Best Budget Home Gym Equipment of 2024, Start Your Home Gym with Our Picks

If you’ve thought about building your own home gym, you’ve likely had that wallet-draining feeling that potentially scares you away from the blueprints. Yes, you can spend too much on the best home gym equipment — as you can on workout apparel, high-protein foods, or any fitness-related expense. The best budget home gym equipment can make your training layout as engaging and effective as your favorite gyms in the world without the strain on your finances.

Naturally, there’s no one-size-fits-all category when it comes to building your home gym. Some athletes may prefer a strength training setup, while others lean more toward a layout showcasing the best cardio machines. So, to cater to as many home gym enthusiasts as possible, we’ve gathered our notes from testing hundreds of training essentials, consulted with customer reviews, and dove deep into our research to come up with our favorite budget picks for home gym equipment available today.

The 14 Best Budget Home Gym Equipment of 2024

• Best Budget Treadmill: Horizon Fitness T101
• Best Budget Squat Rack: Titan T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand
• Best Budget All-in-One Home Gym: X3 Complete Home Gym X3 Bar
• Best Budget Resistance Bands: Iron Bull Strength Mini Bands
• Best Budget Barbell: Synergee Open Barbell
• Best Budget Adjustable Dumbbells: Titan Fitness Loadable Dumbbell Handles
• Best Budget Weight Bench: REP Fitness FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench
• Best Budget Kettlebells: Bells of Steel Adjustable Competition Style Kettlebell
• Best Budget Weight Plates: REP Fitness Old School Iron Plates
• Best Budget Exercise Bike: Yosuda YB001R Magnetic Exercise Bike
• Best Budget Rowing Machine: Bells of Steel Blitz Air Rower
• Best Budget Elliptical: Sunny Health & Fitness Premium Cardio Climber Stepping Elliptical Machine
• Best Budget Air Bike: Assault AssaultBike Classic
• Best Budget Dumbbell Set: Giant Fitness Hex Dumbbell Set

Best Budget Treadmill: Horizon Fitness T101

Pros

Variable Response Cushioning system for added underfoot comfort

Foldable deck for more convenient storage

Built-in tablet holder for DIY streaming setups

Cons

Lower weight limit at 300 pounds

Separate device required for streaming workouts

Shorter 55-inch running deck

Do your fitness goals have a cardio theme? There’s an abundance of cardio equipment worth considering for your home gym, but few carry the same status as treadmills. Yet still, while some of the best treadmills can cost thousands of dollars — and eat up a ton of floor space in the process — there are still some options on the market, like this T101 from Horizon Fitness, that balance performance and costs. 

We appreciate how user-friendly this unit is across the details, which include Easy Dial controls for quick settings adjustments, Variable Response Cushioning across the deck for comfortable strides, and a convenient media shelf for streaming your favorite online workout programs. Plus, our tests noted that this treadmill is relatively quiet with an ambient room noise of 35.7 decibels. For reference, a running refrigerator measures around 40 decibels. (5)

Our tester also highlighted how maneuverable and storage-friendly this profile is. “I appreciate the hydraulic folding mechanism that helps save space when not in use,” they said. “Plus, the built-in wheels and 180-pound frame make it easy to move around, especially when compared to other treadmills.” We also tested the “felt weight” of the running deck in folding and transport protocols and found this component to weigh roughly 16 pounds.

We also give this treadmill a 5 out of 5 when it comes to delivery and setup. According to our tester, the entire unit comes well-protected, and the instructions are simple and easy to follow. “You just need to screw on the uprights that hold the screen into place. It’s a smooth process, and you’re ready to go within minutes,” they said.

From a performance standpoint, the T101 is not the most powerful model on the market, but the 10-mile-per-hour max speed can be enough for most light jogging paces. Additionally, you can adjust the incline to up to 10% for uphill jogging. We don’t recommend using this unit for all-out sprints, though. The max speed isn’t as accommodating for this intensity, and the shorter 55-inch running deck may leave you reaching off the platform for longer strides. The running deck dimensions should also be considered for taller athletes.

Finally, while this is a great piece of home gym equipment for budget-minded athletes, it’s not built for every need. The weight capacity is only 300 pounds. If you need a unit capable of supporting heavier loads, it may be best to invest in a profile more suited for heavier athletes. Thankfully, we’ve gotten hands-on with some of the best treadmills for heavier people, so you’re not on your own when trying to find your ideal cardio machine.

Read our full Horizon T101 Treadmill Review.

