Skip to content
Deck The Deals >>>
Deck The Deals >>>
#1 Gear Selection

Shop any and all equipment you need.

Premium Service

When you call, we answer. Our service is unmatched.

Best Online Prices

We offer the best online pricing you can find.

Satisfaction Guarantee

Not happy with your gear? We have your back.

Top 10 Best Lat Pulldown Machines

In this resource, we've gone through all we know to choose the top 10 best lat pulldown machines selected based on thorough research and years of experience in the fitness equipment industry.

As a reputable retailer, we have evaluated various models to bring you our top picks, no matter what your needs are from budget options for home, commercial gyms, plate loaded and weight stack models, plus a bunch more.

All of these machines offer an effective workout for strengthening and sculpting the muscles in the upper body, particularly the lats, ensuring you have all you need to build a back you your gym bros are proud of.

As we detail each of the best lat pulldown machines for different needs in the following sections, you'll find comprehensive insights to assist you in choosing the right option for you out of our collection of lat pulldown machines for sale, no matter your budget, space requirements or preferences.

Let's dive in and get right you on your way to a bigger back!

Best Lat Pulldown Machine cover image with red background and 4 example models from the article

What Is The Best Lat Pulldown Machine?

We've compiled, over years of outfitting homes and fitness facilities with equipment, our list of the best lat pulldown machines below:

Best Overall: Bells Of Steel Lat Pulldown

Best With Weight Stack: Bells Of Steel Lat Pulldown

Best Commercial: Body Solid ProClubline SLM300G

Best for Home Gyms: Bells Of Steel Plate Loaded Lat Pulldown

Best Leverage: TKO Plate Loaded Lat Pull Down Machine

Best Plate Loaded: York Barbell FTS Lat Pulldown Machine

Best Lat Pulldown Mid Row: BodyKore Lat Pulldown/Mid Row

Best Affordable: Body Solid GLM83 Pro Lat Pulldown

Best Compact: York Barbell STS Lat Pulldown Machine

Best Lat Pulldown Machine With Weight Stack

Bells Of Steel Lat Pulldown Low Row Machine

The Bells Of Steel Lat Pulldown Low Row Machine is an excellent choice for those looking to improve their home gym setup. This 2-in-1 machine offers both lat pulldowns and low rows, making it a versatile option for targeting different muscle groups in your upper body.

One notable feature of this machine is its 310lb weight stack, allowing users to easily adjust the resistance for each exercise. The 1:1 pull ratio ensures precise and smooth movement, while the aluminum pulleys contribute to the machine's durability.

The Bells Of Steel machine comes with several useful attachments, including band pegs for added resistance, a lat bar, and a loadable pin for weight adjustments. The machine is compatible with rack attachments, which means you can expand your exercising options even further for a full body workout.

Priced at $1,949, this lat pulldown machine is an affordable option for such a well-rounded device, especially considering it comes with free shipping. The machine is shipped unassembled, which makes it easier to set up in your home gym.

With its high-quality construction, versatility, and accessibility, the Bells Of Steel Lat Pulldown Low Row Machine is an ideal addition to any home gym. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or a beginner, this machine offers a myriad of exercise options to help you achieve your desired fitness goals.

Shop Now

Best Commercial Lat Pulldown Machine

Body Solid ProClubline SLM300G

The Body Solid ProClubline SLM300G Lat Pulldown / Mid Row Machine offers a comprehensive solution for building a strong, muscular back. This dual-function machine includes both lat pulldowns and seated rows, providing an all-in-one option for your gym or fitness facility. The machine is powered by a 210 lb. stack, suitable for users of various strength levels.

One noteworthy feature of this machine is its space-saving design. The ProClubline SLM300G combines two essential back exercises into a single, compact piece of equipment without sacrificing performance or quality. This advantage makes it an ideal choice for gyms with limited floor space.

In terms of build quality, the SLM300G is designed for durability and longevity. It features a double powder-coat finish that protects against scratches, chipping, and peeling. The cables are made of nylon-coated, self-lubricating, aircraft-quality steel, ensuring smooth movement and minimal maintenance. Moreover, the pulleys are constructed from fiberglass reinforced nylon with v-grooved channels for maximum efficiency.

