Once upon a time, when presented with a choice between hard tacos and soft tacos, an adorable young girl provided this iconic retort:
“Why not both?”
Few could argue with her profound logic (although we’re more of “soft taco guys” ourselves). Unfortunately, when the stakes get a little higher, a definitive choice has to be made.
Thankfully, if you’re deciding between the RitFit M1 and the RitFit Buffalo, it’s pretty much impossible to make the “wrong” choice.
Both of these multifunctional Smith Machines represent the epitome of “cancel your gym membership” home gym training. Each allows for Smith Machine, free weight, bodyweight, and cable exercises to be performed while also coming equipped with an arsenal of different attachments and accessory items.
The RitFit M1 vs Buffalo debate ain’t “hard vs soft tacos” though, and you’re going to have to determine which machine is best for you. Thankfully, we’re here today to help you do just that!
RitFit M1
The M1 is one of the reigning stalwarts of the multifunctional Smith Machine world. Despite being a beloved piece of home gym equipment by thousands of satisfied lifters, it recently received a slight facelift, upgrading its already impressive cable crossover system.
Smooth moving steel components aside, the M1 provides a plethora of exercise variation options with an endless array of workout programs available for all types of home gym lifters. While most people will initially focus on the M1’s free weight and Smith Machine movement options, its pulley system is arguably what creates a true commercial gym experience.
Considering that the M1’s overall footprint is smaller than average, even those with space-limited lifting areas should be able to find a corner to house their machine. The M1’s space-saving qualities make it a truly accessible, multifunctional Smith Machine which is arguably one of its most admirable qualities.
It’s hard to find something not to like with the M1; can a Buffalo give it a run for its money?
RitFit Buffalo
The RitFit Buffalo hasn’t been on the scene for nearly as long as the M1, but it’s already made major waves in the fitness equipment world. By taking much of what makes the M1 such a beloved piece of equipment and expanding on it, the Buffalo might be the most all-inclusive Smith Machine on the market today.
With certain elements like upgraded J-hooks, robust safety arms, and high-quality aluminum pulley handles, every inch of the Buffalo is optimized for maximum performance. No expense has been spared in crafting the machine as each material component is top of the line.
However, with the Buffalo, home gym enthusiasts aren’t only getting a multifunctional Smith Machine with superior materials, but are provided with extensive functionality.
When initially laying eyes on the Buffalo, the first feature that immediately comes to mind is the vertical leg press attachment. This accessory item is incredibly novel and seeing it included in a Smith Machine’s base package is almost unheard of. With this attachment, home gym lifters who may feel a bit bored of the repetitive nature of barbell and Smith squats can target every lower-body muscle in an incredibly safe manner.
Although the leg press attachment may be the most eye-catching aspect of the Buffalo, extras like its foot board (for low-lat movements), band pegs (for additional resistance), and landmine attachment complement its free weight, Smith Machine, cable, and bodyweight optionality.
An oftentimes less appreciated, but massively important advantage of the Buffalo, is its extended warranty. While its bolts and pulleys are covered by a generous 1-year warranty, its frame and welding are covered by a 3-year warranty. With its superior craftsmanship, the likelihood of needing to activate these warranties is minimal, but their presence adds peace of mind that is impossible to put a price on.
The Buffalo obviously has a lot going for it…but does it do enough to outpace the M1?
The RitFit M1 vs Buffalo – Who is Each Machine Best For?
After expanding on each machine in the RitFit M1 vs Buffalo debate, you may still be experiencing a difficult time deciding which option is best for you. Let’s get a little more direct with the best candidates for each machine:
- Who the RitFit M1 is Best for?
There is a lot to like about the M1 and just about anyone can get a lot of utility out of it. However, there are a few groups who would appreciate it the most:
- Those seeking a less expensive Multifunctional Smith Machine
As far as multifunctional Smith Machines go, the M1 is priced on the lower side and enjoys a significant price savings advantage over the Buffalo.
- Those seeking a lighter piece of equipment
Despite being a robust and durable machine, the M1 weighs roughly 100 pounds less than the Buffalo. Its lighter weight makes it easier to adjust and move if/when necessary.
- Those who appreciate a proven champion
The M1 has been a top choice for home gym lifters for years now. For those who like to back a proven winner, it’s hard to find a better choice.
- Who the RitFit Buffalo is Best for?
There are few pieces of strength equipment that possess as much functionality as the Buffalo. Who is most likely to appreciate this quality as well as its more intangible characteristics?
- Those who want to perform vertical leg presses
The vertical leg press attachment is one of the most unique elements of the Buffalo and lower body enthusiasts will definitely appreciate the functionality it provides.
- Lower-ceiling home gym lifters
Despite weighing over 100 pounds more than the M1, the Buffalo is a more compact machine. With a total height at just under 7 feet, it should easily fit into any room in the house.
- Those who want to try a fresh option
The Buffalo doesn’t have the history of most other machines, but has the advantage of possessing features that are very novel. Those seeking an option that stands out in the crowd will truly appreciate what it has to offer.
The RitFit M1 vs Buffalo…Everybody Wins?
After being hit with the merits of both “combatants’ in the RitFit M1 vs Buffalo showdown, not to mention the full breakdown on the type of lifter each machine is best suited for, we understand that you may still feel a bit indecisive.
Both machines are solid options for all-in-one home gym training and actually share a lot of the same characteristics. There isn’t a “losing” option in the RitFit M1 vs Buffalo debate.
…and we also know that the “why not both?” option probably isn’t going to cut it with your significant other!
If space-saving multifunctionality is your main priority, you can’t do better than the Buffalo while if low-priced multifunctionality is most important, the M1 is where it’s at.
Either option is going to be a solid one; just make sure you put yours to good use!
