When you want to get stronger, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the equipment choices on the market. But one piece that can really bring your gym space together is a squat rack. Otherwise, how are you going to load hundreds of pounds on your back or over your chest for bench pressing? You can’t. And while it may be obvious that you need a squat rack, it can be much harder to choose the perfect squat rack for your particular home gym needs. Do you need a squat stand, a four-post rack, or possibly a squat rack and bench combo? Perhaps you’re limited on space and thinking about getting a folding squat rack. There are countless options to choose from.
To find the perfect squat rack, you’ll need to consider the amount of space you have, what you’ll be using the rack for, and how robust you want your rack to be. For example, do you want a simple squat stand to hold your barbell, or do you need a power rack that you can attach various training tools to? And, of course, you need to think about how much you’re willing to spend. Below, we found what we think are the best squat racks on the market for a variety of needs. Read up and get to squatting.
Best Squat Racks
- Best Squat Rack All-Around: Bells of Steel Hydra 3×3 Inch Four Post Power Rack
- Best Basic Squat Rack: REP SR-4000 Squat Rack
- Best Power Rack: Bells of Steel Hydra 3×3 Inch Four Post Power Rack
- Best Splurge Squat Rack: Rogue RM-6 Monster Rack 2.0
- Best Squat Rack for Small Spaces: REP SR-4000 Squat Rack
- Best Squat Rack With Cables: Force USA X20 Pro Rack
- Best Squat Rack for Garage Gyms: REP PR-4100 Folding Squat Rack
- Best Squat Rack for the Money: Titan T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand
- Best Squat Rack for Beginners: Rogue S-1 Squat Stand 2.0
- Best Squat Rack for Competitive Powerlifters: Titan Competition Bench and Squat Rack Combo
Best Squat Rack Overall
The best squat rack has to check a lot of boxes. It needs to be durable, have the ability to support a number of accessories, and should come at a reasonable price. On top of that, our top pick also has the ability to grow and adapt with you over time. Meet the Bells of Steel Hydra 3×3 Inch Four Post Power Rack.
Hydra 3×3 Inch Four Post Power Rack
This squat rack is sturdy and reasonably priced — plus, it has more customization options than you can shake a stick at. The Hydra is built to commercial standards with laser-cut 11-gauge steel and a 1,000-pound weight capacity, and the ways you can customize it to suit your needs are nearly endless. When you buy the rack, you choose the height, depth, and width to make it fit whatever space you have. Then, you can make your home gym space complete with a set of cable crossovers or a Y-bar for dips. Work your back with the optional landmine attachment. Mix it up with band pegs, leg curls/extensions, pull-up bar variations, safety options, and more.
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.
If Bells of Steel doesn’t have the attachment you want, no worries — the rack measures a true 3” x 3”. This means it’s compatible with many other brands’ racks and attachments, so you can mix and match your accessories. The dimensions of the Hydra range from 72 to 108 inches tall by 47 to 49 inches wide and 35 to 54 inches deep, letting you choose how much space you need inside of the rack. Bells of Steel provides a limited lifetime warranty on the Hydra, so you know this product can stand the test of time.
Who Should Buy the Hydra 3×3 Inch Four Post Power Rack
- Anyone who is serious about building out their home gym set-up. This rack offers the ability to add a ton of versatility and specialized attachments.
- People who are limited in space will enjoy the option to create a smaller rack.
- Lifters who are on the high end of the strength spectrum. This rack can support a 1,000-pound static weight, so you’re not going to have to worry if it can support your maxes.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the Hydra 3×3 Inch Four Post Power Rack
- Anyone who wants a rack that already comes with everything included, so they don’t have to think about which attachments to buy.
- Athletes on a budget may balk at watching the totals ring up as you design your rack.
- Folks who are extremely limited on space may want to look for a folding rack. This rack’s dimensions are space-friendly, but folding racks save the most space.
The Hydra 3×3 Inch Four Post Power Rack is well-built and totally customizable for home gym and commercial consumers alike. The ability to use attachments from other companies and a weight capacity that can handle just about anything means you can grow with this rack for a lifetime of lifting.
