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7 Best Squat Racks For Home Gym [Buying Guide Included]

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Last Update

My name is Steve Hoyles. I own an 8,000-square-foot gym and have been a personal trainer for two decades.

An image of the squat racks in Steve's MyGym

For this guide, I teamed up with some of the brightest folk in the industry (other trainers, engineers, and home gym owners).

We pooled our data and experience into one massive base with 408 racks and over 12,000 data points, crafted a formula to compare everything (and I mean EVERYTHING), and chose 7 winners.

Related

Are you also in the market for the best Olympic barbell, bumper plates, and weight bench?

We’ve tested these items and have a huge database of squat rack attachments in case you’d like to buy different brand attachments for your chosen rack.

Editor’s notes:

This review was updated in January 2025. We have removed some recommendations, such as the Rogue half rack, to make it more concise and easy for you to find the best rack for your needs.


Compare the best squat racks

Overall

Total Gym XLS
REP PR-4000
GR8FLEX
Rogue SML-2C
Total Gym Apex
BOS Hydra
Total Gym Fit
REP PR-1050
Total Gym Apex
Rogue RML90SLIM
41LlD3W e9L. SL75
Fitness Reality 810XLT
Best for
Overall
Squat stand
Folding
Half Rack
Low ceiling
Door Mounted
Amazon/ budget
Rating (*)
Quality
83%
75%
85%
85%
68%
86%
67%
Finishes
78%
81%
83%
70%
65%
81%
48%
Versatility
83%
71%
70%
79%
68%
60%
80%
Space saving
73%
68%
95%
80%
65%
92%
68%
Reputation & reviews
82%
90%
82%
70%
82%
90%
60%
Price
75%
88%
69%
84%
90%
84%
96%
Footprint (')
18.5 to 24.4
16.3
5.6 (1.4 folded)
19
19.3
4.4
16.3
Height (")
80/93
92.5
adjustable
74/86/92/110
72
90.3
83.5
Depth (")
16 | 24 | 30 | 41
48
adjustable
56/62
48
13
50.5
Width (")
50.8
48
52
49
58
48.2
46.5
Pull up bar
5 options
1.25" bar
1.25" bar
3 options
1.25" & 2" bar
1.25" bar
Multi grip
Weight capacity (lbs)
1000+
1000+
1000
1000
700
1000
800
Steel material
3x3" 11-gauge
3x3" 11 Gauge Uprights; 2x3" 11 Gauge Bases
3x3" 11 gauge
2x3" 11 gauge
2x2" 14 Gauge
3x3" 11 gauge
2x2" 14 gauge
Hole spacing (")
2 (1 bench area)
2 (1 bench area)
2 (1 bench area)
2 (1 bench area)
2
2 (1 bench area)
1
Hole size (")
5/8
5/8
5/8
5/8
1
5/8
5/8
Warranty
Lifetime
Lifetime
10 years
Lifetime
Lifetime
Lifetime
1 year
Rack weight (lbs)
195-500
157
110-140
175
123
145-170
134
Price
$$$$
$$$
$$$$
$$
$$
$$$
$

Our testing and selection process

We always use a 5 step process in our reviews:

  1. We start as the buyer – most of our team have bought power racks before. One member owns his own 8,000 sq ft gym where he designed his own power racks with a manufacturer.
  2. We do a ton of research – we collect information on as many power racks as possible and insert it into a spreadsheet.
  3. We rate each product using our exclusive ‘weighted’ rating system. You can learn more about this in the section below.
  4. We use data to decide our top picks rather than personal biases toward brands.
  5. We get our hands on as many of the top picks as possible. Our community is great at helping with this.

You can read more about this process in our review guidelines.

I started with the racks I’ve bought and used in my gym and with my clients. I broaden that list by talking to my colleagues, both in-house and in the industry.

The goal of that initial phase was to create a database with all the squat racks worth considering.

I then defined the criteria by which to compare them.

The criteria are weighted to mimic YOUR experience.

For example, 4×4 uprights exist, but the added cost is not worth it. That’s why the pricing carries a whopping 25% of total points.

Here’s a short rundown of how we rated the squat racks:

“Quality” is a broad term. Here’s what we rated specifically.

