Best Half Rack For Home Gym (Reviewed and Compared)

Half Squat Racks Compared

Is A Half Rack Sufficient For Your Home Gym? 

A half rack is a weight rack used for squats, lunges, bench press, and other rack exercises. It is called a half rack because it only uses two posts instead of four corner posts like a full rack. 

The base is strong and sturdy, usually consisting of either a square base frame or extended legs that the posts attach to. However, the space-saving design has a few limitations compared to a smith cage or full rack system, which can be a deal-breaker. 

For example, in most cases, a half rack doesn’t come with security bars. There may be J-cups or dip bars you can purchase separately, but for spotting and safety, other measures need to be taken. 

A half rack is less expensive than a full rack, and you do have a lot of flexibility when it comes to your workouts. When it comes to starter home gyms or garage gyms with limited space, a half rack setup is more than sufficient. 

1. Sunny Health & Fitness Power Zone Half Rack 

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The Sunny Health & Fitness half rack is a great base piece that has some awesome upgrades available. The brand is well known in the space and continues to grow and become even more popular.  

The half rack here has a strong 2x2 inch steel construction that holds up to 1000 pounds without flinching. The extra-long safety rails will catch the bar should you stumble and even offers a triple overhead bar for pull ups.

The J-hooks hold your bar while you add or remove weights and give you the freedom to move out of the rack space to do squats, curls, or almost any other bar exercise. If you like resistance training, the support legs also offer resistance band posts that you can put your bands on for arm curls, overhead lifts, or glute kicks. 

With 18 adjustable heights, 6 weight plate posts, and plate clips, you have everything you need. But if you want to upgrade, there is that possibility, too. 

The system also comes with a weight bench, a lat pulldown attachment, or the ultimate rack, with both the bench and lat pulldown. The choice is yours, and with return policies and additional coverage options, your investment is protected. 

2. Fitness Reality Multi-Function Power Rack Squat Stand

If you are looking for the best deal in the industry, Fitness Reality may just have your answer. This half rack is durable, sturdy, and holds 800 pounds of weight. It also has a few upgrade options and attachments. 

The base is strong and wide, giving you ample space to work out, but like any half rack, it will need to be bolted to the floor for added security. Total assembly time for one person is about 2 hours, so make sure you have time on delivery day. 

The base also comes with a landmine attachment and an adjustable resistance band arm. The 19.5 inch spotter arms are long enough to catch your bar but not so long they interfere with your workouts. 

You also have plenty of space in the middle for a bench, which is an optional upgrade. You can select the incline bench and rack combo or upgrade to the no-gap adjustable bench. All of which are a great value overall and combined, make one of the most affordable half racks on the market. To top it off, you also have an adjustable pull-up bar, which is great if you don't have a lat pulldown bar. Just add your own weight plates and bar, and you are good to go. 

3. CAP Barbell FM-8000F Deluxe Power Rack

CAP is another brand that is growing in popularity in this industry. That growth is helped by the popular half rack for home gyms that they produce. Once considered low-end and getting bad reviews, the CAP team made a lot of changes to their products. 

By listening to their customers and making changes, the brand is making a turnaround on the rack space and home gym setups, and in a good way. Now their systems come packaged better and in a single box: no more loose pieces or damaged-on-arrival products. 

You also get to choose from seven different colors to match your style and enjoy the benefits of a great rack system. With the ability to hold 500 pounds, it isn't the largest or strongest rack out there. However, it is perfect for home gyms looking for Olympic bar and weight workouts without breaking the bank. 

The rack itself is made from 12 gauge steel for the frame and 14 gauge steel for the base. It offers a pull up bar at the top, standard and 6 resistance band attachments at the feet. 

The one negative mark we could find is that the spotter arms are only 15 inches long, which keeps you tighter into the rack space during your workout. However, this isn't a problem for most lifts, and all but the most dedicated lifters won’t notice. 

4. HulkFit Multi-Function Adjustable Power Rack 

The HulkFit half rack is one of the best value basic half racks on the market right now. There are two options here, and the basic model is a standard half rack. For just a few dollars more, though, you can get the heavy-duty pro model with upgraded components. 

The pro model features a commercial grade pull-up bar that can be attached at any height. It also features a bar and weight holders (2-inch), and an extra sturdy H-shape base. 

The 11 gauge steel frame is 2.5 inches instead of the standard 2 inches, so some accessories may not fit well. You might also have issues getting the spotter arms in the right spot for bench presses. 

However, for the price, you won't find a more versatile or durable unit. It also includes dip handles for the spotter arms and a landmine attachment. The rubber feet add stability and protection, but it isn't easily bolted to the ground. 

You also have the option of dropping from 1000 pound capacity to 800 pounds and losing 4 inches of height. For those with lower ceilings, the Pro 800 pound model may be a better fit. 

5. Rogue Fitness SML-2 Monster Lite Squat Stand 

If you are looking for the highest quality and most durable construction, look no further. The Rouge Fitness SML-2 Monster is made in the USA from US steel, and powder coated a matte black for added protection. 

