Getting the right weight plates is essential for building a decent home gym, and you’ll want to avoid lower-quality options that’ll break within a year.
Top 3 Weight Plates for Home Workouts:
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- Best Overall – Rogue Echo V2 Weight Plates
- Best Budget Pick – CAP Olympic Weight Plates
- Best for Beginners – Prosource Fit SR Bumper Plates
I've bought weight plates for my home gym and the gym I own, so let me share what I've learned as I weighed the pros, cons, and costs of the top-weight plates.
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I opened a gym in Southern California, and to find the right equipment, my wife and I tried all sorts of weight plates. I've also chatted with other writers at PowerliftingTechnique, who have decades of combined experience training clients and helping build home gyms.
I then considered the top branded weight plates based on their cost, functionality, durability, and accuracy.
11 Best Weight Plates
| Product | Weight | Diameter | Thickness | Material | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rogue Echo V2 Weight Plates | 10 lbs – 45 lbs | 450 mm (17.72 “) | 10 lbs: 21 mm 15 lbs: 26 mm 25 lbs: 38 mm 35 lbs: 48 mm 45 lbs: 61 mm | Rubber and stainless steel | -90 days for 10 and 15 lbs Three years for 25, 35, and 45 lbs |
| CAP Olympic Weight Plates | 2.5 lbs – 45 lbs | 2.5 lbs: 5.9" 5 lbs: 7.48" 10lbs: 9.41" 20 lbs: 7.48" 25 lbs: 11.61" 35 lbs: 14.17" 45 lbs: 16.54" | 2.5 lbs: 0.63" 5 lbs: 0.75" 10lbs: 0.83" 25 lbs: 1.42" 35 lbs: 1.34" 45 lbs: 1.34" | Aluminum | 30 day manufacturer |
| Prosource Fit SR Bumper Plates | 10 lbs – 45 lbs | 450 mm (17.72”) | 10 lbs: 25 mm 15 lbs: 32 mm 25 lbs: 46 mm 35 lbs: 58 mm 45 lbs: 72 mm | Rubber, zinc steel inserts | One year |
| Rep Fitness Competition Bumper Plates | 25 lbs - 55 lbs | 450 mm (17.72”) | 25 lbs: 33 mm 35 lbs: 41 mm 45 lbs: 53 mm 55 lbs: 66 mm | Rubber, zinc steel discs | Five years |
| Rep Fitness Urethane Coated Equalizer Weight Plates | 2.5 lbs – 45 lbs | 2.5 lbs: 159 mm 5 lbs: 195 mm 10 lbs: 223 mm 25 lbs: 311 mm 35 lbs: 363 mm 45 lbs: 450 mm | 2.5 lbs: 23 mm 5 lbs: 25 mm 10 lbs: 35 mm 25 lbs: 51 mm 35 lbs: 51 mm 45 lbs: 46 mm | Cast iron and urethane coating | One year |
| Fringe Sport Black Bumper Plates Set | 10 lbs – 55 lbs | 450 mm (17.72 “) | 10 lbs: 26 mm 15 lbs: 30 mm 25 lbs: 48 mm 35 lbs: 60 mm 45 lbs: 74 mm 55 lbs: 81 mm | Virgin rubber, stainless steel insert | One year for 10 and 15 lbs Three years for 25, 35, and 45 lbs |
| Fringe Sport Olympic Iron Plates | 1.25 lbs – 45 lbs | 1.25 lbs: 115 mm 2.5 lbs: 165 mm 5 lbs: 197 mm 10 lbs: 241 mm 25 lbs: 280 mm 35 lbs: 350 mm 45 lbs: 444 mm | 1.25 lbs: 10 mm 2.5 lbs: 13 mm 5 lbs: 19 mm 10 lbs: 19 mm 25 lbs: 38 mm 35 lbs: 38 mm 45 lbs: 38 mm | Cast iron | One year |
| Rogue Fitness Calibrated KG Steel Plates | 0.25 kg to 50 kg (0.55 lbs - 110 lbs) | 0.25 kgs (0.55 lbs): - 0.5 kgs (1.1 lbs): 112 mm 1.25 kgs (2.75 lbs): 134 mm 2.5 kgs (5.5 lbs): 160 mm 5 kgs (11 lbs): 190 mm 10 kgs (22 lbs): 229 mm 15 kgs (33 lbs): 325 mm 20 kgs (44 lbs): 400 mm 25 kgs (55 lbs): 250 mm 50 kg (110 lbs): 450 mm | 0.25 kgs (0.55 lbs): 6 mm 0.5 kgs (1.1 lbs): 8 mm 1.25 kgs (2.75 lbs): 12 mm 2.5 kgs (5.5 lbs): 16 mm 5 kgs (11 lbs): 21.5 mm 10 kgs (22 lbs): 21 mm 15 kgs (33 lbs): 21 mm 20 kgs (44 lbs): 22.5 mm 25 kgs (55 lbs): 27 mm 50 kg (110 lbs): 50 mm | Cast iron | -90 days for 10 and 15 lbs Three years for 25, 35, and 45 lbs |
| American Barbell Color KG Sport Bumper Plates | 10 kgs to 25 kgs (22 lbs – 55 lbs) | 450 mm (17.72 “) | 22 lbs: 42 mm 33 lbs: 57 mm 44 lbs: 72 mm 55 lbs: 86 mm | Rubber and stainless steel | One year |
| Rep Fitness Iron Weight Plates | 2.5 lbs – 45 lbs | 2.5 lb: 156 mm 5 lb: 195 mm 10 lb: 223 mm 25 lb: 272 mm 35 lb: 363 mm 45 lb: 450 mm | 2.5 lbs: 15 mm 5 lbs: 19 mm 10 lbs: 25 mm 25 lbs: 38 mm 35 lbs: 38 mm 45 lbs: 38 mm | Cast iron | One year |
