For nearly a year, the original Speediance Gym Monster has been the cornerstone of my home gym. The recent release of not one, but two new models—the Gym Monster 2 and the top-tier Gym Monster 2S—prompted a deep dive. Having used and compared all three side-by-side, this review will dissect every upgrade, nuance, and practical difference to help you choose the perfect smart home gym for your needs.
1. Unboxing & Assembly: Weight, Wheels, and Ease
The process remains refreshingly straightforward across all models. You receive a large pallet, but the real work begins after freeing the unit. I assembled all three models alone—it's no witchcraft. The key differences lie in the details:
- Weight: The original weighs 85 kg. The new 2S is marginally lighter at 82 kg. The most significant drop is with the Gym Monster 2, coming in at only 78 kg—a full 7 kg lighter than the first generation.
- Manoeuvrability: A major but subtle upgrade on both new models is the transport wheels. They've grown from 12 mm to 20 mm in width, making moving and repositioning the unit noticeably easier.
- Assembly: The main task is attaching the adjustable bench, which involves just four screws. The process feels virtually identical across all versions.
2. Core Functionality: What Does the Gym Monster Do?
At its heart, every Gym Monster is a smart, all-in-one resistance trainer. An electric synchronous motor with permanent magnets generates digital weight. You control everything via a large touchscreen, eliminating physical weight plates.
- Resistance Capacity: This is a key differentiator. The Original and Gym Monster 2 offer up to 100 kg. The Gym Monster 2S pushes this to 120 kg—a 20% increase that could be a deciding factor for advanced users.
- Versatility: Via a secure click system (improved on the 2S), you attach various handles, a barbell, or a triceps rope to perform over 450 exercises from the built-in library. You can follow guided programs, create custom workouts, or use the Free Lift mode for complete freedom.
3. Key Upgrades in the 2 & 2S: A Detailed Breakdown
Design & Acoustics: Quieter, Cooler, Better Sound
- Cooling & Noise: The 2S and Gym Monster 2 feature redesigned air intakes, a more efficient motor, and an added fan. The result is significantly less operational noise and better heat dissipation. Speediance claims 20% improved energy efficiency.
- Audio System: The original has 2x10W speakers. The 2 and 2S models boast a 2.1 sound system with a subwoofer. The difference is not subtle—music and guidance have much more "punch" and clarity.
- Footprint & Stability: When folded, the 2S has a slimmer profile than the original. A minor trade-off is that the folded 2S feels a touch less rock-solid when wobbled intentionally (though it's perfectly stable during use). The Gym Monster 2 is the most compact.
User Experience: Smoother, Smarter, More Refined
- Platform Mechanism: The lever to release the training platform is now flush-mounted on the 2S/2, preventing cable interference. The 2S features a "Soft Opening" mechanism—the platform lowers smoothly at a button press, unlike the free-fall of the original. Raising it is also noticeably easier and smoother.
- Ergonomics & Height: The top attachment point on the 2S and 2 is 2 cm higher, a crucial improvement for tall users (I'm 1.90m and appreciate this). Both new models also include a dedicated mid-height setting optimised for rowing exercises.
- Mat & Screen: The platform mat has new markings for positioning. The 21.5" screen remains but is powered by a newer chip (2 & 2S) with 128 GB storage (vs. 64 GB in Gen 1), ensuring smoother performance and future update readiness.
4. Software & Training Feel: The Smart Advantage
The software experience is rich and a major selling point:
- Library & Guidance: Access to 450+ exercises with filters for muscle groups or equipment. Video tutorials feature real trainers providing audio form tips—invaluable for beginners.
- Advanced Modes: Free Lift mode allows for settings like eccentric overload (more weight on the lowering phase) and Chain Mode (weight increases as you lift, simulating a chain).
- Safety & Tracking: Safety features can auto-reduce weight if imbalance or failure is detected. Every rep is tracked digitally, creating a perfect training log. Pairing with a heart rate monitor integrates cardio data.
- Training Feel: The 2S feels the smoothest of the three. The combination of refined mechanics, quieter operation, and premium finishes makes the workout experience feel more integrated and high-quality.
5. Durability, Price & Final Verdict
- Real-World Durability: My original unit has lived in my unheated garage through freezing winters and hot summers, with zero functionality issues—a testament to build quality.
- Pricing & Accessories: Prices fluctuate with frequent sales.
- Original: Starts around €2,000.
- Gym Monster 2: Roughly €600 more than the original.
- Gym Monster 2S: Positioned around €4,500 (non-promotional).
- Smart Accessories: New gear like Smart Handles with built-in buttons to adjust weight/activation are game-changers for workout flow.
Final Decision Guide:
- Choose the Original Gym Monster: Budget is the primary constraint, and 100kg resistance is sufficient. It remains an excellent, proven smart gym.
- Choose the Gym Monster 2 if: You want the latest chip, better sound, and design refinements in the lightest, most compact package, and don't need the extra 20kg resistance.
- Choose the Gym Monster 2S if: You want the maximum 120kg resistance, the absolute smoothest and quietest operation, the premium soft-open mechanism, and the best overall experience, and are willing to invest in the top tier.
All three models deliver on the core promise: a massive variety of effective, trackable home workouts in a compact footprint. The choice comes down to how much you value peak performance, refinements, and that extra bit of weight.
This review is based on my personal experience and originally appeared in my detailed video comparison. Got questions? Drop them in the comments below!
Source: This article is from the detailed review by Tommy of TommysTechReviews. Check out the original video on his YouTube channel for a more in-depth look and visual comparisons.
