Speediance Gym Monster 2 Review

This product was in-house tested by Michael at The Jungle Gym Reviews.

The Speediance Gym Monster 2 is a sleek, compact smart functional trainer that delivers real cable resistance with features you simply cannot get from mechanical machines. Its biggest advantage is the electromagnetic resistance system with modes like eccentric, chain, and isokinetic, which makes training feel more dynamic and customizable than a normal weight stack. The main tradeoff is total resistance, capped at 220 lbs, which limits heavier lifters who rely on big compound barbell movements. It is best for people who want guided workouts, minimal space usage, and versatile cable-based training, while those who want heavy squats, deadlifts, and a true barbell feel should hesitate.

Quick Specs

Price: Works: $3,400 / Works Plus: $3,549 / Family Plus: $3,949

Resistance Type: Electromagnetic (dual direct-drive motors)

Max Resistance Per Side: 110 lbs

Max Total Resistance: 220 lbs

Resistance Increment: 1 lb

Minimum Resistance: 8 lbs per side

Resistance Modes: Standard, Chain, Eccentric, Constant/Isokinetic

Training Modes: Dumbbell, Barbell, Partner

Screen: 21.5” HD touchscreen

Dimensions (Unfolded): 48” L × 27.2” W × 72.8” H

Dimensions (Folded): 14.6” D × 27.2” W × 72.8” H

Machine Weight: 171–172 lbs

Cable Height Positions: 10 positions plus floor attachment points

Classes: Approximately 385–400 interactive classes

Subscription: About $40 per month for full classes and AI trainer

Warranty: 2 years on the unit, 1 year on accessories

Extended Warranty: Available at purchase

Where to Buy the Speediance Gym Monster 2

Check current package pricing and availability directly from the official product listing.

My Real-World Experience

Using the Speediance Gym Monster 2 feels very different from any traditional cable machine I have owned. The electromagnetic resistance reacts instantly, and switching between Standard, Chain, and Eccentric modes completely changes how movements feel without touching a plate or stack. In day-to-day use, it takes about 10 to 20 seconds from waking the machine to being in a working set, which makes it easy to jump in for a quick session. The cables are smooth, and the resistance feels more refined than many mechanical functional trainers I have used. I have had occasional moments where the cable system makes a thump or feels slightly out of sync, but restarting and letting the machine recalibrate has always fixed it.

Training Use Cases

This machine excels at hypertrophy-focused training, accessory work, and controlled compound lifts. Dumbbell mode is great for presses, rows, and fly-style movements, while barbell mode lets you connect both sides for squats, deadlifts, and benching within the 220 lb limit. Partner mode allows two people to train at once with different weights, which is something no mechanical trainer can do. It also shines for people who want guided programming through its built-in class system. If your training is mostly free weights and heavy barbell work, it becomes more of a supplement than a replacement.

Tradeoffs & Limitations

The biggest limitation is resistance. At 220 lbs total, strong lifters will outgrow it for barbell squats, deadlifts, and heavy benching. The narrow 27-inch width also makes some movements, like chest flyes, feel more constrained than on a wide functional trainer. Lat pulldowns require sitting back and leaning because of the motor housing at the base. The connected bar never truly feels like a free-weight barbell because cable tension must be balanced on both sides.

Value & Alternatives

You are paying for technology here, not just resistance. A mechanical functional trainer can cost far less, but it cannot offer eccentric loading, isokinetic control, or app-driven classes. The Gym Monster 2 makes sense if those features matter to you and if you want a compact, visually clean setup inside a living space.

Who Should Buy This

This is ideal for people who want guided workouts, dynamic resistance modes, and a compact all-in-one gym that fits in a bedroom, office, or shared space. It works especially well for hypertrophy-focused lifters and anyone who values cable-based training.

Who Should Skip It

If you rely on heavy barbell squats, deadlifts, or benching, or if you prefer purely mechanical equipment with no electronics or subscriptions, this is not the right choice.

Final Verdict

The Speediance Gym Monster 2 does exactly what it promises: it delivers a powerful, tech-driven cable training experience in a very small footprint. It will not replace a full free-weight gym, but as a smart functional trainer, it is one of the most capable and flexible options in this category.

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