Best Budget Squat Rack: Titan T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand

Pros

Simple squat profile helps keep costs low

Durable 11-gauge steel construction

Pull-up bar can be adjusted up to 89 inches

Cons

Interior space may be too cramped for a weight bench

Height may not fit in every training space

Squat stand cannot support spotter arms

The best squat racks can upgrade your home training setup by creating a secure, stable environment for performing the back squat and other heavy lifts. Unfortunately, though, these bulky apparatuses can eat up a good chunk of space, as well as a large portion of your budget. Thankfully, squat stands can be worthwhile for athletes looking to save across both parameters, with the T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand being one of our favorites on the market.

This impressive piece of exercise equipment comes in at just under $350 — a savings of roughly $240 compared to Titan’s T-3 Series Power Rack. Additionally, you’re only sacrificing a little bit of weight capacity with this squat stand, as this budget-friendly unit is still capable of supporting racked loads up to 1,000 pounds. For reference, the T-Series Power Rack can support 1,100 pounds of loaded weight.

Having used this T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand in previous years, I can attest to its sturdiness and build quality. I was able to perform a wide range of squat variations, both light and heavy, and had no issues with sliding a weight bench into the interior for bench press and other pressing motions. I’ll admit, though, that my weight bench is a little narrower, so athletes with a bench wider than 42 inches will be unable to create a similar setup. Because of this, I give this Titan Fitness squat stand a 4 out of 5 for versatility.

It’s also worth pointing out that this squat stand comes equipped with a pull-up bar capable of reaching 89 inches in height. This can be great for athletes wanting to add some bodyweight training to their regimen. Be mindful, though, that while the pull-up bar height can be adjusted, the overall height of the squat stand cannot, which is why I rate this squat stand a 4 out of 5 for accommodations. 

You’ll need ceilings measuring at least 7’8.5” tall to accommodate this profile. Thankfully, Titan offers this rack in a smaller silhouette measuring 72 inches tall, but this profile doesn’t feature a pull-up bar attachment.

Best Budget All-in-One Home Gym: X3 Complete Home Gym X3 Bar

Pros

Total-body strength training with one compact machine

Up to 600 pounds of resistance

Works with a smartphone app

Cons

No free weights included

Not suitable for every exercise discipline

As you may be aware, home gyms can cost thousands of dollars. After all, a home gym system does typically involve a good amount of weight, attachments, and more. The X3 Complete Home System cuts that price tag down to a fraction of the cost without minimizing any of the weight.

The X3 Complete Home System is a variable resistance home gym that can create up to 300 or 600 pounds or resistance, depending on the package you choose. You can train your entire body and the system connects to your phone with an app to track your lifts, progress, etc.

For overall experience, we gave this machine a 4 out of 5 rating. While you can do just about any exercise with the resistance-band-style weight bar, you don’t get quite as much core activation as you would with a free weight.

We haven’t had the chance to test this product for an extended period, so time will dictate the durability. But we gave it a 4 out of 5 rating in this category, as it doesn’t seem to have any major defects, especially considering you can can move as much as 600 pounds of resistance.

Best Budget Resistance Bands: Iron Bull Strength Mini Bands

Pros

Six resistance bands included in the set

Color-coded

Convenient carrying case

Cons

Latex bands do have a shelf life

Less ideal for long stretches or lengthier movements

Resistance bands can be excellent accessories to have on hand when building out your workout space. They’re lightweight, more compact than free weights, and allow you to up the ante across upper body, lower body, and core exercises. As with the brand’s other high-quality fitness equipment, Iron Bull’s mini bands provide a good bit of performance without breaking the bank.

You can purchase a six-band bundle for only $25, which we feel is the best deal going. They also sell long-loop bands and hip resistance bands separately, making it your one-stop shop for any band you may need.

In terms of price, we rated these at 5 out of 5 when compared to other resistance band kits, which typically cost between $35 and $75. This bundle includes bands from extra light resistance to extra extra heavy.

In trials, our tester said she loves keeping them in her gym bag, giving the overall experience a 5 out of 5 rating. “These bands are small and compact, so I can take them everywhere I go,” she says. “They’re great for glute work but upper-body training, too, thanks to the varied resistance levels included.”

We like the easy-to-navigate color coding system, helping you differentiate resistance levels. But they also have a label with the resistance on each band. According to our tester, these are also pretty comfortable, earning a 5 out of 5 for overall feel.

