Smith Machine - what to look for…

[WindyCommon]

I know these divide opinion, and am hoping to avoid that particular debate here.

I am looking to buy a “commercial quality” Smith Machine for our home gym. Budget £1k - £2k-ish.

What are the features I should be looking for? Which brands / models should I be looking at? The one my son (a rower) uses at his gym is a Precor Discovery. Would one of those be a good choice? If not, why not?

[Challo]

I know you mentioned not having a debate, but what can a smith machine offer that perhaps a proper power rack doesn’t?

Just thinking would a power rack give you more options to purchase and would be cheaper overall?