Best Basic Squat Rack
“Basic” isn’t synonymous with “cheap,” and Rep Fitness’ simple yet thoughtfully-designed squat stand proves this to be true. But if you’re looking for a basic rack to fulfill all your wildest squat dreams, the SR-4000 has got your back — and your legs.
REP SR-4000 Squat Rack
If you’re looking for a basic squat stand that offers support, without a lot of frills, then you can probably stop looking. REP’s SR-4000 Squat Rack comes with two height options — 96” and 103” — but its height doesn’t mean it’s not sturdy. It’s tall enough to let you perform kipping pull-ups, and stable enough to let you do so safely.
This squat rack doesn’t need extra frills to be one of the best on the market. You can bolt it into the ground to support its impressive weight capacity of nearly 1,500 pounds, and it comes with mounted weight horns for your storage needs.
That’s because the SR-4000 Squat Rack has a flat-footed, long base as part of its three-by-three design. Constructed with 11-gauge steel, the rack has pre-drilled feet that will allow you to bolt it to the ground. It’s compatible with most of REP’s 4000-series add-ons and equipment, so you won’t have to worry about the compatibility of safety arms. Since this bare-bones squat stand is all about weights, you’ll also find two weight horns mounted onto the base so that you can stash your weights with ease. The rack can support nearly 1,500 pounds. With no extra attachments, you’ll pay just over $500 for this rack.
Who Should Buy the REP SR-4000 Squat Rack
- Lifters who want just a squat stand will appreciate the simplicity of this piece of equipment.
- Anyone who wants a pull-up bar on their squat stand for extra back work and — if you own resistance bands — arm workouts.
- If you want the option to bolt your rack to the floor, this model comes with pre-drilled feet.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the REP SR-4000 Squat Rack
- If you want a power rack to facilitate more training options, then this rack might not be for you.
- When you’re working in a small space, your gym may not be able to accommodate a minimum height of 96 inches.
- Coming in at just over $500, you’ll be paying a pretty penny for just a squat stand — so if you’re looking for your dollar to go farther, you might want to look elsewhere.
REP’s squat stand is well-built (out of 11-gauge steel) and can accommodate tall athletes and those who want to supplement their squat sessions with pull-ups.
Best Power Rack
This power rack is basic at its core but can be outfitted to replace an entire home gym (for an additional cost). It’s fully functional, sturdy, and customizable. Pair this with a half-ton weight capacity and wide open accessory compatibility, and there are few exercises you won’t be able to do.
Bells of Steel 3×3 Inch Four Post Hydra Rack
Like a good powerlifter, a good power rack, first and foremost, needs to be able to withstand heavy weight. The Bells of Steel 3×3 Inch Four Post Hydra Rack is weight rated at 1,000 pounds, is built with tough 11-gauge steel, and comes with a limited lifetime warranty. Plus, the West Side spacing (one inch in the bench press area) is perfect for powerlifting competitors since it’s what you’ll likely be using in comps. And, for the lone wolves out there, each rack comes with your choice of pin pipe safeties, safety straps, or spotter arms so you can lift without a spotter.
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.
If you’re looking for a more built-out home gym, this power rack has you covered. It can be customized to include a cable pulley system, row pads, foot grips, dip bars, and a landmine attachment. Plus, since it’s a true 3×3 (76.2mm x 76.2mm), it’s compatible with accessories from most American-made competitors.
Who Should Buy Bells of Steel 3×3 Inch Four Post Hydra Rack
- If you’re a powerflifter looking to train on a rack that mimics the rack you’ll compete on, you’ll love the West Side spacing on this rack.
- This power rack can accommodate added accessories like cable pulleys, dip bars, band pegs, and a landmine attachment for those who want a well-rounded set-up.
- Folks who like to lift alone will love that this one comes with three different self-spotting options.
Who Shouldn’t Buy Bells of Steel 3×3 Inch Four Post Hydra Rack
- When you’re just looking for a basic squat rack, this might be a little too fancy for you.
