The 8 Best Budget Power Racks, Cages & Stands (2023)

No home gym is complete without a power rack because the versatility is unmatched.

Having one allows you to do all sorts of practical compound exercises, including squats, overhead presses, pull-ups, rack pulls, and more.

But what if you can’t spare $1,000+ on a premium-grade rack? Does that mean you should give up and buy other equipment instead?

No, because you can pick from many affordable power racks, squat racks, and stands without breaking the bank.

Without further ado, here is a list of the 8 best budget power racks for 2023.

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The 8 Best Budget Power Racks For Your Home Gym

1. Overall Best Budget Power Rack: REP Fitness PR-1100 Power Rack
2. Best Budget Squat Rack: SML-2 Rogue 90" Monster Lite Squat Stand
3. Most Customizable Budget Power Rack: REP Fitness PR-4000 Power Rack
4. Best Budget Squat Stand For Tight Spaces: Rogue RML-90SLIM Rack
5. Best Budget Squat Rack For Beginners: Fringe Sport Garage Series Squat Rack with Pull-Up Bar
6. Best Budget Half Rack: Titan X-3 Series Half Rack
7. Best Budget Power Rack on Amazon: Fitness Reality 810 XLT Squat Rack Power Cage
8. Best Folding Budget Power Rack: Titan T-3 Series Folding Power Rack

1. Overall Best Budget Power Rack: REP Fitness PR-1100 Power Rack

The REP Fitness PR-1100 power rack is the best budget option on the market for several reasons.

First, it offers excellent features for the price. It comes with a multi-grip pull-up bar, safety arms, and J-hooks set for your barbell.

Second, the power rack has good dimensions and decent in-cage space that allows you to move freely and do various exercises without worrying that you’ll bump into something.

Third, the REP Fitness PR-1100 rack can handle a variety of attachments you can find on their website. Notable examples include a landmine attachment, a cable machine, and dip handles.

The design of the power rack is also great, and you can pick between four colors: metallic black, regular black, blue, and red.

One drawback is that the hole spacing is 3” (76 mm), which can make it tricky to set the barbell at the perfect height for your training.

Read my full review of the REP Fitness PR-1100 rack here.

2. Best Budget Squat Rack: SML-2 Rogue 90" Monster Lite Squat Stand

If you don’t have much room but want a squat rack, the SML-2 by Rogue Fitness is a fantastic option.

The squat stand is relatively compact and can fit even in a small garage or basement, but don’t let its size fool you. It is made of 11 gauge steel and is built to withstand 1,000 lbs (454 kg), enough to challenge even the strongest lifters.

Plus, the Westside hole spacing makes it easier to adjust the barbell to the perfect height for squats, bench presses, and other movements.

The pull-up bar is included in the original package, and you can set it to your preferred height while putting the stand together. Speaking of that, the SML-2 squat stand is relatively easy to put together, even if you’re not too savvy with tools.

One drawback of the squat rack is that the spotter arms are not included and cost an extra $195.

3. Most Customizable Budget Power Rack: REP Fitness PR-4000 Power Rack

Yes, I know: the REP Fitness PR-4000 power rack is not precisely a ‘budget’ option, but I have solid reasons for including it in today’s list. If you’re looking for a stable, durable, and cost-effective power rack, the PR-4000 is a fantastic option.

One thing that distinguishes the PR-4000 from many competitors is the sheer customizability you get during the purchase process. Once you go to the REP Fitness website, their interactive rack builder allows you to adjust everything about the rack.

Here’s what you can customize:

• Height––80” or 93” (203 or 236 cm)
• Uprights colors (metallic black, black, red, blue, green, orange, etc.
• Rack depth––16”, 24”, 30”, or 41” (40.6, 61, 76.2, or 104.1 cm)
• What type of pull-up bar do you want (multi-grip, regular, globe grip, etc.)
• Safety arm type (straps, pin pipes, etc.)
• J-cup type for your barbell

You can also opt for weight storage and a custom color of the cross-members that connect the uprights.

Of course, each extra adds up to the total price, and you can get a basic configuration to save some money. Similar to the PR-1100, you can also purchase attachments now or later.

