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Oct 16, 2024

The 9 Best Power Racks (2024 Update) | BarBend

Give your home gym the centerpiece it deserves with one of these top power racks from some of fitness’s best brands. For strength athletes, a power rack can be one of the most vital home gym equipment

Give your home gym the centerpiece it deserves with one of these top power racks from some of fitness’s best brands.

For strength athletes, a power rack can be one of the most vital home gym equipment they can add to their setup. These sturdy rigs can be helpful tools when looking to bolster your workouts, capable of providing added safety and security during movements like the back squat, bench press, overhead press, and other modalities. The best power racks can also include add-ons like cable towers, dip stations, foldable designs for convenient storage, and much more.

Of course, it doesn’t take much to recognize that a power rack will likely be the most expensive purchase you make for your home gym. So, you’ll want to ensure that your profile’s dimensions, weight capacity, available attachments, and overall design align with your training preferences from the start. To give your process a helping lift-off, we’ve combed through the market, consulted with our in-house experts, and gotten hands-on with dozens of rigs and setups to compile this round-up of our favorite power racks on the market today.

While we loved all nine power racks on our list, the Bells of Steel 3×3 Inch Four Post Hydra Rack was our absolute favorite. Keep reading to learn more.

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This rack from Bells of Steel offers custom height, width, and depth dimensions, West Side spacing, a plethora of accessory options, and a 1,000-pound weight capacity.

We regard this Bells of Steel Hydra Rack as the best power rack for a number of reasons. The frame and construction itself is top-notch, with 11-gauge steel used throughout the build for a 1,000-pound weight capacity. The available sizing options also make this a top contender for any home gym, as there are multiple heights, depths, and widths to choose from for a perfect fitment in your space. Finally, the slew of attachments and add-ons make this one of the most versatile rigs we’ve gotten our hands on over the years.

In terms of durability, our tester rated this Hydra Rack at 4.5 out of 5. Like other top power racks, Bells of Steel uses 11-gauge steel as its material of choice for this rig, resulting in a sturdy, stable profile capable of housing heavy weights.

Check out this detailed video review as BarBend expert reviewer Jake Herod breaks down everything you need to know about this power rack.

As far as customizations go, you’d be hard-pressed to find a rack as versatile as this Bells of Steel offering. At our current count, the Hydra Rack has 27 different compatible attachments, giving you plenty of room to build off of your framing for a well-rounded training setup.

[Related: How to Build a Powerlifting Home Gym]

Our tester also appreciated that this Hydra Rack uses 3-inch by 3-inch uprights, which can help you accessorize even more with other-branded add-ons. “I really enjoyed Bells of Steel’s 3-inch by 3-inch measurements along the pillars, which makes this rig more compatible with other accessories from brands like Rogue or Sorinex,” they added. “This can lead to less give and ‘slop’ across the setup, giving you a better feel and heightened sense of longevity across the frame.”

Of course, you do need to be mindful of the price when adding these accessories to your final order. While our tester did appreciate the one-stop-shop aesthetic of the brand page, any attachments can easily push your costs into the thousands.

We rated the value at 3 out of 5, because while the entry price is approachable for power racks, that number can soon become obsolete after adding just a handful of helpful add-ons to your build. Additionally, remember that extra attachments require extra assembly. With this already being a hefty rig, you may need a helping hand to get the job done.

Read our full Bells of Steel Hydra Rack Review.

This rack features 11-gauge steel uprights that can hold up to 1,000 pounds. It can also be completely customized with two different height options, three options for the depth, your choice of 13 attachments, and even the color scheme.

Need a rack that comes with all the bells and whistles? The REP PR-5000 can be just the ticket thanks to its plethora of build options, including 13 different attachments, six available colorways, five pull-up and chin-up bar profiles, and more. Plus, regardless of your final build, you’re still receiving a heavy-duty rig built from sturdy 11-gauge steel with laser-cut details and robotic-controlled welds.

We rated the durability at 4.5 out of 5 thanks to this rack’s impressive stability, even at shorter depths and widths. The 1,000-pound weight capacity was more than enough for our training needs, and it should be suitable for most home gym enthusiasts, too. Additionally, our tester enjoyed how each hole was marked with a respective laser-cut number.