- This rack can get pricey, especially as you pile on the accessories.
At its core, this is a solid power rack, thanks to its half-ton weight limit, customizable height, width, and depth, and its competition bench spacing. You can also add a cable machine and lat pulldown to make it a more complete gym.
Best Splurge Squat Rack
You know you deserve to treat yourself. When your budget allows it, if you’re ready to pony up for a more lavish squat rack, then you won’t find an option that offers more versatility and pop than Rogue’s RM-6 Monster Rack 2.0.
Rogue RM-6 Monster Rack
Let’s address the elephant in the room first: This rack is huge. It’s 76 inches long and comes in three height options — 90, 100, and 108 inches. This rack is also split into two distinct sections. The front is where you’ll hook up your safety arms for squatting and benching, while the back half is loaded with eight pegs to hold what’s likely to be more weight plates than you’ll ever need. Oh, and if there’s an attachment from Rogue that you want, rest assured it’ll fit on this rack.
This pick comes standard with eight plate storage posts and four band pegs but it is customizable even down to its J-cups. Choose between a standard J-cup or two sandwiched J-cups that come in different widths.
You can buy dip bars, a cable pulley, and their 50 Cal Trolley Lever Arm Kit. Rogue even makes a belt squat drop-in for this rack. You’ll get what you pay for with this Monster Rack — but you’ll pay a lot. Clocking in at $2,250.00, this rack is definitely a splurge — but if you’ve got it, it’s worth it.
Who Should Buy the Rogue RM-6 Monster Rack 2.0
- Folks who are looking to treat themselves to one of the most robust racks on the market.
- If you want to load your rack up with a ton of attachments, you’ll be thrilled with this rack, which can act as your entire gym.
- This rack has plenty of extra weight plate storage for folks who just can’t get enough plates in their lives.
- Want cool colors? This rack has 12 to choose from, ranging from Rogue Red to Bright Green.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the Rogue RM-6 Monster Rack 2.0
- People on a budget should probably avoid the most expensive pick on our list.
- When you’re setting up in a small space, you might not have the room to store a 78-inch long by 90-inch tall steel power rack.
Short of cooking you a post-workout meal, there’s not much this rack can’t do. It comes in 12 unique color options and also boasts a cool “Rogue” nameplate up top.
Best Squat Rack for Small Spaces
If you’re really limited on space or ascribe to a minimalist lifestyle, but still want to make gains and crush some squats, then you’re going to need a squat rack designed for small spaces. There are a lot of options, but our pick for best squat rack for small spaces really excels in the versatility department — enter the REP Fitness SR-4000 Squat Rack.
REP SR-4000 Squat Rack
The SR-4000 from REP Fitness offers a unique blend of versatility, stability, and about as much utility as you can get from a full power rack while still maintaining a small footprint. You can get it in either 96-inch or 103-inch height, with 3×3-inch tubing made from 11-gauge steel. For a squat rack, this product has an incredible weight capacity of 1,000 pounds thanks to REP’s triangular reinforcements around the base of the uprights. This small but mighty rack measures 52.4” wide, 71.4” deep, and either 96” or 103” tall depending on your selection.
This squat rack doesn’t need extra frills to be one of the best on the market. You can bolt it into the ground to support its impressive weight capacity of nearly 1,500 pounds, and it comes with mounted weight horns for your storage needs.
The SR-4000 is compatible with almost all of REP’s 4000-series attachments, like the monolift, spotter arms, jammer arms, and dip bar, and comes with a built-in 1.25-inch pull-up bar. We should note that this squat rack is notably heavier than many others on the market with the 96-inch model coming in at 203 pounds and the 103-inch version weighing 237 pounds. REP ensures that this heavier weight allows the rack to be more versatile and stable, though.
Who Should Buy the REP SR-4000 Squat Rack
- Lifters who have limited space to work with will love the modest dimensions of 52.4 inches wide, 71.4 inches deep, and either 96 or 103 inches tall, depending on selection.
