The 8 Best Squat Racks of 2023 for Your Home Gym

A quick look at the best squat racks

• Best folding: PRx Performance Profile PRO Squat Rack with Multi-Grip Bar
• Best for low ceilings: Titan Fitness T-3 Series Short Squat Stand
• Best basic: Rogue Fitness Monster Lite SML-2C Squat Stand
• Best with included accessories: Sunny Health & Fitness Power Zone Squat Stand
• Best for beginner lifters: Valor Fitness BD-9 Squat Stand
• Best for powerlifters: Rogue Fitness SM-2 Monster Squat Stand 2.0
• Best for small spaces: PRx Performance Profile PRO Squat Rack
• Best power rack: Force USA MyRack Modular Power Rack

Squat racks are valuable pieces of weightlifting equipment that offer support during squats and other barbell exercises, including bench presses, clean pulls, and floor presses.

These units typically feature a barbell holder, support pillars, and safety catches, allowing you to safely lift heavy loads.

Squat racks are available in a variety of styles, including wall-mounted units, cages, and stands. Certain models also include accessories such as pullup bars, cable pulley systems, and weight benches.

What’s more, there are squat racks available to suit a range of budgets, fitness goals, and workout spaces.

We selected the best squat racks based on the following criteria:

• Price. We included products that offer good value at a range of price points.
• Size. We looked for squat racks that can fit a variety of workout spaces.
• Quality. We selected products that are made from high quality steel and are safe, stable, and reliable.
• Customer reviews. The squat racks listed below have mostly positive online reviews.
• Company reputation. All the products included have been vetted to ensure that they meet Healthline’s business standards.

Without further ado, here are the 8 best squat racks in 2023.

Healthline’s picks of the best squat racks of 2023

Best folding

PRx Performance Profile PRO Squat Rack with Multi-Grip Bar

• Price: $$$$
• Pros: foldable for smaller footprint, generous weight capacity, lifetime warranty
• Cons: pricier option

Available in 10 powder-coated color options, the Profile PRO Squat Rack with Multi-Grip Bar is ideal if you’re short on space.

Thanks to PRx Performance’s patented folding technology and gas shocks, the rack is easy to fold and sticks out just 4 inches (10 cm) from the wall when collapsed.

According to users, the squat rack is easy to assemble and comes with all the required installation hardware.

It also features a multi-grip bar that offers more variation than a traditional pullup bar.

The rack comes in two heights to accommodate varying ceiling heights and people over 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) tall.

Best for low ceilings

Titan Fitness T-3 Series Short Squat Stand

• Price: $
• Pros: budget-friendly price, good for low ceilings, easily movable
• Cons: doesn’t bolt to floor, spotter arms sold separately

The Titan Fitness T-3 Series Short Squat Stand is designed to accommodate low ceilings and offers excellent quality at an affordable price.

Featuring a powder coating to prevent rusting, the rack’s heavy-duty frame is stable and sturdy. It’s also easy to assemble and comes with the required assembly hardware.

The T-3 Series Short Squat Stand doesn’t bolt to the floor, which means it’s portable. However, if you plan on lifting heavy, you’ll want to weigh or strap the stand down to prevent it from moving.

Titan Fitness makes spotter arms that are compatible with this model, but you’ll need to purchase them separately.

Best basic

Rogue Fitness Monster Lite SML-2C Squat Stand

• Price: $$$
• Pros: very customizable, included pullup bar
• Cons: spotter arms sold separately, doesn’t bolt to floor

The Rogue Fitness Monster Lite SML-2C is a heavy-duty squat stand that saves on space. It’s available in 11 custom colors and comes with a pullup bar.

While it’s a great basic stand, the Monster Lite SML-2C is compatible with other accessories offered by Rogue Fitness, so you can also customize your setup to support your strength training routine.

According to reviewers, the stand is easy to assemble and comes with installation hardware.

