SQUAT RACK
VALOR FITNESS
POWER RACK
FITNESS REALITY
BEST BUDGET
HULKFIT
I think it’s safe to say:
That a power/ squat rack is one of, if not the most important piece of equipment you can have in a home gym.
They allow you to perform a variety of different exercises, all of which are fundamental for building and maintaining muscular strength.
The downside?
These pieces of equipment tend to be on the more expensive side of things. That said, there’s definitely some great options out there that are priced more affordably for us average Joes.
Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of all the best budget power racks and squat racks currently out there.
You’ll be happy to hear that you can get your hands on some great power racks for less than $300, which really is an absolute bargain for this kind of equipment.
Brace yourselves though, as this is going to be a bit of a beast to get through, but rest assured. Once you’ve read this article, you’ll have a new power or home squat rack on it’s away, and at an affordable price to boot.
Our Top Picks
Valor Fitness Squat Rack
Fitness Reality 810XLT
Hulkfit multi-purpose squat stand
BODY SOLID PPR200X
TDS POWER RACK
VALOR FITNESS COMBO
MERAX ATHLETICS POWER RACK
BODY SOLID POWER RACK
Murphy Rack squat rack
TDS SUPER OPEN RACK
TDS BASIC SQUAT RACK
Power Rack VS Squat Rack: What’s the Difference?
Before we take a look at some of the best budget squat racks and power racks, we should probably discuss the differences between the two.
But first, it’s worth mentioning that the two pieces of equipment essentially serve the same purpose, but just feature two very different designs.
Squat Rack
Safety
A squat rack can definitely be deemed as less safe. If you're not using some form of catch, you have to drop the bar to the floor. This can also damage the floor, meaning you need to have some kind of cushioning/ or never go to the point of failure.
Exercises
Squat racks tend to be very limited in terms of which exercises can be performed. Typically you can only get away with squats, and some times bench press depending on the rack. Some of the best squat racks will come with a pull up bar (see examples here), but that's about the extent of the exercises.
Size
If you're limited for space, squat racks are by far the better option. They typically only have two legs and take up much less room than a power rack.
Price
It's safe to say squat racks tend to be a good a mount cheaper than a power rack. You can often find a decent quality squat rack for less than $250.
Power Rack
Safety
Traditionally much safer, can have catch bars at different heights, making it a lot safer to work out without a spotter. The frame as a whole tends to be sturdier as well and can often be fastened to the floor.
Exercises
While power racks tend to vary massively in design, they typically allow for more exercises to be performed. These depend on the design, however a lot of power racks will come with pull up hand grips as well as dip bars. Some even have panels which can be used for step up exercises.
Size
Due to a power cage having a 4 leg frame, and any other addons that are included with the design, they tend to take up a fair amount of room, which may not be ideal for a home gym.
Price
Depending on the size, quality and different accessories that come with a power rack, you can often spend up to $1000. That said, we've not included any that expensive on our list.
Hopefully this has given you an idea as to which type of rack is better suited to your needs.
To summarise, a power rack is more versatile and safer, however takes up much more room and tends to be a good amount more expensive. A squat rack however, has a far smaller footprint and can usually be purchased for a very reasonable price.
Squat Rack & Power Rack Reviews
Valor Fitness Squat Rack & Bench Press – Best Cheap Squat Rack
Noteworthy Features:
Up first is the Valor Fitness 2 in 1 squat rack and bench press, which pretty much has everything you could want from a cost friendly rack.
It’s made from 13-gauge steel which is as durable and as sturdy as it gets. What’s more, Valor Fitness have used thick, 2” x 2” tubing which adds even more strength to the overall frame. I also really like how the floor pegs have a layer of rubber that prevents them from scratching the floor.
These foot bases are also adjustable, allowing you to widen each foot in order to add more stability to the frame. This is an awesome feature and one of the main reasons we think this is the best cheap squat rack.
As with all the best models, this squat rack has an adjustable height system, ranging from 48.5” to 70”, which is great as it allows people of any height to easily use the rack.
The maximum weight that this squat rack can hold is 350lb, which when compared to a power rack isn’t that much. However, when compared to some of the other squat racks on this list, is pretty impressive.