- If you need a squat stand with a very high weight capacity, this is rated for up to 1,000 pounds.
- If you like the utility of a power rack, but don’t have the space, this rack works with nearly all the attachments from REP’s 4000-series power rack.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the REP SR-4000 Squat Rack
- Though there is an option for spotter arms as an attachment, you may want a full power rack for added security if you’re moving really heavy weight.
- If you want plate storage, this rack might not have enough to offer you as there are only two upright weight horns on the back of this piece.
- There are other squat stands that are cheaper if you’re in the market for a bare-bones squat stand.
This squat rack from REP Fitness can do pretty much anything a full power rack can do, and takes up less room. You can do everything from basic lifting to advanced accommodating resistance with the available band pegs. Though it’s a little on the heavier side, this rack can still be moved with ease to be put away when done, or stored to take up less room.
Best Squat Rack With Cables
Power racks are awesome pieces of equipment and central to almost any gym, but for those who want to do more isolation work, prefer a bodybuilding style of training, or just like variety, a squat rack with cables might be what you’re looking for. Sure this pick is a squat rack with cables, but it’s so much more than that. Let’s dive in and see what sets the Force USA X20 Pro apart from the rest of the market.
Force USA X20 Pro Rack
Though this is considered a power rack, that may be a disservice to what really is more of a complete home gym solution all in one. The X20 Pro features a power rack, functional trainer, low row, storage, pull-up bars, and much more. In terms of stability, this rack can handle 992 pounds thanks to its heavy-duty construction of 3×3-inch 11-gauge steel and aircraft-grade cable wires rated at 2,000 pounds. Keep in mind that this beast does take up quite a bit of room with external dimensions of 70 inches wide by 87 inches deep and 92 inches tall — plus, you’ll need room around it to perform cable exercises and space above for pull-ups.
The Force USA X20 Pro Full Rack combines a power rack, functional trainer, low row, and more to give you a complete gym solution in one sturdy piece of dynamic equipment. With 17 included attachments and option upgrade kits, the versatility is practically unmatched.
On top of being a solid squat rack, the cable system features two 289-pound weight stacks, which are on a 2:1 ratio — so for every two pounds of resistance, you’ll feel one pound in your hand. They don’t skimp on the cable system either with 34 adjustment points to find the right height for each exercise. Force USA includes 17 cable attachments, so once you get this mammoth assembled, you’re ready to start crushing it with over 400 different exercises you can perform. The X20 Pro is quite pricey, but it’s likely the only piece of equipment you’ll have to buy. Purchase it outright for about $5,000 before tax and shipping, or finance it with Affirm™ (depending on credit).
Who Should Buy the Force USA X20 Pro Rack
- Those who want a centerpiece for their gym where they can do the majority of their workouts and not have to go back and forth from different pieces.
- Anyone who values versatility will appreciate that this multi-trainer can do pretty much everything except rerack your weights for you.
- If you don’t have the space to accommodate several lifting stations, but want several lifting stations, you can have it all with this rack.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the Force USA X20 Pro Rack
- Anyone who simply wants a basic squat rack will find this to be over the top for their needs.
- People who are on a budget. The X20 Pro is expensive (even with financing) for a lot of people.
- Folks who are trying to save space. The footprint of this rack is quite large because of all the included equipment.
If you crave flexibility, then you’re unlikely to find a more versatile rack that can allow you to change things up in seconds like the X20 Pro can. This rack is a great option for those who want an entire gym solution in one piece of equipment. As long as you’ve got the funds and the space, the Force USA X20 Pro is the way to go for unparalleled functionality with over 400 exercise possibilities even before adding on upgrade kits.
Read our full review of the Force USA X20 Pro Rack.
Best Squat Rack for Garage Gyms
To you, the garage may be your training sanctuary, but your partner may want to actually, you know, park the car inside it. A full-sized squat rack might not be in the cards due to size constraints or needing to use the garage for something other than a dedicated gym area alone. Well, this foldable squat rack lets you have your workout space and park there, too.