The equipment also provides an ergonomic and comfortable workout experience. The tear-resistant DuraFirm upholstery is double-stitched with high-density top-grade foam pads. The adjustable hold-down pads offer stability during lifts beyond body weight, allowing users to focus on proper form and muscle development.

Here are some key specifications of the Body Solid ProClubline SLM300G:

  • Assembled weight: 444 lb / 201.40 kg
  • Assembled dimensions: 64.00in (L) x 46.00in (W) x 83.00in (H)

Lastly, this machine comes with a Body-Solid full commercial warranty, which includes a lifetime coverage on frame and welds, a 3-year warranty on pulleys, bushings, bearings, hardware, plates, and guide rods, and a 1-year warranty on cables, upholstery, and grips under normal wear.

Choosing the Body Solid ProClubline SLM300G for your gym or facility ensures that users have access to a highly efficient, durable, and space-saving lat pulldown and mid row machine that caters to their back development needs.

Shop Now

Best Lat Pulldown Machine For Home Gym

Bells Of Steel Plate Loaded Lat Pulldown

When it comes to finding the best lat pulldown machine for your home gym, the Bells Of Steel Plate Loaded Lat Pulldown Machine stands out as an excellent choice. This versatile 2-in-1 machine offers a plate-loaded style, 1:1 pull ratio, and a 450lb cable capacity. Its design caters to individuals looking for a comprehensive and affordable solution to target and develop their latissimus dorsi muscles.

The Bells of Steel Lat Pulldown is constructed using high-quality steel, with an 11-gauge thickness, providing durability and stability during workouts. It also features aluminum pulleys, which help ensure smooth and efficient cable motion for various exercises.

What sets this Lat Pulldown machine apart from other options is its 2-in-1 functionality. With the ability to switch between lat pulldowns and cable rows, users can diversify their workouts and target different muscle groups. The plate-loaded design also saves money by utilizing one's own Olympic weight plates instead of buying a separate weight stack.

In addition to the main exercises, this machine can be used for curls, raises, and more, maximizing its potential as a comprehensive workout station. Its compatibility with 2.3" x 2.3" power rack attachments provides an even better range of exercise possibilities.

Included with this lat pulldown machine is a stainless steel lat bar, which is both rust-resistant and promises smooth reps every time. Also, the Bells of Steel Lat Pulldown features band pegs for those looking to incorporate resistance bands into their workouts.

For individuals interested in creating an efficient home gym setup, the Bells Of Steel Plate Loaded Lat Pulldown's compact design saves space while still offering high-quality functionality. Priced at $899, it's an affordable option while not sacrificing any essential features.

In conclusion, investing in the Bells Of Steel Plate Loaded Lat Pulldown Low Row Machine is a smart choice for home gym enthusiasts looking for a versatile, durable, and affordable lat pulldown machine.

Shop Now

Best Leverage Lat Pulldown Machine

TKO Plate Loaded Lat Pull Down Machine

The TKO Plate Loaded Lat Pull Down Machine stands out for its natural feel of free weights in a guided lat pull down motion, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a premium lat pulldown experience. This machine is designed to provide the optimal blend of biomechanics and ergonomics, resulting in the best contractions during your workout.

Constructed with a 2" x 4" heavy-duty gauge steel frame, the machine offers stability and durability. The oversized pivot point ensures a smooth lifting experience and is built to last, reducing the need for frequent maintenance. The steel handles are also designed for added longevity and maintenance-free use.

One of the machine's standout features is its brushed steel knurled handles, which provide a secure, easy-to-grip experience when loading up the weights. The singular pivot and moving part on the machine are self-lubricating, eliminating the need for regular maintenance.

The seat cushion is filled with high-resilience foam material and covered with high-grade vinyl upholstery, offering both comfort and durability. Additionally, the color-coded, spring-assisted seat adjustments simplify the customization process for various users.

TKO Plate Loaded Lat Pull Down Machine is ideal for a range of fitness environments, including membership-style gyms, personal training studios, schools, fire and police departments, hotels, apartments, corporate gyms, and home or garage gyms.

The machine's dimensions are 63" x 57" x 77", and it weighs 373 lbs. It has a load capacity of 300 lbs roughly on each side, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The frame is available in graphite color, with black upholstery as the standard choice. The warranty covers 10 years for the frame, 5 years for the parts, and 6 months for the upholstery.

