If you’ve been paying attention to the home gym gear space for any amount of time (well…at least in the last few years), you’ve come across Mikolo…
…a lot.
Whether their gear casually appeared as the first 5 out of 10 options when you searched for “powr rackss” on Amazon or one of their ads popped up in your Instagram feed, they’re a company that really gets around.
The thing is, Mikolo has a pretty extensive gear lineup to back up its impressive marketing campaigns. Truth be told, the 8 pieces we’re going to look at today represent barely half of the company’s larger equipment pieces.
Needless to say, with Mikolo, you’ve got a few options.
Now, without further ado, let’s get started with…
Table of Contents
…The 8 Best Mikolo Smith Machines (and other racks)
Horus
94
F4 2.0 Power Cage
92
Anubis 2.0
86
K6 Power Cage
90
HR05 Power Rack
85
Folding Rack – Cheetah
90
Folding Rack 2×2
89
F4 2.0 Power Cage
92
The 8 Best Mikolo Smith Machines (and other racks)
- Horus – Best Overall Mikolo Smith Machine
- F4 2.0 Power Cage
- Anubis
- K6 Power Cage
- HR05 Power Rack
- Folding Rack – Cheetah
- Folding Rack 2×2
- F4 2.0 Smith Machine
Horus
Horus
Mikolo’s Horus is arguably the company’s most functional large piece of home gym equipment.
Combining typical “all-in-one” machine capabilities along with more niche items (dual weight stacks, vertical leg press attachment), the Horus fits solidly in the “cancel your gym membership” level of functionalty.
Not inexpensive, the Horus nevertheless offers an exceptional “functionality-to-price” ratio.
Pros
The most functional piece of Mikolo gear
Dual weight stacks come standard
2:1 pulley ratio is ideal for hypertrophy training
Cons
Not the largest static load capacity
The Horus is by no means the least expensive or most compact Mikolo Smith Machine option, but it does boast the most impressive overall functionality and “functionality-to-price” (aka “value” ratio). It sits firmly in the “cancel your gym membership” classification, making it a perfect “centerpiece” option for those looking to build a truly all-encompassing home gym.
With free weight, Smith Machine, bodyweight, and pulley system capabilities, the Mikolo Horus provides something for every lifter (as well as more than sufficient accessory capabilities, regardless of training style/approach). The standard dual weight stacks allow create similar, but different stimuli for exercises that are otherwise the same (when weight plates are used), adding to overall optionality.
Truth be told, the Horus might be a little “too much machine” for single modality lifters and its static load capacity, while more than significant for most trainees, isn’t top end. However, it is arguably the best Mikolo Smith Machine option, particularly for those looking to purchase a single training machine.
F4 2.0 Power Cage
F4 2.0 Power Cage
The Mikolo F4 is the company’s most affordable power cage options, offering a blend of basic functionality with more premium features.
Like all power cage offerings, the F4’s “inside-the-rack squatting” capabilities are essential to safety-focused home gym lifters. Its single pulley facilitates heavy lat pulldowns and related work.
The F4’s reported 1200-pound load capacity is going to be more than sufficient for most trainees and its 2-year warranty is a solid durability signal.
Pros
Very decent functionality for a non-all-in-one-machine
Extremely fast and uncomplicated assembly
Most affordable Mikolo full power cage option
Cons
Steel thickness is pretty average
The Mikolo F4 2.0 is the upgraded version of the company’s most affordable power cage option. Finding legitimate “squat-inside-the-racks” (complete safety bar coverage/protection) for under $400 isn’t impossible, but finding ones with as extensive included accessory items as the F4 2.0 is much more difficult.
The F4 2.0’s safety bars’ 500-pound load capacity are strong enough to accommodate the squatting and shrugging needs of the vast majority of trainees. This combined with the 1:1 pulley ratio makes it a solid option for home gym lifters looking to do significant strength-building work.
For a power cage classified as “entry-level”, the F4 2.0’s stated 1000-pound static load capacity isn’t surprising, but it is nevertheless not that high compared to many (most?) other options. However, its 14-gauge steel rating and 2-year warranty, provide positive signals regarding its overall durability.
Anubis 2.0
The Mikolo Anubis 2.0 is one of the company’s more premium rack offerings, offering both power rack and functional trainer exercise optionality.
With easily foldable safety bars, the Anubis 2.0 allows lifters to seamlessly transition from heavy barbell work to a variety of cable pulley movements with little space restriction.