4. Best Budget Squat Stand For Tight Spaces: Rogue RML-90SLIM Rack

SML-2 by Rogue Fitness is a great option for tight spaces, but what if you really don’t have any space but want to set up a basic home gym? In that case, another Rogue product might be the perfect solution: the RML-90SLIM Rack.

This one is designed to be attached to a wall, and its uprights are foldable. You pull a pin, bring the uprights out, do your workout, then fold the thing, so it doesn’t get in the way when you’re not training.

The weight capacity is not specified, but it is at least 500 lbs. Proper mounting would mean it can likely handle even more weight, given that it is made of 11 gauge steel.

One downside is that it can be tricky to install it, and it is best to leave it to a professional contractor. That will cost extra, but you cannot put a price on safety and peace of mind.

5. Best Budget Squat Rack For Beginners: Fringe Sport Garage Series Squat Rack with Pull-Up Bar

Fringe Sport is another company to consider when looking for a great fitness product at an affordable price. Their squat rack with pull-up bar is no exception because it is incredibly compact, durable, and easy to put together.

The product only costs $300 at the time of writing and fits well in any basement or garage gym.

You can adjust the pull-up bar depending on your height, so it never feels too low or too high. In addition, the Westside hole spacing makes it easy to set the bar at the perfect height, so you never feel awkward or unsure when unracking a loaded barbell for squats, bench presses, etc.

One drawback is that it can feel a bit unstable if you’re doing more dynamic exercises, such as kipping pull-ups. The weight capacity is also not amazing (450 lbs or 204 kg), but that should be more than enough for the average trainee.

6. Best Budget Half Rack: Titan X-3 Series Half Rack

Anyone interested in building a home gym on a budget should definitely look into Titan Fitness. Their products are decent for the price you pay and often last for many years. In many cases, as with the X-3 half rack, you can enjoy some features generally reserved for more expensive options.

The X-3 series half rack by Titan is relatively cheap but durable and can withstand up to 1,000 lbs or 454 kilograms. It features Westside hole spacing at the bench zone, which is excellent for setting up the bar at the perfect height and staying safe when racking and unracking the weight. The hole spacing is 2” above and below the bench zone.

In addition, the half rack includes a pull-up bar, and you can purchase various attachments from the Titan Fitness website.

One potential issue with the rack (and Titan products in general) is that the warranty is only one year. Still, that shouldn’t ever be an issue if you use the product as designed.

7. Best Budget Power Rack on Amazon: Fitness Reality 810 XLT Squat Rack Power Cage

Fitness Reality might seem like a generic brand, but the company makes some rock-solid products, especially considering the price.

The 810 XLT power cage is one of the most popular such products on Amazon, and for good reasons. It is affordable, offers a decent 800-lb weight capacity, and comes with a multi-grip pull-up bar.

The in-cage dimensions are also excellent, so you have enough space to move freely during exercise. This is not something you see on many cheap power racks.

You can also get some neat attachments for your rack. Examples include a landmine attachment, dip handles, and cable pulley.

There are two primary downsides to the Fitness Reality 810 XLT cage. First, it is made of 14 gauge steel, which means the uprights are thinner and unable to withstand as much weight as more expensive products.

Second, the hole spacing is 3” (76 mm), which can make it tricky to set the barbell at the perfect height for some exercises.

8. Best Folding Budget Power Rack: Titan T-3 Series Folding Power Rack

The Titan T-3 folding power rack shares similarities with the RML-90SLIM Rack we reviewed above. These racks are designed to be attached to a wall, and you can fold them, making them great for tight spaces.

The folding rack by Titan Fitness comes in two depth options: 21.5” or 41.5” (54.6 or 105.4 cm). If I were to pick one now, I would go for the longer option simply because it offers more in-cage space and keeps you farther from the wall. But, if you’re limited on space, the 21.5” version could also work quite well.

T-3 is made of 11 gauge steel, which makes it quite durable and able to withstand serious poundage. Of course, make sure to attach it to a wall correctly to prevent any problems in the future. If you’re unsure how to do that, pay a contractor to do it for you.

The cool thing about the T-3 is that you can unfold it for your training, then fold the uprights, so it doesn’t get in the way when you’re not working out. It also features a pull-up bar, which you attach to connect the two uprights once you unfold them.

Similar to the X-3, one drawback is that it only comes with a year of warranty.