| Prosource Fit Color Training Bumper Plates | 25 lbs – 55 lbs | 450 mm (17.72”) | 25 lbs: 30 mm 35 lbs: 41 mm 45 lbs: 53 mm 55 lbs: 60 mm | Rubber, zinc steel inserts | Three years |
1. Best Overall: Rogue Echo V2 Weight Plates
Rating: 4.3/5
Pros
- Durometer of 88 for minimal bounce
- Meet IWF standards
- Approved for use as part of the United States Army’s Combat Fitness Test
- Same diameter for all plates
Cons
- The weight plates all look very similar
The Rogue Fitness Echo V2 Weight Plates cover all bases. These are the only rubber plate weights I have in my gym. They are moderately priced, built to last, and so good that they are used in the United States Army’s Combat Fitness Test and the CrossFit Games.
As a company, Rogue is all about quality. These are the most durable bumper plates I own. They have a high durometer of 88 for a minimal bounce. And they’re all equal in diameter, which makes them great for deadlifts, clean & jerks, and snatches.
2. Best Budget Pick: CAP Olympic Weight Plates
Pros
- Solid cast iron construction with a durable black enamel finish
- Convenient grip holes for secure handling
- Reliable weight accuracy
- Excellent packaging ensures safe delivery
Cons
- The Olympic-sized hole is slightly larger than necessary, leading to some wobble on the bar
- The enamel finish, while better than some competitors, is not flawless, with some inconsistencies in paint application
- Some plates may have sharp paint spikes needing sanding
If you're setting up a home gym and need quality weights without breaking the bank, the CAP Barbell Olympic Grip Weight Plates are fantastic. They're affordable but also reliable and versatile for all kinds of workouts.
When my set arrived, I was impressed with the packaging. It was super protective, ensuring everything was in top shape. The weights are pretty accurate – my 45lb plates were almost spot on.
I appreciate the grip holes on these plates. They make handling them a breeze, whether I'm switching them out or just moving them around. And they're perfect for various exercises, so they've become a staple in my workout routine.
One heads-up, though, the center hole is a bit on the larger side, which can cause some wobbling on the bar. A good barbell collar should sort that out. Also, while the overall finish is solid and looks good enough for any home gym, it's not perfect – there are some minor paint issues, but nothing that affects their use.
Bottom line? You can't find rusty Rogue plates for this price, so if you're looking for a great workout at a budget price the CAP weight plates should be your first choice.
3. Best for Beginners: Prosource Fit SR Bumper Plates
Rating 3.5/5
Pros
- Durometer of 88 for minimal bounce
- Lowest weight is 10 lb, which is ideal for new lifters
- Quick delivery
Cons
- All the same color, so it could be hard to distinguish between different weights
- Sold individually, so it could be expensive if you need a full set
The ProsourceFit SR Bumper Plates are ideal for beginners. They are available between 10 and 45 lbs, so they’re suitable if you’re a new lifter and want to start training with relatively low weights.
The bumper material is high quality and feels good in my hands. I can drop them without worrying that I'll ding them up.
The downside to these plates is that they aren’t color-coded. However, they are manufactured with top-quality rubber and zinc inserts and have low bounce, so they won’t fly when you drop them after your sets.
4. Best Premium Pick: Rep Fitness Competition Bumper Plates
Rating 4.5/5
Pros
- Built to absorb maximum shock and force as the plates hit the ground
- Patented design and raised lettering and numbering
- Five-year warranty on all competition bumper plates
Cons
- The lowest weight increment is 25 lb, which might not be ideal for new lifters
The Rep Fitness Competition Bumper Plates are the best choice for those training for an upcoming Olympic weightlifting competition. They have bright and vibrant colors, each corresponding to a different weight (between 25 lb and 55 lb).