When it comes to durability, our tester was pretty pleased. After using the bands regularly for a few weeks, she noticed no ripping. However, latex bands do loose their elasticity over time.

[Related: Best Resistance Bands]

Best Budget Barbell: Synergee Open Barbell

Pros

Available in 15- or 20-kilogram profiles

Diamond knurling for a strong, controlled grip

Needle bearings help improve spin on the bar

Cons

Not a specialized barbell

No center knurling patch

Only available in black phosphate colorway

When it comes to keeping your home gym setup as versatile as possible, a barbell can be the perfect tool for the task. We’ve gotten hands-on with tons of barbells — including well-known profiles like the Rogue Ohio Bar and REP Fitness Colorado Bar — but in our opinion, this 20-kilogram Open Barbell from Synergee earns the highest honors when it comes to budget-friendly fitness gear.

At only $169.95, this is among the most budget-friendly barbells (most others cost over $200). You do also get the option of purchasing a 15-kilogram bar, which only costs $159.95. We have worked out with many Synergee bars, including the Regional (now discontinued) and Games bars (pictured below).

In terms of working out with this wallet-friendly bar, we rated both the versatility and overall experience at 4 out of 5. Synergee uses needle bearings, as opposed to bushings or other bearings, as it’s durable but also provides spin on the bar for dynamic lifts.

This bar comes with a standard, 1.2 millimeter diamond knurl, making it approachable for most athletes, including beginners. However, for those who want a more aggressive or specialized knurling, this may not be the best pick.

Like other budget training gear, you do get what you pay for with this barbell. It only comes in a chrome coat, which is less resistant to corrosion than, say, cerakote or stainless steel, earning it a 3.75 out of 5 for durability. However, those coatings are usually more expensive. For general use, you shouldn’t experience any significant wear and tear with this bar.

[Related: Best Barbells]

Best Budget Adjustable Dumbbells: Titan Fitness Loadable Dumbbell Handles

Pros

Loadable weight sleeves

Cheaper than standard adjustable dumbbells

Accommodates Olympic-sized weight plates

Cons

Change plates and barbell collars required

Range of motion can be compromised

If you want to utilize dumbbells in your quest to build muscle, a loadable set can be your best solution to maximizing performance while limiting upfront costs. This profile can help replace multiple pairs of standard dumbbells in one silhouette, and we feel the Titan Fitness Olympic Dumbbell Handles are among the best for a wide range of athletes.

In testing, we appreciated the weight range at play with these adjustable dumbbells. Each dumbbell can load up to 400 pounds, which is plenty for most athletes. However, they do use olympic plates, which can feel a little clunky for, say, a shoulder press.

“I’ve used these for nearly two years and I love the optionality with these,” our tester said, giving their overall experience a 4 out of 5 rating. “You can only lift as many plates as you have available, though, which can be a limiting factor.”

These don’t have the adjustment features as you’ll see with other adjustable dumbbells. Instead, these work like mini barbells — you load each side and add a collar to lock the plates in place. However, you do need to buy collars separately!

“I’ve noticed a little corrosion on my handles but they’re still in good condition,” our tester said, giving this product a 4.5 out of 5 for durability. “They’ve held up much better than my rubber hex dumbbells.”

Our tester also enjoyed the diamond knurling, though it was pretty passive, she said. It’s easy to hold but not the grippiest dumbbells she’s ever used. They get the job done but may not be ideal for all athletes, depending on preference.

[Related: The Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Your Home Gym in 2024]

Best Budget Weight Bench: REP Fitness FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench 

Pros

Cheaper than other weight benches

Integrated handle and transport wheels

Compatible with a Wall-Mounted Flat Bench Hanger

Cons

No incline or decline

May be too cushioned for some athletes

Needs to be on level flooring for a stable setup

A weight bench can be a great place to start when building out the home gym of your dreams, and if you’re looking for a great quality-to-cost ratio, we’ve yet to find a silhouette as impressive as the FB-5000 Competition Weight Bench from REP Fitness. The durable 11-gauge steel can support loads up to 1,000 pounds, and the sturdy vinyl pad is plenty comfortable across a slew of movements — all for less than $240. For these reasons, we give the FB-5000 a 4.5 out of 5 for overall construction.

The only reason we didn’t give this profile — one of the best weight benches available today — a perfect construction score was due to the absence of leveling feet. While they are coated in rubber to protect your home gym flooring, there aren’t any toggles to stabilize the unit when placed over an unlevel floor. Because of this, some customers have stated that the bench can feel wobbly at times, so we recommend having some rubber or cardboard shims at the ready if your space isn’t as level as a freshly-poured concrete slab.