Fitness Reality 810XLT – Best Cheap Power Rack
Noteworthy Features:
- Comes in a variety of different bundles and combinations
- 2” x 2”x steel frame construction
- Comes with 2 x 23” safety bars
- Comes with 3 ¼” long safety bars
- Adjustable height settings
- Overhead chin up and pull up bar
- You can add J-hooks, dip bars and weight pegs to the frame
- Weight capacity: 800lb
The Reality 810 comes in a variety of different builds and set ups, making it one of the most versatile to appear on our list. You can get with power rack in the following set ups:
- Power rack only
- Power rack & lat pull down
- Power rack & weight bench combination
You can also buy a lat pull down accessory independently, giving you the opportunity to add this to your rack further down the line. What’s more, other accessories such as a dip bar can be added to the frame, meaning that this can essentially to turn into a home gym machine as well as a power cage.
For the price, this really is a bargain. It’s built to an exceptional standard, is extremely sturdy and is by far one of the most versatile power frames we’ve come across.
HulkFit Multi-Purpose Squat Stand
Noteworthy Features:
- Weight: 60lb
- 2 x weight plate holders
- Available in 4 different colors
- Available in pro (800lb) and normal version (500lb)
- Pull up bar is included
- Heavy duty J-hooks included with purchase
The first thing worth mentioning about this particular option is that is comes in three variations; the regular version and 2 pro versions. The main difference being that that the pro versions can hold up to 800lb & 1000lb, where as the regular can hold up to 500lb.
The pro versions are more expensive, however if you want your squat rack to be able to support a heavy load, are a fantastic option. All options come with a pull up bar included, alongside two heavy duty J-hooks.
That said, the 1000lb pro version has a few additional handles, allowing you to mix up your grip whilst performing pull ups and chin ups.
The basic version is available in black, red and yellow, whereas the pro versions are only available in yellow. All in all, you really can’t go wrong with the Hulk Fit Multi-Purpose Squat Stand.
Not only is it one of the most most affordable on our list, it’s one of the most durable as well.
Body Solid Powerline Power Rack
Noteworthy Features:
- Walk-in design with
- Adjustable height design
- Chin up/ pull up bar built into the frame
- Weight: 133lb
- Frame comes with a 10-year warranty
- Weight capacity: 600lb
"Simple yet effective" is a great way to describe this power rack by Body Solid. The frame features 18 height settings, which should allow the vast majority of people to use the frame for squats, unless you’re one of the tallest people in the world.
The frame also comes with a chin up bar built in, which stretches across the entirety of the 41-inch frame. This bar features a knurling design, which is basically a pattern that helps the user to maintain a solid grip to the bar.
Body Solid also include a number of safety pegs and rods with the frame, such as 2 lift offs and 2 sabre-style safety rods. These can be placed into the frame accordingly, should you no longer be able to lift the weight, they will catch the barbell from falling.
Body Solid also offer a number of different accessories that can be used in conjunction with their power rack, such as a bench and a number of different cable machines.
You also get a 10-year warranty included for the frame, as well as a 1-year warranty for the remaining parts. This means that should anything go wrong, you’ll be able to get replacement parts sent out free of charge.
TDS Power Rack/ Squat Cage
Noteworthy Features:
- 2” thick steel tube frame
- J-Hooks included
- 1” solid steel safety bar included
- Knurled chin up bar
- 31 adjustable height settings, each one set 2” apart
- Can also fit other cable machines such as a lat pull down
If you’re on a pretty tight budget, this really is a brilliant option. It’s built using sturdy 2” thick steel, comes with a number of safety accessories such as J-hooks and is one of the most adjustable racks on our list.
TDS have also built a knurled pull up bar into the frame, as well as attachment holes dotted around both the sides and the top of the frame. This allows you to really transform this rack into a very versatile piece of equipment in an extremely cost effective manner.
In terms of quality and stability, the TDS Power Rack has a loaded weight capacity of 1000lb, which is just insane. Although most of us will never bench or squat even half that in our life, it’s good to know that this thing will easily carry the sort of weight,
Again, I just want to touch on the price. In terms of value for money, you’ll struggle to beat this with any other power rack in the world.
Valor Fitness Combo Squat Rack & Bench Press
Noteworthy Features:
- Made using heavy duty steel
- 16 different height settings
- 2 weight plate storage pegs located on either foot
- Comes with 2 x J-hooks
- Weight capacity: 475lbs
- 45” inches wide (pretty small footprint)
Up next we’ve got another option from Valor Fitness, who are one of the biggest names in the fitness equipment industry. This time we’ve got a slightly different, slightly cheaper version to the squat rack we discussed earlier.
This particular Valor Fitness model is made from heavy dutry solid steel frame, using 2” x 2” thick tubing. This provides plenty of the stability and durability to the structure, which in turn is what allows it to carry weights of 475llb.
Although this weight capacity isn’t as heavy as some of the power racks, it’s very reasonable given the size of the frame itself. If you are planning on squatting more than 475lb (I take my hat off to you if so), then you’ll probably need something sturdier like a full on power rack.