In conclusion, the TKO Plate Loaded Lat Pull Down Machine offers an exceptional combination of quality, durability, and usability, making it the top choice for your leverage lat pulldown machine needs.

Shop Now

Best Plate Loaded Lat Pulldown

York Barbell FTS Lat PullDown Machine

The York Barbell FTS Lat Pulldown machine stands out as an excellent plate-loaded option for those who want to build their upper body strength, particularly in the back muscles. It's designed to allow athletes and personal trainers to experience the benefits of using a cable column without the hefty price tag.

This lat pulldown machine is equipped with a high-low pulley system, allowing for versatile use and the opportunity to perform a wide range of exercises. The 1-inch diameter loading bar accepts both standard and Olympic plates with an adapter, adding flexibility to your workout. To ensure user comfort, the height-adjustable, foam-padded leg hold-down bar allows for a stable lat pulldown position.

Some notable features of the York Barbell FTS Lat PullDown Machine are:

  • High-Low Pulley System: Allows for versatile use and multiple exercises.
  • 1-Inch Diameter Loading Bar: Accepts both standard and Olympic plates (with adapter).
  • Height-Adjustable Foam Padded Leg Hold-Down Bar: Ensures user comfort and stability.

The machine also comes standard with lat pulldown and straight bar attachments, widening the variety of workouts that can be performed. It has an assembled weight of 189 lbs and dimensions of (L) 63" x (W) 48" x (H) 83", making it a reliable and sturdy addition to your fitness space.

The FTS Lat PullDown Machine by York Barbell offers an affordable, yet effective way to improve strength and conditioning without compromising on quality. With a mix of versatility, comfort, and durable construction, it is an excellent choice for those seeking the best plate-loaded lat pulldown machine.

Shop Now

Best Lat Pulldown Mid Row Machine

BodyKore Lat Pulldown/Mid Row Machine

The BodyKore Lat Pulldown/Mid Row Machine is an excellent option for those looking to add a versatile, high-quality piece of equipment to their gym. With its sturdy construction and functionality, the BodyKore machine is designed for a variety of exercises targeting the muscles of the back, shoulders, and arms.

This lat pulldown machine comes equipped with a heavy-duty frame, allowing the machine to handle an impressive weight capacity, suitable for users of all levels. The assembled dimensions of the machine are 77" x 47" x 89" and it weighs approximately 450 lbs, providing a stable base for intense workouts.

A unique feature of the BodyKore Lat Pulldown/Mid Row machine lies in its dual functionality. It combines both a lat pulldown and a mid-row exercise station in a single machine, saving space and cost in your home gym setup. The diverse range of exercises you can perform on this machine allows for the development of a balanced upper body and increased strength.

Shipping and delivery are hassle-free, as the machine ships in a disassembled state. Most items will arrive in pieces, requiring assembly, which can be done independently or with the assistance of an available nationwide assembly service at an additional cost.

In conclusion, investing in the BodyKore Lat Pulldown/Mid Row Machine is an excellent choice for users looking to perform multi-functional exercises in a compact, durable gym equipment. Its solid construction, versatility, and affordability make it an ideal addition to any home gym setup.

Shop Now

Best Affordable Lat Pulldown:

Body Solid GLM83

The Body Solid GLM83 Pro Lat Pulldown is an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable yet effective lat pulldown machine. With an original price of $535.00 and free shipping, this machine offers an excellent balance between quality and cost.

One of the standout features of this lat pulldown machine is its nylon bushings, which provide super-smooth movements during workouts. This attention to detail helps ensure a durable and reliable experience, allowing users to get the most out of their workouts without worrying about potential wear and tear.

With dimensions of 60 inches in length, 32 inches in width, and 82 inches in height, the GLM83 is a space-efficient option for most home gym setups. It also comes with a total weight of 101 lbs, making it easy to manage and move if necessary.

The Body Solid GLM83 features a versatile design, allowing users to quickly transition between high and low pulley exercises without the need to change cables. Its comfortable DuraFirm™ seat pad ensures users can maintain proper form during their workouts, while the multi-position 8-inch foam rollers provide added support.

