The Best Weight Benches of 2024, Tested and Picked by Experts

When you’re considering the equipment needed for building or improving your home gym, a solid workout bench is probably at the top of your list. While it’s possible, training on even the best home gym flooring doesn’t match the versatility that comes with a weight bench. Some benches even help build your lower body and abs. The padding that comes on most benches is a big improvement over the cold, hard, gym floor, too.

When it comes to selecting the right weight bench for your gym, there are a number of factors to consider, like adjustability, weight capacity, height, pad width, and maneuverability. Our team of Barbend experts tested around 54 different products, keeping those factors in mind to find the best weight benches for all fitness goals. Simplify your search and take a look through our top picks.

The 12 Best Weight Benches of 2024

• Best Weight Bench Overall: REP AB-4100 Adjustable Weight Bench
• Best Budget Weight Bench: Bells of Steel Flat Utility Bench
• Best Adjustable Bench: Giant Lifting Adjustable Weight Bench
• Best Incline/Decline Weight Bench: Ironmaster Super Bench Pro V2
• Best Nordic Bench: Shogun NORD-EX
• Best Flat Bench: Titan Fitness Elite Series Single Post Flat Bench
• Best Foldable Weight Bench: PRx Profile Flat Folding Bench
• Most Versatile Weight Bench: Force USA MyBench
• Best Weight Bench for Small Spaces: Fringe Sport Flat Bench
• Best Amazon Weight Bench: Marcy Flat Utility Weight Bench
• Best Weight Bench for Larger Bodies: Rogue Monster Utility Bench 2.0
• Best Heavy-Duty Weight Bench: REP FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench

Best Weight Benches Video Review

Check out our full video review of the best weight benches on the market in 2024 as Jake Herod, our expert tester and a certified nutrition coach, takes you through our favorites.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNRXKiO3LWU

Best Weight Bench Overall: REP AB-4100

Pros

This bench is relatively lightweight, fully adjustable, and is made with highly durable 14-gauge steel

It has wheels on the end and a handle for easy maneuvering

For competing athletes, the bench height meets IPF standards

Cons

There’s no decline option with this bench

There are benches with higher weight capacities

For our best overall pick, we wanted a bench with plenty of functionality that’s easy to move around, adjustable, and made with durable materials that can hold up through all kinds of exercises (even the occasional weight drop). After careful consideration, our testers chose the REP AB-4100.

“This weight bench is a great value,” our tester said. “It works for those shopping on a budget who don’t want to compromise on quality.” When it comes to overall experience, we gave this bench a 5 out of 5. 

According to our testers, this is one of the easier benches to assemble, earning a 4.5 out of 5 for delivery and setup. There’s really only four different parts that you need to put together, which we thought was super simple. Plus, the handle on the bottom of the bench has inlet bolts, which means you don’t have to worry about scratching your ankles or snagging your socks while sitting or laying down.

When it comes to stability, we gave this bench a 4 out of 5. It’s made with 14-gauge steel, which is among the most durable on this list, suitable for any style of weightlifting. It also has a glossy powder coat with a little bit of texture, which can help prevent your bench from rusting. Plus, the texture makes the metal a bit easier to grip during sweaty workout sessions.

[Related: REP Fitness Discount Codes for Racks, Benches, Plates, and More (2024)]

“This one has a really thin gap between the backrest and the seat, which I like,” our tester said, giving the training experience a 4 out of 5. “Actually, the gap seems even smaller than the REP AB-4200, which is more expensive.” The smaller the gap the better, as it provides all the more stability and comfort.

Our team liked the one-handed adjustment design, giving the adjustability a 4 out of 5. In other words, you only need one hand to move the incline higher or lower. However, we do wish that this bench also offered decline options. Some athletes may like that option and, in that case, another bench is probably better.

We gave the overall value for this bench a 4.5 out of 5. It costs $399.99, which isn’t necessarily the cheapest option on this list (those on a lower budget may prefer another option) but compared to REP’s other higher-priced options, we think this is a great bang for your buck.