The “standard” Anubis 2.0 is strictly a plate-loaded option, which makes it an ideal choice for home gym lifters who already have or are open to purchasing Olympic weight plates for additional resistance.
Pros
Uniquely adjustable spotter arms
Constructed of robust 12-gauge steel
Extremely compatible 3×3 uprights
Cons
“Standard” variation does not have Smith Machine functionality
The Anubis 2.0 is the highest rated (per Amazon Customer Review scores) Mikolo Smith Machine option (although, full disclosure, the Anubis 2.0 “standard” edition does not have Smith Machine capabilities). For home gym lifters who place a heavy emphasis on social proof (particularly on non-company pages) prior to buying, it doesn’t get better than this.
With steel that verges on “light commercial” grade (12-gauge steel) and 3×3 posts, the Anubis 2.0 is the most stable and durable of any of Mikolo’s gear. Despite this, its ~ 20-and-a-half square foot footprint challenges even the most compact home gym racks in relation to compactness.
For those looking for the machine with the best “functionality-to-price” ratio, the Anubis 2.0 isn’t going to be the best option (the Horus is similarly priced, but boasts Smith Machine and leg press capabilities). If durability, stability, and interesting niche capabilities (ex. completely adjustable safety arms) are priorities, it becomes a very interesting option.
K6 Power Cage
K6 Power Cage
Mikolo’s K6 Power Cage takes elements preferred by serious home gym lifters and incorporates accessory elements that provide additional functionality
The K6’s “inside-the-rack” squatting capabilities are appreciated by just about every solo, home gym trainee and its multi-cable system allows for extensive accessory work.
At a price point normally reserved for less functional power racks, the K6 is an objectively affordable option, especially relative to what it provides.
Pros
Extensive array of included accessories
Impressive 1500-pound static load capacity
Compact 19-square foot internal footprint
Con
Not the least expensive Mikolo power cage
The Mikolo K6 is one of the company’s “mid-range” power cage options. It is not classified as an “advanced” option like the Anubis 2.0, but at less than 1/3 of the price, it has arguably the best “functionality-to-price” ratio of any of Mikolo’s Smith Machines or other large pieces of home gym equipment.
Unlike, the F4 2.0, the K6 has an above-average static load capacity (1500 pounds) making it particularly appropriate for lifters focused on pushing heavier loads. With a footprint that is even more compact than the Anubis 2.0, it makes a good argument that a middle-tier, “jack of all trades” rack actually presents the best option.
Home gym trainees who are most interested in maximizing their accessory items may be let down by the relatively few F4 2.0 included pieces (as well as the relatively less compatible 2×2 uprights) may be a bit let down by it in this area. However, it’s “squat-inside-the-rack” capabilities combined with its pulley (2:1 ratio) system make it an attractive option for most.
HR05 Power Rack
The Mikolo HR05 combines extensive functionality with a footprint usually reserved for more basic racks offering minimal accessory capabilities.
Offering a cable pulley system with a 1:1 ratio, trainees are able to work with more realistic feeling resistance (relative to weight loaded) that is somewhat rare among this category of rack.
Bodyweight functionality, in the form of a multi-grip pull-up bar and multi-grip dip bars provide additional training modalities to more “generalist” trainees.
Pros
1-inch hole spacing allows for 30 total rack height settings
1:1 pulley ratio ideal for heavy strength training work
2000-pound static load capacity
Cons
Not the best “functionality-to-price” ratio
The Mikolo HR05 is the company’s only “true” power rack option, offering free weight functionality along with a decent array of accessory items to complement its 1:1 ratio’d, cable pulley system.
With a surprisingly high 2000-pound static load capacity, the HR05 is arguably Mikolo’s most “capable” rack option, at least when it comes to handling max loads. Considering that its efficiently spaced J-cup/attachment holes allow for 30 different heigh levels, there really is not excuse to “skip leg day” with it.
The HR05 doesn’t offer the appeal of “inside-the-rack” squatting, nor does it boast the most robust steel or compatible uprights. Being that it is comparably priced to more functional Mikolo rack options, it is more of a niche option for those prioritizing sheer capacity and a true 1:1 pulley ratio.
Folding Rack – Cheetah
Folding Rack – Cheetah
Mikolo’s folding rack (colloquially known as the Cheetah) boasts an extremely small footprint when in use and a negligible footprint when folded in.
With typical power rack, cable pulley, and basic bodyweight movement functionality, the Cheetah provides decent exercise optionality, despite its rather diminutive size.
With a price point that is significantly lower than the majority of other folding rack options, the Cheetah has positioned itself as the standard among its peers.