For those wishing to perform low pulley lat work, the GLM83 includes a seated row foot brace and diamond plate stabilizers for added balance and security. The machine also comes with a 48-inch lat bar and a 20-inch seated row bar, increasing the variety of exercises that can be performed.

The GLM83 is protected by Body-Solid's in-home lifetime warranty, which covers the frame, welds, pulleys, bushings, bearings, hardware, plates, and guide rods. This comprehensive warranty offers peace of mind and ensures that the machine will stand up to long-term use.

In conclusion, the Body Solid GLM83 Pro Lat Pulldown /Low Row Machine offers an excellent combination of affordability and quality. Its durable design, versatile exercise options, and comprehensive warranty make it a top choice for those looking to add a lat pulldown machine to their home gym without breaking the bank.

Shop Now

Best Ultra Budget Lat Pulldown

Body Solid Powerline PLM180X

The Body Solid Powerline PLM180X Lat Pull Low Row Machine offers excellent value for those looking for an ultra-budget lat pulldown machine. Priced at just $375, this machine comes with free shipping and a remarkable 10-year warranty on the frame, along with a 1-year warranty on parts.

Constructed with strong gauge steel, the PLM180X boasts an electrostatically applied powder coat finish, ensuring durability and stability. This lat pulldown machine is designed to perform a wide variety of upper body exercises, such as lat pull-downs, triceps press downs, seated rows, and upright rows.

One of the standout features of the PLM180X is its dual position 8-inch foam rollers, which help hold users in place while performing exercises. Moreover, patented nylon bushings provide super smooth operation, enabling users to fully concentrate on their workouts.

Specifications of the PLM180X are as follows:

  • Weight: 69 lbs (31.30 kg)
  • Dimensions (L x W x H): 48 x 43 x 81 inches (1,219.20 x 1,092.20 x 2,057.40 mm)
  • Weight Capacity: 250 lbs (113 kg)

Notably, the PLM180X comes with a lat bar and low row bar, adding versatility to users' workouts. Considering its affordable price, solid construction, and comprehensive warranty, the Body Solid Powerline PLM180X is an excellent choice for fitness enthusiasts looking to invest in a reliable and budget-friendly lat pulldown machine.

Shop Now

Best Diverging Lat Pulldown Machine

TKO Strength Diverging Lat-Pulldown

The TKO Strength Diverging Lat-Pulldown Machine stands out in the fitness industry for delivering excellent lat and back contractions. This machine offers unmatched performance with its unique, diverging nature of the handles, which promotes a better stretch and contraction effect during workouts. With a robust, heavy-gauge steel construction and high-quality leather upholstery, this machine is built to last, providing premium performance and durability.

One of the key features of this lat pulldown machine is its adjustable thigh hold-down pads, which ensure stability and firm support during workouts. The seat is also adjustable, allowing users of various body types and sizes to find their perfect fit. With a weight stack of 200lbs, consisting of 10lb increments, this machine accommodates users with different strength levels.

The TKO Strength Diverging Lat-Pulldown Machine also comes with multi-grip TPU covered handles, enabling users to have a diverse workout experience. Its cushion is filled with MC high-resilience foam material and covered with premium, double-stitched PU leather upholstery, ensuring durability and comfort during prolonged workout sessions.

This lat pulldown machine is an ideal choice for various settings such as home gyms, schools, colleges, military facilities, corporate gyms, personal training studios, and more. With a product weight of 560lbs and dimensions of 54"W x 56"D x 75"H, it is a solid piece of equipment that saves space while offering a full commercial-grade experience. The matte black frame and black upholstery add a touch of elegance to any gym environment.

When it comes to warranty, the TKO Strength Diverging Lat-Pulldown Machine provides an extensive coverage: a 10-year warranty on the frame, 5 years on parts, 1 year on cables, and 6 months on upholstery, grips, and rollers. This ensures that your investment in this high-quality lat pulldown machine remains protected and worry-free.

In summary, the TKO Strength Diverging Lat-Pulldown Machine offers an exceptional workout experience, premium quality materials, and a thoughtful design that caters to a wide range of users. Consider this top-choice machine for your gym or fitness facility to elevate your strength training experience.

