We Tested The Best Home Gym Squat Racks (2024): Budget, & More

The squat rack is one of three pieces of gym equipment you should never skimp on. The other two are quality barbells and bumper plates (if you’re Weightlifting). But finding the right power rack to fit into your home gym space can be a menace.

I’ve done it. So, I understand the pain points of seeing from pictures whether a rack will fit into your unique space. I’ve used a lot of squat racks in my career as a coach and athlete, and I’m bringing that experience to curate the best squat racks for your home gym.

• Best Squat Rack For Home Gym: REP PR-5000 Squat Rack
• Best Budget Squat Rack: REP PR-1100 Squat Rack
• Best Squat Rack For Small Spaces: Titan T2 Power Rack
• Best Folding Squat Rack: REP PR-4100 Folding Squat Rack
• Best All-In-One Power Rack: Major Fitness Raptor F22
• Best Squat Stands: Rogue SML 70” Squat Stands
• Best Squat Rack On Amazon: Sunny Health & Fitness Squat Rack
• Best Wall Mounted Rig: Rogue W-4 Wall Mounted Rig
• Best Half Rack: Hydra 3 x 3 Half Rack

Best Squat Rack For Home Gym

REP PR-5000

Feature	Specs
Rack Height	80” or 93”
Rack Depth	16”, 24”, 30”, 41”
Pull-Up Handles	Yes
Posts	3 x 3“ 11-gauge steel
Customizable	Yes
Hole Spacing	1” for bench, 2” above
Weight Capacity	1000 lbs
Plate Storage	Optional
Warranty	Lifetime

The REP PR-5000 is an absolute banger of a power rack. The thick 3×3” 11-gauge steel uprights and wide base make it immovable. This may not be a feature you want if you’re moving the rack so you can park your car.

But this is the power rack to buy if your garage is a dedicated gym. The most important features you need are this:

• Fully customizable (I mean FULLY. From attachments to color).
• Rack height.

Garage ceiling height ranges significantly. My garage is approximately 94″, so the 93″ build would mean I can’t do pull-ups. But the 80″ is the perfect height for my low ceiling. To give you an idea of how tall the 80″ model is, here’s myself (5’8″) standing next to it.

It’s a serious all-in-one workout station. With options for pull-up bars, dip stations, and even cable pulleys, this rack can support a full range of exercises beyond squats.

It’s especially beneficial for those with limited space in their home gym but who don’t want to compromise their training variety and intensity. You can do your entire strength training session in one spot.

For safety, you have solid spotter arms and J-cups. If you want to be space efficient, you can add weight storage.

Add Westside hole spacing, lifetime warranty, and a 1000 lb weight capacity, you’ll never need to buy another rack again.

A fully kitted-out power rack, including weight plate storage, will cost approximately $2000.

Best Budget Squat Rack

REP PR-1100 Squat Rack

Feature	Specs
Rack Height	85”
Rack Depth	48.5” (24” inside)
Pull-Up Handles	Yes
Posts	2 x 2 “ 14-gauge steel
Customizable	Yes
Hole Spacing	3”
Weight Capacity	700 lbs
Plate Storage	Optional
Warranty	Lifetime

The balance between affordability and quality in your home gym equipment is a challenging trade-off. I typically advise spending big on a rack because it’s a “buy once” purchase. When going budget, it could end up being a “buy twice,” costing you more than expected.

However, as far as budget racks go, the REP PR-1100 does the trick and is designed for beginners and intermediate. While not as robust as the PR-5000, the 2×2″ steel frame provides more stability than separate squat stands and can handle up to 700 lbs.

One of the most appealing aspects of the REP PR-1100 is its customization options. It has multiple color choices to match personal preferences or home gym aesthetics.

Furthermore, the rack is compatible with various accessories from REP’s product line, such as dip bars, plate storage, and even a lat pulldown. Thus, you can expand your workout possibilities without needing separate pieces of equipment.

The hole spacing can be hit and miss for some lifters since they use a 3″ spacing, so you may have to compromise not finding the perfect setup for squats and bench presses.

Best Squat Rack For Small Spaces

Titan T2 Power Rack

Feature	Specs
Rack Height	71” or 83”
Rack Depth	30” (26” inside)
Pull-Up Handles	Yes
Posts	2 x 2“ 14-gauge steel
Customizable	No
Hole Spacing	2”
Weight Capacity	850 lbs
Plate Storage	Yes
Warranty	1 Year

The previous two REP Fitness racks could fit into small spaces. But if you’re after a small-footprint squat rack to sit in the corner of your garage, the Titan T2 Power Rack is your best option.

It has a 26″ inside depth, with the posts only being 30″ deep. It means it’s built with little overhanging posts, saving you space. Now, you can get the REP PR-5000 at 16″ depth, making it more space-efficient.