In terms of design, the Valor Fitness features 2 storage pegs, which act both as a storage space and as a method of weighing the frame down for added stability. As you’d expect, the Valor Fitness also features a number of different adjustable height settings, ranging from 48” to 78” in height.
The icing on the cake though for this squat rack is the price. As one of the cheapest squat racks on our list, it undeniably offers insane bang for your buck.
Merax Athletics Fitness Power Rack
Noteworthy Features:
- Comes in three different variations/ builds (all the same price)
- Build in pull up bar and multi-grip pull up unit
- Adjustable height
- Lifetime warranty on frame
- Comes with safety accessories such as J-hooks
- Full cage also comes with dip accessories
Ok, so you’ve got three options when it comes to the Merax Athletics Power Rack. These are:
- Full cage
- Half rack
- Power rack
I won’t go into too much detail on each one, as you’ll be here for ages. Having said that, it’s worth noting that they’re all the same price and come with varying designs and dimensions.
If you’re wanting a good quality power rack with safety features, multi-grip pull-up handles as well as dip handles, then the full cage is probably your best bet.
If space is an issue, and you’re looking for a simpler squat rack that has a pull up bar built into it, then the half rack will be more suited to your needs.
Finally, the power rack comes with a built in knurled pull up bar, safety bars made from stainless steel, as well as a cable machine for pull downs and seated rows.
Body Solid Power Rack
Noteworthy Features:
- 23 adjustable height settings
- 14-gauge, 2”x2” steel frame
- Includes 2 safety bars
- Comes with 2 lift-offs
- 3-year fame warranty + 1-year warranty for other parts
- Weight capacity: 500lb
This power rack is ideal for anyone looking to do some solo lifting at home without a spotter. The rack itself comes with a number of safety features such as 2-full length safety bars as well as a couple lift-offs. This allows you to train hard, without worrying about getting hurt or having to drop the weight should you go to failure.
Body Solid clearly believe in the quality of their gear, offering a 3 year warranty on the frame, as well as a 1 year warranty for the rest of the accessories. This a nice little addition as should anything go wrong or break during that period of time, you can get a replacement sent out free of charge.
While one of the more expensive options on our list, the frame itself is built to an exceptional quality (using 14-gauge steel) and can carry a weight of up to 500lb. All in all, this is definitely a great addition to any home gym.
Murphy Rack Folding Squat Rack
Noteworthy Features:
- Unique foldable design
- Attaches to the wall
- 2 J-hooks included with the frame
- Pull up bar built into the top
- Adjustable height settings
- Heavy powder coated finish – added durability
This is by far one of the most unique options on our list and is perfect for anyone that is massively limited when it comes to space. Yes, it’s one of the most expensive options as well, but if you’re unable to fit a full squat rack into your home gym, then this is the ultimate solution.
This is essentially a folding squat rack that you attach to the wall. When you’re not using it, you can simply collapse the frame back against the wall and carry on with the rest of your work out.
Another nice tough is that the frame comes with a built in pull bar, which can be placed at the appropriate height. What’s more, the frame itself is able to carry a load of up to 1100lb, however I wouldn’t recommend going anywhere near that considering it’ll be attached to a wall.
This is an incredibly well thought out and innovative squat rack and the perfect solution for anyone wanting to build a good quality home gym with a limited amount of space (and money).
TDS Super Open Rack
Noteworthy Features:
- Comes with a built in, professionally knurled pull up bar
- Includes J-hooks and Jumbo hooks
- 31 adjustable height settings with each being 2” apart
- Base can be fastened to the floor or weighted down via weight pegs
- 48.5” width x 44.5” depth x 83” height
- Weight capacity: 1000lb (500lb if not weighted at base)
The TDS Super Open Rack is the definition of budget friendly.
That said, TDS haven’t sacrificed quality or features in order to be so affordable. For example, they’ve implemented a professionally knurled pull up bar into the frame of the rack, as well as include a number of safety hooks such as J-pegs. While these are common features, it’s surprising to see them in a squat rack priced as low as this.
In terms of weight capacity, the rack is capable of holding weights up to 1000lb. With that said, TDS recommends not exceeding 500lb if the base of the rack is not weighted down or attached to the floor. This can be done using the various weight pegs located across the feet of the rack.
While not the most exciting and amazing to look at squat rack on our list, it gets the job done and most definitely wont break the bank in the process.
