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While there are plenty of effective, limited-equipment workouts you can do at home to stay in shape, you’ll need a squat rack if you want to lift heavy weight. Without one, you’ll struggle to perform lifts like the back squat and bench press and may never reach your full strength potential.

I bought a new squat rack about a year and a half ago. Even though I have years of training experience and am familiar with many different squat rack companies through my job as a fitness writer, it still took me weeks to make a decision. However, I learned much more about squat racks than I ever thought possible. To save you from having to endure countless hours of research, I compiled a list of the eight best squat racks below.

Our Top Picks for the Best Squat Racks

Best Power Rack: REP Fitness PR-5000

Pros

• Lots of customization options available
• Compatible with attachments from other brands
• Laser cut numbers on the uprights for easy and quick rack adjustments

Cons

• High starting price and the cost of attachments and accessories adds up quickly
• No Westside hole spacing

If you’re searching for a customizable, heavy-duty squat rack, look no further than the REP Fitness PR-5000. It has 3×3, 11-gauge steel uprights, which is impressive on its own. But with the number of compatible accessories and attachments available, you can have access to almost an entire gym with just this one rack. For this reason, we consider the PR-5000 the best squat rack overall.

You have the choice of an 80- or a 93-inch rack height, depending on how high your ceiling is. You can also choose a 16-, 30-, or 41-inch rack depth. The deeper it is, the more space you’ll have inside for squats. You’ll also be able to fit more attachments in the deeper racks. And, for an even more personal touch, you can choose from six colors for the uprights: red, blue, white, clear, metallic black, or matte black. The crossmembers are available in the same colors and come in green, too, so you can really make this power rack unique.

In addition, you can add several other attachments, including:

• Safety straps, pin pipe safeties, or flip-down safeties
• A straight, 1.25-diameter pull-up bar; a two-inch-diameter pull-up bar; a multi-grip pull-up bar; or a globe pull-up bar
• Flat, standard, lowered, or sandwich J-cups
• A leg roller attachment
• A dip station
• ISO arms
• A wall ball target
• A lat pulldown attachment
• And more

(If you feel overwhelmed from reading this, scroll down to the buying guide below, where I talk more about some of these features.)

The wide range of available attachments opens up your training to much more than barbell and dumbbell exercises, to which many home gym owners are limited. But as you can imagine, the attachments drive up the price, and the rack is expensive to begin with. If you can’t afford to buy everything all at once, you can skip the attachments and buy them at a later date, as REP sells all of them separately on its website.

The rack is also compatible with attachments from other brands, so you may be able to find the ones you want at a lower price from another company. The home gym sub-Reddit is a fantastic resource for mixing and matching squat rack attachments from different brands if you’re not sure what to look for.

Aside from the price, it’s hard to find any major drawbacks to the PR-5000. We do wish it came with Westside hole spacing, though. Westside hole spacing means the holes on the lower portions of the uprights are spaced one inch apart instead of two inches. The smaller spacing allows for more precise adjustments of the J-cups, so you can maintain better starting positions during bench presses when you unrack the weight. It also lets you place safety pins or straps in a more exact position.

The lowered J-cups allow you to get around this by creating one-inch hole spacing on racks with two-inch hole spacing. However, you have to pay extra for them.

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Best Budget Squat Rack: Force USA MyRack Modular Power Rack

Pros

• 20 customization options available
• Numbered holes on the uprights for fast and easy J-cup adjustment
• Comes with a lifetime structural warranty
• Uses 10-gauge steel brackets to bolster its stability

Cons

• Requires a ceiling height of 98 inches if you want to do pull-ups

The Force USA MyRack Modular Power Rack isn’t the cheapest squat rack around. But it is one of the lower-priced options on this list, and I wouldn’t recommend that you go much lower than its price point — just under $500 — if you want a safe, sturdy squat rack.

The MyRack Modular Power Rack consists of 12-gauge, 2.4-inch steel uprights and boasts a 2,000-pound weight capacity. It’s highly unlikely that you’d ever lift 2,000 pounds, so this rack should be able to handle any weight you put on it. It also has Westside hole spacing for more precise barbell placement and can be bolted to the floor or used as a free-standing rack. Customers have reported that it’s stable even without bolting it down, which is a plus for those who can’t drill into their floor.

Several customization options are available. You can opt for spotter arms, flip-down safety bars, or safety straps; a standard, multi-grip, or globe pull-up bar; a lat pull-down and low row station; lat pull-down and cable crossover attachments; and much more. In all, there are 20 options to choose from, so you can make the rack as basic or robust as you want.

The MyRack Modular Power Rack can fit in small spaces, as it’s just 55 inches long and 47 inches wide. It’s 87 inches tall, so it can fit under ceilings less than eight feet high. However, if you want to do pull-ups without hitting your head on the ceiling, you’ll need a ceiling height of at least 98 inches.

Best Foldable Squat Rack: PRx Profile One Rack

Pros

• Black powder coat finish for durability
• Takes up just four inches when folded
• Can choose between a standard, kipping, or multi-grip pull-up bar

Cons

• Expensive for a rack that uses 2×3 steel
• Requires a ceiling height of 107 inches to fold it up

A folding squat rack like the PRx Profile One Rack is ideal for those who work out in small rooms, park their cars in their garage gyms, or just want extra floor space when they’re not training. The Profile One Rack exploded in popularity after it appeared on season seven of Shark Tank and has become a go-to squat rack for home gym owners limited by space.

PRx doesn’t offer many customization options for the Profile One Rack, but you do have a choice between three pull-up bars: a kipping bar, a standard 1.25-inch diameter bar, or a multi-grip bar. The kipping bar is great for CrossFitters because it extends from the wall by nearly 40 inches, offering plenty of room to do kipping pull-ups and toes-to-bars. The standard bar is suitable for traditional pull-ups and chin-ups, and the multi-grip bar is a solid option if you like to vary your pull-up grip (for example, by doing neutral-grip pull-ups).

The uprights are made of 2×3 steel. This is thick and sturdy enough for most lifters, but for the price, we would have liked to see 3×3 steel. If you opt for a pull-up bar, you’ll spend at least $800, and you can find 3×3 squat racks for that price.

The other drawback is that you need a ceiling height of 107 inches to fold it up. However, when unfolded, the rack is 89 inches high. If you’re set on a wall-mounted squat rack but have short ceilings, the Profile One Rack could still be a great choice — you’ll just have to leave it unfolded, even when it’s not in use.

