Selectorized functional trainers use weight stacks with pin selection, while plate loaded versions require manual weight plates for resistance adjustment.
Your choice depends on convenience needs, budget, and whether you prefer quick weight changes or maximum loading capacity.
Quick Weight Selection: Selectorized Systems
Selectorized functional trainers work like those cable machines you see at commercial gyms. You stick a pin into the weight stack at your desired resistance level. That’s it.
No loading plates. No math. Just move the pin and start your workout.
How Selectorized Weight Stacks Work
The weight stack sits inside the machine. Each plate typically weighs 10-20 pounds. You select your total weight by inserting a magnetic pin.
Most home selectorized trainers offer 150-200 pounds per side. Some premium models go up to 300 pounds per stack.
Speed Between Exercises
Here’s where selectorized really shines. You can change from 50 pounds to 120 pounds in two seconds. Perfect for circuit training or supersets.
I found that many fitness experts recommend this setup for people who do varied workouts with different resistance needs.
Perfect for Drop Sets
Want to do drop sets? Start heavy, then quickly reduce weight when you hit failure. With selectorized, you just pull the pin and move it down.
Great for Shared Equipment
If multiple family members use the trainer, weight changes become effortless. No one has to load and unload plates between users.
Selectorized Drawbacks
The main issue? Weight limits. Most home units max out around 200 pounds per side. Strong lifters might outgrow this quickly.
Also, you’re stuck with the increments built into the machine. Usually 10-20 pound jumps. Fine for most people, but not ideal if you need smaller progressions.
Manual Loading: Plate Loaded Systems
Plate loaded functional trainers work like barbells. You slide weight plates onto loading pins or weight horns. More plates equal more resistance.
Unlimited Weight Capacity
This is the biggest advantage. You can load as much weight as your plates allow. Some people load 400+ pounds per side on heavy exercises.
Perfect if you’re already strong or plan to get much stronger over time.
Precise Weight Increments
With standard plates (45, 35, 25, 10, 5, 2.5 pounds), you can make exact adjustments. Need to add just 5 pounds? Easy.
This precision helps with progressive overload. You can increase weight gradually as you get stronger.
Cost Per Pound
Plate loaded machines often cost less upfront. You buy the frame, then add plates as your budget allows.
Weight plates also work with barbells, dumbbells, and other equipment. Better versatility for your home gym dollar.
Plate Loading Challenges
The obvious downside? Time and effort. Loading plates takes 30-60 seconds per exercise change.
During intense workouts, this can kill your momentum. Rest periods get longer whether you want them or not.
Storage and Space
Weight plates need storage. They take up floor space and add clutter to your gym area.
Loading pins are often at floor level too. You’ll be bending down to change weights frequently.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Selectorized | Plate Loaded |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Changes | 2 seconds | 30-60 seconds |
| Max Weight | 150-300 lbs per side | Unlimited |
| Initial Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Space Needed | Less | More (plate storage) |
| Maintenance | More complex | Simple |
Which Type Fits Your Workout Style?
Choose Selectorized If You:
- Do circuit training or metabolic workouts
- Switch between exercises quickly
- Share equipment with family members
- Have limited space for weight storage
- Prefer convenience over maximum weight
Choose Plate Loaded If You:
- Focus on strength training with heavy weights
- Want unlimited weight capacity
- Need precise weight progressions
- Have a tight budget initially
- Already own weight plates
Maintenance and Durability Differences
Selectorized Maintenance Needs
Weight stacks have cables, pulleys, and guide rods. These parts need occasional lubrication and adjustment.
From what I read online, most issues involve cable stretching or pin mechanism wear. Not daily problems, but they can happen.
Plate Loaded Simplicity
Less can go wrong with plate loaded systems. No weight stacks to maintain. Just solid steel construction and loading pins.
The trade-off? You handle all the weight changes manually. Your maintenance time goes into workout time instead.
Budget Considerations
Upfront Investment
Quality selectorized trainers typically start around $2,000-3,000. Plate loaded versions often begin at $800-1,500 for the frame alone.
But don’t forget plate costs. A full weight set adds $500-1,000+ to your plate loaded investment.
Long-term Value
Selectorized machines include all the weight you’ll likely need. Plate loaded systems grow with you, but require ongoing plate purchases.
Think about your strength goals five years from now. Will 200 pounds per side be enough forever?
Conclusion
Both selectorized and plate loaded functional trainers can give you excellent workouts. Your choice comes down to priorities.
Pick selectorized for speed, convenience, and space efficiency. Choose plate loaded for unlimited capacity, precise control, and lower initial cost. Either way, you’re investing in versatile equipment that supports full-body training at home.
The best functional trainer is the one you’ll actually use consistently. Consider your workout style, space, and budget to make the right choice for your fitness journey.
Can I add more weight to a selectorized functional trainer?
Most selectorized trainers have fixed weight stacks that cannot be expanded. Some premium models offer add-on weight kits, but this is uncommon. Check with the manufacturer before assuming you can upgrade the weight stack later.
Do plate loaded functional trainers work with Olympic or standard plates?
This depends on the loading pin diameter. Olympic plates have 2-inch holes, while standard plates have 1-inch holes. Most commercial-quality functional trainers use Olympic-sized loading pins, but always verify before purchasing plates.
Which type is quieter during workouts?
Plate loaded trainers tend to be quieter since there’s no weight stack moving up and down. Selectorized machines can create noise from guide rods and weight plates touching. Quality matters though – well-built selectorized units run fairly quietly.
How much space do I need for each type?
Both trainer types need similar floor space for the machine itself, typically 8×8 feet including exercise clearance. Plate loaded versions require additional space for weight plate storage, usually another 20-30 square feet depending on your plate collection.
Can I do the same exercises on both selectorized and plate loaded trainers?
Yes, the exercise possibilities are nearly identical between both types. The difference is in resistance delivery, not exercise variety. Cable routing, attachment points, and pulley systems determine exercise options more than the weight system type.