TDS Squat Rack
Noteworthy features:
- Adjustable height settings from 36”- 66”
- Weight capacity: 500lb
- Can hold 7ft standard or Olympic bars
- Weight pegs at base for for storage and stability
- Wide design for additional stability
Moving onto the second TDS rack in our article, which just so happens to be the cheapest option we’re going to cover. Costing half as much as some of the other brands, this really does offer an insane amount of value for money,
This particular model from TDS is capable of carrying a weight of up to 500lb, however if you’re going to go up to that sort of weight range, I’d definitely recommend weighting the base. Fortunately, this is pretty easy as TDS have implemented weight pegs which can easily house a sufficient amount of weight.
In terms of height, you can adjust the RDS Squat Rack from 36” and raise it up to a maximum of 66”, which is somewhat short, but should be usable for the vast amount of people out there.
Overall, not the most exciting squat rack out there, but will definitely get the job done and for an exceptionally good price.
Ollieroo Muilti-Function Squat Rack
Noteworthy Features:
- Weight capacity: 480lbs
- Adjustable height settings: 48.8” – 68.1”
- Durable steel frame construction
- Weight weight pegs located at bottom of the frame
- Satisfaction Guarantee – money back no questions asked
Last up is another extremely affordable squat rack, this time from Ollieroo, a relatively unknown brand but behind one of the most budget friendly squats racks currently available.
This Ollieroo ticks all the right boxes for an affordable squat rack for a home gym. The frame itself is made using durable stainless steel, which is capable of carrying a weight of up to 480lbs.
The frame itself possesses an adjustable height system, allowing it to range from 46.8” up to 68.1”. This is extremely hand as it allows for a number of people to use the same squat rack, should you have anyone else wanting to use your home gym.
What’s more, Ollieroo offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, which means if you’re unhappy with the rack for what ever reason, you can get your money back no questions asked. Plus, the up front investment is very low compared to other squat racks and brands out there, so it’s highly unlikely you’re going to be dissatisfied with it’s quality.
How to Choose the Right Power & Squat Rack?
Ok, so when it comes to choosing the right power rack and squat rack for your needs, there’s a number of different aspects that should be paid attention.
Weight Capacity
Weight capacity should only really matter if you’re close to lifting 400lb+. Pretty much every single one of the models we discussed can hold 400lb at the least, so if you’re exceeding that, then it’s worth paying attention.
Squat racks tend to be able to hold the least amount of weight, where as power racks, especially the big ones, can hold 1000lb+ depending on the brand.
Material
When looking to buy this kind of equipment, especially when there’s an element of risk, it’s important to pay attention to the material. In particular, look out for 12-gauge steel, which will usually be used in poles that are 2inches x 2inches thick.
These types of frames are as sturdy as it comes, can hold a ton of weight and as long as they’re constructed properly, will stay together for years and years. That said, things can happen, so be sure to check the structural integrity of the rack from time to time.
Adjustability
Having the ability to adjust the height of the squat rack is incredibly important. This allows you to get the barbell resting at the correct height for you to lift it and perform your exercise. This is particularly true for the squats, as you want to be able to get the barbell off the hooks safely and with good form.
Similarly, and maybe even more importantly, once you’ve finished your set, getting the weight back onto the rack can be tough. With that in mind, having it at the right height is again incredibly important, as your muscles may be too fatigued to continue to hold the weight whilst you try to get the barbell hooked up.
Accessories
Something else to pay attention to is whether or not you get any accessories come with the rack, which at this price range is unlikely. Having said that, it can often be a good idea to check to make sure accessories can be hooked up to the rack down the line.
This in essence allows you to turn your power rack into a multi gym, with pull up bars, dip bars, bench press, squat rack, lat-pull down machine, a seated row machine and more. This will save you kitting out the rest of your home gym with individual machines, which will in turn bring down the overall cost.
Size
Before even thinking about buying some form of squat rack or power rack, it’s important to measure how much space that you’ve got. This way, you’re able to find a rack with the right dimensions. Shipping tends to cost a fair mount for equipment this large, so having to pay the repeat shipping costs should it not fit would be very annoying.
Also, don’t forget to check the height, especially for power racks. These things can be fairly tall, so make sure you measure the height of the room when you plan your home gym in.
How to Squat?
Check out the video below if you're new to squatting and want to learn proper form.
Now you've got a rack, you're going to need something to squat with. With that in mind, check out our in-depth guide on the best safety squat bars for some great options.
Final Thoughts
Well there we go, hopefully you’ve either found the perfect rack and if not, are equipped with the knowledge to find one.
Thanks for taking the time to read our list of the best budget power racks and squat racks. If you do have any questions what so ever, please feel free to get in touch via the comment section below.
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