Best Squat Stand: Rogue Fitness S-2 Squat Stand

Pros

• Can choose between a fat or standard-diameter pull-up bar
• J-cups have plastic liners to protect against damage to your barbell
• Triangular plates at the base for extra stability
• Lots of compatible attachments available

Cons

• Requires a ceiling height of at least eight feet

Squat stands are ideal for those who don’t have room for a full power rack or those who train the Olympic lifts, as they can’t do snatches, cleans, or jerks inside a power cage. However, many squat stands are wobbly since they only have two uprights, and their bases aren’t very sturdy. That’s not an issue with the Rogue S-2 Squat Stand. It consists of 2×3, 11-gauge steel and uses the same triangular plates on the base as Rogue’s heavier-duty squat racks, which help keep it grounded.

Another feature that sets the S-2 Squat Stand apart from its competition is the pull-up bar. Not all squat stands have this and instead of J-cups at the top of the uprights for a barbell. The addition of the pull-up bar opens up the number of exercises you can do at home. You can do pull-ups and hanging leg raises or loop your favorite resistance bands around the bar for stretching and mobility work. Even if you’re a CrossFitter and do kipping movements, the rack will remain stable.

Rogue sells several compatible attachments for the S-2. Safety spotter arms allow you to squat and bench press heavy weights with more confidence when you train by yourself. The landmine and dip stations allow for more workout versatility, as you can do dips, landmine shoulder presses, or landmine squats. You can also purchase barbell and plate holders, a wall ball target, a battle rope anchor, and more.

The S-2 starts at under $500, which is reasonable for a high-quality squat rack from Rogue. Any accessories you add to it will drive up the cost, but spending the money may be worth it if you want a versatile, customizable squat rack that will fit in a small home gym.

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Best Half Rack: Bells of Steel Hydra Half Rack

Pros

• Doesn’t need to be bolted down
• Three height options available (84, 90, or 108 inches)
• Two inside depths available (17 or 30 inches)
• Compatible with attachments from other brands

Cons

• Can be pricey if you add a lot of attachments

It’s rare to find a modular half rack that can accommodate more than just a couple of attachments. However, Bells Of Steel offers nearly a dozen optional attachments for its Hydra Half Rack, making it one of the most customizable half racks we’ve seen. We also love its flat-foot design, so you don’t have to bolt it down.

Potential attachments include storage horns, three different styles of J-cups (standard, roller, or monolift), and a lat pull-down system. If you’re in the market for a high-quality barbell and/or a top-notch set of bumper plates, you can add those to your purchase, too. However, the Hydra Half Rack is compatible with attachments from other brands, so you’re not limited to equipment from Bells Of Steel — just double-check the specifications to ensure the attachments will fit a rack with 3×3 tubing and ⅝-inch hole sizes.

Aside from the add-ons, there are other ways you can customize your Hydra Half Rack. For example, you can choose uprights that are 84, 90, or 108 inches, depending on your ceiling height. You can also select an inside depth of 17 or 30 inches. The 30-inch depth offers ample room for you to walk your squat out, but the 17-inch depth may be better if you have a small gym space.

There’s not much to dislike about the Hydra Half Rack, except maybe the price. It starts at around $450, and the price quickly creeps up as you add more attachments to it. However, if you’ve been wanting something that’s more stable than squat stands but smaller than a power cage, this could be the right squat rack for you.

Best Squat Rack for Small Spaces: PRx Fold-In ONE Rack

Pros

• Easy-to-follow installation instructions
• Takes up less than three feet of floor space when unfolded
• Powder coat finish to ward off rust and corrosion

Cons

• Ceilings need to be 91 inches or higher
• 14-gauge steel

Not everyone is fortunate enough to have large home gyms, and PRx came up with an ideal solution for those with small gym spaces: the Fold-In ONE Rack. It extends just 27.5 inches from the wall when unfolded, so you should still have plenty of room for any other home gym essentials you want to buy. Additionally, instead of folding in and up, like most foldable squat racks, it only folds in, so you don’t need super high ceilings to accommodate it.

That said, PRx recommends installing it in rooms with 91-inch ceilings or higher, which can be an issue if you want to put it in a basement with low ceilings.

PRx uses 14-gauge steel for the Fold-In ONE Rack. I generally don’t recommend squat racks made with less than 12-gauge steel because they can be thin and wobbly. However, since the Fold-In ONE rack is a wall-mounted squat rack, that helps keep it more secure. Plus, it still has a 1,000-pound weight capacity, which is sufficient for casual weightlifters.

The use of thinner steel also allows PRx to sell the Fold-In One Rack for a reasonable price. Coming in at just under $500, it’s a budget-friendly rack. It may not be sturdy enough for powerlifters, but it can be an economical option for home gym owners with limited space.

Best Squat Rack with Cables: Force USA X20

Pros

• Comes with 17 attachments, including spotter arms, band pegs, a landmine, and various cable handles
• Combines six machines into one
• Westside hole spacing

Cons

• Expensive
• Difficult assembly process (you may want to consider paying extra for Force USA’s assembly service)

The Force USA X20 Pro Multi Trainer is more than just a squat rack. In fact, it’s one of the best home gym machines you can buy because it combines six machines into one. In just one unit, you get a power rack, a pull-up station, a functional trainer, a suspension trainer, a low row station, and a landmine station. Having all of these capabilities gives you a ton of workout variety, as you won’t be limited to barbell and dumbbell exercises.

Two 289-pound weight stacks are located on either side of the machine. They have a two-to-one ratio, meaning 100 pounds feel like 50 because the cable travels twice as far as the weight stack. This allows you to use the machine for quicker movements since the cable is more responsive.

The frame is made with 11-gauge steel and has a 992-pound weight capacity. The weight capacity includes the weight of your barbell, the plates you load the barbell with, and any plates you leave on the storage horns. Still, 992 pounds is much more than most people can lift. Unless you’re gunning for a world-record lift, you shouldn’t have any issues using a lot of weight on this machine.

As you can probably imagine, a machine like this isn’t cheap — expect to pay over $4,000 before taxes and other fees. But even though this is a large investment, you won’t have to pay for multiple machines. When you tally up the prices, multiple machines can easily cost the same as (or more than) the X20. You’ll also never need to visit a commercial gym, so you’d save money by not having to pay for a gym membership.