Just keep in mind that you’ll want to weigh down the stand if you plan on lifting heavy. You’ll also need to purchase the safety spotter arms separately.

Best with included accessories

Sunny Health & Fitness Power Zone Squat Stand with Attachment and Bench

• Price: $$$
• Pros: highly rated on Amazon, includes cable pulley system, weight bench, and spotter arms
• Cons: made of 14-gauge steel (not as strong as some others on the list)

If you’re looking for a home gym solution, the Sunny Health & Fitness Power Zone Squat Stand is a great option.

In addition to a squat rack, the unit comes with an angled pullup bar, spotter arms, a weight plate storage post, a cable pulley system, and a weight bench.

The multifunctional squat rack also features resistance band attachment posts and several height adjustment notches, allowing for greater versatility.

The Power Zone Squat Stand offers easy assembly and comes with all the necessary hardware. The company also recommends that you bolt the rack to the floor to prevent slips and slides.

The rack is designed with a powder coating for enhanced durability. However, because it’s made from 14-gauge steel, the stand isn’t as strong as others on this list.

While this isn’t an issue for beginners, more advanced lifters will want to choose a stand made from at least 11-gauge steel.

Best for beginner lifters

Valor Fitness BD-9 Squat Stand

• Price: $
• Pros: budget-friendly price, portable and compact
• Cons: lower weight capacity, no added accessories

The Valor Fitness BD-9 is a set of upright stands with adjustable bases that are portable, compact, and easy to store.

The system also includes a bar catch and safety catch positions.

Customers note that the stand is easy to assemble as a result of the simple design and that it comes with installation hardware.

Because the maximum weight capacity is capped at 350 pounds (158 kg) and the frame is made from 13-gauge steel, this rack isn’t strong enough to support more advanced weightlifting.

However, as long as you add weight plates to the storage pegs for extra stability, it’s a good option for beginner lifters looking for a more affordable option.

Best for powerlifters

Rogue Fitness SM-2 Monster Squat Stand 2.0

• Price: $$$
• Pros: super sturdy, easy installation, included pullup bar
• Cons: pricier option

The Rogue SM-2 Monster Squat Stand 2.0 is sturdy, durable, and well-built, so it’s ideal if you plan to lift heavy.

The compact frame includes rubber feet for more stability and is made of heavy-duty 11-gauge steel with a powder coat finish that prevents rust and chips.

Despite its solid frame, the SM-2 Monster Squat Stand 2.0 is easy to assemble and comes with installation hardware.

The squat stand also features a pullup bar, as well as keyhole designs on the uprights that allow you to easily add attachments such as a cable-pulley resistance system, safety spotter arms, and vertical barbell storage.

Customers are generally satisfied with the quality of the unit and find Rogue’s customer service team to be helpful and responsive.

Just keep in mind that the SM-2 Monster Squat Stand 2.0 is one of the most expensive squat stands from Rogue Fitness. Therefore, if you’re not a serious weightlifter, it’s worth considering one of the company’s more affordable options instead.

Best for small spaces

PRx Performance Profile PRO Squat Rack

• Price: $$$
• Pros: foldable design, 10 color options, heavy-duty steel
• Cons: no added accessories

An excellent choice if you have limited space, the PRx Performance Profile PRO Squat Rack uses patented technology to fold vertically between uses.

It also sticks out just 4 inches (10 cm) from the wall when folded.

Available in 10 powder-coated color options, the Profile PRO Squat Rack is made of heavy-duty steel to support heavy lifts.

Reviewers note that assembly is simple and all hardware is included.

For ideal installation, you’ll need evenly spaced studs and ceilings that are at least 91 inches (231 cm) high. However, you can contact PRx Performance to inquire about modification options.