  • Build (18%) – steel thickness and the upright profile.
  • Tolerances (7%) – how parts and attachments line up.
  • Number of available attachments (4%) – both from the brand and third-party fits.
  • Upright options (4%)…is there an option to choose a 4/6-post rack in different depths?
  • Hole spacing (4%) – is it Westside* or other?
  • Stabilization (3%) – is there a flat-footed version of the rack? How stable is it when not bolted down?

*1 inch in the bench area, 2 in the rest

  • Welds and joints (7%) how uniform and “clean” are the welds? How good is the hardware?
  • Coat resistance (4%) – how resistant to corrosion and wear is the coating? How well does it carry the battle scars?
  • Color options (4%) can you choose the colors? If yes, how many options are available, and can you choose by part (upright and crossmember separately)?
  • Warranty (4%) – the duration and the terms (this would carry greater weight, but most top racks are backed for life).
  • Customer support (3%) – timely, accurate, and transparent responses. Quick reaction to any issues (most of this is based on our communication and mystery shopping data).
  • Reviews (3%) – what are other users saying about the rack? This one’s limited because it can be inaccurate, especially since some data comes from the maker’s websites.

Can you choose a setup that works for small gyms and low ceilings?

  • Depth options (4%) – describes the distances between the uprights. Ideally, there should be one under 20 inches and one greater than 30.
  • Height options (4%) – are there multiple heights available? Do the lowest fit basement regulation ceilings (7 ft), and does the highest allow for kipping?
  • Modular racks (2%) – can you easily connect the uprights? For example, buy a 4-post and convert it to a 6-post in the future.
  • What’s the initial cost of getting the rack through the door?
  • Is the shipping free?
  • How much do the main attachments add to the price?
  • Value aka quality over price – we divide the pricing score by the quality score to provide more accurate data on the ‘value’.

Find the perfect squat rack for you

Best overall | Squat stand | Folding | Half rack | Low ceiling | Door mounted | Budget


1. Best squat rack overall – REP PR-4000

Top-Rated Overall
REP PR-4000
REP-PR-4000
Quick specs
11-gauge, 3×3 “ tubing
4 depth and 2 height options
6 colors – separate for uprights and crossmembers
Westside hole spacing (⅝ holes)

PR-4000 strikes the best balance between build, versatility, and price.

85/100 Overall Score
83

Quality (25%)

83

Versatility (15%)

92

Reputation & reviews (10%)

73

Space saving (10%)

78

Finish (15%)

80

Value for money (25%)

  • It feels stable when the back is packed with plates, even without bolts.
  • I think a 6-post setup with 24-30 inches in the front and 16 in the back ticks all my functionality boxes.
  • I feel the stability translates well to attachments that introduce angular forces (like cables or lever arms…although I’d like to see a flat-footed version).
  • The clear coat is my absolute favorite.
  • I like their flat sandwich J-cups much better than the standard.

Pros

  • Thick frame and base – it feels safe and pairs with attachments seamlessly
  • Versatile, huge selection of attachments – you can add stuff as you go (read: grow)
  • Pairs with REP’s cable attachments (ARES and Athena) – you can have a functional trainer in one footprint
  • Multiple depths and height options – it allows you to plan your space better

Cons

  • No color choices
  • It costs more than your average rack

PR-4000 is robust, gives you plenty of size options, and pairs with 50+ attachments from REP alone.

All that without breaking the bank.

PR-4000 is a conservatively-priced rack (not cheap) that strikes an almost-perfect balance between price and all key factors.

The 4 factors that make or break a squat rack:

  1. Versatility – features and attachments.
  2. Robustness – translates to safety.
  3. Customizability (if that’s a word).
  4. Value – the cost of having #1 to #3 above.
1 – Versatility – plenty of features and 50+ attachments from REP alone

Here’s a video overview of the features…

Industry-leading number of attachments

REP makes every single attachment you’ll ever need for the 4000 series.

Also, the hole size and spacing are standard, so plenty of attachments from other brands will fit.

But you won’t need them.

Two that stand out are the cable attachments – the Ares and Athena.

These can turn a simple rack into a cable machine or a full-blown functional trainer with a lat pulldown and low row.

Ares is probably the single most versatile cable attachment in existence.

REP Ares and Athena side by side

2 – Sturdy squat rack for medium budgets
The 11-gauge tubes shaped into 3×3 uprights with ⅝-inch holes are the current norm.

It’s the “spot” where the rack feels safe and doesn’t break the proverbial bank.