Best Squat Rack for Beginners: Titan X-3 Power Rack

Pros

• Available in two heights (82 or 91 inches)
• Option to add weight plate storage pegs for an additional cost
• Compatible with lots of accessories from Titan and other brands
• Westside hole spacing
• Powder coat finish for protection against rust and corrosion

Cons

• Doesn’t come with safety pin pipes or straps
• The holes on the uprights aren’t numbered

At first glance, the Titan X-3 Series Power Rack may not seem like a beginner’s squat rack. It’s pricey, and those new to lifting may not want to spend the money if they’re not sure how long they’ll stick with a strength training routine. The rack is also beefy, with a 3×3, 11-gauge steel construction and a 1,650-pound rackable weight capacity. But I always recommend that new lifters consider getting sturdy, quality products from the start. It’ll save them from having to replace a lot of equipment as they get stronger. The Titan X-3 Series Power Rack is definitely something you can grow into.

I’ve had this power rack for about a year and a half, and I love it. I’ll never lift anywhere near the rack’s max weight capacity, but when I decided to upgrade from the cheap squat stands I had before, I knew I wanted something rugged and versatile. I vary my workouts between strength training and CrossFit, so it was important that my new squat rack was suitable for both. The rack also lives in my garage, which gets very cold in the winter and very humid in the summer, and I needed a rack with durable materials. So far, there are no signs of rust or corrosion on my Titan X-3.

My husband and I assembled it together, and it took a couple of hours — though that’s to be expected for something that weighs almost 300 pounds. You’ll need to think carefully about where you want to put it because once it’s in place, you likely won’t be able to move it.

The rack comes with two height options: 82 and 91 inches. I’m 5’8 and have long arms and legs, and I picked the higher rack so I wouldn’t hit my head on the ceiling at the top of a pull-up. It fits perfectly under the 94-inch high ceiling in my garage.

Unlike some power racks that must be bolted down for stability, the Titan X-3 features a flat-foot design that requires no bolting to the floor. Even though I’m a bigger lifter, I never worry about it wobbling when I use it. However, if you’re concerned about stability, you can get the optional plate storage pegs. The weight from the plates will help keep the rack grounded. Note, though, that the stored plates can get in the way during bench presses, especially if you store a lot of large bumper plates.

I also like that the Titan X-3 is compatible with attachments from Titan or other brands. For example, I bought safety straps from Rogue that fit on the rack well. I wish the uprights had laser-engraved numbers, but I mark the different holes for where my J-cups need to be for squats and bench presses with painter’s tape. I occasionally have to replace the tape, but it doesn’t leave sticky residue behind. It’s an easy, cheap workaround for the lack of engraved numbers that allows me to quickly adjust the J-hooks without counting holes.

How We Chose the Best Squat Racks

Before deciding on the best squat racks, we first considered the needs of our readers and narrowed down our selections to the racks that are suitable for as wide an audience as possible. The list above includes squat racks at a wide range of price points, so you can find one that works for you regardless of your budget. We also considered various training goals and offered space-saving squat racks for those with limited space.

Furthermore, we know that brand reputation is important to many consumers. We only selected squat racks from brands we’ve purchased from before, so we can attest to the quality of their products.

Benefits of Using a Squat Rack

Whether you’re a powerlifter, Olympic weightlifter, CrossFitter, bodybuilder, or general fitness enthusiast, a squat rack is an essential piece of equipment. Below are four strong reasons to add a squat rack to your home gym:

• Easier to perform heavy lifts. Without a squat rack, back squats become much more difficult. You’d have to load the barbell on the floor, clean it to your shoulders, then press it overhead and carefully lower it to your back for back squats. Or you’d have to find a strong, elevated surface on which to load the barbell, which not everyone has available at home. A squat rack lets you place the barbell in an ideal position where you can load it and set it on your back comfortably. It also allows you to set the barbell in place for overhead presses and bench presses.
• Safety. Since you can use spotter attachments on nearly all power racks and many squat stands, lifting with a squat rack is much safer than lifting without one. If you have to drop the weight, the safety attachments will catch it, preventing severe injuries and damage to your floor.
• Versatility. Even though they’re called “squat” racks, you can do much more than squat with them. Bench presses, overhead presses, and rack deadlifts are all possible on squat racks because you can adjust the J-cups to various positions for your barbell. Depending on which squat rack you buy, you may be able to add lat pulldown attachments, dip stations, wall ball targets, or other attachments to perform even more exercises at home.
• Storage options. Most brands often recommend not leaving their barbells on the floor, as dust, dirt, and other debris can get stuck on them. I’ve even had a spider try to make a new home for itself on my barbell when I accidentally left the bar on the floor in my garage for several days. A squat rack doubles as barbell storage since you can leave it on the rack (without plates loaded on it) when you’re done working out. Some squat racks also have compatible storage pegs for you to store your plates.

What To Look For When Buying a Squat Rack

What are some features to look for in a squat rack? Well, it can be a robust piece of equipment, so there’s a lot to think about before you buy one. Below are the most important factors to consider when shopping for a squat rack.

Type of Squat Rack

The squat rack category is broad. When shopping for a squat rack, it helps to narrow down the type of squat rack that will be best for your needs.

Four of the most common types of squat racks include the following:

• Power rack – Power racks are also called power cages. They have at least four uprights, multiple crossmembers for stability, and a pull-up bar. You can add many attachments to them, enhancing their versatility. Because lifters typically put safety straps or pin pipe safeties in power racks, they are also safer for heavy lifting.
• Squat stand – Squat stands have just two uprights, making them suitable for small home gyms. Some, like the Rogue S-2 Squat Stand, have pull-up bars and/or horizontal stabilizer bars to help prevent wobbling. Others are independent stands that are easy to move around your gym.
• Half rack – Half racks are a cross between squat stands and power racks. They typically have two tall uprights joined together with a pull-up bar at the front and two shorter uprights that extend out from the back. They tend to be more stable than squat squats but don’t take up as much room as full power racks.
• Foldable squat rack – I recommend a foldable squat rack for garage gym owners who also park their cars in their garages. You mount it to a wall, then unfold it for your workout and refold it when you’re done training. When folded, foldable squat racks stick out just a few inches away from the wall.

Price

The price range for squat racks is quite large, with some costing less than $400 and others costing more than $2,000. Once you settle on the type of squat rack you want, decide how much you’re willing to spend. In general, squat stands are cheaper than power racks because they have fewer uprights, so less steel is needed to make them. But the Force USA MyRack Modular Power Rack, for example, starts at around the same price as the Rogue S-2. Factors like the steel gauge, manufacturing location, and how many attachments you add to your purchase will affect the price.

Also, don’t forget about shipping. Some brands like REP and Titan offer free shipping on all purchases as of this writing, but Rogue charges over $50 to ship the S-2, depending on where you live.

Materials

The best squat racks are made with heavy-duty steel. When looking at a rack’s description, you’ll see specifications such as 11-gauge steel or 3×3 uprights. These refer to how thick the steel is and how wide and long the uprights are.