Best Budget Weight Bench: Bells of Steel Flat Utility Bench

Pros

At only $149.99, this flat weight bench is among the most cost-friendly on this list

This bench is incredibly lightweight at only about 37 pounds

It has a black powder coat to help prevent rust and corrosion

Cons

This one has a slightly lower weight capacity than some others

There’s no adjustability here

There are no wheels on the bench, so you have to carry it around

Here’s a wonderful surprise: You don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars on a weight bench for good quality. The Bells of Steel Flat Utility Bench is ideal for those shopping on a budget who don’t plan to lift super heavy weights. For only $149.99, our team had to give the value on this product a 4.5 out of 5.

When it comes to stability, don’t expect this bench to fall apart just because it’s a little cheaper in cost. This product is made with 14-gauge steel and has a black powder coat to prevent corrosion. We did give the stability a 4 out of 5, though, because the 661-pound weight capacity is a little lower than some alternatives. Keep in mind, you need to factor your bodyweight and the weight you’re planning to lift into the capacity, however, this should be plenty for most athletes.

For overall workout experience, we gave this product a 3.5 out of 5, as four-leg benches aren’t the best for lifters who perform many pressing exercises. The legs can get in the way of your foot placement, making it difficult to drive your heels into the ground for more power. “I did like the pad, though,” our tester said. “It’s thick and I don’t feel like I’ll be sliding around on it.”

Considering this is a flat bench, we did give it a 1 out of 5 for adjustability. The only position is parallel to the ground, so you can’t perform any incline exercises with this one. However, for step-ups and lighter upright pressing exercises (don’t throw your back out), it’s perfectly fine. 

For footprint and portability, our testers gave this bench a 4 out of 5. It’s not particularly big and it’s only 37.2 pounds. There are no transport wheels on this product, but the bench weight is super light, so most athletes shouldn’t have many problems moving it around.

Best Adjustable Bench: Giant Lifting Adjustable Weight Bench

Pros

Offers six backrest positions varying between 0 and 90 degrees

Can be stored vertically for more convenient home gym organization

Knurled handle at base helps improve maneuverability

Cons

Does not offer decline capabilities

Material used is unknown

Ladder-style adjustments may be less secure than lock pin systems

Looking for a way to hit different angles in training? Consider an adjustable bench like this impressive profile from Giant Lifting. The brand’s Adjustable Weight Bench offers six backrest positions and three seat adjustments giving you impressive range when trying to mix up your strength training setups.

Our tester, a certified personal trainer, rated the adjustability at 4 out of 5. “While I’m a bigger fan of lock pin security systems than the ladder-style adjustments showcased across this bench, I still feel the adjustment range is great for training, especially for beginners looking to make a serious upgrade to their home workout setup.”

The Giant Lifting Adjustable Weight Bench features a three-post design for better stability and sturdiness during training, helping the profile achieve a 700-pound weight capacity (although you can likely extend that rating by a few pounds given the three-post base). It feels sturdy in action, too. Alex Polish, certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial team member, explains: “The total weight on the bench at any given time was over 300 pounds during my workouts, and it felt really good overall. Very supportive and sturdy. A 5 out of 5 for stability.”

Another reason we enjoy this weight bench for home workouts is its convenient storage components. For one, the knurled base handle and front transport wheels help with getting this silhouette seamlessly into position. Plus, the entire profile can be stored vertically when not in use — a definite plus for athletes training in smaller confines.

That said, the knurled handle has plusses and minuses, according to Polish. They say: “I have very long arms, and was able to get full extension without hitting the floor or the undersides of the bench during prone dumbbell rows, which is not something I can say about all or even most adjustable benches. I’d give it a 4.5 out of 5 for user-friendliness here, with a small deduction because I do think the knurling on the handle for portability is more intense than it needs to be for these purposes.”

Finally, we rated the value of this Giant Lifting Adjustable Weight Bench at a perfect 5 out of 5. In addition to the budget-friendly price tag of roughly $270, this bench also comes with a 10-year warranty that covers the frame. With these financial perks as well as its IPF-standard height of 17 inches, it can be difficult to overlook this profile when trying to build a powerlifting home gym or dedicated training space of your own.