However, the REP PR-5000 is a beast, and you won’t be able to move it if necessary. The Titan T2 Power Rack is only 125 lbs, so you can shuffle it around your small space if needed.

Further, the 71″ or 83″ option means it fits in almost any room, and you can perform pull-ups.

The 1-year warranty Titan provides sucks, but it’s often a trade-off for cheaper equipment. If you want a slight upgrade, the T3 Power Rack by Titan is a good option with thicker steel, but the reason I picked the T2 is because of the rack height. The lowest height for the T3 is 82″, which may be an issue in very small spaces.

Best Folding Squat Rack

REP PR-4100 Folding Squat Rack

Feature	Specs
Rack Height	92.3”
Rack Depth	21.5” or 40”
Pull-Up Handles	Yes
Posts	3 x 3“ 11-gauge steel
Customizable	Yes
Hole Spacing	1” for bench, 2” above and below
Weight Capacity	1000 lbs
Plate Storage	No
Warranty	Lifetime

This is starting to sound like an ad for REP Fitness. But I promise you, it’s not. They’ve just taken the home gym market by storm and are currently creating the best equipment in the game at affordable prices.

Think of it as Rogue quality without the astronomical price. Which is why the REP PR-4100 Folding Squat Rack is your best option for a folding squat rack. It uses the same 3×3″ steel from the PR-5000, making it ultra-sturdy.

Being mounted on the wall means it folds away 6” from the wall. You have options of a 21.5” or 40” depth. If you’re doing kipping/butterfly pull-ups, you’ll want the 40”.

This feature is particularly appealing if you live in an apartment or home where every square foot matters. Despite its foldability, the rack remains incredibly sturdy and stable during workouts.

Like all REP Fitness equipment, you have attachment options like dip bars and landmines.

Lastly, setting up the REP PR-4100 Folding Squat Rack isn’t as daunting as you might think. With clear instructions and manageable components, most users find assembly straightforward.

Best All-In-One Power Rack

Major Fitness Raptor F22

Feature	Specs
Rack Height	82.5”
Rack Depth	55.5”
Pull-Up Handles	Yes
Posts	2 x 2“ 14-gauge steel
Customizable	No
Hole Spacing	1” for bench, 2” above and below
Weight Capacity	1600 lbs
Plate Storage	No
Warranty	1 Year

Again, the REP PR-5000 is the go-to all-in-one power rack. But for everything, it’ll cost you $4000+. With the Major Fitness Raptor F22, you can get the rack + attachments + cables + an adjustable bench for approximately $1200.

Of course, you’re compromising on quality with long 3″ hole spacings, 2×2″ 14 gauge steel posts, and no customizable height or depth. However, as a simple home gym option with multiple machines, it does its job.

The bonus is everything is included in one price instead of charging you extra for each attachment you choose.

Best Squat Stands

Rogue SML 70” Squat Stands

Feature	Specs
Rack Height	72.25″
Rack Depth	49”
Pull-Up Handles	No
Posts	3 x 3“ 11-gauge steel
Customizable	No
Hole Spacing	1” for bench, 2” above and below
Weight Capacity	1000+ lbs
Plate Storage	No
Warranty	Lifetime

I’ve used all three Rogue SML squat stands: model 1, 2, and 3, which are 70″, 90″, and 108″ tall, respectively.

As far as pure squat stands go, nothing beats the sturdiness of these. Most squat stands move when you rack heavy squats or benches. These don’t, and you’ll need two people to move them around.

The 70″ SML-1 Rogue Squat Stand is all you’ll need for most people. It allows you to safely perform your major compound movements. It’s also perfect for small spaces and garages with low ceilings.

The thick 3×3″ 11-gauge steel is durable, and you have Westside hole spacing for easy squat and bench setup.

However, if you want a pull-up bar, you’ll need to get the taller SML-2 or SML-3, as the SML-1 has no compatible pull-up attachment. You can’t go wrong with a squat stand with a lifetime warranty that can handle 1000+ lbs.

Best Squat Rack On Amazon

Sunny Health & Fitness Squat Rack

Feature	Specs
Rack Height	87”
Rack Depth	37.6”
Pull-Up Handles	Yes
Posts	2 x 2“ 14-gauge steel
Customizable	No
Hole Spacing	3”
Weight Capacity	805 lbs
Plate Storage	Yes
Warranty	1 Year

I have this rack in my garage and use it multiple times weekly. I ignored my own advice about “buy nice, don’t buy twice.” But there was a reason.

We needed something that would fit a garag with a relatively low ceiling so we could do pull-ups. It was easily moveable so we could store it on one side of the garage and park the car.