Pros
Incredibly compact footprint
Significant accessory functionality
14-gauge steel is good for a folding rack
Cons
Wall mounted which may not be viable for some
The “Cheetah” is Mikolo’s more “premium” folding rack option, offering both extremely compact lifting functionality along with a decent array of accessory exercise optionality. Despite it providing a bit more than basic barbell training functionality, it is less expensive than the vast majority of comparable folding rack options.
With a ~9-and-a-half square foot footprint (that condenses down to 3 square feet when it is in its folded position), the cheetah offers unprecedented space-saving capabilities. With a 14-gauge rating, its steel is directly comparable to that of full racks and power cages designed for home gym use.
As with just about every folding rack option. the Cheetah requires wall mounting. Compared to many home gym rack options, most of which do not require any degree of wall or ground mounting, this requirement may be off putting. However, for those open to this “standard” folding rack requirement, it doesn’t get much better than this one.
Folding Rack 2×2
Folding Rack 2×2
Mikolo’s most basic folding rack option (colloquially known simply as the Folding Rack 2×2) offers space savings at a budget price.
Without cable functionality, the 2×2 option is nevertheless an appropriate option for lifters focused exclusively on barbell work and basic bodyweight pulling exercises.
Despite not offering the amount of functionality as the Cheetah, the 2×2 sits at an even lower price point, making it attractive for specialized lifters who don’t want to pay for unnecessary accessories.
Pros
Safety and pull-up bars accentuate free weight functionality
~30-minute installation
Most inexpensive large Mikolo equipment piece
Cons
Not as functional as the Cheetah
The subtly named “Folding Rack 2×2” is Mikolo’s lower-tier folding rack option, offering basic barbell movement functionality (along with a pull-up bar for some additional bodyweight movement optionality). Priced well under $300, it is a solid option for home gym trainees who don’t need a pulley system or an array of included accessory items.
Despite being the lower-priced of the two, the 2×2 actually has more robust (13-gauge) steel than the Cheetah, making it a slightly better option for home gym lifters who prefer thicker, more durable steel. With a training footprint of just over 7 square feet and a folded footprint of ~2.5 square feet, “compactness” is another area where it outclasses its folding rival.
Home gym lifters looking for any degree of non-barbell and non-basic bodyweight functionality will likely be a bit underwhelmed by the 2×2’s rather single-focused modality offering. However, for barbell afficionado’s with limited space and a willingness to drill into the wall, there may not be a better option on this list.
M4 2.0 Smith Machine
M4 2.0 Smith Machine
Mikolo’s M4 2.0 is the company’s upgraded version of its mid-range power rack/Smith Machine offering.
Between its free weight, Smith, cable pulley, and bodyweight functionality, the M4 can solidly, and confidently, be classified as a true “all-in-one” training machine.
The M4 is priced below most other machines in the “all-in-one” category, making it a good blend of functionality and affordability.
Pros
Has legit “all-in-one machine” status
Upgraded Sandwich Round J-cups facilitate safer barbell racking
Excellent “functionality-to-price” ratio
Cons
Not the longest safety bars/arms
The M4 2.0 is Mikolo’s only other (besides the Horus) “all-in-one machine” (at least, as far as base or “standard” models go). At roughly half the price of the Horus, it provides almost comparable functionality (besides a vertical leg press attachment), making it a very attractive option for those looking to maximize “functionality-to-price” ratio.
As its name implies, the M4 2.0 is an upgraded version of the earlier iteration of this machine. Items like its Sandwich Round J-cups allow more smooth barbell racking, enhancing lifter safety. It’s 2:1 pulley ratio is ideal for hypertrophy training.
The M4 2.0’s 20-inch spotter arms (safety bars) probably don’t extend far enough for most lifter’s likings (only 1 or 2 steps back and out of the rack, at most) and it is not the most compact Mikolo Smith Machine offering. However, for trainees looking to do just about everything at a discount, it’s a very solid choice.
Mikolo Smith Machine Assessment Criteria
Some lifters prioritize being able to do the most things with their gear as humanly possible.
Others want a rack that looks, feels, and boasts comparable resiliency to what they’re used to at their local global gym.
Of course, others want the most inexpensive Smith Machine possible…within reason.
…if you fall into any of these categories (or, conversely, into none of them), that is completely okay. You need to assess gear based on the criteria that is most important to you.
With that being said, we need some measures to use across our rack assessments in order to make more accurate comparisons between each of them. Of course, we could use a lot more than 3 categories for each of these, however, in our experience, overall functionality, price, and customer reviews cover just about everything (in one way or another) someone could care about in a rack.