“Laser-cut numbers make it easy to switch your j-cups and barbell when going from squatting to bench pressing, as well as when you’re adding attachments. I really like how simple it makes the process, essentially eliminating the need to mark your preferred slots for these movements,” they added.

[Related: 12 Fitness Tips to Start Your Journey Right]

In addition to its rugged frame, the PR-5000 is also highly versatile given its library of attachments and customizations. We also rated the functionality at 4.5 out of 5 due to REP’s decision to include the 1-inch holes on all sides of the uprights. This can help you configure your setup to your space and wants without being restricted to certain layouts.

Naturally, though, you’ll need to be mindful of how many add-ons you choose within the rack builder on REP Fitness’s site. Yes, the price can dramatically jump with each new accessory, but more build components also mean a wider footprint. Be sure to find the right balance of attachments and build qualities that align with how much space you have to spare.

In relation to the footprint, we’d also recommend keeping this REP Fitness rig on the ground floor. Even at its smallest configuration, the PR-5000 weighs in at 325 pounds. This could be too much heft for second or third floors, so to avoid any unwanted sky lights in your abode, it’s best to keep this rig on the ground level.

Read our full REP Fitness PR-5000 Power Rack Review.

In addition to the sturdy and space-saving Profile PRO Squat Rack, this well-rounded bundle provides everything you need for a dream training setup. The Indy Elite Package from PRx Performance includes a barbell, weight plates, storage shelves, kettlebells, a weight bench, and much more for an all-in-one purchase fit for any home gym blueprint.

We won’t sugarcoat it — power racks can be behemoth structures that can quickly consume a training room. Thankfully, there are some foldable racks on the market that can help you regain some of your floor plan in-between workouts. The PRx Performance Indy Elite Package goes a step further, though, given the included add-ons within the bundle itself. Aside from the wall-mounted two-post rack, you also get loads of gym equipment, including a barbell, E-Z curl bar, bumper plates, multi-grip pull-up bar, dip station, storage units, and much, much more.

This impressive fitness bundle comes with PRx Performance’s Profile PRO Squat Rack with an added multi-grip pull-up bar. While we have more experience with the 4-post Profile silhouette, we feel they are similar enough in terms of their construction and quality.

We scored the construction at 4.5 out of 5 thanks to the sturdy 11-gauge steel and strong mounting points needed for the wall-mounted setup. Additionally, we like how compact this unit can get, sitting just 4 inches off your wall when closed in for non-workout storage.

[Related: The 5 Best Folding Squat Racks for Compact Home Gyms]

We found no issues when it came to stability. Our tester, a certified personal trainer, scored the structure at 5 out of 5, stating, “I was so surprised at this rig’s stability and sturdiness. I credit these factors to the wall-mounted front that gives you an excellent base.”

In terms of setting up this space-saving profile, we do wish that PRx Performance offered some form of professional installation package. While we were confident in our handiwork, we understand that mounting this to your own wall can be a challenge. Additionally, we strongly suggest reading through the available dimensions before purchase — the rack folds upward for storage, so you’ll need to account for 18 extra inches overhead.

Finally, the Indy Elite Package almost has too many add-ons to list, but it can be an excellent option for those that are starting their home gym from the ground (err, wall) up. We rated the versatility at 4 out of 5 thanks to this all-in-one bundle. Of course, we’d recommend athletes who already own their preferred barbell set, weight plates, and other necessities opt for a rack-only profile.

Read our full PRx Home Gym Review.

This power rack is sturdy, compact, and a great choice for adding multiple kinds of pull-ups to your workout regimen. It’s designed to accommodate low ceilings, so if you’ve got a low-hanging garage or room to work in, this power rack is made for you.

“Power racks are pricey and they take up a lot of space,” states Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer and a certified personal trainer. This notion is only doubled down upon once you start to customize your rig with add-ons and lengthier dimensions. The REP Fitness PR-1100 trumps these habits, though, with an approachable $379.99 price tag — almost half the common starting price of other power racks, which tend to range from $700 to $900.