Despite the slight shakiness over uneven flooring, we’ve found no signs of durability issues with this weight bench, meaning your minimal investment can carry you through years of training and progress. “I’ve used the FB-5000 for three years now, and it’s still as strong as the day I received it,” says our tester. “It’s that good.” 

Additionally, we appreciate how REP offers a standard 12-inch pad as well as a wider 14-inch Thompson Fat Pad with this setup (available for $30 more). This can be great for wider-backed athletes who need a little more support across their shoulder blades and torsos during hard presses. REP also has a convenient wall-mounted flat bench hanger that pairs with this unit. The $39.99 accessory can help ease any storage qualms you may have, taking the FB-5000 off your floor and onto the wall when not in use.

Of course, this competition-grade weight bench does have its limits — we do not recommend this flat bench for those wanting to perform inclined or declined workouts. We’d, instead, recommend an adjustable bench for those needs (REP’s BlackWing Weight Bench is one of our favorites). But if you’re looking for a rock-solid foundation to build your cost-effective home gym around, this can be an excellent starting point.

Read our full REP Fitness FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench Review.

Best Budget Kettlebells: Bells of Steel Adjustable Competition Style Kettlebell

Pros

41 kettlebell weights in one silhouette

Competition-style profile

35-millimeter handle fits nicely in the hand

Cons

Making weight adjustments can be tedious

Exterior paint can cheap easily over extended use

Lightest weight is 12 kilograms

Focusing your home workouts around kettlebells can also be a great way to facilitate strength and conditioning progress. Like dumbbells, though, having a variety of bells in your space can begin to add up — both physically and financially. We recommend this Adjustable Competition Kettlebell from Bells of Steel because it takes both challenges head-on thanks to its approachable $299.99 price tag and 41-in-1 profile.

The Bells of Steel Adjustable Competition Style Kettlebell is available in two sizes: 12 to 20.5 kilograms and 12 to 32 kilograms. While the 20.5-kilogram profile does come in cheaper ($199.99), I recommend opting for the heavier model as it gives you 41 different weight options as opposed to 18 for just $100 more. 

Regardless, both are more financially sound than building out an equivalent kit of standard competition kettlebells. For reference, Bells of Steel’s Standard Competition Bells start at $49.99 and only go up in price based on the listed weight. 

I’ve been using this adjustable kettlebell in my own home training program for a few months now and love how versatile the setup is. The 35-millimeter handle feels comfortable in the hands, and I appreciate how well it holds chalk when I need to elevate my grip. The bare steel is less tacky than other textured, powder-coated units I’ve experienced with other best kettlebells, but for my needs, it does the job plentily.

The major drawback to this budget-friendly home gym equipment, though, rears its head when you need to make adjustments. I rate this Bells of Steel profile a 3 out of 5 for usability because it takes tooled accessories and a bit of time to swap out weight totals. You have to open the base, unscrew the plates, ensure your math is correct, and then tighten everything back into order. This is much more of a process than other adjustable dumbbells on the market that typically showcase a quick lock setup for on-the-fly adjustments.

[Related: Can You Train With Kettlebells Every Day?]

Best Budget Weight Plates: REP Fitness Old School Iron Plates

Pros

Available in both paired and bundled sets

Deep lip for easier control

High-quality matte finish

Cons

Limited one-year warranty

±3% weight tolerance not be ideal for competitive athletes

More susceptible to damage than bumpers

When it comes to the best weight plates on the market, we recommend sticking with cast iron options for the sake of keeping costs low. These profiles are typically less expensive than their synthetic rubber or urethane brethren, but that doesn’t mean there’s a drop-off in quality. Take these Old School Iron Plates from REP Fitness, for example, offering a great vintage aesthetic and sturdy makeup perfect for achieving that desirable progressive overload in training.

I’ve trained with these weight plates in a handful of gyms and always appreciate the deep-lipped design around the edge. This gives you a great sense of control when loading a barbell or placing your gear back onto its storage rack. Additionally, the raised silver lettering is a stylish touch that gives every rep a vintage, gritty vibe.

These REP Fitness plates also earn our high regard thanks to their purchasing structure. You can order paired packages of 2.5-pound, 5-pound, 10-pound, 25-pound, 35-pound, or 45-pound profiles if you’re only in need of a few weights for your setup. Additionally, REP offers six bundled sets at 175lbs, 245lbs, 265lbs, 335lbs, 355lbs, 425lbs, which can be great for getting all your needed resistance in one fell swoop.