Anything thicker costs more but yields diminishing returns (read: makes little difference).

Anything thinner won’t feel as stable.

The only way if you want it just right

3 – Customizability – from dimensions to pull-up bar

You choose the height, depth, and number of uprights.

You choose the colors by part – you can have red uprights, blue crossmembers in the front, and white in the back.

It would look silly, but you can do it…

4 – Highest Value Index

We came up with a number that describes the bang for your buck – the Value Index (VI for short).

The higher the VI, the more you get for your money.

Here’s how the Value Index of PR-4000 compares to other racks on this list.

Comparing the value for money of the 4 top-rated squat racks using the proprietary Value Index

Specs sheet

Rep PR-4000
Footprint41×47”
Height93”
Steel 3×3” 11 gauge
Weight capacity1,000 lbs

Check the REP PR-400 price and overview here.


2. Squat stand recommendation – Rogue SML-2C

Squat Stand
Rogue SML-2C
The Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand
Quick specs
Steel – 11-gauge
Profile – 2×3 base, 3×3 uprights
Footprint – 49 x48 “
Height – 92.25 “

If you don’t need 4 posts, the Rogue SML-2C stand is the best value for money among connected stands (with a pull-up bar).

79/100 Overall Score
84

Quality (25%)

68

Versatility (15%)

78

Reputation & reviews (10%)

88

Space saving (10%)

81

Finish (15%)

88

Value for money (25%)

  • I found the Rogue J-cups to be significantly better than Titan’s and on par with REP’s.
  • In-person, SML-2C looks more polished with better finishes than X-3 and T-3.
  • I feel that adding storage horns for stabilization and a higher option (100+ inches) would make the most difference.
  • Color choice for the half-rack conversion kit would be a big plus.

Pros

  • Takes up little vertical space (just 2 uprights)
  • No need to bolt it down (flat-footed base)
  • Can be converted to a half-rack
  • 11 color options

Cons

  • Not as stable (or safe) as a full power rack
  • Costs more than your average squat stand
  • No built-in plate storage

Rogue SML-2C is a well-rounded stand in the medium price range. It’s a burly thing available in 11 colors, you can turn it into a half rack, and it’s compatible with a bunch of attachments.

That’s all you can expect from a rack of this type.

The Rogue Monster Lite 2C stand is the best value among connected stands.

I’ll summarize the reasons in 2 points:

1. It’s better than the stands in its price range. The main competitor here is Titan’s X-3.

What meets the eye is similar, but the devil is in the details – the finishes, the warranty, the number of compatible attachments, and color choices.

The Rogue SML-2C vs the Titan X-3 Tall Stand

a – Better finishes – welds, a powder coat, laser-cut holes, and colorways.

b – Superior warranty – Rogue is backed for a lifetime and Titan for 1 year.

c – Compatible with more attachments – Rogue’s holes are standard (5/8), while Titan’s are unique (11/16). That means fewer non-brand attachments will fit Titan.

d – Colors – SML-2C comes in 11 colors; the competitors are all black.

Color options of the Rogue SML-2C top-rated squat stand

Still, if none of these points is crucial for you, the Titan’s X-3 or even the thinner T-3 are viable budget alternatives.

2. There are better stands, but they cost more. The advantages of the more expensive stands aren’t worth the extra bucks.

A case in point is REP’s SR-4000. It adds a few things (plate storage, height choices), but the benefits don’t justify the 50% higher price. Plus, you can’t choose the color.

Rogue SML-2C vs REP SR-4000 stand

Check the Rogue SML-2C price and overview here.


3. Best squat rack for small spaces – PRx Profile Pro

Folding Rack
PRx Profile Pro
PRx Performance Profile PRO Squat Rack with Pull-Up Bar
Quick specs
11-gauge steel, 3×3 uprights
Folds using gas cylinders
Depths – 3.5 folded, 16-21.75 unfolded
Ceiling height – 100-113 “ (for the 95-inch rack), 94-107 (for the 89-inch rack)
Stud spacing – 12, 16 or 24

PRx Profile PRO is THE most convenient space-saving rack on the market.

Cheap it is not.