This REP Fitness rack is also our favorite budget power rack thanks to its compatibility with multiple add-ons. The PR-1100 can be paired with any of REP’s 1000 lineup of rack accessories, which includes a cable system for lat pulldowns and low rows, weight horns for storage, dip handles, and flip-down or strap safety arms.

[Related: The Best REP Fitness Squat Racks for the Money, Small Spaces, And More]

Our tester, a former Olympian, says, “It’s rare for a budget-priced power rack to be compatible with this many add-ons, so I’d definitely recommend this PR-1100 as a go-to starter rack for most home gym enthusiasts. You get everything you need to start, with the ability to grow as you gain experience in the gym.” As such, we rated the value at 4.5 out of 5.

Despite the lower price point, we also found the PR-1100 to be plenty stable for heavy lifts and regular training. Granted, the 14-gauge steel is lighter than other rigs using thicker, more high-end metals like 11-gauge steel, but the resulting 700-pound weight capacity should be enough for most, especially those brand new to weight training. We rated the material at 3.5 out of 5, but still be sure to take your personal strength into consideration before trying to save a little coin with this profile.

We should also call attention to the 3-inch hole spacing across this unit. Our tester scored the construction at 3.5 out of 5, because while this spacing does give you room for adjustments, they aren’t going to be as fine-tuned to your personal measurements as, say, what you’d find with shorter gaps in-between holes. Still, though, you can create plenty of worthwhile, safe setups with this layout.

Read our full REP Fitness PR-1100 Power Rack Review.

Need to make the most of your training space? Consider this wall-mounted T-3 Folding Power Rack that can sit just 5 or 8 inches off your wall when not in use, which can help you accommodate a car in your garage gym or help you regain more of your floor plan.

If you’re looking to make the most of your tiny training area, or simply don’t have a large swath of flooring available for workouts, a foldable power rack can be your best bet. These profiles can sit nearly flush with your wall when not in use, allowing you to regain some space for additional gear or, if you work out in your garage, a parked car. The T-3 Folding Power Rack from Titan Fitness is our favorite rig for small spaces because the entire unit sits, at most, 8 inches off your wall — less depth than that of your common bookshelf. (2)

In trials, our tester rated the workout experience with this T-3 Folding Rack at 4 out of 5. “You do give up a little stability across the frame given the amount of pins and moving parts, but I still think this is a good option for someone getting started in their fitness journey. You can get a good workout in and still have the available space for whatever you need to use the room for outside of training.”

[Related: The Best Compact Exercise Equipment]

In terms of the stability, we rated the T-3 at 3 out of 5 given its four-pinned makeup. While this does help lock in the structure for lifts and presses, it also creates more hinges that can lead to a little swaying during re-racks. Plus, you’ll need to get a little creative if you want to bolster the sturdiness with a horizontal stringer between the wall-mounted uprights — Titan does not include any mounting hardware with this purchase.

Despite the balance issues and an increased need for craftsmanship during assembly, we still hold this foldable power rack in high regard thanks to its 11-gauge steel makeup. This creates a profile capable of holding up to 1,100 pounds — a slightly higher rating than other rigs made from the same compound. We scored the weight rating at 4.5 out of 5.

Lastly, the T-3 Folding Power Rack is compatible with a handful of T-3 Series attachments. According to our tester, though, you’ll need to stay with this brand for add-ons. The 2-inch by 3-inch uprights aren’t compatible with other-branded accessories that fit a 3-inch by 3-inch upright.

[Related: Power Rack vs. Squat Stand: Which Piece of Equipment Do You Need?]

The G20 All-In-One Trainer takes an entire gym and packages it into a single space. This home gym is the complete package, sporting plate loaded features in addition to being a power rack for squats and benching with a regular barbell, which you can add on to your order.

Garage gyms can be great for strength training needs because they’re at the ground level, often structurally sound with concrete flooring, and provide a remove from your humble abode (no need to try and train around living room layouts or cramped bedrooms). The perks of a garage gym can also allow for heavier gear. The G20 Pro from Force USA makes the most of its robust 1,525-pound product weight, essentially giving you a power rack, Smith machine, functional trainer, pull-up station, and leg press in one single silhouette.