Best Incline/Decline Weight Bench: Ironmaster Super Bench Pro V2

Pros

This adjustable bench supports flat, upright, incline, and decline training with 11 lockout angles

At just 65 pounds, it’s roughly half the weight of some other high-end benches

It’s compatible with a number of different Ironmaster attachments, including dip handles and a cable tower

Cons

Our tester found the vinyl and foam padding lacking in terms of comfort

Powerlifters may not like how the feet on both sides of the bench can impact the ability to tuck their feet

At $499, the Pro V2 is one of the priciest weight benches on the market

The Super Bench Pro V2 supports chest presses, bicep curls, flyes, and rows in flat, upright, incline, and decline positions. We picked the Pro V2 as our favorite weight bench with incline/decline because it has 11 different lockout angles and a low height profile of 17.2 inches, meaning it’s compliant with IPF competition height standards. It’s not often you find an adjustable bench at that height, but Ironmaster makes it possible with its curved adjustment system. 

Also contributing to the Pro V2’s versatility is its compatibility with several different Ironmaster attachments, including dip bar handles, cable tower, and a chin-up bar. “You could basically get a full gym by outfitting this bench with all of Ironmaster’s accessories,” said our tester, who scored its attachment capabilities a 5 out of 5. 

An enhanced version of Ironmaster’s Super Bench Pro, the Pro V2 comes with a few notable upgrades. There’s now a built-in handle for easier transport, for example, as well as a tapered width that expands from 10.25 inches — the original width of the Pro — to 12.25 inches. Our tester scored the bench’s overall design a 4.5 out of 5. 

[Related: Best Cable Machines]

We also love how lightweight this bench is compared to some of its competitors, scoring its portability at a 5 out of 5. At just 65 pounds (and 69 pounds with the seat pad), it’s nearly half the weight of the 131-pound REP Fitness BlackWing. Even so, the bench can support up to 1,000 pounds in the flat position and up to 600 pounds in incline and upright positions. 

We did notice a few design flaws, however. While we like the shape of the bench, the padding and vinyl left a bit to be desired. “It’s just not very comfortable,” said our tester. “I’d be thrilled to see them opt for a thicker foam for V3.” They scored it a 3.5 out of 5 in the category. 

They also pointed out that, though the feet set on both sides of the bench allow for greater stability, powerlifters may not like how they can impact the ability to tuck their feet.

Best Nordic Bench: Shogun NORD-EX

Pros

This two-in-one machine can transform from a Nordic bench into a back extension

It offers multiple angles for Nordic curls and back extension, allowing for incremental growth

It’s forged from stainless steel with a corrosion-resistant black powder coat

Cons

At $999.95, it’s a pricey machine — you can get an individual Nordic bench or back extension for less

Our tester would found the kick plates and leg rollers too small for their liking

It ships in three separate boxes

If your home gym is already brimming with cardio machines, dumbbell racks, and weight plates, it’s unlikely you’re going to have space for a Nordic bench, back extension, or GHD. Here to make sure your posterior chain isn’t neglected is the Shogun NORD-EX, a two-in-one machine that supports exercises targeting the glutes, hamstrings, and lower back. 

Our tester took advantage of everything the NORD-EX has to offer by using it as both a Nordic curl bench and a back extension. One feature they particularly loved was a removable pad that can be adjusted at angles of 15, 30, or 45-degree angles, allowing for incremental Nordic curl progression. “If you want to do Nordics, but can’t do a full one now, you can work up to it using a machine like this,” they said. “Of the ones I’ve tested, I prefer this design most.”

The back extension is similarly versatile — most back extensions max out at 45 degrees, but the NORD-EX can adjust between 35 and 55 degrees. We rated its functionality a 5 out of 5. 

