I was wondering what works better: total gym or bowflex tredclimer?

All are different: There really is not one answer. Each machine has its benefits. My thought is choose something that you think you will like to do three times a weeks on a consistent basis. You want to work on all muscle groups and a three time a week regiment would work well. Perhaps you could supplement the above with therabands or dumbbells if you have a limited budget and space.