These plates have a strict weight tolerance and are built to withstand heavy weights. I especially like the extra inner steel ring that enhances shock absorption and dispersal of force, enabling me to enjoy smooth and silent lifting.
There is a five-year warranty on all REP Fitness competition bumper plates, so you can go all-out with your workouts, knowing that you're covered if anything goes wrong.
5. Best Urethane Plates: REP Fitness Urethane Coated Equalizer
Rating 4.5/5
Pros
- Urethane coating provides increased durability and noise reduction
- Precision-cut grip holes for easy handling of the weight plates
- Weight tolerance of 3%
Cons
- Not ideal to use with other plates because of the non-uniform plate diameters
The Urethane Coated Equalizer Weight Plates by REP Fitness offer a high-quality, durable, shock-resistant option for your home gym. They’re compatible with standard 2-inch Olympic barbells, although REP Fitness doesn’t recommend mixing them with other weight plates because of the varying plate diameters.
The urethane coating surrounding the cast iron center reduces noise and bounce when the plates contact the ground. The grip holes enable you to transport the plates easily. They have a weight tolerance of 3%, so they are accurate against their stated weights.
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The Rep Urethane Equalizer plates are not only visually appealing, but they are also one of the highest-quality plates available on the market. The durable coating is perfectly suited to absorb shock and protect your floor, making them an ideal choice if you’re looking for a long-lasting investment. Even after two years of use, my set still looks as pristine as the day I bought them.
The shooter-style holes make them incredibly easy to handle, and they can be used both on and off the barbell. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out, you’ll appreciate their versatility and ease of use.
These plates are definitely worth the premium price tag if you want to invest in plates that both look and feel great. They will motivate you to push yourself to add more weight to your barbell, and you’ll feel confident knowing that you’re using a high-quality product that will last for years to come.
6. Best for Minimal Bounce: Fringe Sport Black Bumper Plates Set
Pros
- Fast shipping
- Durometer of 85 to 90 for low bounce
- Three-year warranty for the 25 lb, 35 lb, and 45 lb plates
Cons
- Every plate is black, so it can be difficult to distinguish between different weights
- Only a one-year warranty for the 10 lb and 15 lb weight plates
The Black Bumper Weight Plates from Fringe Sport are a high-quality yet affordable product. The plates have many 5-star reviews, with customers praising the product for its high quality and low bounce and the company for its fast shipping.
Every plate is made out of black virgin rubber with a stainless-steel insert. Each has a durometer between 85 and 90, so you don’t need to worry about them bouncing too much when you drop them on the floor.
7. Best Cast Iron Weight Plates: Fringe Sport Olympic Iron Plates
Rating 4.5/5
Pros
- All plates are coated in black satin enamel finish to reduce the risk of rusting
- Each plate states both pounds and kilograms
- Machine-bored holes in each plate for easier loading and unloading
Cons
- Each weight plate increment has a different diameter
- Iron plates are louder than rubber options, which might not be suitable for a home gym
Fringe Sport also sells these cast iron weight plates, which are available between 1.25 lbs and 45 lbs. Although the plates are all the same color, each weight increment has a different diameter and raised letters and numbers so that you can distinguish between the weights. The plates state both the total pounds and total kilograms.
However, the differences in diameter may be a disadvantage in some cases. For example, if you want to start deadlifting and start with the smaller weight plates on the barbell, the bar will sit very close to the ground, making it difficult to maintain good deadlift form.
8. Best IPF-Approved Plates: Rogue Fitness Calibrated KG Steel Plates
Rating 4.5/5
Pros
- Available between 0.25 kgs and 50 kgs
- Accurate to within 10 grams of the stated weight
- Includes calibration pumps for a higher level of precision
Cons
- Might not be compatible with all barbell brands due to the 50 mm center
The Rogue Fitness KG Calibrated Weight Plates are approved by the International Powerlifting Federation and are manufactured to a high level of precision. Every plate weighs within 10 grams of the stated weight, so you know exactly how much you’re lifting during training and competitions.
The smooth finish on these plates offers maximum protection to reduce wear and tear, and the plates are color-coded for easy recognition. The downside to these plates is that their 50 mm center might be too small for some barbells.
9. Best for Olympic Weightlifting: American Barbell Color KG Sport Bumper Plates
Rating 4/5
Pros
- The plate’s colors are vibrant and aesthetically pleasing
- Rubber coated for extra durability and reduced noise when dropped
- 450 mm diameter meets IWF standards
Cons
- No warranty available, and the company doesn’t offer any returns or exchanges
- Lowest weight available is 22 lbs (10 kgs), which could be too heavy for beginner lifters
These colored KG bumper plates from American Barbell are ideal for Olympic weightlifting. They have a thick rubber coating that reduces noise and bounce when you drop the plates from overhead. They are available in weights between 22 and 55 lbs and are as vibrant in person as they look online.