Each step of the construction is inspected by lasers and humans to ensure quality, and a triple-check inspection before shipment ensures you get a quality product. Made from 2x2 and 3x3 inch steel, the 11 gauge frame is one of the most durable on the market. 

When ordering, you get your choice of a fat/skinny or single pull-up bar and optional add-ons. Without any add-ons, you get the rack, 2 J-cups, and the pull-up bar. 

If you want spotter arms, the 24-inch thick steel arms are available. You can also order weight sets, Olympic bars, wheel brackets, or floor mounting feet. The downside is that none of these are standard and must be purchased separately. 

With a lifetime guarantee and solid construction, though, it may well be the last rack you ever have to buy. Just make sure you have the high ceiling room for this rack (92 inches) and expect fast shipping after you order. 

6. Lifeline C1 Pro Power Squat Rack System 

For those looking for a more serious powerlifting or weightlifting rack, the C1 Pro from Lifeline is a decent option. Available in both half and full racks, this model is here to play. It offers everything you need to lift right and heavy. Just don't forget to invite a friend over as your spotter.

With a 1000+ pound weight limit, J-cups, and spotter arms, you just have to add a bar and weights and get to work. The 2x3 inch construction is solid, durable and powder coated to prevent damage or corrosion. 

It also features 6 posts for Olympic plates (bumper plates fit but will overlap) and a bar storage post. Unlike other brands, the floor mount flanges are built-in, so you don't have to worry about tipping. 

The J-cups and spotter arms aren't the best quality, though, and this is the one sore spot. With a shallow cup and angled arms, it can be challenging to place the bar without watching it in. However, they are strong enough to do their job, and with a bit of effort, you won't notice much. 

The pull-up bar is professional-grade and adjustable. It features a fat bar across the width and adjustable skinny bars for alternating grips. One of the best features, though, is the numbered alignment holes. With 28 numbered positions, you never have to worry about bar slant or awkward mounting.  

7. Body-Solid Powerline Power Half Rack

One of the biggest names in home gym systems is also one of the most trusted names in gyms across the country. Body-Solid makes reliable, dependable, and well-warrantied equipment for any use. 

The Powerline half rack is built to last and has enough optional accessories to build out your home set up over time or whenever you see fit. The 2x2 steel construction frame is warrantied for 10 years and finished to protect the steel from corrosion and damage. 

Assembly is simple enough and can be accomplished in less than an hour by a single person. The initial rack setup also comes with lift-out J-cups and two spotter arms that are not only durable but functional, offering a no-look put back. 

You can opt for the rack support if you want to upgrade, which adds a second layer to the upright beams for weight storage and additional support. You can also buy the Body-Solid bench or pulley system that gives you access to over 50 more exercises without additional need for parts. 

The smaller rack only has a 700 pound weight limit, but it does increase to 800 pounds with the half rack extension add-on. With versatility, brand recognition, and durable construction, this half rack is well worth the investment. 

8. GRIND Fitness Chaos 4000 

For the powerlifter or the home gym enthusiast who wants a durable product, Grind has you covered. Their beefy half rack is not only aesthetically pleasing but extremely functional, too. 

Unlike other half racks on this list, the Grind rack comes with the half rack extension included. It also features 6 Olympic weight posts, lift-out J-cups for no-look put-backs, and heavy duty spotter arms. 

You also don’t need to worry about bar tilt or lean as the height positions are numbered. The multi-grip pull-up bar and wide stance mean you can work out inside or outside of the rack space without worry. 

What you do need to worry about is the popularity. This unit is not often in stock, so you need a little luck as well as timing to get yours. When you do, though, it will be well worth the effort. However, you won’t get a lot of accessories (benches, let pull down assembly, etc.), so those extra purchases will need to be made somewhere else. 

9. Rugged Commercial Half Rack Y120 

Rugged Fitness is more than just a brand name. This half rack (Y120) from the brand has a commercial lifetime warranty (lifetime for home use, too). It is basic, bare bones, affordable, and easy to install. 

You will need to plan your build, though, as it doesn't come with a bench, weight pegs, bar holder, or other accessories. What you do get is a solid-built half rack, lift-out J-cups, two spotter arms, and a chin-up bar. 

Out of the box, it takes one person about 45 minutes to assemble. The 1000 pound weight limit and Westside peg spacing mean you can perform squats, lunges, presses, and more without the worry of compromise in positioning. 

The biggest downside is that there are no extras. Benches, lat pulldowns, or even weight storage are not included, nor available. You will need to supply these yourself. You can check out our favorite adjustable benches here. Aside from this minor drawback, this small investment in your home gym may just be the last rack you ever buy. 

How To Choose The Right Half Rack For Your Home Gym

Before you pick a final model, there are several consideration factors to think about. Below, we will cover those factors and explain why they are essential to your decision. 

Steel Grade, Thickness & Finish 

Most racks are made with stainless steel but come in very different grades. In general, you will find 10 or 11 gauge steel on mid-range models. Higher quality (and more expensive) models will use 12 gauge steel, which can hold a lot more weight. 

