to the machine. Think about price, installation needs, monthly subscriptions, and how much space you can spare in front of the screen.

For a closer look at compact options that save space and time, see our guide to compact exercise gear.

Best overall smart strength system: Tonal 2 Smart Home Gym

Tonal 2 aims to be the single wall-mounted machine that replaces a full rack for most home lifters.

The core draw is pure capability: up to 250 pounds of digital load (125 lb per arm) and a faster processor that adjusts on the fly during your workouts.

Why it wins

AI-assisted coaching uses a built-in camera to give on-screen cues that act like a live trainer. The unit delivers thousands of classes and progressive strength training programs.

What’s new vs the original

The update adds nylon pulleys and stronger lock-pins for better durability. An Aero cardio mode broadens how you use the machine beyond pure lifting.

Membership, accessories, and real cost of ownership

Expect an upfront price around $4,300. A recommended accessories bundle runs about $495 and includes handles, bar, rope, bench, roller, and mat.

• Monthly subscription roughly $60.
• Trade-in credit from the classic model can be ~$1,000.
• Wall-mount design saves floor space but needs proper installation and clearance.

Bottom line: For users who want a compact, screen-driven machine that handles heavy loads and smart coaching, Tonal 2 justifies its price and ongoing membership for long-term fitness gains.

Best for form coaching with free weights: Tempo Studio (and Tempo Core)

Tempo Studio acts like an on-screen personal trainer for lifters who prefer free weights. 3D sensors count reps, check form, and recognize dumbbell weights so you get instant feedback during classes and workouts.

3D tracking and real-time feedback

The camera system measures motion and reps, then prompts changes in tempo or load. This helps you keep proper form and reduce plateaus.

Storage, layout, and space needs

The Studio’s armoire holds weight plates, dumbbells, and bars to keep a tidy home gym. Plan for about 6 feet of clear space in front of the screen so tracking stays accurate.

Studio vs Core: cost and who should buy

Studio is a premium, integrated option at a higher price (~$1,668) and a larger footprint. Membership starts high in year one then falls to a monthly subscription that supports up to six profiles.

Tempo Core pairs an iPhone dock and weights for a lower upfront cost. Pick Core if you own an iPhone and want core tracking at a lighter price. Choose Studio if you want the full cabinet, bigger screen, and a dedicated trainer-like experience.

Budget-friendly beginner option: Speediance Gym Monster

If you’re starting out and short on space, a foldable smart gym can get you moving fast and affordably. The Speediance Gym Monster is a free-standing home machine that fits through standard doorways and unfolds to 4.1’L x 2.3’W x 6’H for training.

Setup, digital feel, and beginner-first programming

Easy install: Unlike wall-mounted systems, this unit arrives ready to place and folds to about 1.15’L for storage, saving floor space in an apartment or multipurpose room.

Load and feel: It offers up to 220 pounds (110 per arm), which suits most new lifters and many intermediates. Testers liked the distinct digital feel and the options between barbell mode and chain-style tension for varied workouts.

Accessories and value: Smart handles, a barbell, rope, ski grips, bench options, ankle straps, and J-hooks widen exercise choices without costly add-ons. There’s no notable subscription fee tied to the core unit, which helps the long-term price case.

• Good for quick setup and simple progression.
• Minor pulley hitching and a smaller workout library are the main trade-offs.
• See the Speediance Gym Monster for details: Speediance Gym Monster.

Most portable resistance system with app tracking: MaxPRO SmartConnect

MaxPRO SmartConnect shrinks a full cable gym into a carry-on you can park in a closet.

Travel-ready strength: up to 300 lb resistance at under 10 lb

The MaxPRO packs up to 300 pounds into a unit that weighs about 10 lb. It’s ideal for home or on-the-road training when you can’t access a full gym.

What testers liked: portability rated very high and setup takes only minutes.

• The optional door-mount bracket expands upper-body options.
• A companion app (about $19.99/month) tracks sets and offers guided sessions, though some users find the interface clunky.
• Expect a short break-in before the cable runs very smooth; performance improves over time.

“MaxPRO delivers heavy load in a tiny package — perfect for travelers who refuse to skip strength work.”