REP’s Old School Iron Plates can be great for training on a budget, but naturally, their cast makeup comes with a few precautions. For one, we recommend doing your best to control these plates throughout every movement. Dropping a barbell loaded with these plates from the top of a deadlift can not only damage your flooring but your gear as well. These also make a lot more clanging and banging than other weight plates, which may be less ideal for athletes with napping children or nosey neighbors nearby.

Additionally, I give these weight plates a 3.5 out of 5 when it comes to accuracy. While I haven’t encountered a plate being completely off its listed total, the ±3% weight tolerance and single-cast nature does give some room for less precise profiles. This may be a detriment to some, especially strength sport athletes who want to train at accurate totals in prep for the competition platform.

[Related: Bumper Plates vs. Metal Plates]

Best Budget Exercise Bike: Yosuda YB001R Magnetic Exercise Bike

Pros

One of the more affordable magnetic exercise bikes

Smooth riding experience

Compact 6.11-square-foot footprint

Cons

Seat can begin to deteriorate

No resistance levels listed on the bike

No digital streaming services

Athletes wanting a low-impact form of exercise for their home gym can also consider indoor cycling. These rideable best exercise bikes can be great for facilitating efficient training while also being easier on your joints. (1) In terms of cost-effective rides, though, we recommend the Yosuda YB001R Magnetic Exercise Bike.

We love this minimalist setup and enjoy how there are few features to distract you from your workouts. A simple LCD display allows you to measure your calories burned, speed, ride time, and distance. If you do want to follow along with your favorite live and on-demand fitness classes, though, this exercise bike has a convenient media shelf across the handlebars to create your tech-accommodating setup.

When it comes to riding, our tester said the operation is fairly smooth and straightforward. The belt drive system churns along without much fuss, although there are durability concerns when comparing this mechanism to other chain drive systems on the market.

Speaking of durability, the Yosuda YB001R is not the type of fitness equipment that will last you a lifetime. We rate this machine a 2.5 out of 5 for durability because our tester quickly began to notice weak points across the build. “After just a few rides, I could already see some tears and cracks along the seat. Additionally, the LCD display is held on by a thin piece of plastic, and I feel like it could fall off at any moment during high-intensity workouts.”

Despite this less resilient makeup, we still feel the YB001R is a worthwhile exercise bike for the price — even if you’ll need to replace the unit after a few years of training. We also recommend this profile because the listed $439.99 price tag is often discounted further online. For example, we’ve seen this exercise bike on Amazon for prices closer to $300, which is quite the deal when you consider other exercise bikes can cost over $1,000 and beyond.

Read our full Yosuda Exercise Bike Review.

Best Budget Rowing Machine: Bells of Steel Blitz Air Rower

Pros

Sub-$850 price tag

Ergonomic seat

Front-mounted transport wheels

Cons

No preset workout programs

Not capable of vertical storage

Handlebar can begin to wear on your hands

Rowing is one of my favorite disciplines for its ability to generate full-body workouts while also carrying cardiovascular benefits. (2) For budget-minded athletes looking to add a rowing machine to their training setup, the Blitz Air Rower from Bells of Steel is a profile worth considering.

It takes one look at this latest addition to the rowing machine category to see which silhouette it’s trying to compete with — the Concept2 Rower (which we’ve also reviewed). Both rowers utilize an air-driven resistance system, chain drive, and simplified console. The main difference, though, and what gives the Bells of Steel model a nod in this round-up, is the price. You can pick up the Blitz Air Rower for less than $850, whereas the Concept2 silhouette will run you nearly $1,300.

In testing, we found the Blitz Air Rower to be comfortable and appealing, allowing us to cozily power through sessions with the ergonomic seat cushion and foam-padded handlebar. Our tester also noted that the handle felt thinner than other rowers they’ve used in the past, which could be a benefit for smaller-handed athletes.

We did find out, however, that the comfort has a shelf life in training. “I began to experience some discomfort during endurance workouts,” our tester said. “I attributed this to the hard plastic makeup of the seat, so I wouldn’t recommend rowing atop this machine for long sessions each day.”

Additionally, we rated this rowing machine a 4.5 out of 5 in terms of footprint and portability. The rower itself covers 15.99 square feet of flooring in use, which we feel is on par with many of the best rowing machines in the category. Plus, the front transport wheels made moving the machine around our workout space a breeze. The half-point reduction, though, lies in the fact that you cannot house this unit vertically for more convenient, out-of-the-way storage.

