If you’re in the market for a StairMaster stepmill, there are several key product features to consider before making a purchase. Whether you’re a commercial gym owner or a garage gym enthusiast, you want a stepmill that can deliver an intense, effective workout while being durable and easy to maintain. In this post, we’ll compare the Gauntlet, SM5, SM916, and PT7000 by product feature, to help you make an informed decision on which model is the best fit for you.
Durability
One of the most important features to consider when purchasing a stepmill is its durability. All four of these models are built for commercial usage and boasts superior sturdiness and longevity than residential models, but the Gauntlet stands out with its heavy-duty frame and reinforced steps, making it a great choice for high-traffic commercial gyms.
Step Action
All four of these stepmills feature revolving stairs with a 8″ step height, mimicing a natural stairclimbing pattern. This ensures user safety especially at higher speeds. All four models all max out a steps per minute rate of 162, ensuring a great change to provide users with a challenging cardio workout.
Size and Weight
Finally, it’s essential to consider the size and weight of each model. The Gauntlet is the largest and heaviest of the four, weighing in at 356 pounds and requiring a space of 58 x 34 x 89 inches. The SM916 is slightly smaller at 343 pounds and 50 x 29 x 78 inches, while the SM5 and PT7000 are more compact and suitable for smaller spaces. Always ensure you have sufficient ceiling clearances before purchasing. For these models we recommend a minimum ceiling clearance of the tallest user height + 36″.
Specifications Summary Chart
| StairMaster Gauntlet Stepmill w/ LCD D-1 Console | StairMaster SM5 StepMill w/ LCD (D-1) Console | StairMaster SM916 StepMill | Stairmaster 7000PT Stepmill w/ Blue Face | |
| Resistance Levels | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 |
| Resistance Controls | Display | Display | Display | Display |
| Heart Rate | Polar Telemetry, Wireless Contact | Polar Telemetry | Polar Telemetry | Polar Telemetry |
| Exercise Programs | 10 | 10 | 13 | 6 |
| Recommended Ceiling Clearance | Height of tallest user + 36″ | Height of tallest user + 36″ | Height of tallest user + 36″ | Height of tallest user + 36″ |
| Display Readout | Quick Start, Time, Calories, Floors, More Workouts, Level | Quick Start, Time, Calories, Floors, More Workouts, Level | Time, Interval Timer, Step Rate, Heart Rate, Distance, Calories, Calories/Hour, Speed, Watts, METs, Workout Profile | Time, Calories, Quick Start, Manual, Fat Burner, Aerobic Training, Speed, Intervals, Constant Heart Rate, Level |
| Cup Holder | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Machine Weight | 328 lbs (148.77 kg) | 343 lbs (155.58 kg) | 341 lbs (154.67 kg)) | 409 lbs (185.51 kg) |
| Max User Weight | 350 lbs (158.75 kg) | 350 lbs (158.75 kg) | 300 lbs (136.07 kg) | 300 lbs (136.07 kg) |
| Length | 58″ (147.32 cm) | 58″ (147.32 cm) | 50″ (127 cm) | 50″ (127 cm) |
| Width | 34″ (86.36 cm) | 34″ (86.36 cm) | 29″ (73.66 cm) | 29″ (73.66 cm) |
| Height | 89″ (226.06 cm) | 89″ (226.06 cm) | 81″ (205.74 cm) | 78″ (198.12 cm) |
| Step Height | 8″ (20.32 cm) | 8″ (20.32 cm) | 8″ (20.32 cm) | 8″ (20.32 cm) |
| Step Width | 22″ (55.88 cm) | 22″ (55.88 cm) | 22″ (55.88 cm) | 22″ (55.88 cm) |
| Step Depth | 9″ (22.86 cm) | 9″ (22.86 cm) | 9″ (22.86 cm) | 9″ (22.86 cm) |
| Step Rate Per Minute | 26 to 162 | 26 to 162 | 24 to 162 | 24 to 162 |
| Age Range | 2012-2015 | 2010-2012 | 2009-2010 | 2006-2008 |
| Power Source | Plug-In (110V) | Plug-In (110V) | Plug-In (110V) | Plug-In (110V) |
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