Smart fitness mirrors for guided bodyweight and light resistance

For people who prefer guided bodyweight work, a mirror-based system can be the hub of a home gym. These units focus on form, mobility, and consistent instruction rather than heavy lifting.

Alter Screen delivers live and on-demand classes and pairs them with a DNA-driven plan that personalizes training and wellness goals. The device is sleek (69.7” H x 19.25” W x 1.58” D) and can be wall-mounted or freestanding to save floor space.

Expect a subscription to unlock the full class library, coaching cues, and ongoing program updates. The unit ships with basic accessories and runs on standard 110V power over 2.4/5 GHz Wi‑Fi.

What it does best — and where it stops

Mirrors excel at live classes, technique-focused workouts, and a personal training-style experience that keeps users engaged.

They are not built for heavy strength progressions. If you need serious load, pair a mirror with a compact strength solution.

• Great for: home classes, mobility, bodyweight training, and guided technique.
• Consider: subscription cost, room space for movement, and where the unit fits in your routine.

Peloton and iFit ecosystems: where on-demand classes meet strength

If you like guided classes plus measurable strength work, Peloton and iFit anchor two of the largest streaming ecosystems. Both connect bikes, rowers, treadmills, and strength sessions so you can use one screen to manage a full plan at home.

Peloton’s All‑Access membership runs about $44/month for multi-device use. The Peloton Guide drops into TV setups for roughly $195–$295 and brings strength tracking and coaching cues to on-demand classes and live on-demand sessions.

iFit costs about $39/month for family access or $15/month individual. It pairs AutoAdjust features on NordicTrack and ProForm and even routes workouts through Google Maps for outdoor-style runs.

• Both platforms offer live and on‑demand classes, so you can train in real time or on your schedule.
• Choose a membership or subscription that matches how much time you plan to spend on guided training.
• If you want deeper personal training, pick progressive programs over drop‑in classes.

“Many users combine classes with a strength setup to stay motivated and track real progress.”

resistance equipment with screens: key buying factors that matter now

Choosing a screen-driven setup means matching how you want to progress, how much room you have, and how the on-screen coaching behaves. Focus on factors that shape daily use and long-term gains.

Resistance type, max load, and progression for strength training

Pick digital cables or free weights based on long-term goals. Tonal 2 offers up to 250 lb of digital load for serious lifting. Speediance folds down yet still gives about 220 lb, a good starter option.

Screen size, sensors, and coaching quality

Sensor fidelity matters. Tempo Studio’s 3D sensors provide clear form feedback and accurate rep counts. Mirrors like Alter focus on classes and guided movement, not heavy progressions.

App reliability, updates, and content variety

Test the companion app before you buy. MaxPRO’s app is optional at $19.99/month and can feel clunky for some users. A smooth app reduces friction and keeps your workout routine consistent.

Memberships and subscriptions: what you’ll actually pay each month

Monthly fees often determine whether a smart home gym feels like a bargain or a burden. Factor recurring costs into your total ownership math before you buy.

Tonal and Tempo — heavy on guided strength

Tonal’s membership is about $60 per month. That fee unlocks AI coaching, performance tracking, and a deep strength library that drives long-term progress.

Tempo Studio runs roughly $139 per month in year one (this includes a $100 equipment fee), then drops to about $39 per month after 12 months. Tempo Core typically sits near $40 per month, or as low as $30 with a two‑year commitment.

Peloton, Peloton Guide, and iFit — classes plus multi-device use

Peloton All‑Access goes for about $44 per month. If you only want Guide’s strength content, expect near $24 per month for that add‑on.

iFit lists around $39 per month for a family plan or roughly $15 per month for an individual plan. That covers multi‑modality classes, mapped workouts, and global routes.

How to calculate real annual cost

Add these month‑to‑month fees to the hardware price to see the true yearly cost. Count profiles per household and whether your home gym will share one account.

• Look for free trials or bundled offers to cut initial cost.
• Compare long‑term subscription benefits against how much time you’ll use the service.
• Evaluate whether the content justifies the price for your workout goals.