The Sunny Health & Fitness Squat Rack does just that for us. I can easily carry this myself to setup before and put away after my workouts as it’s only 83 lbs.

At 87”, there’s plenty of room overhead for pull-ups in my 94-96” garage ceiling.

I’ve performed heavy squats, bench press, and weighted pull-ups with little issue. With the price, you’re going to make quality compromises. So, here’s what you’re getting into:

• The bottom posts warp or bow with use so the rack starts to rock slightly. The Rogue SML racks definitely don’t do this.
• It tips if you’re racking squats hard against the posts. You need to anchor down with plates on the weight storage so it doesn’t.
• Can’t use the band pegs unless it’s bolted down.

Besides this, it’s a completely functional squat rack that lets you get the basics done at a fraction of the price of other brands. It’s also very easy to put together, which I show you in the video below:

Best Wall Mounted Rig

Rogue Wall Mounted Rig

Feature	Specs
Rack Height	108”
Rack Depth	72”
Pull-Up Handles	Yes
Posts	2 x 3“ 11-gauge steel
Customizable	Yes
Hole Spacing	1” for bench, 2” above and below
Weight Capacity	Not Stated
Plate Storage	No
Warranty	Lifetime

The REP PR-4100 Folding Squat Rack counts as a wall-mounted rack. But if you want something to be wall-mounted to stay for good, the Rogue W-4 Wall Mount Rig gives you the greatest versatility.

There are multiple pull-up bar options and plenty of space to bench and squat to your heart’s desire. Mounting to the wall means it doesn’t rock or move when performing various pull-ups or heavy lifts.

You can optimize your workout area by directly mounting additional accessories like plate storage or dip bars onto the rig – transforming it into a multi-purpose workout station. Westside hole spacing makes finding the right height for the bar easy, and the 2×3″ posts solidify the rig.

Add the lifetime warranty on all Rogue equipment, and you have a winner for a wall-mounted rig.

Best Half Rack

Hydra 3 x 3 Half Rack

Feature	Specs
Rack Height	74.25” 86.25”, 92.25”, 110.25”
Rack Depth	56” or 62”
Pull-Up Handles	Yes
Posts	3 x 3“ 11-gauge steel
Customizable	Yes
Hole Spacing	1” for bench, 2” above and below
Weight Capacity	1000 lbs
Plate Storage	Optional
Warranty	Limited Lifetime

Half racks are an excellent space-saving option, giving you the benefits of a full power rack. The Bells Of Steel Hydra 3 x 3 Half Rack is the top half rack available.

The first aspect that grabs your attention about the Hydra 3 x 3 Half Rack is its durability. Constructed with high-grade steel, this rack promises longevity and can withstand heavy use without showing wear or tear.

The 56” or 62” depth is customizable if you like more space when lifting inside the rack. But most of your time will likely be spent outside the rack since you buy a half rack for this reason.

You’ve also got customizable rack heights from 74″ to 110″, depending on your size and the height of your ceilings.

The 1000 lb weight capacity and limited lifetime warranty make this the only half rack you’ll need.

How We Picked The Best Squat Rack

I’ve been around the block as a competitive strength athlete and strength & conditioning coach, using many racks and brands in various gyms. I’ve also been building my home gym, so I understand the pain points you are likely experiencing.

I scored the racks on these main criteria:

• Material and construction quality
• Customizability
• Space needed
• Price

I want to know these things when looking for a new squat rack. It means that the ultra-premium rack with all the bells and whistles may not be the best rack I chose because it doesn’t make sense in a home gym when you can get similar quality at a cheaper price with less space taken.

These are the power racks I like and recommend based on my experience.

Squat Racks vs. Power Racks (What’s The Difference?)

You may have noticed I used squat rack and power rack interchangeably within this article. They are often used interchangeably to mean the same piece of equipment. Posts that hold a barbell to perform various compound movements.

But there is a fundamental difference. Squat stands have 2 posts, and power racks have 4 posts.

That’s it.

Why would you choose one or the other?

Squat Rack

Olympic Weightlifters typically only use squat stands. Olympic lifts and pulls are performed on the platform, and squat stands easily moved onto the platform to finish their session with squats.

Some are adjustable to come together for dips. Other than this, that’s the extent of exercise versatility (unless they are connected at the top by a pull-up bar). If you want to perform more exercises and have more attachments, squat racks and stands won’t work.

If you need something easy to move around so you can perform basic squats, squat racks are perfect.

Power Rack

If you’re leaving the commercial gym for good and want a home setup, the power rack will get you as close as possible to the options you have at a commercial gym.

Cables, dip and pull-up attachments, and landmines are all possible on a power rack as they are sturdy enough to handle the extra load.

You can also lift from safety pins to develop raw strength, which you can’t do with squat stands.