When it comes to measuring steel, the lower the number, the thicker it is. Most squat racks designed for home gym usage are made with 11- and 12-gauge steel. Some are made with 14-gauge steel, but I don’t recommend them because they can feel flimsy and unstable.

You’ll likely also find that most home gym squat racks are made with 2×3 or 3×3 steel. Either one is sufficient for most lifters, though powerlifters, strongmen/strongwomen, and other elite athletes may want to consider 3×3 steel. The thicker steel will withstand heavy abuse for a longer period of time.

Stability

Some racks require bolting to the floor to ensure they won’t tip over. Others have flat-foot designs with wide bases that are stable on their own and don’t need to be bolted. The amount of weight you’re capable of lifting and the exercises you’ll perform most often will dictate which type of rack you should get. For example, CrossFitters who do kipping pull-ups and toes-to-bar may want a rack that can be bolted to the floor to prevent it from wobbling.

If drilling into your floor isn’t an option, consider a rack that enables you to add plate storage pegs. The plates will help weigh it down.

Hole Spacing

Hole spacing refers to how far apart the holes on the uprights are. Most squat racks have two-inch hole spacing throughout, but others have Westside hole spacing.

Westside hole spacing means the holes are two inches apart near the top, then change to one inch apart towards the middle, and go back to two inches at the very bottom. This feature is especially beneficial for bench pressing because it allows for more precision when adjusting the J-cups. As a result, racking and unracking the barbell becomes much easier.

Another benefit is that you can set your safety bars or straps to a more precise position. One inch can make a big difference when you’re about to fail a heavy squat or bench press.

The drawback is that racks with Westside hole spacing can cost around $100 more than racks without it. Most lifters will be just fine without it, but powerlifters, bodybuilders, and anyone else who bench presses often may appreciate the shorter distance between the holes.

Weight Capacity

I recommend looking for a squat rack with a weight capacity of at least 700 pounds. Even if you know you’ll never lift anywhere close to that amount of weight, the racks that can handle that much weight are much sturdier and more durable. You’ll feel more confident loading your barbell for heavy squats and bench presses, and it won’t wobble when you rack and unrack the weight or do pull-ups (if your squat rack has a pull-up bar).

Safety Features

Safety should always be your first priority when lifting, especially if you train by yourself and push heavy weights often. Look for squat racks that come with safety features that will catch the barbell if you have to fail a lift.

For power racks (and some half racks), you can choose between various types of safeties:

• Pin pipe safeties are thin bars that you slide through the holes in your squat rack’s uprights. They can hold a lot of weight, but they can become dented if you drop heavy barbells on them often. I’ve also heard lifters complain that the metal-on-metal contact makes a lot of noise and ruins the knurling on their barbells.
• Safety straps are made from a material similar to that used for seat belts. They won’t ruin the feel of your barbell or cause as much noise when you drop a loaded barbell on them.
• Flip-down safeties look like smaller versions of a squat rack’s uprights. You slide them into the uprights like a J-hook, flip them down to get them into the proper position, and secure them with a pin. Some brands like REP Fitness add a protective liner to their flip-down safeties to prevent the issues that can arise from metal-on-metal contact.

Since squats only have two uprights, you can’t use the safeties above with them. Instead, you’ll have to look for spotter arms that latch onto the uprights and extend out by a couple of feet.

Even if your squat rack purchase doesn’t include safety attachments, you can (and should) purchase them separately. As an added bonus, safety bars and straps also allow you to add more exercises to your training routine. For instance, setting them to a lower position enables you to do rack pulls. Or you can set them to the height you’d be at when you’re at the bottom of a squat and do pin squats.

Attachments

If adding more versatility to your workouts is important to you, or if you need space-saving solutions so you have more room to train, consider a squat rack that you can add various attachments to.

Here are some attachments you may want to have (note that this isn’t an exhaustive list):

• Dip bars for tricep dips
• ISO arms, which are two levers with handles at the end that enable you to do exercises you’d normally only be able to do with a machine. Chest presses are one such movement.
• A leg roller attachment so you have a stable, comfortable surface to rest your rear foot on during Bulgarian split squats. You can also use it to keep your legs secure when doing seated upper body movements.
• A wall ball target, which can come in handy if you do CrossFit at home
• A lat pulldown attachment so you can isolate your lats when training at home
• Two-inch pull-up bars, which are larger than the standard 1.25-inch pull-up bars and challenge your forearms and grip strength more
• Multi-grip pull-up bars that enable you to do neutral-grip (palms facing each other) pull-ups
• Barbell storage hangers
• Weight plate storage pegs

Many of the attachments above are often only available with power cages like the REP Fitness PR-5000. However, some squat stands, like the Rogue S-2, are compatible with spotter arms, a dip station, a landmine, and barbell and plate storage attachments. Do your research to ensure the rack you want is compatible with various attachments.

Footprint

Squat racks take up a lot of room. The Titan X-3 Power Rack, for example, has a footprint of 50 inches by 48 inches. Aside from ensuring your space is large enough for the rack itself, you need to ensure you have room on the sides — at least a couple of feet — to load and unload your barbell. And if you get a rack with a pull-up bar, you’ll need about a foot of clearance at the top to avoid hitting your head on the ceiling.

Before I bought my Titan X-3, I used tape to block out how much space it would require. This allowed me to visualize where in my garage it would fit best. I’m happy I did this because once I had the tape down, I realized that the rack wouldn’t have fit where I originally wanted to put it. Most squat racks are difficult to maneuver, so I recommend doing the same thing I did before making your purchase.

If you’re really tight on space, consider getting a folding squat rack. Even when it’s unfolded, it should only take up about four feet of space. Then, when you refold it at the end of your workout, it will only stick out a few inches from the wall.

Final Thoughts

A squat rack is the hallmark of home gyms and commercial gyms alike, and the decision of which one to buy should not be made lightly. Your training style, experience level, available space, and budget must all be considered before settling on the best squat rack for you. After that, you have to decide which style of squat rack you want and think about whether or not you want to add attachments to it.

The process can feel confusing and overwhelming, but the list of squat racks and the buying guide above have you covered. Use this information as a resource to narrow down your options, and you’ll be squatting from the comfort of your own home in no time.

FAQs

Source

If you’re thinking about buying home gym equipment, dumbbells are likely high on your list. However, with so many options out there, how can you go about finding the best dumbbell set on the market for you? 

To help you with your search, we’ve come up with a list that considers all the factors you need to make an informed purchase. Whether you’re looking for luxe or budget-friendly dumbbells or trying to decide between fixed or adjustable ones, we’ve got you covered.