Although these plates aren’t available in lower weights, they’re suitable if you’re an intermediate to advanced weightlifter and want some great equipment for your home workouts.
10. Best for Easy Handling: REP Fitness Iron Weight Plates
Rating 4.5/5
Pros
- Wide range of weight increments available
- Raised lips for easy handling
Cons
- Iron plates can be noisy when dropped on the ground
The REP Fitness Iron Weight Plates are available from 2.5 lbs to 45 lbs, with the plates at each increment having a different diameter. They have raised silver letters and raised lips, making them easy to load and
These plates are made from tough cast iron, making them durable but at risk of rusting over time. Iron can be noisier and cause more damage to your floor than rubber bumper plates, so you’ll need to be careful not to drop them.
11. Good Training Bumper Plates: Prosource Fit Color Training Bumper Plates
Rating 4.5/5
Pros
-
- Competition colored according to IWF standards
- Minimal bounce thanks to good durometer
- Calibrated to within 15 grams of target weight
Cons
- Sold individually, so could be expensive if you need a full set
The ProsourceFit Color Training Bumper Plates are made with premium rubber and zinc materials. They’re colored according to IWF competition standards, making it easy to distinguish between weights.
I bought the 45 lb plates because of the great reviews and good price point, and I wasn't disappointed. They don't bounce much and are precisely the weight as advertised.
These plates are appropriate for powerlifting, weightlifting, and CrossFit, as they’re some of the best deadlifting, clean and jerk, or bench press plates. They’re accurate to within +/- 15 grams of the stated weight.
Each plate is sold separately, which is both a positive and a negative. You can purchase the product in just one weight if needed, but buying all four different weight plates will be fairly expensive.
Buying Guide: 3 Things To Look For in Weight Plates
Several characteristics contribute to weight plates' quality, durability, price, and suitability for certain exercises.
Whether you’re looking for the best rubber weight plates, iron weight plates, or a tough steel weight set, here are some important factors to consider to ensure that you find the best weight plates for a home gym:
- Traditional metal vs. bumper plates
- Colors and designs
- Price and Budget Considerations
Traditional Metal vs Bumper Plates
Weight plates come in two main types: traditional metal plates and bumper plates. Traditional plates are usually made of cast iron and are thinner, allowing you to load more weight on the barbell. They're ideal if you have limited space or lift heavy weights. Bumper plates, on the other hand, are coated in rubber or urethane, designed to be dropped with minimal noise and to protect floors. They're great for Olympic lifts or CrossFit, as they are quieter and more shock absorbent.
Colors and Designs
While the color and design of the plates don't impact their function, color-coded bumper plates make it easier to identify different weights. They can be more visually appealing than standard black or metal plates.
Price and Budget Considerations
Traditional cast iron plates are usually more budget-friendly, but the price can vary based on the coating material. Remember, cheaper plates might be of lower quality. Calibrated plates, which are thinner and more precise in weight, can be very expensive and are generally unnecessary unless you're training for professional competitions. Consider your budget and needs when choosing between traditional and bumper plates for your home gym.
If you’re also shopping for a barbell but have a tight budget, check out our list of the best cheap barbells that are still high quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cheapest Type of Weight Plate?
Generally, the cheapest type of weight plates is cast iron plates. However, if they have a urethane coating and are built according to IPF standards, they could be more expensive than bumper rubber plates.
Are 45lb and 20kg Plates the Same?
Many people refer to 20 kg and 45 lb weight plates interchangeably. However, there is a slight difference between the two. Twenty-kilogram plate weights are actually 44 lbs. A plate that weighs exactly 45 lbs equates to a 20.4 kg plate.
What Are the Best Weight Plates for Powerlifting?
The best weight plate for powerlifting exercises, such as squats, deadlifts, and bench presses, is a cast iron or stainless steel plate. They are thinner than rubber bumper plates, so you can load more onto your barbell. And since you won’t drop weight from overhead, you can get away with not using bumper plates.
Can You Drop Metal Weight Plates?
We strongly advise against dropping metal plates, especially if you’re dropping the weight from overhead. Metal weight plates can make a lot of noise as they contact the ground and will cause some serious damage as they do so.
How Much Do Weight Plates Cost?
The cost of weight plates depends on the brand, the materials, the total weight, the weight tolerance, and the durability. On average, bumper plates cost $1.70 to $7/lb, and cast iron plates cost around $1.40/lb. Calibrated weight plates used in powerlifting or weightlifting competitions can cost even more.