As far as programming is concerned, you’ll need to have a plan in place before hopping on this exercise equipment. There are no built-in workouts available across the console, so you’ll need to think about how long you want to train before getting into a sweat session. Additionally, our tester noted that the readouts are somewhat difficult to see. The text is lightly display, and there are no options to adjust the brightness.

Despite this need, we still think there are plenty of performance benefits to be had with this air-powered rower.

[Related: Benefits of Rowing Machines]

Best Budget Elliptical: Sunny Health & Fitness Premium Cardio Climber Stepping Elliptical Machine

Pros

Available on third-party retailers

Compact 7.64-square-foot footprint

Non-slip footplates

Cons

Lower 260-pound weight capacity

Assembly and setup can be tedious

Can be noisy

Ellipticals can easily topple $1,000, and more often than not, they’re some of the largest pieces of fitness equipment because there’s no convenient way to store the arms, flywheel and legs. Thankfully, this affordable Sunny Health and Fitness profile shrinks the equipment footprint to just 7.64 square feet — smaller than your typical bath towel.

We like this cardio machine for its ability to pack in solid workout potential without a lot of spacial needs. We attribute this to its hybrid operation that has you move vertically and horizontally in a given rep. This essentially combines the benefits of an elliptical and stair stepper into one impressive profile.

Additionally, this Premium Cardio Climber Stepping Elliptical Machine comes with a built-in display capable of measuring your time, RPM, speed, distance, calories burned, and pulse through the handle sensors. Other ellipticals at this price point typically forgo this added tech, which helps this budget elliptical earn its 4 out of 5 rating for value.

Of course, though, there are limitations to a machine that’s so financially efficient. For one, this Sunny Health and Fitness elliptical uses a 13-pound flywheel. For reference, other machines typically use a unit weight between 16 and 20 pounds. This can lead to louder training operations, as the lightweight wheel can spin more rapidly during sessions leading to more vibrations internally.

Online feedback has also noted issues with the guide rails and matching rollers. “After three months with the device, using it for about an hour a day, six days per week, the wheels that glide on the rails started coming apart. They were pitting badly,” says one customer review.

Lastly, this compact elliptical is only capable of supporting up to 260 pounds. Larger athletes will need to pay close attention to this rating, as pushing this machine to its limits could lead to issues and breakdowns mid-use.

[Related: The 7 Best Compact Ellipticals of 2024]

Best Budget Air Bike: Assault AssaultBike Classic

Pros

Durable, corrosion-resistant frame

High-contrast LCD screen

Adjustable height and seat toggles

Cons

Not the most quiet

Low-tech

The best air bikes have a durable frame, an adjustable seat, and some basic technology. The Assault Fitness AssaultBike Classic does all of these things and at an appealing sub-$1,000 price.

“If I were in the market for a new air bike, this is the one I’d buy,” our tester said, giving this bike an overall 4.5 out of 5 for value. “This one has durability and I imagine it will last a long time. The ride is smooth and it’s a solid price at only $699.” 

When it comes to durability, this bike earned a 4 out of 5. The steel frame comes with a corrosion-resistant powder coat, and the extra-wide metal pedals, suitable for most. “Assault bikes are durable and undergo a lot of intense use,” our tester said. “Considering these can last ages in a gym, it can probably withstand decades of use in a home gym.”

This isn’t the smallest machine, though, earning a 3 out of 5 for portability. “It’s not small but not excessively large either,” our tester said. “It’s definitely smaller than the Rogue Echo bike, for reference.”

This bike has a low-tech design, earning a 3 out of 5 in this category. There are no built-in speakers or Bluetooth compatibility but it does have a water bottle holder. Unfortunately, though, there’s nowhere to set your phone or tablet, which some athletes may prefer.

The good news, though, is that its self-powered design requires no power, so you can roll it outside for some sunny outdoor training sessions.

Read our full Assault Air Bike Classic Review.

Best Budget Dumbbell Set: Giant Fitness Hex Dumbbell Set

Pros

Variety of set options

Can be purchased with stand

Available in pairs or sets

Cons

Stand costs extra

Some may not like knurled handles

More often than not, one pair of dumbbells won’t work for each and every workout. But buying a whole set can costs thousands of dollars. That’s where GIANT’s hex dumbbell sets (which start at only $1,049.99) come in.