Our Top Picks for the Best Dumbbell Sets

Best Dumbbell Set Overall: Living.Fit Dumbbell Set

Pros

• Lifetime warranty 
• Available as individual pairs and full-sets
• Several weight options 
• Good price 
• Ergonomic design 

Cons

• Dumbbells may separate during transport 
• Only goes up to 100 pounds

If you’re in the market for traditional dumbbells that are inexpensive and easy to use, consider the Living.Fit dumbbell set. You can build muscle and reach your fitness goals with a set designed with comfort and quality in mind. Plus, you have a ton of versatility, as they are purchasable as individual pairs or full sets with weights ranging between five and 100 pounds. They come in 5-pound increments and have a three percent weight tolerance. The weight tolerance means the dumbbell could be three percent heavier or lighter than its labeled weight. 

The Living.Fit dumbbells are well-designed. The knurled steel handles are slightly wider in the middle to better fit the shape of your hands. This feature might seem easy to overlook, but I can assure you that this matters. As someone with arthritis, it’s important for me to have dumbbells that sit effortlessly in my hands and don’t put unnecessary pressure on my joints, as many cast iron dumbbells do. 

You know you’re at the gym when you hear the clinking sound of dumbbells and barbells. But you probably don’t want to hear that in your home gym. More importantly, you don’t want to deal with a scratched-up floor from iron hitting the ground. Fortunately, Living.Fit’s hexagonal-shape rubber-coated caps help cut the noise and the likelihood of damage. 

One five- to 100-pound set will cost about $3,400. If you don’t need all that, look at the individual pairs of dumbbells. A pair will cost between $30 and $420. You could certainly find dumbbells on Amazon for cheaper, but they won’t be as high-quality. Plus, Living.Fit offers a lifetime warranty, and that’s hard to pass up. 

Best Rubber Hex Dumbbell: REP Fitness Rubber Hex Dumbbells

Pros

• 30-day moneyback guarantee 
• Low rubber odor 
• Hexagon head to prevent rolling
• Good value for the price 

Cons

• Straight handle 
• Take up space 

Whether you want a full weight set or an individual pair of rubber hex dumbbells, REP Fitness has you covered. These free weights have range, with weight choices between 2.5 and 125 pounds. With so many different weights, there are options that’ll work for new trainees and advanced ones alike. 

These come in 2.5 to 5-pound increments, making it easy to progress gradually on exercises that can be challenging to improve, like bicep curls. The fully knurled 5.2-inch chrome handles are grippy, so you can confidently do lunges and shoulder presses.

In terms of handle thickness, the 2.5- to 15-pound weights are 28 millimeters, and the 17.5 to 125-pound dumbbells are 34 millimeters. These measurements are common on fixed dumbbells. However, some people might not like the straight handles. They don’t evenly distribute the weight of the dumbbell in your hand, making it less comfortable. 

The rubber hexagon heads are convenient and prevent them from rolling around when you put them down. They also don’t have that strong rubber smell often associated with products with a great deal of rubber, like resistance bands. 

Although these are nice dumbbells, they’re surprisingly cost-effective. One reason these might come at a more affordable price is their rubber heads. I’ve found that those are often cheaper for manufacturers to make than dumbbells with round, urethane ones. For instance, a five- to 50-pound set of these will cost around $1,099.99, which isn’t bad, especially given their quality. However, REP Fitness has a five- to 50-pound set of urethane dumbbells with round weight heads, and those are $1,599.99. See the cost difference? 

If you decide to get these dumbbells, keep in mind that they might be slippery at first. REP Fitness adds a protective oil coating to its brand new weights, but it wears off with time. If you don’t want to risk the dumbbells slipping out of your hands during a total body workout, use a dry rag to wipe the oil off. 

Overall, these are some solid dumbbells. More than 600 positive reviews and a lifetime warranty speak to their value. 

Best Adjustable Dumbbell: Snode AD80 Adjustable Dumbbells

Pros

• Quickly adjustable 
• Very durable 
• Fully knurled handles 
• 30-day return policy 

Cons

• Very pricey 
• Lengthy shipping process 
• Only available in ten-pound increments 

Envision this: you’re on a weight bench finishing up a seated overhead press variation with heavier weights and trying to push through. Once you complete your last maxed-out rep, you drop your dumbbells on the ground in relief. While most brands recommend that you don’t do this (it’s not good for the floor or your equipment), some dumbbells can handle it. In fact, the Snode AD80 Adjustable Dumbbells can be dropped from 32 inches high. 

Adjustable dumbbells can be hit or miss. There are great high-end ones and many cheap, mediocre ones. Some are fragile, with plastic weight plates, stickers that come off, and breakable cradles. However, Snode designed the AD80s with quality in mind. They have cast iron plates and fully-knurled chrome handles. The handles are thick, too, touting a 1.4-inch diameter so that most people can grip it with no issues. This is important, as some dumbbell handles are less than an inch thick and don’t fit well in the hand. 

Making adjustments is easy, too, thanks to the twist dial on one side of the handle. Rotating the dial will adjust the weight on both sides, and the knob will reflect the number of pounds it is. 

One negative is that the dumbbell gets long when you add more weight plates. For instance, the 80-pound dumbbell is 18.11 inches, much longer than the 14 to 16 inches usually expected of dumbbells. The 10-pound increments may also bother some people. That’s a significant leap for most trainees, but you can purchase 2.5- and five-pound magnetic plate adders to increase the weight more gradually. 

Overall, these are well-made adjustable weights that feel like a fixed dumbbell. Unlike the loadable options, they have a flat head so that they can sit comfortably on your lap. However, given this set’s value, expecting a low price is unrealistic. These will cost you about $800. 

RELATED: Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Home Gyms

Best Loadable Dumbbells: PRx Loadable Dumbbell Handle

Pros

• Available as individuals or pairs 
• Cost-effective if you already have weight plates
• Easy to progress as you get stronger

Cons

• Very few reviews 
• Doesn’t come with collars or weight plates 
• Sleeves may be too short for heavy lifts

Wouldn’t it be neat if you could add weights to a dumbbell just like you do for barbells? Something like that would save an incredible amount of space because you wouldn’t have to buy a rack or a bunch of differently-sized dumbbells. This is precisely why products like the PRx Loadable Dumbbell Handle exist. 

The chrome PRx loadable dumbbell is an excellent option for someone with weight plates in their home gym. Maybe you’re tired of using a barbell for your bodybuilding and strength training exercises and are ready to switch it up. Instead of barbell deadlifts and squats, you could load up your dumbbells, giving you even more of a challenge. 