Shop Now

Best Compact Lat Pulldown

York Barbell STS Lat Pulldown Machine

The York Barbell STS Lat Pulldown Machine is an excellent choice for those who want a compact and efficient lat pulldown machine without unnecessary features. This machine is designed for straightforward use, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced fitness enthusiasts. Its original price ranges from $1,649.00 to $1,849.00, which could be considered quite cost-effective considering its durability and functionality.

The STS Lat Pulldown Machine is equipped with an adjustable locking leg hold-down that helps users secure their body position during workouts. This feature ensures proper form and positioning while performing lat pulldowns, making the exercise safer and more effective. The machine also comes with a straight bar with angled ends, designed for comfortable and correct hand and wrist placement, reducing the risk of injury during exercises.

One of the key features of the York Barbell STS machine is its high-quality, 4200-pound tensile strength aircraft-quality cable. This durable cable ensures that the machine can withstand heavy loads and maintain its longevity, making it a long-lasting investment for your home gym. Additionally, this lat pulldown machine offers a selectorized weight stack, available in either 250 lbs or 300 lbs. This feature allows users to select the appropriate weight for their fitness level and training goals, providing a versatile and customizable workout experience.

The York Barbell STS Lat Pulldown Machine boasts assembled dimensions of 53”L x 47-1/2”W x 90”H, making it a relatively compact option for home gyms. The machine is available in silver and white color options. The 250 lb stack includes (10) x 10 lb plates and (10) x 15 lb plates, while the 300 lb stack comes with (20) x 15 lb plates.

In conclusion, the York Barbell STS Lat Pulldown Machine is a top choice for those in search of a compact lat pulldown machine that delivers efficient workouts without unnecessary features. Its durability, functionality, and adjustable settings make it an excellent investment for any home gym.

Shop Now

Understanding Lat Pulldown Machines

Lat Pulldown Machine Types

There are several different types of lat pulldown machines available for different workout preferences and environments. The most common types include:

  1. Plate-Loaded Machines: These machines require the user to add weight plates for resistance, offering versatility and adjustable resistance options.
  2. Selectorized Machines: Equipped with a weight stack and a pin for selecting the desired resistance, these are convenient for quick adjustments and ease of use.
  3. Cable Machines: Typically found in commercial gyms, cable machines offer multiple workout options, including lat pulldowns, by simply changing the attachments.

Lat Pulldown Benefits

The lat pulldown is highly beneficial for various reasons:

  • Strength development: Regularly practicing lat pulldowns increases the strength of your upper body, particularly your latissimus dorsi, biceps, and forearm muscles.
  • Improvement in posture: As it strengthens your back muscles, the lat pulldown exercise helps you maintain better posture.
  • Versatility: The lat pulldown machine enables multiple grip options and positions, targeting different muscle groups and contributing to a full-body workout.
  • Suitable for all levels: Whether you are a beginner or an experienced fitness enthusiast, the lat pulldown machine offers options for various skill levels and fitness goals.

Lat pulldown benefits for females include strength improvement, better posture, and increased functional fitness, making daily tasks easier.

Lat Pulldown Machine Muscles Worked

The lat pulldown machine primarily targets the following muscles:

  • Latissimus dorsi: Located on the sides of your back, these muscles are the primary focus in this exercise.
  • Biceps: Assisting in the pulling motion, biceps also get worked during a lat pulldown exercise.
  • Forearms: As they hold onto the bar and maintain your grip, your forearms are engaged during this exercise.
  • Rhomboids and trapezius: Engaged during the exercise, rhomboids and trapezius muscles contribute to stabilizing your upper back and shoulder region.

Exercises and Variations

How to Do the Lat Pulldown

The lat pulldown is a popular exercise for strengthening and developing the muscles of the upper back, primarily the latissimus dorsi.

To perform a lat pulldown with correct form:

  1. Adjust the knee pads: Make sure the knee pads of the machine are correctly adjusted for your height, providing stability while not restricting your movement.
  2. Grasp the bar: Sit down and reach up to grab the bar with a wide grip (outside shoulder width), palms facing forward.
  3. Engage your core: Keep your chest upright, brace your core, and retract your shoulder blades.
  4. Pull the bar down: Slowly pull the bar down to your upper chest, ensuring that your elbows are moving towards your ribcage.
  5. Return to the starting position: Slowly release and extend your arms back up, maintaining control throughout the entire movement.