Benefits Of A Squat Rack

Safety

The squat rack provides a safe haven for lifting heavy without a spotter. Imagine going for that personal best on a squat or bench press. If you miss the lift, the built-in safety bars act as your silent spotter.

From my experience, knowing that you have that layer of protection allows you to push close to failure if your goal is maximizing muscle growth.

Exercise Versatility

One of the reasons I’m a huge advocate for squat racks is their sheer versatility. With the addition of a bench, you can perform a range of pressing movements.

Attach a pulley at the top, and you have a cable station for lat pulldowns or tricep pushdowns. Let’s not forget that most racks come with pull-up bars.

If you’re in a power rack with safeties, you can perform my favorite exercises like benching and squatting from pins.

Adjustability

The height-adjustable J-hooks allow for a personalized setup that caters to height, making it comfortable to lift off and rack the barbell.

Also, the varying distances between the safety bars ensure an optimal setting for safety without compromising your range of motion.

How To Pick The Best Squat Rack

Type of Squat Rack

Power Rack

Power racks have 4 (or more) posts for the greatest stability and durability. They’re designed to handle heavy weights and offer extreme exercise versatility through various attachments like cables, dip bars, and pull-up bars.

They also let you lift from safety pins to develop raw strength and keep yourself safe when lifting heavy.

Half Rack

Slightly less imposing than their power rack counterparts, half racks offer a solid foundation for your lifts.

They take up less space and often come at a more affordable price. For me, the open design is a significant plus—it doesn’t feel constraining, granting me more room to maneuver.

Squat Stand/Rack

If simplicity is your mantra, a squat stand might be your best bet. It’s the most basic form among the racks, offering functionality without the frills.

While not as feature-rich as power or half racks, a squat stand serves its purpose for straightforward barbell exercises. Its minimal footprint is ideal for tighter spaces.

Fold-Away Squat Racks

Regarding space-saving solutions, fold-away racks mean you can park your car in the garage. They offer the sturdiness needed for serious lifting and can be tucked away after your workout, freeing up space for other activities. This type is perfect for multi-use areas or smaller rooms.

Weight Capacity

Weight capacity typically indicates construction and material quality. The highest quality racks can handle 1000+ lbs. However, even racks that only handle 700 lbs often do the trick in a home gym setting if you’re not a competitive strength athlete.

Safety Features

Never compromise on safety features. Options like pin safeties, safety straps, or catch bars provide a safety net for testing new personal records or pushing high-rep lifts.

You also want to match the safety pins to the quality of your barbell. High-quality safety pins or straps won’t damage your barbell knurling. So, for high-quality home gym barbells, get good safety pins.

Hole Spacing

The distance between adjustment holes (often referred to as “Westside” spacing in lower regions of the rack) can significantly impact how comfortably you can set up for various exercises.

Fine spacing allows for precise adjustments, ensuring the barbell is at the perfect height for your body type and the exercise.

Attachments

Versatility is a major plus. Attachments like dip bars, landmine attachments, or even pulley systems transform a simple squat rack into a multi-functional workout station.

REP Fitness has revolutionized this space with amazing cable attachments for a complete home gym.

Size and Portability

Power racks demand more room in terms of footprint and height. Conversely, squat stands and fold-away designs are kinder to limited spaces. If you anticipate needing to move your rack for any reason, portability becomes a factor worth considering.

Make sure to measure your ceiling height too. Some racks don’t let you customize rack height, making them unsuitable for your gym. Most garages I’ve seen are around 94″—96″, so anything up to 84″ gives you plenty of room to do pull-ups, in my experience.

Construction

Durability is key. I lean towards racks constructed with thicker steel (3×3” 11-gauge is robust) and solid welding. These materials promise longevity and endure through years of heavy use. While thicker steel makes the structure heavier, it also markedly enhances stability.

Storage

Some racks come with built-in storage for weight plates and bars, which is incredibly helpful for keeping your gym tidy and organized. This feature might not be a deal-breaker, but it’s a welcome bonus in a home gym setting.

Some brands offer it as an optional customization. As someone who stores their plates on the floor, get the weight storage on the rack. It’s so much easier.

Price

Finally, let’s talk budget. The cost of squat racks can vary widely, but remember, investing in quality pays off in the long run. More expensive models often provide greater stability, durability, and versatility.

But plenty of well-made racks are available at more moderate price points that won’t disappoint you. For me, finding that balance between cost and quality has been key to building a home gym I love.

Frequently Asked Squat Rack Questions

Summary

REP Fitness dominates other brands with the best squat rack. The PR-5000 is the most versatile, customizable, and highest-quality rack. If you don’t need the bells and whistles, the Rogue SML-1 Squat Stand gives you the bare bones to start training.