Smith machines are a popular staple in many home and commercial gyms. They allow you to perform squats, bench presses, and other barbell exercises with the security of a guided bar path.
Two of the leading Smith machine brands on the market are MAJOR-LUTIE and Force USA. But which one is better for your home or garage gym?
Here’s an in-depth comparison of the key features, pros, cons, and differences between these two Smith machines.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | MAJOR-LUTIE | Force USA |
| Frame Size | 2×3” 11-gauge steel | 4×4” 11-gauge steel |
| Frame Base | X-shaped 49”x 49” | Rectangular 4-feet wide |
| Transport Wheels | Yes | No |
| Weight Capacity | 600-800 lbs | 600-1,000 lbs |
| Barbell | Standard straight Olympic bar | Rotating Olympic bar with center knurl |
| Minimum Bar Height | 17.5 inches | 28 inches |
| Adjustability | 12 positions with bronze bushings | 12 numbered positions with chrome bushings |
| Spotter Arms | Yes | No |
| Extra Features | None | Some models have walk-through design and pulley system |
| Price Range | $429-$529 + free shipping | $699-$1,599 + $100-$350 shipping |
Overview of MAJOR-LUTIE and Force USA
MAJOR-LUTIE is a newer fitness equipment company that was founded in 2016 in California.
Their Smith machine line includes the LT-5010 and LT-7010 models which can support up to 600 lbs and 800 lbs respectively.
MAJOR-LUTIE uses commercial-grade steel, precision ball bearings, and durable bushings on their Smith machines.
Force USA is an established American brand founded in 2009.
Their Smith machine options include the MyRack Functional Trainer and the Smith Unit.
The MyRack has a weight capacity of 600 lbs while the Smith Unit can handle 1,000 lbs.
Force USA uses heavy-gauge steel and industrial chrome plating on their Smith machine frames.
Both companies offer Smith machines with 12 different adjustable positions, a dual utility bench, J-hooks, weight plate storage pegs, and safety catches. However, there are some key differences when it comes to the frame, adjustability, and unique features included.
Key Differences Between MAJOR-LUTIE And Force USA
- Frame and Construction
The MAJOR-LUTIE Smith machines use 2×3” 11-gauge steel for the mainframe. The Force USA models have a 4×4” 11-gauge steel frame. Both should provide plenty of stability and durability, but the thicker 4×4” steel on the Force USA Smith may have a slight advantage for eliminating any shakiness during heavier lifts.
One unique design aspect of the MAJOR-LUTIE Smith is the X-shaped base. This gives the unit a smaller footprint of just 49” x 49”. The Force USA Smith machines have a more traditional rectangular 4-feet wide base frame. For small home gyms, the compact MAJOR-LUTIE design may be preferred.
The MAJOR-LUTIE Smith also includes transport wheels on one end of the frame to make repositioning easier. The Force USA models do not have built-in transport wheels.
- Adjustability and Settings
Both the MAJOR-LUTIE and Force USA Smith machines allow for 12 different bar path positions.
This adjustability lets you fine-tune the bar path for different exercises and user heights.
The knurled inner slide rods are made from precision ground steel on both units.
This prevents bar sway or rotation for smooth movements.
MAJOR-LUTIE uses bronze bushings while Force USA has chrome-plated bronze bushings. Both offer low-friction movements.
One advantage of the Force USA Smith machine is the numbered settings. The MAJOR-LUTIE is adjustable, but the settings are not visibly numbered. This makes it easier to dial in the same settings on the Force USA model each workout.
The starting bar height on the MAJOR-LUTIE is also lower at 17.5”. This caters well to shorter users with the ability to raise the bar higher as needed.
On the Force USA Smith, the minimum starting height is higher at 28” which may not be ideal for some users under 5’6”.
- Weight Capacity and Bar
As mentioned earlier, the MAJOR-LUTIE Smith machines support up to 600-800 lbs depending on the model. The Force USA Smith options can safely handle up to 600 lbs or 1,000 lbs.
For the barbell, MAJOR-LUTIE includes a standard Olympic-grade straight bar with grip marks but no center knurl. The MyRack Functional Trainer from Force USA has a rotating Olympic bar with dual knurl marks and a center knurl.
For heavy squats and bench presses, a center knurl can help provide extra grip.
The chrome plating on the Force USA barbell is also more likely to resist corrosion and scratches versus the coating used on the MAJOR-LUTIE bar.
- Unique Features and Add-Ons
Both brands offer some unique add-ons and capabilities beyond just the standard Smith machine functions.
The MAJOR-LUTIE Smith includes spotter arms on the frame. These fold away spotter arms provide an extra layer of safety when lifting heavy by yourself. Force USA does not include spotter arms on their Smith machines.
The Force USA MyRack has an open walk-through design on one side. This allows you to easily load and unload weight plates from the inner and outer sections. The closed frame on the MAJOR-LUTIE and Force USA Smith Unit don’t offer the same open access.
The MyRack Functional Trainer from Force USA also has a dual cable pulley system. This allows you to perform a wide variety of cable exercises for both upper and lower body. The added pulley station is a major advantage over the standard Smith machine-only options.
Here is a nice review video no Force USA!
Both companies also sell a variety of compatible add-ons like leg hold down rollers, lat pulldown-squat racks, multi-grip pull up bars, and utility benches. This allows you to expand your training options over time.
- Price Comparison
The MAJOR-LUTIE Smith machines typically retail for $429-$529 plus free shipping. The Force USA models range from $699 up to $1,599 plus shipping costs of $100-$350.
So from a pure pricing perspective, MAJOR-LUTIE offers more affordable Smith machine options for shoppers on a tight budget. The higher-end Force USA Smith units cost considerably more but also include thicker steel, higher weight capacities, and premium features like the dual pulley system.
Pros and Cons of Each Brand
MAJOR-LUTIE Smith Machine Pros:
- More budget-friendly price point
- Compact X-shaped base with transport wheels
- Lower minimum bar height for shorter users
- Includes spotter arms for added safety
MAJOR-LUTIE Cons:
- Lower weight capacity than Force USA models
- Barbell does not have a center knurl
- Settings not visibly numbered for adjustment
Force USA Smith Machine Pros:
- Commercial-grade durable steel construction
- Higher weight capacities up to 1,000 lbs
- Numbered settings for easy adjustment
- Some models include Walk-Through design and pulley station
Force USA Cons:
- More expensive price tag
- Higher minimum bar height may not suit some users
- No built-in transport wheels or spotter arms
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Overall, Force USA offers higher build quality, durability, and versatility with features like the dual pulley system. But the MAJOR-LUTIE Smith provides a more affordable option for basic Smith machine training. It depends on your budget and needs.
Yes, French Fitness is a reputable company known for its commercial grade strength equipment like power racks, rigs, and benches. Their products offer premium quality and functionality for serious lifting.
A Smith machine has a fixed vertical bar path while a functional trainer allows horizontal and vertical movements. Functional trainers add pulleys, cables, and multi-grip options to mimic exercises like cable crosses, rows, and presses beyond just squats and bench presses.
Smith machines allow you to lift the barbell vertically in a fixed path. This counterbalanced movement targets the muscle groups better with less stabilization required. The guided path can help beginners develop proper lifting technique and make progressive overload easier to track.
Final Thoughts
In summary, MAJOR-LUTIE and Force USA both make high-quality Smith machines with commercial-grade construction. MAJOR-LUTIE caters more towards budget home gyms while Force USA offers premium features and versatility for a higher price.
Consider factors like price, weight capacity, adjustability, and extras like walk-through access or a pulley system before choosing the best Smith machine for your training needs and budget.