The handle alone weighs 10 pounds, so you’ll like this if you’re able to lift heavy weights. It’s 14.5 inches long with a 28.5-millimeter diameter (1.1 inches), making it easily storable. The sleeves are 3.75 inches long, which should be enough space for most people to add their weight of choice. However, if you’re an advanced lifter, you might need longer sleeves to get your desired weight. You can add any Olympic plate with 2-inch holes onto the handle, so you’ve got options.

The medium-knurled handles should give you good-enough resistance so that these don’t slip in your hands once they get sweaty.

All that said, these dumbbells aren’t for everybody. Choosing a regular dumbbell set might make more sense if you don’t already have weight plates. One PRx loadable dumbbell handle will cost around $74.99, and a pair is $139.99. If you then have to go out and buy plates that are priced at almost $2 per pound, it could get really expensive, really quickly. It’s also unclear how much weight this dumbbell can handle, and with very few reviews, it’s difficult to say if they’re worth it

Best Budget Dumbbells: Amazon Basics Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbell

Pros

• Purchasable as individuals
• Free returns and deliveries 
• Affordable 

Cons

• Some weights are often sold out
• The lowest weight is 10 pounds

If you want to add an economical dumbbell to your home fitness equipment stash, consider the Amazon Basics Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbells. They are a flexible choice for those who aren’t yet interested or ready to buy dumbbells in sets and pairs. Or, if you’re like me, maybe you may already have one dumbbell that you inherited from a past roommate and need a matching weight. If that’s the case, individual dumbbells are a good option. 

The Amazon Basics weights range from 10 to 50 pounds, which is great for a beginner but may not be heavy enough for advanced lifters. But the light weights could also come in handy if you need a lighter weight to complete a single dumbbell high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout. I’ve also found that focused, one-sided exercises help me get more reps in, and you might experience the same. These individual dumbbells are perfect for mastering various upper and lower body exercises. 

The contoured cast iron handles fit nicely in your hands, and their grooves should help you maintain a solid grip. However, you might notice some stinging until you develop callouses, but that’s not surprising if you’re new to using weights with knurling.

The rubber hexagon heads are ideal for rolling prevention and floor protection. No one wants to chase after a rolling dumbbell following an intense set. You’ll find that these stay in place. 

Cost-wise, you can expect to pay between $10 and $112 per dumbbell, which isn’t bad. They’d likely be a steal if you catch them on Prime Day or around other holidays. The problem you might run into, though, is them being unavailable, as some weights sell out quickly.

Overall, are they worth it? If you don’t want to buy a pair or a set of dumbbells upfront, yes. They’re affordable, well-made, and a top seller among Amazon exercise and fitness equipment. In addition, you get a one-year warranty, and Prime members can enjoy free shipping and returns.  

Best Iron Dumbbells: Ironmaster Quick Lock Adjustable Dumbbells

Pros

• Space-saving (only up to 14.5-inches long)
• Labeled in pounds and kilograms 
• No plastic parts 
• Flat-ends 

Cons

• Expensive 
• Cast iron plates may crack

A lot of people don’t want adjustable dumbbells because they can feel loose and flimsy. It’s easy to overlook something like this while doing bicep curls, but this is much more evident when you want to swap kettlebell swings for dumbbell swings, for example. Thankfully, adjustable dumbbells that feel like traditional ones exist, like the 75-pound Ironmaster Quick Lock Adjustable Dumbbells. 

You won’t find any other dumbbells like these on the market due to their patented design. In less than 15 seconds, you can switch one dumbbell from 5 to 75 pounds. When doing supersets during weight training routines or during circuit-style workouts, you’d want dumbbells you can adjust easily so you can quickly start on your next movement.

The ergonomic knurled handles allow you to maintain a comfortable grip, but they aren’t cushy. They’re made of high-quality steel and aren’t rubber-coated. In addition, they have a 1.25-inch diameter, which is less than Snode’s 1.4-inch thick handles, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Some people don’t want a super thick handle, so this is a good alternative. 

This set of adjustable dumbbells has cast-iron weight plates, whereas others often use plastic parts. While these are durable, they may crack if dropped repeatedly. The pin that secures the plates could also come loose, making the dumbbells virtually useless. Besides those caveats, the plates have an unexpected feature: the weights are labeled in pounds and kilograms. You won’t have to do math if you prefer to track your weights in one unit of measurement over the other.

These are some of the best adjustable dumbbells you’ll find on the market, but don’t expect a discounted price. They start at around $700, and if you want more weight, you’ll pay another several hundred dollars for the 120-pound or 165-pound extensions. 

Best Value Dumbbells: PowerBlock Elite USA Adjustable Dumbbells

Pros

• Compact
• Made in the US 
• Premium quality materials 
• Can get expansion packs if you want to add more weight 

Cons

• Bulky shape 
• Rubber handle 

When you live in a small space, like a condo or apartment, you need a solution that lets you do a variety of weightlifting exercises without sacrificing a bunch of space. The PowerBlock Elite USA Adjustable Dumbbells are an optimal choice for those who want something compact while offering plenty of room to get stronger.

The PowerBlock brand has been making adjustable dumbbells for more than 30 years. Because the company is a veteran in this space, it’s learned how to refine its product to meet most people’s needs. If you want dumbbells with 2.5- and five-pound increments that allow you to go up to 50 pounds, these have those capabilities. Plus, you can purchase add-on kits to rev up the weight to 70 to 90 pounds per hand. 

The PowerBlock Elite USA Dumbbells have a patented design, but they aren’t your typical adjustable dumbbells. They’ve got a bulky, square shape, which will limit some of the exercises you can do (e.g., power cleans). Someone that prefers knurling will see the cushioned handles as a dealbreaker. In addition, the rails along the outside of the handles are something to get used to, as they give the dumbbells a cage-like structure. However, the rails are color-coded for easy weight identification.

The PowerBlock Elite USA set is sold in pairs. They’re $419 for the 5-50 pound set, which is a fair price. You also have the choice to pay $189 for a 70-pound expansion kit and another $189 for a 90-pound expansion kit. 

Ultimately, beginners and established trainees can count on these to get the job done. They’re an expandable set that grows with you as you improve. 

Best Urethane Dumbbells: Rogue Urethane Dumbbells

Pros

• Weights are clearly marked 
• Long-lasting 
• Attractive 
• Shock absorbent heads 

Cons

• Inconsistent knurling 
• Some rusting may occur
• Pricey 

There’s nothing like having a set of aesthetically appealing dumbbells in your home gym. Yes, the point of having dumbbells is to help you pump up your muscles, but they can still look good when you do it. The Rogue Urethane Dumbbells might be just the thing that gives you the best of both worlds, as they’re attractive and functional. 