Best power rack

Force USA MyRack Modular Power Rack

• Price: $$
• Pros: allows for more exercise variety, can bolt to floor, customizable with add-ons
• Cons: some reviews suggest the quality of the attachments could be improved

A power rack is a steel cage that features four upright posts and horizontal safety bars that support the bar. It allows you to do exercises such as deadlifts, rows, and biceps curls.

The Force USA MyRack Modular Power Rack offers a high weight capacity and 20 attachment options, so it’s perfect if you plan to progress to heavier weights.

Attachment options for the multifunctional power rack include cable crossovers, cable attachments, and chinup bars.

The MyRack Modular Power Rack is easy to assemble and small enough for smaller workout spaces. It can also be bolted to the floor for added stability.

Made from 12-gauge steel, the power rack is strong enough for most home workout needs, but it may not be ideal for more advanced lifters.

Another potential downside is that some customers feel that the quality of the attachments could be improved.

Comparison with competitors

How to choose the best squat rack

When shopping for a squat rack, be sure to consider the following factors:

• Size. When considering the size of a squat rack, make sure to account for any additional room needed to perform your workout or add accessories such as a weight bench.
• Stability and durability. Look for a rack made of high quality steel that will support heavy loads over time. While 7-gauge steel is typically found in commercial gyms, 11-gauge steel is considered the sweet spot for home exercise equipment.
• Budget. Establish how much you want to spend on a rack and any attachments or accessories. Safety spotter arms or straps are the most important attachment to consider.
• Customer feedback. Read online reviews to get a feel for customer satisfaction, safety concerns, and the brand’s customer service.
• Ease of assembly. Select a squat rack that’s easy to assemble and comes with all the necessary hardware.
• Warranty. Choose a company that provides at least a 1-year warranty. More expensive options usually come with longer warranties.
• Versatility. Consider how you want to use your squat rack. If you plan on building your routine, look for a model with attachments and accessory options.

Frequently asked questions

Is a squat rack worth it?

Whether a squat rack is worth it for you will depend on your goals, budget, and space.

A squat rack is certainly worth it if you’re serious about improving your strength, muscular endurance, and overall fitness through lifting and you’re looking to do so by using a barbell in your lifting workouts.

An excellent all-in-one piece of equipment, a squat rack provides the necessary safety and stability for you to effectively perform squats, overhead presses, and other compound lifts in a home gym.

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

The main differences between a squat rack and a power rack are the size, number of uprights, and safety features. Squat racks have two uprights and are more compact, which is ideal for limited spaces.

Power racks typically have four uprights and are larger, providing more stability and safety. Suitable for advanced lifters, they usually have a higher weight capacity and more features, offering more versatility and options for performing different exercises.

Is it better to use a Smith machine or a squat rack?

The decision to use a Smith machine or a squat rack depends on your fitness level and goals. Both options are effective for strength training, and each one has benefits and drawbacks.

A Smith machine provides more stability and control, helping to improve your technique and form while reducing your chance of injury. It’s a good choice if you’re a beginner or recovering from an injury. However, it limits movement and muscle activation.

A squat rack offers a wider range of motion and more freedom of movement, allowing you to engage more muscles. It’s ideal if you’re an advanced lifter wanting to build functional strength. However, maintaining proper form requires greater control, stability, and balance.

Are squat racks the best workout for your glutes?

Squat rack workouts including squats, deadlifts, and lunges can effectively target your glutes. However, they are not necessarily the best choice. The best glute workout for your needs will depend on your fitness level, goals, and preferences.

For best results, create a workout routine with a variety of exercises and equipment to target your glutes from different angles. You can do exercises such as goblet squats, glute bridges, and hip thrusts and use equipment options such as dumbbells, resistance bands, and stability balls.

The bottom line

Adding a squat rack to your home gym allows you to perform a range of exercises, such as squats, bench presses, and floor presses.

Because a squat rack is a considerable investment, it’s important not to rush your decision and to carefully select a model that works for you.

You can use this guide as a starting point for finding a unit that works for your workout space, budget, and fitness goals.