Seriously, the versatility across this G20 Pro is practically unmatched, earning a perfect 5 out of 5 from our tester. “I really enjoyed the compact-yet-stable layout of this rig. You can have multiple people using it at once and never notice any shakes or imbalances. There are so many modalities packed into this one silhouette, it’s almost dizzying.”

One of the main features of this Force USA offering is the two 289-pound weight stacks at each rear pillar. Using a 2-to-1 pulley ratio (the chosen weight is cut in half), these can be excellent for athletes looking to complete cable crossovers, rows, or other cable movements more commonly associated with the best functional trainers.

As far as the build is concerned, we scored the durability at 4 out of 5. The 11-gauge steel does a lot of heavy lifting (pun intended) across this profile, and the heftier profile can be helpful when trying to keep workouts as stable as possible. Plus, Force USA backs this G20 Pro with a lifetime structural warranty, just in case anything were to go awry in training.

While the overall build is impressive for this garage-destined all-in-one power rack, building the unit is another thing. Our tester spent nearly 35 hours organizing, tightening, and framing out this bulky rig. It makes sense given the plethora of moving parts and attachments, but it’s still quite the undertaking. We rated the entire setup process at 3 out of 5 — you’re going to hate it in the moment, but the payoff is worth it.

Ease into your newfound strength-training habits with this simple squat cage package. The Garage Series Squat Cage can support loads up to 400 pounds, and the included spotter arms and J-hooks can be excellent for keeping your training sessions safe when a workout partner is unavailable.

Power racks can be an excellent place to start for budding home gym enthusiasts, and Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer, agrees. “Even without attachments, power racks increase the number of exercises you are able to safely do,” she states. However, you’ll likely want to ease into your setup with a rack that’s easily put together, yet sturdy enough for regular use (with a few helpful attachments thrown in, too). We think this high-quality bundle from Fringe Sport hits all those marks thanks to its intro-friendly Garage Series Squat Cage and helpful add-ons.

Along with the aforementioned squat cage, this Garage Series bundle gives you a pair of J-cups, two weight storage pins, pin-pipe safety arms, and two dip handles. Additionally, we appreciate how Fringe Sport includes a pair of spotter arms with this package, which can be helpful for keeping setups safe when you’re training on your own in your new at-home training center.

[Related: How to (Properly) Combine Powerlifting and Bodybuilding Training]

We scored the available attachments at 4 out of 5, though, because the roster of extras is somewhat limited when compared to other setups. For example, you can purchase different safety arms, storage racks, landmines, and dip attachments for this rig, but there are no options for cable systems, chin-up bars like you’d find in, say, a rack from REP Fitness or Rogue.

Additionally, our tester appreciated the value at play with this Fringe Sport offering. For the rack and attachments, you can expect to pay roughly $575 — a far cheaper asking price than the typical $700 to $900 starting costs of other high-quality profiles. “I also enjoy how Fringe Sport routinely offers free shipping, which can be a true blessing when trying to keep costs as low as possible from the start,” they added.

The cost is reflective of this rig’s overall durability, however. While we scored the footprint at 4 out of 5 for its lightweight nature (this rig weighs just 115 pounds) we did score the durability at 3.5 out of 5 due to its lower weight capacity. The 16-gauge steel used across this silhouette can only support loads up to 400 pounds. It’s a solid option for athletes just beginning in strength training, but a far cry from the 1,000-pound capacities you can find in other power racks.

[Related: How to Do the Back Squat: Learn Form, Variations, and Benefits]

This rack is equipped with hardware in the back that allows for extra weight plate storage and a pull-up bar for extra back work.

For athletes that want the security of a full power rack yet may not have the available space, a half rack profile can be just the ticket. This rack style cuts the internal cage in half for a smaller footprint yet still retains a sense of safety and support. The Rogue H-2 Half Rack has been a favorite of ours for years thanks to its impressive stability and well-built frame. According to our tester, a certified personal trainer, this rack is so sturdy that it doesn’t even need to be bolted to the ground — a common necessity for half racks and squat stands.

We also rated the stability of this half rack at 4.5 out of 5 thanks to its use of 2-inch by 3-inch 11-gauge steel across the base. This uses the thickness and rigidity of the material itself to its highest potential, creating a grounded sensation that can create that lockdown feeling you want when trying to re-rack hundreds of pounds.