78/100 Overall Score
85

Quality (25%)

70

Versatility (15%)

82

Reputation & reviews (10%)

95

Space saving (10%)

83

Finish (15%)

69

Value for money (25%)

  • I’m blown away by how smooth the gas-assisted folding is – it takes me about 8 seconds to set up or stow away.
  • I find the adjustable brackets incredibly useful – they let me fine-tune both the pull-up bar height and the unfolded depth.
  • I really appreciate the recent switch to 5/8″ holes – it’s opened up a whole new world of attachment compatibility.
  • The Westside hole spacing makes a real difference in bench press positioning, especially for competition-style training.
  • The stability surprised me – I was skeptical about the wall-mounted design, but it’s rock-solid even during kipping pull-ups.
  • The installation flexibility is underrated – it handles a slightly sloped garage floor without any issues.

Pros

  • Takes up minimal depth – only 3.5 inches when folded
  • Convenient gas cylinders – faster and easier to set up/down
  • You choose the height by changing up the bracket position (more on this in a second)
  • Pairs with an awesome folding bench, wall-mounted storage, and other PRx add-ons
  • 9 color choices

Cons

  • Costs more than your average folding rack
  • Not as safe or versatile as a 4-post rack

PRx PRO is a one-of-a-kind. The gas cylinder separates it from the crowd.

You can also choose the height and type of pull-up bar (straight, multi-grip, kipping).

You might remember the PRX guys, Erik and Brian, from Shark Tank.

I know I do.

I also remember not liking the rack because it looked gimmicky.

I was wrong.

Erik and Brian from PRx Performance appearance on Shark Tank

PRx PRO is the single most convenient rack for extra small spaces where every inch matters…like in a garage gym or hallway.

It’s a unique piece of gym equipment

It’s less about folding up and more about the gas cylinder.

It allows you to set it up and down in seconds.

And that’s where the rubber meets the road!

Convenience is critical with racks like this. If it’s tedious to set up, you won’t do it for long.

Here’s a quick video to demonstrate what it’s all about:

The control you have over the height – a nice little plus

By moving the brackets up or down, you adapt the rack to the height of your ceiling and change the position of the pull-up bar.

The mix-and-match installation means 3 things:

  1. The rack will fit any space with a 94-113″ ceiling height.
  2. The unfolded depth (distance from the wall) can be in the 16-21.75” range.
  3. Floors that slope (to and from the wall) aren’t a problem.

Here’s an illustration that tells the complete story.

PRx Profile Pro - Specs for the two available heights

Improvements since the last update

They made 2 significant changes since the first version:

  • They changed the holes from 1 inch to ⅝, which made the uprights compatible with more attachments.
  • They changed the hole spacing to Westside, which gives you more control of bar positioning on the bench press.

Personal note: I’ve talked about these 2 “issues” time and again since the launch. Whether it’s a coincidence or they’re reading our stuff, they got this right.

Did you read it gif

Check the PRx Profile Pro price and overview here.


4. Top-rated half rack – BOS Hydra

Half Rack
BOS Hydra
Bells of Steel 3x3 Hydra Half Rack
Quick specs
Uprights – 3×3, 11-gauge
Two depth options – 17 and 30 “
Three heights – 84, 90 or 108
Width – 49 “

Among half racks, you can’t beat the value for money of the Bells of Steel Hydra.

Optional heights and depths are a massive plus.

74.5/100 Overall Score
85

Quality (25%)

79

Versatility (15%)

70

Reputation & reviews (10%)

80

Space saving (10%)

70

Finish (15%)

84

Value for money (25%)

  • I find the stability without bolting impressive – it’s rock solid even with aggressive band work.
  • I think the large footprint is actually a plus for my training style – plenty of room for band pegs and weight storage.
  • I love having the choice of uprights and crossmember depths – I went with 24″ crossmembers and don’t regret it.
  • The 11-gauge steel quality feels premium – no difference in feel compared to racks costing twice as much.
  • The powder coating has been durable, though not quite as refined as some premium brands.

Pros

  • Awesome  value – you’ll spend much less for similar specs
  • Adaptable – you choose the heights and the depths
  • Westside hole spacing
  • Range of optional add-ons – storage, safeties, attachments (including a lat pulldown)

Cons

  • Big footprint – can be an issue for small gyms

It’s a budget squat rack that does the job.

Bells of Steel had a simple idea for the Hydra half rack – strip it down until there are no frills, then allow the buyer to add stuff.

And it’s a winner because it means you’re “molding” the rack to your space and only paying for things you’ll use.