Construction, stability, and padding also scored high marks, with our tester rating all three a 4.5 out of 5. The hardware is forged from stainless steel, and the foam in the knee pads, hip pad, and leg rollers is dense and comfortable. “Comfort is key to Nordic boards,” said our tester. We also like its black powder coat, which can help prevent corrosion over time. 

The compact design of this two-in-one unit — at 41 inches in length, it’s more than 20 inches shorter than the Rogue Floor Glute — results in a few compromises. The kick plate and ankle rollers, for example, are smaller than our tester would prefer. And, though it’s compact when fully built, the NORD-EX arrived in three different boxes, which can be a pain (especially if you live a few floors up). 

The price is also a consideration. We think the NORD-EX justifies its $999.95 price tag with its versatility, footprint, and quality construction, but we wouldn’t recommend it for someone who’s not going to take advantage of its full functionality. While this unit will likely cost less than both a Nordic bench and a back extension, you can get one or the other for less. 

Best Flat Bench: Titan Fitness Elite Series Single Post Flat Bench

Pros

This flat bench is made with heavy-duty steel and it has a powder coat to prevent rust

The 1,000-pound weight capacity is higher than most other benches

This one is relatively light at 56 pounds and has wheels for easy movement

Cons

Flat benches don’t have any adjustability options

This bench is pretty wide and may not work for those who need to save space

Some athletes simply don’t need an adjustable bench, so why pay the extra price? In many cases, a flat model will suit your bench press needs just fine. Our favorite flat bench is the Titan Fitness Elite Series Single Post Flat Bench.

This flat bench is incredibly durable, rivaling the best adjustable benches. It has an 11-gauge steel frame, which is among the most durable materials for weight benches, according to our tester. This pick from Titan can also support up to 1,000 pounds. “There are some higher-quality benches,” our tester said, giving the stability a 4.5 out of 5. “But if you want something durable that does the job, this is a good pick.”

For footprint and portability, we had to give this bench a 4.5 out of 5. It’s only 56 pounds, which isn’t too heavy, especially compared to the adjustable options. Plus, it has a handle on the front and wheels for easy maneuvering around your home. We also love that it has rubber pads on the legs to prevent any movement while you lift.

As mentioned, this is our favorite flat bench, so we didn’t rate the adjustability. However, we did give the value a 5 out of 5. This bench meets international powerlifting standards, per our tester, and it’s only $150. 

Best Foldable Weight Bench: PRx Profile Flat Folding Bench

Pros

This bench attaches to your wall and folds up flat against the wall

As it’s drilled to the wall, this bench has a higher weight capacity than others

You can buy a wall locking system to secure the bench to the wall in case you have kids

Cons

This foldable bench is more narrow than other options

There are no adjustable positions — it’s a flat bench

Those who are short on space may think a bench is out of the question. But thanks to PRx’s Flat Folding Bench, saving space is a breeze. For footprint, we gave this bench a 5 out of 5 because it folds up completely flat against the wall. You bolt the bench to your home or garage gym wall and just fold it up vertically. 

“This bench is also only 45 inches in length which is pretty short. And it’s only about a foot wide,” our tester said. Typically, benches sit anywhere between 45 to 50 inches long, so this is as short as a workout bench can get.

When it comes to stability, our team gave this one a 4 out of 5. It felt more stable than other flat benches we’ve tried, however, we do wish the pad was a little more comfortable. Considering this one isn’t a budget price, we wish the padding was a little thicker. However, we do like the 1,000-pound weight capacity.

[Related: Best Barbells]

For adjustability, we had to give this product a 1 out of 5, as it’s a flat bench and can’t sit on an incline. However, one small perk we liked was that you can buy a wall locking system. This helps firmly secure the bench to the wall, which is a great safety precaution if you have kids. The brand does make an incline version of this bench but it’s a lot pricier and our testers don’t think it’s worth the money.

For overall value, we gave this one a 3.5 out of 5. While it’s not the most expensive on the market, the $449 price tag certainly isn’t cheap. And considering it doesn’t have any adjustability, we think it’s a little overpriced. However, if saving space is your main priority, this essentially eliminates the need for floor space when not in use. 