REP PR-4100 Folding Squat Rack
When it comes to home gym equipment, REP has made a name for itself in a relatively small amount of time. They’ve done this by producing solid pieces of equipment that are similar in quality to some of the other, more established brands, and usually offer a lower price. The 3×3 inch 11-gauge steel used in this rack is very sturdy, and has a capacity of 1,000 pounds when mounted properly. The inclusion of Westside spacing allows for more options on barbell height, especially in the bench press area of the rack. There are tons of attachments that it’s compatible with, like REP’s landmine, other J-cups, spotter arms, and dip attachment.
The PR-4100 comes in two sizes — the 21.5” and the 41”. Both options fold into the wall when not in use thanks to four heavy-duty pull-pins, which can save users a lot of space.
When folded, this rack takes up just 6” of space off the wall in the 21.5” deep configuration, and 24” off the wall in the 41” configuration. This allows you to still have plenty of space for other gear, or parking your car. The actual folding mechanism is quite easy, as well, with heavy-duty pull pins that allow you to set up or fold the rack away quickly. In addition, there are protective caps on the bottom of the uprights that help to protect the floor as the rack slides to fold. One of the few downsides? This rack only comes in black.
Who Should Buy REP PR-4100 Folding Squat Rack
- Lifters who want a heavy-duty rack that they know can grow with them due to the high weight capacity.
- Anyone who likes to have a variety of barbell heights they can choose from — the Westside spacing through the bench press area allows for precision height.
- People who are tight on space, but still want a high-quality piece of equipment that can do almost everything a power rack can. This folding rack can save you tons of space in a garage gym.
Who Shouldn’t Buy REP PR-4100 Folding Squat Rack
- People who are looking for an enclosed power rack with four uprights, so they can work out inside.
- Anyone not worried about saving space with the footprint of a squat rack can find more versatile power racks out there.
- Someone who prefers a more modular design can add additional pieces of equipment, like a lat pulldown or cable pulley system.
While this is not a full squat rack, the design and available attachments allow you to do pretty much anything you could possibly want on this rack. The high quality materials and heavy-duty steel make this a top pick, especially combined with the solid price point for such a solid piece of equipment
Best Squat Rack for the Money
If you’re looking for a simple rack that’s not going to cost you an arm and a leg, this pick might be the one for you.
Titan T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand
The Titan T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand is one of the more affordable options on our list, but that doesn’t take away from its functionality. The pull-up mount can be adjusted to as high as 89”, and its bar is powder-coated to enhance your grip. The uprights contain Westside spacing to execute your lifts and place your bar with precision.
This tall squat stand from Titan Fitness' T-3 Series checks all of the necessary boxes when it comes to solid workouts built around a barbell (and then some). With its small footprint and low-price point, it's a great rack for people just getting started and shoppers on a budget.
Its durable frame is constructed with 11-gauge steel and it’s rated to support 1,000 pounds of weight. It only weighs 140 pounds, too, so it’s not the worst squat stand to move around if you really have to. While it might not have the most bells and whistles, the T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand can facilitate most barbell workouts. At just over $300, we think it’s a pretty awesome deal.
Who Should Buy The Titan T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand
- Shoppers who want a robust, well-built squat rack won’t have to pay extra for high quality with this rack.
- If you just need a no-frills squat rack and pull-up bar without extra features, this might be the one for you.
- Athletes who are on a tight budget will love the durability of this squat stand, especially when combined with its sub-$350 price tag.
Who Shouldn’t Buy The Titan T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand
- If you are looking for a rack with more accessories and features, you’ll need to purchase them separately.
There’s a lot to like about this rack and pull-up bar, without much to ding on it. The T-3 is a high quality product that is compact and gives you just what you need for a good price.
Best Squat Rack for Beginners
Because sometimes, all you need is a simple rack to work the most basic movements.
Rogue S-1 Squat Stand 2.0
This squat stand is all anyone needs to squat and press. It weighs just 114 pounds, which means it can be moved with ease, and takes up just 48 square inches. There’s one-inch hole spacing for more specific rack adjustments, and this rack comes with J-hooks. You need these to hold the barbell, but some racks make you buy J-hooks separately. Rogue also lets you tack on a barbell and bench (for an added cost), which, if you’re a beginner, you’ll most likely need.