With a weight range between five and 150 pounds that are available in five-pound increments, Rogue gives you plenty to work with. You can buy them in pairs or as a set, but purchasing individual dumbbells is not an option. 

This design is a practical alternative if you’re not a fan of rubberized bells. The plates are urethane, a man-made material that’s harder and smoother than traditional rubber. It may be better at withstanding drops, cuts, and even the sun. If you want to take your workout outside, these dumbbells should be able to handle it. 

The weight markings are gray and easy to read, so you don’t have to guess what weight you’re grabbing. The heads are aesthetically pleasing, but some users have stated that some are matte and others are shiny. 

The six-inch chrome handle is welded to the urethane heads so that it’s a single unit. This subtle feature might seem like no biggie. But if you pay attention to some dumbbells, it looks like the heads were awkwardly stuck on them. It’s nice to see that the Rogue urethane dumbbells are sleekly made. However, many purchasers have complained of rust developing at the weld, which you should not expect at their price point. It appears that Rogue expects this, as it advised one consumer to use a nylon bristle brush and some 3-in-1 oil on those concerning spots. 

The handles are 31 to 34 millimeters in diameter, depending on your chosen weight. They also have medium-grade knurling, so you can have a good grip without wrecking your palms. However, many have stated that the knurling is inconsistent. Some of the knurling is just right, whereas others are slippery or strong enough to tear skin off. This hints at quality control issues occurring somewhere along the building process. 

Despite the hiccups, the majority of people love these dumbbells. But they’re expensive, with a five-pound pair costing $45 and a 150-pound weight costing around $1,000. The limited lifetime warranty may protect the structural weld, though, so you can get a replacement if the dumbbells break.

Best Luxury Dumbbells: Eleiko Evo Rotating Dumbbells

Pros

• Rotating handles help with injuries 
• Multi-sided head design
• Top of line 
• Aesthetically-pleasing 
• Clear, marked weight increments 

Cons

• Expensive and have high shipping costs
• Small handle diameter for heavy weights
• Lowest weight is 12.5 pounds

If you’ve ever wondered which dumbbells are the creme de la creme, the Eleiko Evo Rotating Dumbbells are the ones. They are made with first-class materials like a proprietary Swedish steel handle and polyurethane head surface. Together, these materials make for a durable product that can endure five drops from five meters (about 16 feet) with no functional damage. Eleiko proudly states that the Evo Rotating Dumbbells have undergone significant testing to prove they’re the world’s best dumbbells.  

The rotating handle is a feature you won’t see on many dumbbells. It’s meant to make explosive exercises like snatches easier to do and places less stress on the joints, making it a good choice for someone with a shoulder injury. Eleiko also offers a fixed version if you don’t think you’d like how the handle rotates. 

The medium-knurled handles are only 5.12 inches long with a 1.5-inch diameter, so they’re on the smaller side. However, this patented design may still work for all trainees. Eleiko acknowledges that larger handles are sometimes problematic for athletes, so it wanted to create an accessible and easy-to-use product. 

Unlike other dumbbell sets that start at five pounds, the lowest weight offered here is 12.5 pounds. However, they reach 150 pounds, so that’s still a reasonable range. 

These can be purchased either individually or as a set, but whatever you choose, don’t expect a low price. Buying one 12.5-pound dumbbell will cost almost $200, and a 150-pound one is $859. Most people could buy a whole dumbbell set for the price of one of these heavy dumbbells, so many will seek other options. They’re typically used in commercial settings, though, and their price tag reflects that. But for those who prefer the best of the best, these are it. 

How We Chose the Best Dumbbell Sets

If there’s one piece of fitness equipment almost everyone uses, it’s dumbbells. In many ways, coming up with this best dumbbell sets list was easy. Given our environment, we often hear what people love about a particular dumbbell. We hear even more about what they hate. In these conversations, we become aware of which dumbbells are best based on one’s budget, fitness goals, and where they are in their journey. 

We took it a step further by heading to the web and seeing what others had to say. After adding and removing a few dumbbells, we had a best-of list that included an option for everyone.  

Why You Should Get Dumbbells for Your Home Gym

Dumbbells are a home gym staple for hundreds of reasons. For one, they’re easy to use. In fact, I don’t think I’ve ever received an instruction manual on how to use dumbbells. They’re also super versatile. You can do bilateral exercises like bench presses (which train both sides of the body at the same time) and unilateral exercises like single-arm tricep extensions (which train one side of the body at a time). 

In addition, unlike other free weights, dumbbells are much more portable. Like, imagine trying to lug a barbell to the park with you. In such a situation, it would be much easier to toss some lighter-weight dumbbells in your bag and bring them along. 

Some even feel that using dumbbells is safer, especially when starting your fitness journey. The weights tend to be easier to maneuver, so the risk of injury is low if you use them correctly. 

A few studies suggest that using free weights, like dumbbells, is a more effective form of strength training. A 2022 study revealed that the participants training with free weights gained more strength than those training with machines. (1)

What To Consider When Buying Dumbbell Sets

I can remember the first time I purchased dumbbells. I walked into this large retailer intending to find the most affordable item the store had to offer. I hadn’t thought about what exercises I wanted to do with the dumbbells, the materials they were made of, or their handle diameter. To be honest, I didn’t even know what in the world knurling was! So I walked out of the store that day with a pair of dumbbells that, even as a newbie, didn’t meet my needs. 

I want you to do much better than me, so here are the factors you must consider when shopping for dumbbells. 

Fixed vs. Adjustable Dumbbells

Fixed dumbbells like the Living.Fit and REP Fitness are great if you’ve got a higher budget and a spacious home gym space. These are often more durable and available in higher weights. And even though it’s technically not recommended, you can drop them if you need to. With fixed dumbbells, you don’t have to waste time with adjustment mechanisms to get to your preferred weight, which matters when you’re doing supersets. Plus, If you live with others and have a full dumbbell set, each party can grab what they need instead of sharing one pair of dumbbells. 

If you don’t have a lot of space or simply don’t want a bunch of dumbbells lying around, adjustable ones, like the Ironmaster Quick Lock Adjustable Dumbbells, are the way to go. They’re compact, cost-effective, and convenient. However, you have to be okay with sacrificing some durability with these, even if you purchase good ones. They occasionally rattle, often don’t have the same feel as fixed dumbbells, and have more components that can break.