Heart rate monitor integration and training zones

Pairing a heart rate strap to your home system turns vague effort into measurable training data. Most platforms link a heart rate monitor over Bluetooth so you can track zones during classes or solo workouts.

Real-time heart rate metrics help you hit target intensity and guide recovery between heavy sessions. Peloton and iFit both display live heart rate and post-workout summaries that make progress easy to review.

Why zones matter: zone tracking complements strength blocks by showing when accessory work raises conditioning. Over weeks, consistent heart rate trends validate gains and flag when to back off.

• Quick pairing: most platforms remember your device so setup only takes a few minutes.
• Compatibility tip: if you own a strap already, verify brand support before buying.
• Practical use: use zones to pace intervals, time rest, and keep recovery days productive.

“Pairing a monitor saves time at setup and turns every session into data you can use.”

Space, installation, and safety for your home gym

Plan your layout before delivery so your home workout area works safely and efficiently. Good placement reduces setup delays and keeps your family and gear protected.

Wall-mounted vs free-standing and portable options

Wall-mounted machines like Tonal 2 (50.9”H x 21.5”W x 5.25”D) need a sturdy wall and clear floor space for full ranges of motion. Verify studs and mounting specs before you buy.

Free-standing units such as Speediance unfold to about 4.1’L x 2.3’W x 6’H. They simplify install and fold away to save space when not in use.

Portable systems like MaxPRO weigh roughly 10 lb and need minimal setup. An optional door bracket expands exercises and lets you move the machine between rooms or travel.

Floor clearance, ceiling height, and cable path safety

Leave at least 6 feet in front of camera-based models like Tempo Studio for accurate tracking. Check ceiling height for overhead presses and pull movements if you add pounds to lifts.

Keep the cable path free of clutter and secure anchor points. Store bars, handles, and benches so they do not become tripping hazards.

• Tip: schedule professional mounting early if required to avoid installation delays.
• Tip: plan storage so accessories don’t block walkways and waste workout time.

Accessories that elevate your experience

Small add-ons often change how practical and fun a home workout becomes. The right accessories can expand movement options and improve form without stealing space.

Smart handles, bars, benches, and must-haves

Smart handles add rep tracking and motion data that deepen on-screen coaching. Tonal 2’s accessory bundle ($495) and Speediance packages include smart handles, a bar, rope, bench, and mat to start strong.

A solid bench unlocks presses, rows, and supported lifts while keeping your footprint small. MaxPRO’s door-mount and bench options let travelers and small-space users add stability without a big footprint.

• Rope and triceps attachments broaden arm and core variety.
• Ankle straps open glute and hip work on cable-style machines.
• Prioritize handles and bars first, then add specialty pieces as your program grows.

Tip: weigh bundle price versus piecemeal buying. Reuse compatible pieces across models to get the best long-term value and enjoy a fuller training experience at home.

Free weights versus digital resistance: which feels harder and why

Some lifters find the digital feel oddly heavier, even when the number on the display looks modest.

Why it can feel harder: digital systems control load through the full range of motion, so the machine can push extra load at sticking points.

Tonal 2 can change how a rep feels by boosting load at weak spots. Testers of Speediance said chain-style modes felt tougher than the printed weight. MaxPRO often emphasizes concentric effort, which changes fatigue patterns compared to classic plates.

Free weights demand more balance and stabilizer strength. That makes barbell lifts translate better for raw strength testing and sport-style training.

• Digital: precise tempo, targeted overload, guided sessions.
• Free weights: stability, core control, real-world transfer.
• Best practice: combine both to get skill, overload, and variety in your workout plan.

“Your results depend on programming, tempo, and time under tension — variables smart systems can tune.”

Bottom line: use free weights for foundational form and digital load for coached overload and efficient time use at home.

Who each pick fits best

Picking the right model starts by matching how you like to train and how much room you can spare.

Beginners

Speediance Gym Monster and Tempo Core ease users into a steady routine. They offer guided workouts and friendly price points that lower the barrier to entry.

Intermediates

Tempo Studio and Tonal 2 bring deeper programming and coach-style cues to refine form and keep progress steady. These are great if you want structured plans and measurable gains.