Lat Pulldown Variations

There are several lat pulldown grip variations that you can incorporate into your workout routine to target different muscles and add variety to your training. Some of these variations include:

  • Reverse close-grip lat pulldown: Perform the exercise with a close, underhand grip to emphasize the biceps and work the lats from a different angle.
  • Behind-the-neck lat pulldown: Pull the bar down behind your head instead of to your chest to engage the upper lats in a different way. However, be cautious as this variation can strain the neck and shoulders if done improperly.
  • Single-arm lat pulldown: This unilateral variation targets one side of the body at a time, allowing you to focus on muscle imbalances and bilateral strength development.

Lat Pulldown Machine Alternatives

If a lat pulldown machine is not available, you can perform alternative exercises to work the same target muscles.

Here are some alternatives to the lat pulldown:

  • Pull-ups: This bodyweight exercise can be performed using a horizontal bar, targeting the back muscles similarly to the lat pulldown.
  • Seated cable rows: This exercise utilizes a cable machine with a seated row attachment, focusing on the middle lats and providing a horizontal pulling movement.
  • Bent-over barbell rows: A free-weight alternative that challenges the entire posterior chain while still targeting the lats and upper back muscles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Lat Pulldown Machine Worth It?

A lat pulldown machine can be a valuable investment, especially if you're looking to target and strengthen your back muscles. It allows you to perform various exercises, such as the standard lat pulldown and low rows. These exercises engage multiple muscle groups and contribute to improved functional strength as well as overall performance in other activities.

What Type of Lat Pulldown Is Most Effective?

There are several types of lat pulldown machines, including plate-loaded, selectorized, and cable-based systems. The most effective type for you depends on your preferences, space constraints, and budget. Plate-loaded systems are typically more affordable and space-efficient, while cable-based machines offer smooth operation, versatility, and a consistent resistance throughout the motion.

What features should I look for in a lat pulldown machine for home use?

When selecting a lat pulldown machine for home use, consider the following features:

  1. Space efficiency: Ensure the machine fits comfortably in your workout area and doesn't crowd your space.
  2. Weight capacity: Check the maximum weight the machine can handle to ensure it meets your strength training requirements.
  3. Warranty: A reliable warranty reflects the manufacturer's confidence in the machine's durability and quality.
  4. Adjustability: Opt for a machine with adjustable seat and padding to accommodate various user heights and provide maximum comfort during exercises.

Can You Build Muscle On A Lat Pulldown?

Yes, the lat pulldown is an effective exercise for building muscle in your back, specifically targeting the latissimus dorsi. By progressively increasing the weight and implementing a proper nutrition plan, you can build muscle with consistent lat pulldown workouts. Additionally, the exercise also engages other muscles, such as the biceps, forearms, and stabilizer muscles, contributing to overall upper body strength.

How Does The Lat Pulldown Compare to The Seated Row?

Both the lat pulldown and seated row target the back muscles, but they emphasize different areas. The lat pulldown primarily focuses on the latissimus dorsi and the upper back, while the seated row targets the middle trapezius, rhomboids, and lower back muscles. Incorporating both exercises in your routine can provide a well-rounded workout, ensuring all areas of your back receive adequate training.

Overall Best Lat Pulldown Machine

Bells Of Steel Lat Pulldown

Our top pick for the best lat pulldown machine goes to the Bells Of Steel Lat Pulldown Low Row machine with a 310lb weight stack, dual functionality, aluminum pulleys, included accessories and more!

A fantastic option for any light commercial or home gym type of fitness setting, this machine brings more bang for your buck than any other lat pulldown machine we carry, and or have tested in the past. 

If you're serious about your back day gains, check out the bells of steel lat pulldown today and use code 'WELCOME5' for 5% off your purchase!

Shop Now

Previous article Top Lat Pulldown Variations For A Large Back

About The Author

Matt Gemkow, the author of this content section at Select Fitness USA, boasts more than 15 years of fitness experience. He started out in sports and athletic training for many years and has since 2014 transitioned into heavy-weight training and bodybuilding. As a result, he has become one of the most experienced fitness equipment experts out there, and a valuable source of information.

Best Selling Gym Equipment

View All