[Related: Master the Low Bar Back Squat for High-Level Leg Gains]

“I love training with this half rack thanks to the more open design that doesn’t constrict your movements as much as a full rack would,” our tester added in reference to their 4 out of 5 rating for workout experience. “Plus, this Rogue offering comes with additional spotter arms, allowing you to perform a number of lifts and exercises with a heightened sense of safety.”

When it comes to attachments and add-ons, you are somewhat limited with the HR-2. On the product page, Rogue only lists three accessories — a pair of pin-pipe safety arms, weight horns for plate storage, and an HR-2 Conversion Kit that allows you to turn any SML Squat Stand into a more stable half rack.

According to the brand, this HR-2 is listed under the “Monster Lite” umbrella, so add-ons like barbell holders, landmines, and dip stations are compatible, but we wish the purchasing experience was a little clearer. For these reasons, we rated the attachments at 3.75 out of 5.

Lastly, the HR-2’s front uprights are available in two heights — 90 inches and 108 inches. This can be great for taller athletes than need the lengthier setup, and the 11-gauge steel makeup doesn’t have us worried about its durability. If you’re looking for a concrete weight capacity, though, Rogue doesn’t include that metric … you’ll just have to take our word for it.

[Related: Best Rogue Squat Racks For Pull-Ups, Small Spaces, And More]

This 4-in-1 power rack combines a standalone rig with a cable pulley system, multi-grip pull-up station, and 360-degree landmine for a well-rounded setup for effective strength training. Additionally, the Raptor F22 can be a sturdy pick for stronger athletes thanks to its 1,000-pound weight capacity.

Having one home gym profile that can pull double duty as another (or multiple) machines can be great for keeping your setup organized, compact, and all about performance. The Raptor F22 from Major Fitness combines four silhouettes in one — power rack, 360-degree landmine, cable pulley system, and multi-grip pull-up station — all for less than $1,000 without any added extras.

Our tester, BarBend editorial member Rosie Borchert got a workout in on the Raptor 22, tackling dips, pull-ups, seated rows, and tricep extensions. “There are so many fun attachments that let you do just about whatever exercise you want,” says Borchert. Versatility scored a 5 out of 5.

The Raptor F22 also earns its moniker as our favorite all-in-one power rack thanks to the 14-gauge steel frame’s impressive weight capacity. Typically, all-in-one setups are either highly priced at nearly $7,000, or fail to honor their “power rack” designation with less sturdy frames. This Major Fitness offering, though, can support weights up to 1,000 pounds while still keeping your setup as versatile as possible. As such, we rated this power rack at 5 out of 5 for versatility.

The dimensions of this all-in-one power rack are also pretty beneficial, especially when considering the space you’d need to house each modality in a standalone machine. The 26.56-square-foot footprint is smaller than your standard Twin XL mattress and should fit in most spaces. (3)

“It’s also a little shorter than some other racks I’ve tested, so I didn’t have to jump up to do pull-ups,” says Borchert, who’s about 5 feet 5 inches tall. There’s just one height to choose from at 82.5 inches tall. While this can take some of the strain out of the purchase, we do think taller athletes would prefer a taller option for more comfortable setups. Overall, we gave the footprint a 4 out of 5 rating.

Finally, the Raptor F22 is available in either red, white, or black colorways, which can be a nice touch when trying to liven up your at-home training space. However, some customers have noted that the shipping process can lead to some scratches and scuffs along the silhouette, taking away from that clean, vibrant aesthetic. Now, your shipping process can be better or worse, depending on your relationship with your mail carrier, but it is worth noting.

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To determine the best power racks available today, we got hands-on with 32 different rigs from the industry’s best brands. Using BarBend’s equipment testing methodology, we rated each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) across categories like footprint, weight capacity, and available attachments to determine our top picks. Below are some of the categories and components we looked at to come up with our findings.

Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer and a certified personal trainer, believes that power racks can be beneficial cogs to a variety of home gym training systems, especially for athletes looking for safer, more rigid confines when it comes to big lifts like the back squat or bench press. Of course, other perks can come from these robust, heavy-steel structures besides a more directed setup, too. Below are some of our favorites.