Editor’s Note: This bench needs to be drilled into the wall. This may not be possible if you’re renting, so keep that in mind before you buy.

Most Versatile Weight Bench: Force USA MyBench

Pros

You get an included leg developer and preacher curl pad, making this more versatile

This is an incline and decline bench

The wheels and handle make this bench easy to move

Cons

This has a lower weight capacity than other products (705 pounds)

Some athletes may not like the gap between the seat and back

This pad is more narrow (11 inches) than other options

We love multipurpose equipment. After all, it saves money and space. When it comes to versatility, the Force USA MyBench is a winner. The back pad here adjusts from -25 degrees to 75 degrees in six positions, while the seat pad adjusts independently in three different positions. After taking it through upper- and lower-body workouts, our team gave this FID bench (flat, incline, and decline bench) a 5 out of 5 for adjustability.

“There’s a lot of versatility here,” Jake Herod, BarBend expert tester, said. “Since it has a leg roller attachment, it keeps my legs in place while doing decline bench presses. It’s also great for leg development, allowing you to do leg curls or leg extensions. Or, you can focus on your biceps with the preacher curl attachment.”

[Related: Best Weight Plates]

Take a look at our tester’s video to see this bench in action.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahNBKuciEik

Our team also gave this bench a 3.5 out of 5 for footprint and portability. It has a handle and wheels, so it’s easy to move around your gym. However, considering it comes with a leg extension and preacher curl attachment, it does take up a bit of space. “This is a pretty big bench with the attachments,” Herod said. However, you can remove these attachments when not weight training in order to save space.

When it comes to stability, you shouldn’t run into any issues. However, there is a bit of a gap between the back pad and seat. “I personally don’t like that, it gets a little annoying to me,” Herod said. “I wish it were a smaller gap.” While the gap isn’t a big problem for all athletes, it can detract from the overall stability of the bench, so we gave it a 4 out of 5 in this category.

Force USA stands behind their product with a lifetime structural warranty, so you know you’re getting a high-quality piece of equipment. You can pick one of these benches up for just around $399.99, not including taxes and shipping. For overall value, we gave this a 5 out of 5, since it’s pretty inexpensive considering all the versatility you get. 

Read our full Force USA MyBench Review.

Best Weight Bench for Small Spaces: Fringe Sport Flat Bench

Pros

Shorter length and width won’t take up as much space as other profiles

Lightweight design can be easily transported from room to room

Rubberized feet for extra grip and traction across multiple surfaces

Cons

Frame is bolted together rather than welded, limiting durability

Thinner padding can become uncomfortable during heavy lifts

No angle adjustments available

While weight benches aren’t the largest pieces of home gym gear, some profiles don’t necessarily qualify under the best compact exercise equipment. If you’re in need of a bench for tighter quarters, consider this Flat Bench silhouette from Fringe Sport. At 47 inches long and just 12 inches wide, this space-saving profile can be easily housed across your training space more so than bulkier benches we’ve come across over the years.

We also appreciate the lightweight design of this flat bench. At just 64 pounds, you can quickly pick this equipment up and tote it to your desired location. This is a definite plus, too, given that there are no front transport wheels showcased across the design. As such, we rated the portability at 4 out of 5.

This Fringe Sport profile is constructed from 11-gauge steel and showcases a standard black powder coat finish. According to our tester, a certified personal trainer, “I’m impressed by the 880-pound weight capacity and think this unit can withstand plenty of wear and tear. However, this bench is bolted together rather than welded, meaning there are some moving parts and joints that could be susceptible to failure over time.” We scored the durability at 3.5 out of 5 and just caution athletes to really tighten those nuts and bolts prior to getting into a heavy set.

Speaking of maxing out your lifts, this bench comes equipped with a 2.25-inch foam pad attached to a plywood base. While comfortable enough for routine lifts and exercises, we do wish the padding was plusher at times. While we scored our overall experience at 4 out of 5, we do feel that some extra cushioning could be beneficial during heavier sets.