Hydra has the same thick uprights (11-gauge, 3×3) but costs much less than its main competitors.

What’s “much less?”

Half racks from the top brands cost 2-3 times more.

The graph below illustrates that.

Base price comparison of BOS Hydra to half racks from the top brands

There are 3 key things to note here:

  1. For clarity, we’ve limited the comparison to top brands. We excluded the cheap half-racks with smaller profiles.
  2. You’re looking at the base prices. That means some of the other racks include stuff that’s not there on the basic Hydra (like storage or stabilizer legs).
  3. Adding the stuff from #2 would bring Hydra’s price up, but the OPTION to choose is a big deal. You might not want storage or pins for band pegs.

Not a space-saver

If you’re considering a half rack to save floor space, the Hydra is not for you. The base is way too big…it has to be for stability reasons.

To minimize the footprint, you want a half rack that bolts down, like the REP PR-5000.

If you go with the 16-inch crossmembers, the footprint of the PR-5000 will be a mere 8.78 square feet. Compared to Hydra’s 19.06, that’s tiny.

Footprints of 3 half rack types compared - REP PR-5000, BOS Hydra, Rogue Monster Lite, and Rogue HR-2

Check the BOS Hydra squat rack price and overview here.


5. Best squat rack for low ceilings – REP PR-1050

Low Ceiling Rack
REP PR-1050
REP Fitness PR-1050 Short Power Rack
Quick specs
14-gauge, 2×2
Height – 72 “
Depth – 48 “
Width at base – 58 “ back, 44.1 “ front

PR-1050 is the best short rack on the market. It’s sturdy, backed by a solid warranty, and costs 10-20% less than the closest runner-up.

72/100 Overall Score
68

Quality (25%)

67

Versatility (15%)

82

Reputation & reviews (10%)

85

Space saving (10%)

65

Finish (15%)

90

Value for money (25%)

I haven’t had the chance to test this rack yet, but I’ll share an update here as soon as I do – hopefully very soon.

Pros

  • Fits low ceilings and keeps most of the power rack functionality
  • Allows you to squat safely in the “cage” – 26 “ depth between uprights
  • Solid build and high weight capacity for the price
  • Compatible with a lat pulldown and a dip station

Cons

  • Not as stable as 11-gauge/3×3 racks
  • Not tall enough for comfortable pull-ups
  • Fewer attachments than 4000/5000 series

PR-1050 is the best bang for your buck if you’re working with low ceilings.

To be honest, that’s not a huge badge of honor because it’s slim pickings in this height range.

REP PR-1050 is short, cheap, and solidly built.

It’s 14-gauge steel shaped into 2x2s, but that’s not a huge deal for a short rack.

Why?

Because there are fewer angular forces and the lever arm is shorter.

In plain terms – it won’t wobble as a regular rack of the same specs would.

For reference, below is a height comparison graph.

Height comparison between top squat racks and stands

You’ll notice a few shorter units.

Most are independent stands, and I’m not interested in those today. If they’re an option for you, see our guide on best squat stands here.

That leaves two short racks standing at 72 and 71 inches – the REP PR-1050 and Titan T-2.

And they’re almost identical.

The PR-1050 is the better-value pick because a lifetime warranty backs it and costs a bit less.

Check the REP PR-1050 price and overview here.


6. Best door-mounted squat rack for home gyms – Rogue RML90SLIM

Best Rack For Small Spaces
Rogue RML90SLIM
Rogue RML-90-Slim Door Mount Folding Squat rack
Quick specs
3×3 uprights, 11-gauge steel
Folded and unfolded depth – 5 and 13 “
Width and height – 49.1875 ” and 90.375 ”
Fits all standard door widths (28, 30, 32 and 36 “)
Maximal door width (with trim) – 42.25 “

RML90Slim uses the doorway space otherwise wasted in 99% of home gyms and frees up the rest of the room.

71/100 Overall Score
85

Quality (25%)

60

Versatility (15%)

90

Reputation & reviews (10%)

92

Space saving (10%)

81

Finish (15%)

84

Value for money (25%)

  • The door mounting is incredibly secure – no wobble even during heavy sets.
  • I think the mounting flexibility is a game-changer – it’s refreshing not having to worry about exact stud spacing like with other racks.
  • I love how it sits practically flush with the wall when folded – noticeably closer than other folding racks I’ve tested.
  • The 11-gauge steel construction feels significantly more robust than the 14-gauge alternatives I’ve tried.
  • I’m particularly impressed with the powder coating – it’s held up great against constant folding and unfolding.
  • I find the included J-cups solid, though I wish they had UHMW lining on the sides.