The five to 50-pound set includes ten pairs of dumbbells, earning a 5 out of 5 for versatility. This set includes five-, 10-, 15-, 20-, 25-, 30-, 35-, 40-, 45-, and 50-pound dumbbell pairs, so you can train your entire body right at home.

For ergonomics, our team also gave this set a 5 out of 5. The dumbbells are rubber (awesome for protecting your floors) with a hex shape, meaning they won’t roll away when you set them down. We also liked the ergonomically-designed handle, which fits comfortably inside your palm. The handles do have knurling, though. Personally, our testers like the extra grip but some athletes may prefer a rubber handle.

You can buy these dumbbells with a stand, too, allowing for easy, convenient storage in your home or garage gym. However, this does come at an additional cost of about $220, which may not be ideal for those on a strict budget.

Where durability is concerned, we gave these a 4 out of 5. They’re friction welded, so they should last a long time, however, rubber can start to knick or deteriorate after years of use. But then again, no piece of equipment lasts forever, right?

How We Tested and Chose the Best Budget Home Gym Equipment

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To determine the best budget-friendly home gym equipment available today, we got hands-on with hundreds of different machines, weights, accessories, and more across multiple training disciplines, using a multi-point equipment testing methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) to determine our top picks.

• Product Dimensions: We wanted to ensure that our chosen picks were accommodating enough for most spaces. We measured each silhouette and included their dimensions where appropriate to give you a good idea of how much open space you’ll need to house the home gym equipment.
• Frequency of Use: When you start to procure some home gym essentials, it helps to focus on items you’ll likely use on a regular basis. In crafting this guide, we kept our eyes on products we typically use in our own regimens, as well as units that could be the main piece in a given workout. 
• Training Versatility: When crafting this budget-friendly home gym round-up, we sought to include products that would give athletes the most bang for their buck. The below picks can be used for multiple exercises and training regimens, allowing you to utilize the gear efficiently throughout your sessions.
• Price: We tried our best to include products that showcased a great sense of value without completely blowing up your wallet. As Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer, puts it, “In today’s economy, money is tight for many people, and financial health shouldn’t be a barrier to improving one’s health and fitness.”
• Brand Quality: Budget-friendly prices don’t mean low-quality products. We prioritized tried-and-true brands that use durable materials built to withstand years of use.

Benefits of Budget Home Gym Equipment

Having a home gym is the dream of many fitness enthusiasts, but many don’t take the plunge due to the upfront costs. According to Amanda Capritto, a certified personal trainer, “Budget home gym equipment benefits people who are looking to start working on their health and fitness but feel overwhelmed by the price of fitness equipment for home use.” Below are a few key perks that can come with filling your available space with wallet-friendly training essentials.

• Improved Access to Training: When you have access to your personal home gym, there’s no need to plan your day around getting to a dedicated training center. Additionally, there are no opening or closing hours to worry about — you can literally work out whenever you please. Home gyms can also be ideal for your specific training regimen since the equipment you choose to add to the space (should) cater to your wants and needs. There’s no wasted space with large machines or unused silhouettes, and everything has a purpose and placement to help you get the most out of your workouts.
• Potential Savings: Studies show that the average gym membership hovers around $30 monthly or $360 per year. (4) While home gym equipment may be more of an upfront cost, it could save you some coin in the long run, especially if you opt for budget-friendly essentials like those included in this round-up. Additionally, equipping your space with budget home gym equipment eliminates secondary costs like gas, car maintenance, and even fitness apparel.
• More Time with Friends and Family: Tying back to the notion of working out whenever you want, having a home gym also opens your schedule for more time spent with the ones that matter most to you. Being able to train whenever your schedule allows for it eliminates the need to plan a window into your daily regimen between work, errands, and other activities.

[Related: Benefits of Home Gyms]

How Much Does the Best Budget Home Gym Equipment Cost?

What makes a piece of gym equipment affordable is relative to the category, obviously, so several picks on our list may not scream “budget” at first glance. When set against their competitors, however, you’ll find these products are below the average cost of comparable gear. None of the picks on our list, though, cost more than $1,000. See a chart setting each product side by side below.