Lastly, the Fringe Sport Flat Bench is, well, a flat bench, meaning there is no option to adjust your lifting angle. If you’re a fan of, say, incline bench press, it can be wise to search for a weight bench offering such adjustments.

Best Amazon Weight Bench: Marcy Flat Utility Weight Bench

Pros

Available for fast, free shipping through Amazon

Lightweight 26.5-pound frame is plenty portable

Low-profile design doesn’t consume your entire training area

Cons

Lower weight capacity than other flat benches we’ve tested

No adjustment angles available

43-inch length may be too short for taller athletes

Do you do most of your online shopping via Amazon? Well, there are plenty of available weight benches across this popular A to Z retailer, including the Marcy Flat Utility Weight Bench. At less than $100, it’s already a great piece of budget-minded lifting equipment. However, given its Amazon availability, you also have the chance to get free shipping on your purchase — looking at you, Prime members.

Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, rated the overall workout experience at 4 out of 5, stating, “I’ve had this bench for over 5 years and really enjoyed the versatility. I own and operate an Olympic weightlifting gym, so I’ll admit that this Marcy bench has mostly been used as a seat or equipment shelf. That said, I’ve had a few athletes use it for training over the years and the profile has seemed to hold up well.”

Like other Amazon products, this Marcy weight bench features a quick assembly process. Meier states that the entire ordeal took less than 20 minutes from unboxing to the end results. We scored the assembly at 5 out of 5 and feel the procedure can be easily achieved by beginner and veteran athletes alike.

While the price point and versatility are worthwhile, we do rate the durability at 3 out of 5. According to the product page, this weight bench can support up to 600 pounds which is lower than other weight benches available online. Additionally, there is some confusion regarding this metric as Marcy lists both 300 pounds and 600 pounds for the profile’s weight rating. We’ve yet to see any concerning construction failures, though, so we feel the 600-pound weight rating is the correct metric.

Is this going to be a final solution for every home gym? No. After all, this is just a utility flat bench with no room for inclined or declined exercises. As such, if you’re in need of a small, compact bench that can help support your weight training without consuming your entire budget, it’s worth a gander.

[Related: Incline Bench Press vs. Flat Bench Press]

Best Weight Bench for Larger Bodies: Rogue Monster Utility Bench 2.0

Pros

This bench has multiple pad options with varying widths to accommodate larger athletes

There are multiple height options to suit shorter and taller people

The feet have a rubber coat so they won’t budge on the ground

Cons

There’s no established weight max, however, Rogue equipment is durable and tailored to a wide variety of body sizes

This one is pricey for a flat bench

There are no adjustability options

For larger athletes, a standard weight bench won’t cut it. They may feel too narrow or too close to the ground. But the Rogue Monster Utility Bench 2.0 has several size and pad options, helping you find a more ideal fit.

For footprint and portability, we gave this one a 5 out of 5. The standard bench is about 47 inches long by 26 inches wide by 17.5 inches tall. However, you can opt for a shorter version or a larger pad, which creates a wider width and taller length. This can accommodate way more athletes than the average bench on the market. Plus, there are options for competing athletes, as the Competition Pad meets sport standards.

We also like that this bench has wheels on the back and a handle. Plus, it’s as sturdy as they come (also ideal for larger bodies), earning a 5 out of 5 for stability. “This is probably among the more stable benches I’ve tried,” our tester said. This bench is compatible with many of the best power racks or all on its own. 

For a flat bench, this pick is a little pricey. The standard version is $320 and the larger pads are an extra $25. If you’re on a tight budget, you can definitely find cheaper flat benches on this list. But if you’re a larger athlete who wants to feel comfortable and stable on a flat bench, this is a good choice.

Best Heavy-Duty Weight Bench: REP FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench

Pros

This bench is made with heavy-duty 11-gauge steel

At only $239.99, this bench is more cost-friendly than other options

This comes in different colors, like blue, red, black, and a clear coat

Cons

This bench can’t be adjusted to an incline or decline

The pad is about 4 inches thick, which may feel too cushioned for some

Athletes putting up some serious weight need a bench that’s heavy-duty with high-quality, durable materials. That’s where the REP FB-5000 comes in. Earning a 5 out of 5 for stability and durability, this bench is made from 3×3-inch, 11-gauge steel, making it incredibly tough. 