Pros

  • Uses the space that would otherwise be wasted
  • Compatible with attachments from the Monster Lite Series
  • Opens up space for kipping pull-ups
  • Allows you to use the doorway as you would a cage – for approach on squats or a bench

Cons

  • Some might find it hard to set up – classic pin folding mechanism
  • No plastic protectors on the uprights – it will scratch your floor if you’re not careful

RML-90SLIM is a way to mimic a power rack with uprights only 13″ from the wall. And its rugged 3×3 is paired with a massive number of attachments from the Monster Lite Series.

No other rack ticks those boxes.

Rogue’s RML-90SLIM is the best door-mounted rack out there.

How it compares to other rack types

It’s fair to say a door-mounted rack is the most efficient use of space in small gyms.

Why’s that?

Because you’re using the space that’s wasted in most home gyms.

Using the doorway allows the uprights to be very close to the wall – much closer than with other foldable squat racks.

For reference, below is a graph comparing those depths.

Depth comparison among the top folding racks

So, the real competitor is the PRx Pro, which can theoretically be mounted to a doorway.

For that, the stars would have to align…and by stars, I mean the following:

  • Distance between studs.
  • Distance from studs to door frame.
  • Ceiling height.

That’s rarely the case.

It’s still doable, but you’d have to improvise with a ledger board.

Finally, PRx Pro costs more.

How the RML-90SLIM compares to the competition

To be blunt, it’s the only door-mounted rack worth mentioning. There is some competition, but it’s not as good and costs more.

I’ve been researching some no-name racks from Amazon.

You know, the ones with ridiculous names with a bunch of vowels, like EAS1SOOPE.

I know they’re doing it to make trademarking easier, but c’mon…who’s gonna brag about owning an EAS1SOOPE???

I sometimes cry

Name aside, the rack actually looks decent. Alas, it costs more than Rogue, has a fixed mounting width, and is made of thinner steel (14 gauge).

Rogue RML90SLIM compared to the competition

Check the Rogue RML90SLIM price and overview here.


7. Best cheap squat rack on Amazon – Fitness Reality Power Cage

Cheap Power Rack
Fitness Reality 810 XLT
Fitness Reality 810XLT Power Cage
Quick specs
14-gauge steel
46 x 50 “ footprint
800 lbs capacity

This cage is the cheapest squat rack you can buy that’s still safe and functional.

69/100 Overall Score
67

Quality (25%)

80

Versatility (15%)

60

Reputation & reviews (10%)

68

Space saving (10%)

48

Finish (15%)

96

Value for money (25%)

  • I feel the stability is acceptable when bolted – definitely wobbly without it, though.
  • The wide hole spacing is limiting for bench press – you’ll likely need some creative solutions for ideal bar height.
  • The finish feels basic but functional – exactly what you’d expect at this price point.
  • I’m impressed with the lat pulldown attachment – it’s not premium but gets the job done for basic back work.
  • The included J-cups are very basic – I’d strongly recommend upgrading these first.
  • I feel it hits a sweet spot for beginners – while not perfect, it offers enough functionality to learn proper form and progress.

Pros

  • Cheap
  • Good build and capacity for the price
  • Decent lat pulldown attachment
  • Included safety and stabilization bars

Cons

  • Thinner steel than most racks – you’ll feel some wobble
  • Basic finishes – the paint will chip in time
  • Sub-par shipping and customer service

Fitness Reality Cage is cheap as chips but still ticks all the safety and (most of the) functionality boxes.

Even when every dollar matters, there’s a red line of rack prices that shouldn’t be crossed.

This cage lives on that line.

The steel gauge is not listed but, based on the weight and capacity, I’d guess it’s 14.

That’s not bad, but that’s about it…

The finishes are basic, the holes are too far apart, and it will wobble…but it’s safe, and it does the job.

Also, it’s cheaper than most Rogue barbells.

Below is a price comparison graph between this cage and other top picks (their cheapest versions).

Price comparison graph - Fitness Reality Cage vs other squat-rack category winner

They even make cable attachments for it

Are the attachments any good?