Best Budget Treadmill	Horizon Fitness T101	$999
Best Budget Squat Rack	Titan T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand	$349.99
Best Budget Resistance Bands	Iron Bull Strength Mini Bands	$25
Best Budget Barbell	Synergee Open Barbell	$169.95
Best Budget Adjustable Dumbbells	Titan Fitness Loadable Dumbbell Handles	$103.99
Best Budget Weight Bench	REP Fitness FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench	$239.99
Best Budget Kettlebells	Bells of Steel Adjustable Competition Style Kettlebell	$299.99
Best Budget Weight Plates	REP Fitness Old School Iron Plates	Starting at $364.99
Best Budget Exercise Bike	Yosuda YB001R Magnetic Exercise Bike	$439.99
Best Budget Rowing Machine	Bells of Steel Blitz Air Rower	$849.99
Best Budget Elliptical	Sunny Health & Fitness Premium Cardio Climber Stepping Elliptical Machine	$499
Best Budget Air Bike	Assault AssaultBike Classic	$699
Best Budget Dumbbell Set	GIANT Fitness Hex Dumbbell Set	Starting at $1,049.99

How to Choose the Best Budget Home Gym Equipment

Deciding on the best budget home gym equipment for your space can be a tough task to accomplish if you don’t have a plan from the start. Below are some key factors to consider while adding top-performing machines and essentials to your cart.

Training Discipline

When thinking about which items to include in your personal workout space, a good starting point is to look at how you train currently. If you enjoy lifting with free weights or pushing through cardio sessions, be sure to match those interests with your chosen equipment. There’s no sense in purchasing a full-fledged weightlifting setup if your normal workouts are quantified by distance rather than pounds, right?

Of course, there are layers to training regimens, and many athletes can dabble in multiple disciplines simultaneously. When building out your home gym on a budget, think about which activities you prefer the most and begin from there. 

For personal reference, I tend to enjoy strength training with free weights accompanied by indoor cycling on cardio days. So, in theory, I’d build my home gym with foundational equipment like a weight bench and adjustable dumbbells, along with an affordable exercise bike. Naturally, I can expand my equipment options in the future based on my budget and available space, but honing in on your favorite disciplines from the start is always the best approach.

Available Space

It can be easy to draft up your ideal layout with weight benches, squat racks, cardio machines, and more, but always remember to think about how much available space you have before crafting out your training setup. Take some pre-purchase measurements and make sure the gear you want can actually fit within your floor plan.

Additionally, it can be wise to think about where you want your home gym to live. If you want to turn an extra bedroom on the second floor of your home into a workout cave, make sure that the equipment you stuff the space with can be easily toted up your stairs. Home gym equipment can also be heavy, so ensure your flooring can withstand the extra load if you plan to place your equipment anywhere other than ground level.

Versatility

You don’t want your budget home gym to be filled with one-trick ponies, i.e., fitness equipment that only supports one movement or exercise. When looking for suitable machines and equipment, it can be helpful to look for gear that allows for a variety of exercises, as this can help you get the most bang for your buck.

Price

Home gym equipment costs can vary from category to category, so comparing the prices from one silhouette to the next can be tricky. When trying to stay within your financial bounds, it’s best to have a set number before choosing products and then crafting a shopping list based on those metrics. 

Also, remember that you can always add to your setup when money becomes available, so don’t feel like you need to purchase all of your fitness essentials in one fell swoop. Focus on your foundational needs first, as this can help you maintain motivation and home gym use as you let your budget grow.

If you’re really looking to stretch your dollar, some brands offer payment plans that allow you to make lower scheduled payments over a set time period. This can be a good option for athletes with less available funds, too, as the upfront cost is parceled out rather than a lump sum.

Budget Home Gym Equipment FAQs

References

1. Chavarrias, M., Carlos-Vivas, J., Collado-Mateo, D., & Pérez-Gómez, J. (2019). Health Benefits of Indoor Cycling: A Systematic Review. Medicina, 55(8), 452. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6722762/
2. Shin, K.-Y., Choi, E.-H., Lim, J.-Y., Cho, A.-R., & Lim, Y.-H. (2015). Effects of indoor rowing exercise on the body composition and the scoliosis of visually impaired people: A preliminary study. Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine, 39(4), 592.
3. Vogt, M., & Hoppeler, H. H. (2014). Eccentric exercise: Mechanisms and effects when used as training regime or training adjunct. Journal of Applied Physiology, 116(11), 1446–1454.
4. Rizzo, N. (1970, November 2). Average gym membership cost 2021 [gym price analysis]. RunRepeat. https://runrepeat.com/gym-membership-cost
5. Sygrove, C. (2024, May 7). Decibel chart: All you need to know. MDHearing. https://www.mdhearingaid.com/blog/decibel-chart/