This bench can also handle up to 1,000 pounds of weight, and has a four inch thick pad made from high-density foam, with non-slip vinyl upholstery. Basically, this bench is made for competitive powerlifters and heavy benchers, so don’t expect any wobbling while training different muscle groups.

“This bench is built for the long haul and it’s able to handle the heavy weight you might be lifting,” according to BarBend expert tester Jake Herod. “And it only weighs 62 pounds. Plus, it has a handle and wheels, making it even more portable.” Thanks to these conveniences, we gave this bench a 5 out of 5 for footprint and portability.

Want to see how tough this bench really is? Watch our expert put it to the test.

https://youtu.be/AmwU2mVMHAo

Unfortunately, we had to give the adjustability a 1 out of 5. This one can’t be put on an incline or decline, so you’re stuck in the flat bench position. Some athletes may prefer more versatility for full-body workouts and, in that case, an FID bench would be best.

Another bonus, though? The price is right, especially considering the quality, earning a 4.5 out of 5 for value. This one comes in at only $239.99 for the narrow pad and $269.99 for the wider version — both before taxes and possible shipping.

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

How We Tested and Chose the Best Weight Benches

We understand that it’s easy to search “weight benches” on Amazon and “add to cart” the cheapest option you find. This isn’t necessarily the option that’s going to be the most worthwhile purchase, and it’s definitely not the option that’s going to hold up if you’re lifting anything more than light dumbbells. 

Our team of BarBend experts, including personal trainers, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts tried about 54 different benches to build this list. These are the factors we considered.

• Durability: Sometimes cheaper adjustable benches can break along the fold after a good amount of use. We made sure that the options on here — in both the low and high price ranges — will hold up for their full lifespan, which tends to be around 20 years. We took these strength training benches through multiple workouts and prioritized the most durable materials. As long as you clean and care for your equipment properly, wiping away any excess sweat, our picks won’t break on you.
• Price: While you may be able to find some $50 benches on Amazon, these tend to be less durable, and they may even break before you even get your money’s worth. Our picks range anywhere from $250 to $1,000, but with each selection, you’re going to get a product that will last you years, instead of breaking within a few months. 
• Product Range: Different athletes have different needs, so we wanted to have benches on this list that could meet a range of these needs. Many of the options you’ll find on here have different offerings, from basic flat benches all the way up to fully-adjustable, incline/decline options. 
• Adjustability: While we do also include flat benches, we paid close attention to the adjustability on our incline benches and decline benches. We prioritized products that were easy to adjust as we went from one workout to the next. Our testers also looked for ample adjustability, selecting benches that offer a variety of angles.
• Footprint and Portability: Weight benches come in a broad range of sizes and weights. We understand that some athletes may not have a ton of space, so we made sure to include smaller or foldable options. Considering some products are pretty heavy, we also favored benches that have wheels for easy movement around your home gym.

[Related: Deciding Between a Flat, Incline, and Decline Bench Press]

Benefits of Weight Benches

Weight benches are integral pieces of equipment for any gym, and there’s a reason you’d be hard-pressed to find a gym without a weight bench in it. They offer a better range of motion, a stable surface to press off of, and a ton of utility. The number of exercises you can do increases exponentially when you add a weight bench to your gym, but more on the ways they can help your fitness journey below. 

• Better Range of Motion: When pressing from the floor, the range of motion is limited to about 90 degrees of elbow flexion, but adding a weight bench can drastically increase your range of motion. A bench can also help you achieve a better range of motion with rows by supporting yourself on one leg with a knee on the bench — you can get a good stretch in your lats every rep. Larger ranges of motion are almost always better for your joints, too.
• Stable Surface to Press From: Sure, the floor is a stable surface, but it may not be flat, or it could be kind of dirty if you’re in a garage gym. Pressing from a high-quality weight bench, like those on this list, will help give you the confidence that you’ve got a solid foundation to press from when you’re repping out your sets.
• Utility: “Any long-time gymgoer knows that weight benches can also be used for core exercises, seated shoulder press, incline/decline presses (if an adjustable bench), Bulgarian split squats, step-ups, hip thrusts, and more,” according to Amanda Capritto, CPT. “They are more versatile than they seem on the surface, and for that, they’re a great buy in my book.” 