I’d say the lat pulldown is OK, and the “cable crossover” is ridiculous. You’re supposed to grab the chains and pull them to the front.

It’s unusable at best and dangerous at worst.

The guy in their ad says it allows for “dynamic instantaneous muscle group activation.”

That language activates my instantaneous BS trigger.

Anyway, I’ll stop hating…

Here’s my point – if you look past the lingo, you’ll see a basic but decent rack and a usable lat pulldown.

So…

Is it great?

No.

Is it good?

Kinda…depends on your definition of “good.”

I’d say it’s not for a serious lifter, but 1000s of owners would disagree.

It’s by far the most popular rack on Amazon.

Alone, it has amassed more reviews than all other racks on this list combined….11 times more.

That tells a story.

Check the Fitness Reality 810 XLT price and overview here.


There are 6 critical factors to consider when choosing a squat rack. Each branches out, but these are the top-level:

  1. Price – minimal, shipping, and attachments.
  2. Quality – build quality, tolerances, and attention to detail.
  3. Versatility – number of uprights, attachments, and hole distribution.
  4. Finishes – coats, colors, joints, and hardware.
  5. Brand – history, customer support, and warranty terms.
  6. Size options – depth, height, and modularity (how they connect).

We explain all the details about how we factored in each of those; to read more on that, click here and skip to the “How we assess the squat racks” section.


What’s the difference between a squat rack and a power rack?

The difference between a squat rack and a power rack is the number of uprights and size.

A squat rack has two uprights, J-cups, with or without spotter arms – like the Rogue S-2.

A power rack is bigger, has at least 4 uprights, and more room for attachments, which makes it safer and more versatile.(*)

*To make this guide complete, we considered the power rack a sub-type of squat rack, which is technically correct since you can squat in it.

What type of squat rack do I need?

You need a squat rack that’s going to be safe (above all else) and fit your space and workout plan.

For most people, that’s gonna be a 4-post rack with safeties between the uprights, like the REP PR-4000.

If space is limited, you might opt for a smaller or foldable squat rack, like the PRx Pro.

How much does a squat rack cost?

A squat rack costs anywhere from $250 to $6K.

In the lower end of that range are the cheap racks from Amazon (like the Fitness Reality Cage), while a commercial-grade Rogue RM-43 will set you back a significant 4 figures.

The best value for home gyms is in the $1-2K range, which buys you a versatile rack like the REP PR-4000.


The bottom line

Choosing a squat rack is the single most important decision you’ll make for your home gym.

That’s because you’re buying more than what meets the eye.

Play your cards right and get a “rack of all trades” that replaces dozens of stations.

Here’s a 4-point overview of our picks:

  1. REP PR-4000 is the best value for money on the rack market.

It allows for all post configurations, pairs with a bunch of awesome attachments, and doesn’t cost a fortune.

  1. If you’re OK with squatting outside a cage, you have 3 main options – a squat stand, a folding, or a half-rack. Our top picks in those 3 categories are Rogue S-2, Profile PRO by PRX, and BOS Hydra 3, respectively.
  2. As your space shrinks, so do your options. If the ceilings are low, REP’s short PR-1050 is your best bet, and if the only available space is the doorframe, go with the ROGUE RML-90SLIM.
  3. Finally, if you want something dirt cheap but safe, we can (reluctantly) recommend the Fitness Reality 810 XLT.

Click here to skip back to the top table.

If you don’t like any of our picks

If you’ve found the type of rack you want but don’t like the ones we chose, follow the links below to see more of each type.

Squat Rack Type
Image
Product Name
Overall Best Rack
REP Fitness PR-4000
Best Power Rack
REP Fitness PR-4000
Best Folding Rack
PRx Profile Rack
Best Squat Stand
Rogue SML-2C
Best Short Power Rack
REP Fitness PR-1050
Best Budget Power Rack
REP Fitness PR-1100
Best Half Rack
BOS Hydra 3x3
Best Combo Rack
Rogue Combo Rack
Best Outdoor Rack
Get RX'd Galvanized Rig
Best Independent Squat Stand
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Steve Hoyles is a certified personal trainer and gym owner. Since graduating with his Sports Science degree in 2004 he's worked in the fitness industry, helping thousands of people reach their health and fitness goals. His writing has been read by millions of people in over 170 countries as he inspires to help as many people as possible live a healthy lifestyle.

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