The thicker the steel, the more sturdy it is, but more importantly, the stronger it is. You can have more weight on the rack, higher user weight limits, and less wobble while you lift. The finish isn’t as important but still pretty crucial. Powder coated finish adds corrosion protection and helps to prevent rust from dings. 

Weight Capacity 

High weight limit capacities can also be a decision making factor. For example, if you are squatting or lifting higher weights than the rack can hold safely, then the rack won’t serve any good for you. Make sure you understand the rack weight limit and user weight limits compared to your current limits and expected limits in the future. 

Dimensions & Footprint 

Half rack popularity is primarily down to the space-saving design in your home gym. Because a half rack takes up less space, they are highly popular in home gyms. However, just because it is a half rack doesn’t mean it has a smaller floor space footprint. Some models extend the feet and bracing to add strength, which can end up taking up the same floor space as a full rack. 

Optional Add-Ons 

Rack add-ons generally don’t make or break a purchase decision, but some might. Because you will most likely lift without a spotter, a half rack should have several safety factors, including bar catches, J-cups, and dip handles. 

In many cases, these will be additional costs for these extras. You can usually get a package of add-ons that include these things, as well as water bottle holders, towel racks, and plate racks. 

Ease of Assembly 

Some half racks are pretty simple and only require a few bolts to assemble before use. However, if you opt for a rack with a lat pulldown or pulley system, the assembly can take a lot longer or be more complicated. 

You should also expect to need two people for a full assembly. Even though half racks are smaller and easier to assemble compared to a full rack, they are still heavy and awkward during assembly. 

Durability & Warranty 

Aside from the steel and finish, the rack needs to be sturdy and safe. This means that the legs need to be extended far enough to hold the weight, have high weight limits, and contain safety features. Your movements need to remain free but also contained within the rack so that you do stay safe. 

The durability of the system is also displayed (in most cases) by the warranty. Longer warranties or better coverage is an indicator of quality and durability. However, this isn’t always the case, so you need to read the warranty thoroughly. 

Claim processes, coverage terms, and what is covered or what is not all need to be understood before you buy. 

Price 

Price is always going to be a factor as well. Half racks are more affordable than other rack systems, but this doesn't always mean they are the most cost-effective. Higher quality racks tend to last longer as they can hold the required weight as your strength grows. 

However, saving money now only to have to buy a more durable rack later may not be the most viable option. 

Exploring Various Rack Types: What Are The Differences?

Half racks and full racks are not the only rack systems on the market. While they are the most popular, there are also many different types of squat racks incline squat racks. What are the differences? Which is best for you? Let’s take a look. 

When it comes to versatility, the squat racks are highly limited. Essentially they are specialty racks for a single exercise. There are a few other movements you can use with them, but not many. 

As opposed to squat racks, full power racks and are much more versatile. With add ons like pulldowns, rows, and other pulley movements, these racks perform much more like a full gym in your home. 

Commercial gyms favor full racks. They have the budget to put more than a few in the gym and extend their user base because of the variety of uses. However, in a home gym, space is more important, and you generally aren't trying to please multiple gym-goers simultaneously. 

CrossFit athletes and bodybuilders will generally prefer a full rack. However, home gym and causal users love the half racks because of the extra freedom of movement. Half racks allow more movement outside the rack than cages and full racks do, even if they can't hold as much weight. 

If you are a power or weightlifter, need the additional uses and variety of exercises (and have the floor space), a full rack is a more cost-effective solution. However, half racks are just as versatile when used correctly and with additional accessories. Squat racks are a more personal choice and are generally used by those looking for multiple-station gym setups. 

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Is a half rack safe? 

Yes, half racks are durable, strong, and safe. When assembled and used correctly, there is little chance of injury. However, because you are free to move outside of the rack, there is a chance that the built-in safety features will be voided. 

Are half racks worth it for home gyms? 

Half racks are affordable, simple to set up, and versatile. The overall cost value is high, and for home gyms and garage gyms, they are well worth the investment. You will need to pay for additional accessories that generally come with a full rack system, but it doesn’t lower the overall volume. 

What exercises can you do with a half rack? 

The half rack with accessories is a nearly complete home gym system. You can perform squats, lunges, bench and bar presses, pull-ups, lat pulldowns, rows (with a pulley system and weight stack), and dips, as well as some abdominal workouts. 

Do you have to bolt down a half rack? 

Racks are heavy and tall, making them quite sturdy. However, with weight movement and usage over time, the racks will move away from their initial position. It is always recommended that any rack be permanently bolted to the ground or wall mount brackets. 

What else do I need in my home gym with a half rack? 

Aside from your weights and bars, you will also need a floor mat, ropes, medicine balls, kettlebells, handles, and perhaps Bluetooth headphones for your music. 

Conclusion

Half racks are a versatile, affordable home gym apparatus. If you do not have the space for a full rack or need the added costs, half racks make a suitable alternative. 

Whether it is cost, space, or versatility, you won't be disappointed with the best half rack. If after this article you are still on the fence, take a second look at our top pick. 

The Sunny Health & Fitness Power Zone Half Rack is sturdy, high quality, and allows for a full range of movement. With a high capacity weight limit and strong top bar, you can’t go wrong.