How Much Do Weight Benches Cost?

A weight bench can be an excellent addition to your home gym, but understanding how much these profiles should cost can be somewhat difficult, especially when trying to decipher price points between adjustable benches, flat benches, and specialized benches. We’ll clear up the confusion here.

Best Weight Bench Overall	REP AB-4100 Adjustable Bench	$399.99
Best Budget Weight Bench	Bells of Steel Flat Utility Bench	$149.99
Best Adjustable Bench	Giant Lifting Adjustable Weight Bench	$269.99
Best Incline/Decline Weight Bench	Ironmaster Super Bench Pro V2	$499
Best Nordic Bench	Shogun NORD-EX	$999.95
Best Flat Bench	Titan Fitness Elite Series Single Post Flat Bench	$169.99
Best Foldable Weight Bench	PRx Profile Flat Folding Bench	$449
Most Versatile Weight Bench	Force USA MyBench	$399.99
Best Weight Bench for Small Spaces	Fringe Sport Flat Bench	$175
Best Amazon Weight Bench	Marcy Flat Utility Weight Bench	$86.01
Best Weight Bench for Larger Bodies	Rogue Monster Utility Bench 2.0	$320
Best Heavy-Duty Weight Bench	REP FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench	$239.99

What to Consider Before Buying a Weight Bench

As with most home gym equipment, weight benches don’t come cheap. So when you’re making a decision on which bench is right for your gym space, you’ll want to consider what kind of bench you need for your typical workouts, how much weight you’ll be lifting, and how much space you have.

Bench Type

When it comes to the two main types of weight benches, you’ll be choosing between a flat bench and an adjustable bench. “An adjustable bench is more versatile, obviously, but is not always as comfortable for bench pressing and can make exercises like hip thrusts feel awkward (unless you go for a zero-gap option),” according to Amanda Capritto, CPT. “With a flat bench, your exercise selection becomes much more limited, because you can’t put yourself into different incline/decline positions.”

If you’re considering an adjustable bench, expect to spend a little more money, but know you’ll get a wider variety of exercises you can perform on your bench out of it.

[Related: Floor Press Vs. Bench Press — Is One Better Than the Other?]

Weight Capacity

The average weight capacity for a weight bench is around 600 pounds, but many benches can support upwards of 1,000 pounds. While this may seem like plenty, don’t forget to consider the weight plates or dumbbells you’re lifting, too.

“The listed weight capacity for a bench is the total weight capacity, meaning your body plus the external load,” Capritto said. “So if a weight bench has a listed capacity of 600 pounds and you weigh 200 pounds, the most you can externally load it with is 400 pounds. This is far more than enough for the vast majority of people.”

Space

Though most benches are fairly small, taking up only the space you need for the bench itself and its supporting legs, some come with added accessories that require a lot more room. At the top of that range are benches that come with a full squat rack. With these, you’ll need more horizontal space to accommodate the width of the rack, as well as vertical space for the rack’s height.

If you like the idea of having equipment that works both your upper and lower body, but you don’t necessarily want a piece of equipment that requires half of your garage space, there are benches that come with a leg extension machine and preacher curl attachments. These options still need more space than your basic bench does, but they won’t take up as much as a squat rack, offering a nice in-between. 

Attachments and Accessories

Although it’s not too common, some weight benches come with attachments or accessories, like a preacher curl extension or a leg developer. These can help add a little more versatility to your home gym without needing to buy additional equipment. Generally, weight benches with attachments are pricier but still more cost-effective than buying a separate machine.

Best Weight Bench FAQs