Weight Range and Increments

Weight range and increments both matter, but they’re often overlooked factors. I know this because I once overlooked those things. Regarding the range of weights, you have to be honest with yourself about where you are on your fitness journey right now, what goals you’re trying to reach, and what exercises you want to do. Depending on those factors, you can determine if you need a full five- to 50-pound set (or greater) or if you should buy pairs of 10, 12.5, or 15-pound weights. 

Increasing weight should be done gradually, but what’s considered gradual is subjective. Some people are okay with dumbbells with five-pound increments, whereas others prefer 2.5- or 10-pound increments. The increments you choose may also depend on whether you’re exercising your upper or lower body or doing a bilateral (working both sides at the same time) or one-sided workout. 

Overall, if you move up too fast and/or haven’t mastered your form, you risk injury. Therefore, be intentional when selecting your dumbbell weight increments. 

Materials

The materials used to construct the dumbbell are very important. Do you want cast iron handles like the Snode dumbbells or rubber-covered handles like those offered by PowerBlock? Sometimes the latter is more comfortable to use and less slippery. 

Then you have to think about the heads and/or plates on your dumbbells. Are they rubber, urethane, cast iron, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC)? Rubber and urethane heads are softer and bouncier, making them ideal for dropping and avoiding scratched-up floors. However, you may prefer urethane over rubber if you want something that lasts longer. 

Cast iron heads are also durable, but they might crack if dropped too frequently. Dumbbells with PVC heads are the cheapest. They’re a budget-friendly choice, but they get damaged faster. You might also notice that they become very slippery when you’re sweaty, which could be dangerous. We didn’t include PVC dumbbells on the list above for these reasons.

Durability

If you want dumbbells that will last for years, durable selections must be at the top of your list. And naturally, what comes along with high quality and longevity is an increased price. The materials used and the length of the warranty can tell you if something is heavy-duty enough. 

Ease of Use

Without a doubt, fixed dumbbells are the easiest to use, so go for these if you want a straightforward option. This isn’t to say that adjustable and loadable dumbbells are complicated, but they do take some getting used to. For example, some adjustable dumbbells have a twist dial you may have to figure out how to use. On top of that, some have add-ons you can purchase if you want to increase their weight. With fixed dumbbells, you just buy a heavier weight if you need to and get to work. 

Knurling

The tiny crisscrossed patterns on your dumbbells’ handles might seem like minor features, but they have a significant impact. Depending on the type of pattern on your handles, you’ll get something soft and less grippy or something that digs into your hands for a firmer grip. Many are right in the middle, like the PRx Loadable Dumbbells. 

Consider a handle with more aggressive knurling if you plan on using heavier weights while doing fewer reps. Contemplate medium knurling if you’ll be doing high-rep workouts since the aggressive kind may cause blisters. 

Handle Diameter

Should you go with a larger or smaller handle diameter? It depends on the size of your hands and how heavy the weight is. For instance, if you have small hands, a 1.4-inch-diameter handle like the one offered by Snode might be more challenging to hold. You want something you can wrap your fingers around, especially if you’re new to using dumbbells. They’ll be more comfortable to use if you can fully grasp them. 

Also, consider that dumbbells with higher weights tend to have larger diameters. These require you to use more muscle fibers in your hands, biceps, and forearms. Activating more muscle fibers should stimulate muscle growth and your ability to progress to even heavier weight in the future. 

Training Goals

If you’re getting dumbbells to maintain functional independence, you could get away with a few pairs of lighter weights (e.g., 2.5 to 15 pounds). However, if you know your goal is to progressively get stronger, you’ll need a set with heavier weight options. Those who want to lose weight could purchase light to moderate weights and do more reps to achieve their goals. 

Also, keep in mind that the weights you use for your lower body will likely be heavier than those you use for your upper body. It helps to have a variety of weights in this situation, so you’re not getting dumbbells that are too heavy for your arms but perfect for your legs.  

Budget

Before you start shopping for dumbbells, set a budget, then consider your options. Understand that having a smaller budget doesn’t automatically mean you can’t have quality dumbbells. However, it might mean starting with pairs and not a whole set, which is okay. 

If having a greater range of weights up front is important to you, go with adjustable dumbbells. The difference between a five- to 50-pound set of fixed dumbbells and adjustable ones with the same weight range is hundreds of dollars.     

Warranties

Whether or not a dumbbell set comes with a warranty tells you a lot. Brands that don’t offer warranties on their dumbbells probably recognize that their products weren’t built with the best materials. In addition, how long the warranty coverage lasts hints at the quality. REP Fitness and Living.Fit both offer a lifetime warranty for home use on their fixed dumbbells because they intend for the dumbbells to last. 

Now, compare that to the Amazon Basics dumbbells that only provide a one-year warranty. They come at a reasonable price and will get the job done, but don’t expect them to hold up in the same way, especially with heavy use. 

I’ve noticed that adjustable dumbbells are less likely to offer a lifetime warranty. This is probably because some of the components are more likely to fail after a while. However, the Ironmaster brand does, which speaks to its dumbbells’ quality. In fact, on its website, Ironmaster urges people to drop the dumbbells. 

Additional Features

In addition to the abovementioned factors, determine if you’ll need a storage rack. Adjustable and loadable dumbbells are space-savers, so you can set them in a closet when you’re done. However, fixed dumbbells, which often come in pairs, can take up a lot of room. If your space allows, factor in the price of a storage rack, as not all dumbbell sets come with a rack. You could probably find a storage rack on Amazon for $100, but well-known fitness equipment brands like Rogue and REP Fitness will likely charge $200 or more. 

The other thing to pay close attention to is if the dumbbell you’re looking at has premium features, like the Eleiko Evo Rotating Dumbbells that have rotating handles. While they may be more practical for high-intensity, dynamic exercises, like dumbbell snatches, most people don’t find them a must-have. So if you don’t need them, avoid paying the extra price. 

What Exercises Are Dumbbells Good For?

One reason people love having dumbbells in their home gyms is because there are so many exercises you can do with them. Consider the following: 

Final Thoughts

At this point, you not only know about some of the best dumbbell sets on the market, but you also know how to pick the right one for you. There are hundreds of options out there. However, you can now intentionally select those that’ll help you reach your goals. Whether that be adjustable dumbbells, fixed dumbbells, loadable dumbbells, or those with rotating handles — you’re equipped with the knowledge you need to succeed. 

So, which ones are you going to go with? 

FAQs

Research

1. Heidel, K. A., Novak, Z. J., & Dankel, S. J. (2022). Machines and free weight exercises: a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing changes in muscle size, strength, and power. The Journal of sports medicine and physical fitness, 62(8), 1061–1070. https://doi.org/10.23736/S0022-4707.21.12929-9

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