This is a basic squat stand that's mobile, supportive, and allows for basic exercises such as deadlifts, squats, and bench presses. It's perfect for new lifters who may be overwhelmed by a more involved rack or stand.
This rack is great for beginners because it is compact, has everything you need without overwhelming frills, and comes in at just under $400 — which is not the worst investment you can make when you’re just starting out.
Who Should Buy the Rogue S-1 Squat Stand 2.0
- New lifters who need a simple rack that won’t overwhelm them will love this rack.
- Anyone who lives in a small space will benefit from the mobility of this 114-pound stand.
- Folks who follow a more basic powerlifting-style program and just need a rack for pressing and squatting will enjoy the utility of this rack.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the Rogue S-1 Squat Stand 2.0
- People who want a complete rack that they can add onto with more training extras might want to look elsewhere.
- If you want a bigger rack to fit your larger training space, you’ll be able to find other options on this list.
This rack is about as basic as they come — while having all of the essentials — making it perfect for beginners just learning how to squat and bench press.
Best Squat Rack for Competitive Powerlifters
Powerlifters need to squat, bench press, and deadlift — so it makes sense that you want a rack that can accommodate all of the competition lifts. This combination rack from Titan does just that in a space-efficient way.
Titan Fitness Competition Bench and Squat Rack Combo
Titan Fitness has built an affordable combo rack that mimics what you’re likely to encounter in a powerlifting competition. The J-hooks are easily adjusted and feature rollers so you can move your barbell laterally for precision placement. This rack comes with a 17.5-inch bench that you can easily remove when you’re ready to squat. The bench has a tripod bench design to help reinforce proper foot positioning during the bench press, and the rack includes non-slip diamond-plated footplates.
A solid and stable powerlifting setup, this competition bench and rack enables powerlifters to train their Big Three at home with ease — complete with adjustable j-cup and spotter heights.
This combo rack can hold 1,000 pounds and, at its max settings, is 61 inches tall, 81 inches wide, and 59 inches deep. For under one thousand dollars, this rack is a great option for those who want to spend their money — and practice their lifts — efficiently.
Who Should Buy the Titan Fitness Competition Bench and Squat Rack Combo
- Powerlifters or event organizers who need a bench that meets competition standards will love the efficiency of this rack.
- If you want a squat stand that can double as a benching station without having to lug non-matching equipment around, this rack is ready-made for you.
- Folks with a lot of space will love that they can use their space efficiently but luxuriously.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the Titan Fitness Competition Bench and Squat Rack Combo
- People who don’t have a lot of space probably won’t be able to accommodate this combo rack.
- Anyone who wants or needs just a squat stand probably won’t love the price tag of this rack.
- If you don’t need the latest and greatest in powerlifting gear, you can probably find a simpler dream squat rack.
Powerlifters will love the details of this squat and bench press rack, along with how easy it is to use.
Benefits of Squat Racks
When you choose to buy a squat rack, you’re not just committing to giving yourself an incredible squat workout. You’re also investing in a whole host of training benefits that will last long after your purchase.
Efficient Full-Body Workouts
It might be called a squat rack, but that’s far from the only movement you can get done with these hefty pieces of equipment. Squat racks aren’t just good for crushing a phenomenal leg day. In addition to the large array of squat variations you can perform in a squat rack, you can also achieve full-body work using heavy barbells. Think rack pulls, overhead presses, barbell lunges, and even bench presses if you pull a bench into your setup.
Some squat racks also come with a built-in pull-up bar. With those models, you can get even more back work in with your squat rack.
Lift Heavier, Safer
If you don’t have a squat rack, the amount of weight you can front squat is likely limited by how much you can clean. And how much you can high-bar back squat — forget about pinning the bar to your back for a proper low bar squat — is limited by how much you can clean, press, and safely lower onto your traps.