Heavy lifters

Tonal 2 (up to 250 lb) and MaxPRO (up to 300 lb) deliver the load needed for serious sets while still fitting small footprints.

Small-space users

MaxPRO and Speediance shine when floor area is tight. Their portable or foldable designs free up living room space between sessions.

Group-class and trainer-style fans

Alter Screen, Peloton, and iFit keep motivation high through live classes and a steady schedule. If you want a virtual trainer that feels like personal training, Tempo’s sensors and Tonal’s AI cues are excellent choices.

Price matters: compare subscription costs and bundles to find the best long-term value for your workout style.

• Consider how much clear space you need in front of a machine or mirror for accurate tracking.
• Match the platform to the kind of fitness experience you enjoy, then check total cost over a year.

For an easy comparison of compact options and long-term ownership, see our guide to best home gyms.

How to compare top models at a glance

Use a few clear criteria to cut through specs and find the best fit for your space and goals. Start by checking load and type so the machine meets current and future training needs.

Quick checklist: compare screen and sensor tech for form feedback and rep counting. Note membership and subscription costs—Tonal 2 is about $4,300 + $60/month; Tempo Studio lists ~$1,668 + higher first‑year fees then $39/month; Tempo Core runs near $40/month or $30 with a two‑year plan.

Check space needs (wall‑mount vs foldable), setup time, and whether the app runs independently. Speediance folds up and offers up to 220 lb; MaxPRO gives up to 300 lb and an optional $19.99 app. Alter Screen focuses on DNA planning and mirror classes.

• Accessories: see what’s included vs add‑on (handles, bench, storage).
• App reliability: updates and offline options matter for consistent workouts.
• Prioritize weekly use: pick features you’ll use, not just flashy specs.

Conclusion

Match gear to habit: the best buys are the ones you’ll use every week, not the flashiest spec sheet.

Choose based on space, budget, and how you like to train. Tonal 2 leads for all‑in‑one digital strength. Tempo excels at sensor-driven free‑weight coaching. Speediance fits beginners who need a foldable, easy setup.

Travelers and tight-space users will like MaxPRO’s portable power. Class fans can pair a mirror or Peloton/iFit subscription to keep workouts fresh and motivating.

Balance upfront price and monthly fees against features you’ll use. Do that, and your home gym will deliver consistent, time‑efficient fitness and a better training experience.

FAQ

What counts as resistance equipment with screens in 2025?

Devices that pair force-generating systems — like digital weight stacks, smart cable trainers, or magnetic cartridges — with an integrated display or tablet. Think smart mirrors, connected home gyms, and app-linked machines that deliver live and on-demand classes, form coaching, and real-time metrics such as heart rate and rep counts. Popular examples include Tonal and Tempo Studio, which blend guided workouts, personal training-style feedback, and accessory support like smart handles and weight plates.

How do smart cable trainers, mirrors, and camera-based coaches differ?

Smart cable trainers deliver adjustable digital load and usually include handles or bars for strength movements. Mirrors focus on guided classes and technique feedback using a slim reflective display. Camera-based coaches use 3D sensors or optical tracking to count reps, correct form, and track free-weight workouts. Each targets different needs: heavy-load strength, compact guided workouts, or form coaching for free weights.

Why is Tonal 2 considered the best overall smart strength system?

Tonal 2 pairs up to 250 lb of digital load with a faster processor and AI-driven cues for safer progression. It offers precise load adjustments, a range of accessories, and a robust subscription library of strength and cardio programs. Its compact wall-mount design saves floor space compared with full racks while supporting heavy lifting and tempo work.

What’s new in Tonal 2 versus the original model?

Improvements include stronger lock-pins and nylon pulleys for durability, a faster internal processor for smoother class playback, and Aero cardio-style programming additions. These updates boost reliability, reduce mechanical wear, and expand the cardio-strength crossover experience, and consider exploring immersive VR cardio equipment for additional techniques.

What are the real ownership costs for Tonal and similar systems?

