S
Smith Machine Guru
STS Counter-Balanced Smith Machine, White

York Barbell

STS Counter-Balanced Smith Machine, White

36.4 D-

Scores 36.4/100 (D-) with basic features for home use. Its space footprint of 86.25 inches deep makes it suitable for dedicated workout areas.

Check Price on Amazon
Free Shipping Secure Checkout Amazon.com

Expert Verdict

The York Barbell STS Counter-Balanced Smith Machine is designed for home gym enthusiasts seeking a robust, versatile strength training solution. With a score of 36.4/100 (D-), it offers decent space efficiency but falls short in key areas like structural integrity and warranty, which is a common drawback in budget-friendly options in this category.

The machine features an angled bar path with a smooth linear bearing system, allowing for fluid movements during exercises. Its footprint dimensions of 86.25 inches in depth and 40.25 inches in width make it suitable for various workout spaces while requiring a ceiling clearance of 103.5 inches. This means you can comfortably integrate it into your home gym without worrying about height restrictions, provided you have the space.

However, the Smith machine has notable limitations, including a lack of adjustable safety hooks and a non-existent warranty, which may raise concerns about long-term reliability. Additionally, it does not support multi-user capabilities. Best if you prioritize space efficiency and counterbalance features over comprehensive safety and warranty options.

Key Insights Areas for improvement: versatility, counterbalance, structural, safety, weight_capacity, warranty, value

Performance Breakdown

Space Footprint
80 (A-)
Bar Path 28% weight
69 (B-)
Counterbalance 1% weight
50 (C-)
Value
50 (C-)
Safety 35% weight
45 (D+)
Structural 10% weight
8 (F)
Versatility 1% weight
0 (F)
Warranty 3% weight
0 (F)
Weight Capacity 22% weight
0 (F)

Interested in the York Barbell Machine, White?

See current pricing, customer photos, and availability on Amazon.

View on Amazon

Pros & Cons

What We Like

  • Counterbalanced bar offers smooth operation for your lifts with a 5-degree angle.
  • Compact design with a footprint of 86.25 inches deep fits in smaller spaces.
  • Compatible with Olympic bars for versatile workout options and increased weights.
  • Safety catches provide adjustable spotter arms for added security during exercises.
  • Durable paint finish helps protect the machine from wear and tear.

Watch Out For

  • Overall score of 36.4 indicates poor performance and quality concerns.
  • No weight capacity rating raises doubts about the machine's suitability for heavy lifters.
  • Lack of adjustable j-hooks may limit your exercise variety and safety.
  • Non-foldable design requires a permanent space commitment, reducing flexibility.

Technical Specifications

Olympic Bar Compatible Yes

Scenario Fit

How well this smith machine fits different use cases based on our analysis.

commercial gym

Poor Fit

The structural quality is rated poorly with a score of 8.0, and there is no ISO certification or warranty, making this machine unsuitable for commercial use. The lack of professional assembly further deters its viability in a gym setting. Consider if you are looking for robust, certified equipment for your commercial gym.

home gym

Fair Fit

This machine is partially suitable for a home gym as it offers Olympic bar compatibility but lacks versatility with a score of 0.0. The space requirements are reasonable, with a footprint of 86.25" x 40.25". Consider if you need a multi-user capable machine for a more diverse workout experience.

powerlifting

Poor Fit

The York Barbell STS Smith Machine scores low on weight capacity and lacks critical safety features for powerlifting. With a weight capacity score of 0.0 and only adjustable spotter arms for safety, it is not ideal for serious lifters. Consider if you prioritize safety and robust weight handling in your powerlifting regimen.

small space

Poor Fit

The Smith Machine has a footprint of 86.25" x 40.25", which may not be suitable for very small spaces, especially given the required ceiling height of 103.5". Additionally, it is not foldable, which limits flexibility in a compact environment. Consider if your workout area can accommodate these dimensions.

Best For

beginner

This machine is suitable for beginners, providing a safe and user-friendly environment to learn proper lifting techniques and build strength.

  • • Counterbalanced feature aids beginners in managing weights.
  • • Safety catches present to prevent accidents during training.
  • • Angled bar path assists with learning proper lifting form.

bodybuilding

This Smith machine is ideal for bodybuilding, providing a stable environment for hypertrophy-focused workouts while ensuring safety and smooth operation.

  • • Smooth operation enhances muscle engagement during exercises.
  • • Adjustable spotter arms promote safe execution of various lifts.
  • • Non-foldable design ensures stability during intense workouts.

home gym

The compact design of the York Barbell Smith Machine makes it a viable option for home gyms, offering essential strength training capabilities in a limited space.