Instead of pre-exhausting your body with cleans — and severely limiting the amount of weight you can squat — a squat rack allows you to load up as many plates as you’d like. Your heavy lifts will also be safer in a squat rack than out of it, because you can customize the safety spotter arms to your height and squat depth.
Customizable Workout
When you have your own squat rack, you never have to wait for the person bicep curling in the rack so you can squat. That said, if a squat rack is all yours, you can curl in the rack if you really, really want to, as well.
Because a squat rack enables you to do pretty much anything you want to with a barbell, you can customize your workout to suit your own needs. You can hit your full body if you want to, or you can focus on one muscle group at a time — either way, a squat rack is the versatile tool you need to maximize your strength gains.
How We Chose the Best Squat Racks
Whether you own a commercial gym or are building your own at home, a squat rack can become the centerpiece of your training area. Not only does a squat rack have to cover the bases of being stable and supporting enough weight, but it needs to be versatile and a good value. Read on for a deeper explanation of our pick process.
Is It Stable?
Most squat racks on our list are made out of heavy-duty steel and are built to resist any type of swaying. Everyone’s strength is different, meaning not everyone will lift the same amount of weight. This can be the difference between a squat rack that stands firm because you’re lifting lighter weights or a rack that wobbles when you perform a pull-up.
Because of this, some of the picks on our list have frames that weigh a little heavier than others or that can be floor-mounted for more stability. If you prefer not to purchase such heavy equipment or don’t want to drill holes into your foundation, maybe this alternative squat rack list can help you find other options.
How Versatile Is It?
Since some people will look towards their squat racks for many different workouts, we also considered if the options included accessories and specific add-on features. This can determine the versatility buyers will get out of their purchase and if it meets their expertise level.
While some of the picks on our list include standard attachments, some will consist of pegs for resistance bands, a landmine station, and even a variety of pull-up bars. Some also include Westside space patterns on their uprights for anyone familiar with the benefits of such precise rack heights. Some options on our list sell their accessories separately, but it’s nice to know that you can customize and add these bonuses to your rack if it’s what you need.
Is the Rack Worth the Price?
Durability and accessories can determine a squat rack’s price, but not all of the picks on our list will force you to shell out extra cash for high quality and versatility. The most straightforward squat racks on this list will be some of the more affordable options, while those offering add-ons and customization will cost you a little more.
How Much Do Squat Racks Cost?
Squat racks are definitely an investment. But if you’re looking to make gains in your home gym, they’re absolutely worth it. You can find a simpler rack for less than $350, while a handful of others can be purchased for less than $400. Generally speaking, the simpler the rack and the fewer included accessories, the lower the cost.
| Best Squat Rack All-Around | Bells of Steel Hydra 3×3 Inch Four Post Power Rack | Starting at $805 before optional add-ons and accessories |
| Best Basic Squat Rack | REP SR-4000 Squat Rack | Starting at $529.99 before add-ons and accessories |
| Best Power Rack | Bells of Steel Hydra 3×3 Inch Four Post Power Rack | Starting at $805 before optional add-ons and accessories |
| Best Splurge Squat Rack | Rogue RM-6 Monster Rack | Starting at $2,645 before upgrades, add-ons, and accessories |
| Best Squat Rack for Small Spaces | REP SR-4000 Squat Rack | Starting at $529.99 before add-ons, upgrades, and accessories |
| Best Squat Rack with Cables | Force USA X20 Pro Rack | Starting at $4,499.99 before add-ons, upgrade kits, and accessories |
| Best Squat Rack for Garage Gyms | REP PR-4100 Folding Squat Rack | Starting at $499.99 before upgrades and accessories |
| Best Squat Rack for the Money | Titan T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand | $349.99 |
| Best Squat Rack for Beginners | Rogue S-1 Squat Stand 2.0 | Starting at $399.99 before add-ons and accessories |
| Best Squat Rack for Competitive Powerlifters | Titan Competition Bench and Squat Rack Combo | $1,049.99 |
Some racks will cost you a little over $500, but typically, once you bust past the $400 mark, racks can get a lot more expensive. Products like all-in-one trainers pack in a lot more than a squat rack, but they also cost a lot more — think around $2,000 and upwards from there. These power rack options allow for a lot of versatility (especially with the accessories — like cables — that many of them come with), which is why they cost so much money. But additionally, this also means you’re less likely to need to purchase additional equipment separately to make full use of your rack.