Beyond the device price, plan for a monthly membership fee for on-demand classes, occasional accessory purchases (smart handles, bars, benches), and potential wall-mount or installation costs. Compare long-term subscription costs — Tonal, Tempo, Peloton, and iFit each have different pricing tiers that affect total cost of ownership.

How does Tempo Studio help with free-weight form coaching?

Tempo uses 3D sensors and cameras to count reps, recognize weight plates, and provide real-time feedback on tempo and range of motion. It’s ideal for lifters who want guided barbell and dumbbell sessions with corrective cues and rep tracking that mirrors a personal trainer’s attention.

What’s included with Tempo Studio, and how much space do I need?

Packages typically include the screen unit, sensors, storage for plates and dumbbells, and a subscription trial. You’ll need clear floor space in front of the screen — usually about 6 to 8 feet — to perform full-range lifts safely, plus room for a bench if you plan to press or bench.

How do Tempo Studio and Tempo Core differ?

Tempo Studio is the premium system with a larger slate of sensors, greater accessory compatibility, and more storage. Tempo Core is a smaller, more affordable option aimed at beginners and tight spaces. Choose Studio for heavier training and detailed analytics; pick Core for simpler, budget-friendly guided strength work.

What makes Speediance Gym Monster a good budget beginner option?

The Gym Monster focuses on straightforward setup, programmable digital load feel, and beginner-first programming. It gives new users guided progression without the premium price tag, though it may lack top-tier sensors and heavy max loads compared with high-end models.

Which portable systems offer serious resistance for travel or small spaces?

Systems like MaxPRO SmartConnect deliver travel-ready strength in a lightweight package, sometimes offering up to 300 lb equivalent resistance while staying under 10 lb in carry weight. They pair with an app for tracking and can replicate many compound lifts in a compact form.

What do smart fitness mirrors excel at, and what are their limits?

Mirrors shine for live and on-demand classes, bodyweight work, and light resistance routines. Brands such as Alter Screen add DNA-driven planning and varied class libraries. Limits include lower max load capacity and less suitability for heavy free-weight strength training compared with full smart gyms.

How do Peloton and iFit support strength training within their ecosystems?

Peloton and iFit blend on-demand classes, live instruction, and cross-training content. They integrate cardio hardware with strength programming and often support heart rate monitor pairing, offering a wide content variety for mixed-modality fitness enthusiasts.

What buying factors matter most for strength systems now?

Prioritize max load and progression, screen size and camera/sensor quality, coaching accuracy, app reliability, and accessory options such as smart handles or bench attachments. Also weigh membership content, update cadence, and installation needs to match your space and goals.

How important is heart rate monitor integration?

Very important if you want zone-based conditioning or accurate calorie estimates. Most premium systems link with chest straps or wrist monitors to deliver training zones, recovery guidance, and personalized session intensity tied to your heart rate data.

What installation and space factors should I check for a home gym?

Verify wall-mount requirements versus free-standing setups, ceiling height for overhead movements, and floor clearance for cable and bar paths. Good cable routing, secure mounting anchors, and adequate clearance keep workouts safe and equipment functioning smoothly.

Which accessories truly elevate the smart gym experience?

Must-haves include smart handles, a multipurpose bar, adjustable bench, quality weight plates, and a reliable rate monitor. These add functionality for heavy lifts, better ergonomics, and richer training data during personal training-style sessions.

How does digital resistance feel compare to free weights?

Digital systems deliver precise load control and often smoother eccentric-concentric transitions, but they can feel different than the momentum and stabilizer demand of free weights. Free weights require more balance and recruit more stabilizer muscles, which some lifters prefer for functional strength gains.

Who should pick each type of smart strength system?

Beginners benefit from guided mirrors and budget digital trainers. Intermediates like Tempo or Tonal for progression and coaching. Heavy lifters lean toward systems with higher max loads and solid accessory ecosystems. Small-space users should prioritize compact, wall-mounted or portable options.

How can I quickly compare top models before buying?

Make a side-by-side list of max load, screen and sensor specs, available classes, accessory compatibility, installation needs, monthly subscription cost, and overall footprint. Testing live or on-demand demos and reading trusted reviews helps match features to your training goals.