To be fair, these categories aren’t always the most clearly defined. As such, let’s look at each of these in a bit more detail.
Functionality
Functionality…a word we’ve used a lot so far in this review…but what does it actually mean?
This GIF does a better job of concisely explaining than I ever could…
…or, more applicably to this situation, functionality tells you what you can actually do with the rack, machine, etc. With functionality ranges spanning from “barbell and slight bodyweight work only” all the way to “everything plus vertical leg pressing”, out Mikolo Smith Machine list has a bit of variance.
One thing we should mention is that we keep things “apples to apples” when assigning scores here. By this, I mean that we try to keep “like” items (ex. power cages, folding racks, “all-in-one machines”) lumped together and try not to compare across categories. I mean, how fair is it comparing the functionality of a ~$250 folding rack to a ~$1800 monster machine?
To this point, though, keep in mind that a really functional standalone power rack is still probably not going to have the top-end functionality of even a more basic power rack/Smith Machine combination piece. As such, we ask you to be at least somewhat discerning as you (probably very quickly) sift through the list.
Price
Nothing wrong if this is the category you immediately jump to when assessing gear.
If you’re like a lot of home gym enthusiasts, you may have checked price before you really even started to give the rack or Smith Machine a closer look. In a lot of cases, this is the defining factor when it’s time to buy.
With that being said, when rating “Price” in a formal sense, ratings aren’t assigned in a simple “this one costs less so it gets a higher score!” manner. Instead, we rate each item relative to other products in its same class (ex. “basic Smith Machines” “all-in-one machines” “functional trainers”, etc.).
In practice, this means that we will compare the prices of the K6 and F4 to each other (both power cages), but not the Horus to the Cheetah (an all-in-one machine to a folding Smith Machine).
To provide some additional price context, it isn’t difficult to find very basic Smith Machines (of which, Mikolo has none) for under $500 although these can easily run well over $2000. Most of Mikolo’s options are well within this range, but its more expensive offerings being several steps above “basic” in functionality.
For “all-in-one” machines sub-$600 racks exist, with the most equipped options extending into the $3-$4000 range. Even Mikolo’s most advanced Anubis doesn’t quite reach this level, making their machines relatively inexpensive options.
Folding racks and basic functional trainers are a bit more niche, but both of these classes of equipment can be found for under $400. The Mikolo options are generally slightly more expensive than this, but would still be considered to be “inexpensive” by these standards.
Of course, assigning “value” is a bit trickier of a proposition and largely depends on what you personally prioritize.
If you need a Smith Machine and have very limited space, the Cheetah’s combination of both of these qualities is invaluable. The “buy it and be done with it” mentality that comes with getting a hold of an all-in-one machine like the Anubis 2.0 is also tough to put a price tag on.
In contrast, if you only care about free weight work, the added Smith Machine functionality of something like the HR05 is probably not worth the additional cost.
Overall, price is a very important characteristic when evaluating gear, making it one of the fundamental assessment areas when looking at Mikolo’s offerings.
Customer Reviews
One of the most significant, yet relatively “silent” advantages of Mikolo gear is that as a more established brand, it has a lot of data points. Whether on Amazon or the main Mikolo webpage, it’s difficult to find a piece of equipment that doesn’t have tens, if not hundreds of verified customer review scores.
With that being said, we are only taking the Amazon ratings into consideration when compiling these. We find that this keeps things a bit cleaner and bit easier to accurately measure.
So, why are we, self-proclaimed “review experts”, telling you all of this?
We acknowledge that there is always strength in numbers and that you should never base your buying decisions on what one guy has to say on topic. Needless to say, we’ve definitely had some contrarian opinions on different pieces of equipment.
As with any of our reviews, we’re confident in our picks…
The Best Mikolo Smith Machine
This list is a testament to how Mikolo continues to be one of the most dominant forces in the home gym gear space.
The really interesting part is…there are 5 or 6 other Mikolo rack variants, not to mention things like leg extension, leg press, and even “linear row” machines that didn’t make this list…
If you’re interested in those more niche items, feel free to take a look at everything Mikolo has to offer. In the meantime, here’s your last look at…
…The 8 Best Mikolo Smith Machines (and other racks)
Horus
94
F4 2.0 Power Cage
92
Anubis 2.0
86
K6 Power Cage
90
HR05 Power Rack
85
Folding Rack – Cheetah
90
Folding Rack 2×2
89
F4 2.0 Power Cage
92