What to Consider Before Buying a Squat Rack
All squat racks are not made the same. Some will meet your needs better than others while some will just be too big for your space. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you buy.
Squat Racks vs. Power Racks
Squat racks and power racks have similarities, but they are not entirely the same. Squat racks can be used for squat variations, bench presses, and simply to rack your barbell. Power racks can give you the same benefits but can also help you to diversify movements like pull-ups and other potential attachments like dip bars, cable pulleys, and landmine attachments. They can also provide plenty of space for plate storage.
The build of power racks is also different than simpler squat racks. Power racks are more like cages, with four metal posts connected by horizontal bars. A simple way to think about it is that you squat inside a power rack — with horizontal safety bars already built in — but you typically walk out of a squat rack with or without added spotter arms.
That being said, it’s best to know your end-game before purchasing a squat rack from this list. If you’re looking for the basics and simply want to squat, then a no-frills bonafide squat rack might be perfect for your needs. On the other hand, if you envision this purchase to be something that enables you to train more movements and have more equipment options, consider a power rack that you can build on over time.
Size
While the differences between a squat rack and a power rack can dictate your exercise variation, it will also help you decide which one you need for your space. Power racks are suitable for larger rooms, while squat stands can have a smaller footprint. It’s good to know the rack’s dimensions to decide if it will fit in your space.
Final Word
Buying a squat rack can be one of the most important purchases you can make for your gym. The squat is one of the most important lifts you can perform, after all. But squat racks go above and beyond allowing you to safely perform heavy squats — they can also assist you with a wide variety of full-body exercises that are central to any solid training program.
By determining the type of workouts you want to achieve and what will fit in your space, you’ll be able to find an option that is right for you. Let this list help you decide the best squat rack to meet your needs and allow you to consistently hit your goals.
FAQs
What makes a great squat rack?
To an extent, the qualities that make a great squat rack depends on what you need from it. Aside from the size and build you are looking for to be able to meet your goals, a good squat rack will be stable, versatile, and well-priced for what you’re getting. In other words, you don’t want it wobbling with your weight, you want to be able to do a variety of workouts with it, and you don’t want to pay more than you have to for what you need.
What is the best squat rack?
The answer to that depends largely on what you’re looking to accomplish with the squat rack, your space available, and your budget. That said, a great option for nearly anyone is the Bells of Steel 3×3 Inch Four Post Hydra Rack. It’s versatile, well-built, and can hold up a half ton, which should be plenty for most squatters.
How much do squat racks cost?
Squat racks vary widely in price — possibly more than any other piece of gym equipment. You can spend $300 to $500 on a basic but solid squat rack, and be happy with that if you’re a minimalist. Or, you can go all out and easily spend over $5,000 on an advanced power rack.
Most of the time, squat racks range somewhere between $600 to $1,500, which may seem like a wide range, but the cost depends on so many different factors. Take the add-ons, upgrade packages, accessories, and other aspects into account before making a final decision.
Is buying a squat rack worth it?
If you are looking to build maximal strength in a home gym, the short answer is: yes. Even the most basic of squat racks will allow you to squat, bench, and rack heavy weights with relative safety, and — if your rack and ceiling are tall enough — you’ll also be able to overhead press. In other words, squat racks offer you a full array of loaded barbell workouts in a relatively small space.
How do I know which squat rack is right for me?
First and foremost, take a look at the space you have available for a squat rack. Measure it out to make sure that the squat rack will fit in your designated area. Figuring out those logistical pieces — plus, of course, knowing what you can afford — is essential. Then you can start to look at each rack’s capabilities and match them to your goals to find a rack that will work for you.