Best Budget Power Rack Buyer’s Guide: 6 Questions to Ask

1. What Is The Best Weight Capacity?

The average trainee will never have to worry about weight capacity because even the cheapest power racks can handle at least a few hundred pounds.

Still, if you’re looking for a power rack that will last you a long time, get one with a decent enough weight capacity. Keep in mind that some companies may overstate the actual capacity of their product. So, if one is rated for up to 1,000 lbs, avoid loading more than 850-900 lbs to be safe.

The material it consists of will be a good indicator of durability. You should go for a power rack made of steel, preferably 11 gauge, which means it is 3 mm (0.1196”) thick.

Examining the power rack’s weight can also tell you how durable it is. A full power rack that weighs less than 100-120 lbs (45 to 54 kg) likely consists of weaker materials and has a lower weight capacity.

2. Does It Come With Safety Racks/Spotter Arms?

A good power rack or squat stand should ideally come with racks or spotter arms that can catch the barbell and keep you safe. This is particularly true if you plan on doing most of your training alone at home.

Most models come equipped with racks or spotter arms but do your research if you’re looking for something more compact, such as a squat stand or folding power rack.

3. What Is The Hole Spacing?

The hole spacing is another critical thing to remember when choosing a power rack.

A 1” hole spacing is ideal because it allows for more precise positioning of your arms and hooks/cups. As a result, you can set yourself up for various exercises and always have the barbell at the perfect height.

4. Does It Come With a Pull-Up Bar?

You should always look for a power rack or squat stand with a pull-up bar included. You might not use it right away, but having one is great because it provides versatility and saves you the trouble of getting a separate pull-up bar down the road.

A pull-up bar allows you to do fantastic exercises like:

• Pull-ups/chin-ups
• Hanging knee/leg raises
• L-sits
• Dead hang
• Scapular pull-ups

In addition, you can use the bar as an anchor point for resistance bands and do exercises like:

• Chest flyes
• Tricep extensions
• Lat pulldowns
• Bicep curls

5. Does It Come With Plate Storage?

Weight plate storage is by no means mandatory, and it can be challenging to find cheaper power racks that offer it. Still, if possible, get a rack with storage.

First, keeping plates on the rack makes it heavier and more stable. As such, you can train safely and enjoy dynamic activities even if the frame isn’t bolted to the floor. Second, you don’t have to get an additional weight stand that takes up extra space.

6. Are You Getting a Good Deal?

Price will always be an important factor, which is why I’ve compiled a list of the best budget power racks. The above models offer the perfect balance between price, quality, and features.

You can find models ranging from a couple of hundred bucks to thousands of dollars. So, if you decide to pick a more expensive one, be sure it is worth it.

A more expensive power rack should have plate storage, a pull-up bar, and 1” hole spacing. It should also be sturdy, durable, and with a respectable weight capacity.

Best Budget Power Rack Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Should you get a power rack?

If you can afford one and have enough space at home, go for it. A power rack is a fantastic investment because it will last many years and allow you to do various effective compound exercises.

2. What is the best option for home use?

It largely depends on your budget and how much available space you have.

The REP Fitness PR-1100 Power Rack is an excellent budget option for most people, but more compact options include the Titan X-3 Series Half Rack and Fringe Sport Garage Series Squat Rack with Pull-Up Bar.

3. How much should you spend on a power rack?

Getting the cheapest model available might be tempting, but I advise against that. Decent models will generally start from $400, so it is best to loosen up the wallet a bit more and make sure you get a quality item.

As the old saying goes, “Buy cheap, buy twice.”

4. Does a lower price mean the product is of poor quality and unsafe?

The above are affordable power racks that might seem of poor quality, especially when compared to something like the Rogue RM-6 Monster Rack 2.0.

Fortunately, that isn’t the case, as any of the above will last you for a long time. Each offers unique benefits, and their features make them excellent purchase options.

Best Budget Power Rack: Final Thoughts

There are countless power racks on the market, ranging from cheap and flimsy to premium, durable, and versatile.

The above are 8 of the best budget power racks you can get in 2023. Each offers fantastic benefits, none are too expensive, and any of these will last you for many years.

Do your research by running through the questions I shared above and getting clear on how much available space you have.