With so much potential for customization, power racks can quickly become one of the most expensive pieces of home gym equipment. In general, you can expect to find power racks with base price tags between $700 and $900. Your final total will be influenced by your chosen dimensions and attachments, but here are the prices of the base models of our top power racks.

A power rack can easily be one of the largest purchases you make for your home gym — both in size and price tag. So, it helps to understand what to consider when deciding between one rig or the next. Below are some key factors to keep in mind while daydreaming about building workout programs with your new rack.

Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer and a certified personal trainer, says that not every athlete may need such a robust setup for worthwhile training. “I’d first encourage you to determine whether you need a power rack or if you can save some money and still satisfy your needs by getting a two-post squat rack,” she says.

If you’re an experienced strength athlete that understands how to safely lift with a barbell, you can likely get away with a half rack or standalone squat stand. However, we feel the power rack profile is best for most, especially when it comes to creating a safe and stable setup that can step in if exercises go awry.

On average, you can find most high-quality power racks with a listed weight capacity between 700 and 1,000 pounds. This should be enough for stronger individuals, yet still leaves some meat on the bone so you’re not stressing your gear to its limits with every max-effort day. Lighter power racks with lower weight capacities are often made of a thinner steel. These profiles can be good for beginners that aren’t strong enough to outlift their rig, but will eventually need replacing and aren’t an ideal fit for advanced athletes.

The name of the game with power racks is safety. Not only do these rigs help you create a more efficient, effective lifting position from the start, but they also serve as a catch when you need to dump a total during a failed lifting attempt. We always recommend purchasing a power rack with at least a pair of pin-pipe safety bars, which are typically the cheapest safety attachments. Spotter arms are also widely available and can be great for out-of-cage lifts like the bench press or any overhead press.

While dimensions can vary from brand to brand, and footprints can be changed with added attachments, we’ve found that the average power rack takes up roughly 16.5 square feet of space. In addition to the footprint, you also need to be mindful of your rig’s height. Most power racks can fit under a standard ceiling height of 96 inches. (1) Be sure to take some quick measurements before purchasing a rig of your own to truly confirm if the unit will sit comfortably in your planned training layout.

Today’s power racks can come with a slew of training add-ons, with everything from pull-up bars and landmine attachments to leg presses, Smith machines, monolifts, cable machines, and more. In essence, these add-ons can take your standard power rack and turn it into an all-in-one home gym machine in no time … with some extra fees of course. When looking at attachments, be sure to balance your available funds with your training preferences.

Considering their versatility, power racks can be some of the best budget home gym equipment out there. However, with so many custom design options, it’s important to consider how much a rack is going to cost you, including all of the attachments you want to purchase separately. We’ve found that most high-quality racks typically start between $700 and $900, with prices increasing depending on your chosen dimensions as well as any preferred add-ons. Cheaper models can also be worthwhile, but may not be as structurally sound and may carry a lower weight capacity.

With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to decide on the best power rack. It can be helpful to assess your budget, needs, and space constraints before making a decision. We think the best power rack for the majority of people is the Bells of Steel 3×3 Inch Four Post Hydra Rack. It’s fully customizable, has a ton of add-on and upgrade potential to grow and adapt to your needs, and is super sturdy with a weight capacity of 1,000 pounds.

That is going to depend on which rack you buy, but even with a basic rack you have plenty of versatility strewn across the rig. With just the different variations on squats and presses alone, you can easily surpass 50 options — and that’s without anything but a barbell and the rack. Once you add attachments for pull-ups, cable work, and more, you can up that number even further.

This is a tough one to nail down exactly since there are numerous variables that affect the price of a power rack. Two people can purchase the same rack, but select different specs and accessories and pay wildly different prices. On average, power rack base prices can start between $700 and $900. While not a concrete number, this range can give you a good starting point when trying to determine how much budget you have for a power rack of your own.

Aside from the fact that they are very versatile pieces of equipment, power racks can also provide some added safety for your training setups. Power racks allow you to train a variety of movements safely on your own that may otherwise have the potential to be dangerous. For example, with adjustable spotting arms, bench pressing is no longer an exercise that might be life threatening. This added security can be great for confidence when lifting, too, especially in the home when you’re less likely to have a spotter within calling distance.