  • • Space footprint of 86.25 inches depth and 40.25 inches width fits smaller areas.
  • • Requires minimal ceiling clearance of 103.5 inches.
  • • Compatible with Olympic bars for versatile training options.

powerlifting

The York Barbell STS Counter-Balanced Smith Machine is suitable for powerlifting due to its counterbalanced design, allowing lifters to focus on heavy compound lifts with stability.

  • • Counterbalanced for easier lifting of heavier weights.
  • • Angled bar path (5 degrees) assists with proper lifting mechanics.
  • • Safety catches present to enhance security during heavy lifts.

Is This Right For You?

Get this if…

  • You need a counter-balanced smith machine for safer lifting (counterbalanced feature)
  • You have limited space with a footprint of 40.25" x 86.25"
  • You want a machine with a linear bearing system for smooth operation
  • You require an angled bar path for more versatile exercises (5-degree angle)
  • You seek a durable finish with paint coating for longevity

Skip this if…

  • You need adjustable j-hooks for varied height settings
  • You prefer a foldable design for easier storage
  • You are looking for a machine with a higher weight capacity
  • You require a system with cable attachments for versatility
  • You want a product with a warranty or professional assembly option

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the bar path angle on the Smith machine?
The bar path angle is 5 degrees. This angled design can help in maintaining a more natural movement during exercises.
What type of bearing system does this Smith machine use?
This Smith machine features a linear bearing system. In practice, this typically allows for smoother operation compared to other types.
What are the space requirements for this Smith machine?
The Smith machine has a footprint width of 40.25 inches and a depth of 86.25 inches. Additionally, you need a ceiling clearance of 103.5 inches.
What safety features does this Smith machine have?
It includes adjustable spotter arms as safety catches. However, it does not come with J-hooks or lockout catches.
Can I use Olympic weight plates with this Smith machine?
Yes, this Smith machine is compatible with Olympic weight plates, allowing you to use your existing equipment.
Is there an adjustable counterbalance on this machine?
No, the counterbalance is not adjustable. However, it is counterbalanced to assist with lifting.
What kind of finish does the Smith machine have?
The Smith machine features a paint finish, which provides basic protection and aesthetics.

Ready to Buy?

Check the latest price and availability on Amazon.

Check Price on Amazon

You Might Also Like

French Fitness MSC20 Counter Balanced Multi Smith Cable Machine – All-in-One Home Gym with Smith Machine, Squat Rack, Pull-Up Bar, Weight Plate Storage, & High/Low Pulley System

French Fitness

French Fitness MSC20 Counter Balanced Multi Smith Cable Machine – All-in-One Home Gym with Smith Machine, Squat Rack, Pull-Up Bar, Weight Plate Storage, & High/Low Pulley System

36.3 (D-)
1200 Pound Power Cage, Stainless Steel Power Rack, Squat Rack with Adjustable Barbell Protection and J-Hook, Professional Version of Power Racks for Home Gym with More Accessories (Black)

Generic

1200 Pound Power Cage, Stainless Steel Power Rack, Squat Rack with Adjustable Barbell Protection and J-Hook, Professional Version of Power Racks for Home Gym with More Accessories (Black)

36.3 (D-)
Major Fitness Drone2 Smith△ Machine – All-in-One Home Gym Squat Rack with Weight Bar, Dual LAT Pull-Down Systems & Cable Crossover Machine for Full-Body Workouts

MAJOR FITNESS

Major Fitness Drone2 Smith△ Machine – All-in-One Home Gym Squat Rack with Weight Bar, Dual LAT Pull-Down Systems & Cable Crossover Machine for Full-Body Workouts

36.3 (D-)
Altas Strength 3075 Cable Machine Home Gym with 1000 lbs Weight Capacity, 2000 lbs Cables, Strength Training Equipment Includes Accessories Light Commercial Fitness Versatile Workouts Easy Assembly

ALTAS STRENGTH

Altas Strength 3075 Cable Machine Home Gym with 1000 lbs Weight Capacity, 2000 lbs Cables, Strength Training Equipment Includes Accessories Light Commercial Fitness Versatile Workouts Easy Assembly

36.7 (D-)

About This Review

Evidence-based scoring across 8 key performance pillars, each weighted by importance to smith_machine buyers.

Objective comparison against category benchmarks using manufacturer specifications and user feedback data.

Reviews are updated when new product information becomes available or specifications change.

This review is based on publicly available product specifications and data. Actual performance may vary. Scores represent relative performance within the product category.

STS Counter-Balanced Smith Machine, White

36.4/100 (D-)
Check Price on Amazon