Are you looking for the best weight bench to help you reach your fitness goals?
If so, you’re in the right place! Finding the best weight bench is as important as any other essential gym equipment like dumbbells, barbells, weightlifting shoes and racks so you want to make sure you don’t get it wrong.
In this guide, we will offer you honest and critical opinions after testing over 103 benches and filtering out the best!
About me
Hi, I am Abdullah, a guy whose passion for fitness led to his bachelor’s degree in exercise science, for me what started as a personal fascination soon transformed into a professional career. Over the last six years, I have had the privilege of guiding and supporting numerous individuals on their own fitness journeys. Whether they were beginners taking their first steps into the gym or seasoned athletes aiming to break their personal records, I have been there every step of the way, providing personalized training programs tailored to their unique needs and goals.
List of the 7 best weight benches
Best Overall Adjustable Weight Bench: REP AB-4100 Adjustable Weight Bench
Best Budget Adjustable Weight Bench: REP AB-3100
Best Amazon flat bench Pick: AmazonBasics Flat Weight Bench
Best flat weight bench Rogue Fold-Up Utility Bench at Roguefitness.com
Best Amazon weight bench: Flybird Weight Bench at Amazon
Best Olympic Weight Bench: Marcy Olympic Weight Bench MD-85
Best Multi-Purpose Weight Bench: Sole Fitness SW116
REP AB-4100 Adjustable Weight Bench
Best Overall Adjustable Weight Bench
- Priced at $399.99
- 700 lb weight capacity
- 7 back-pad and 3 seat-pad positions
Pros
- The AB-4100 can be adjusted to 7 different back positions and 3 different seat positions, giving you a wide range of exercises to choose from.
- The AB-4100 is sturdy and has a weight capacity of 700 pounds
- The AB-4100 has a padded backrest and seat that are comfortable to use, even for long workouts.
- The AB-4100 is a very affordable option for an adjustable weight bench.
- The AB-4100 is made from high-quality materials and is built to last.
Cons
- No decline option
- Knobs feel cheap:
- Not as sturdy as some other benches
The REP AB-4100 Adjustable Weight Bench is a great option for most people priced at $399.99.
It is a versatile, stable, comfortable, and affordable bench that is perfect for home gyms. However, if you are looking for a bench with a decline option or if you are a taller user, you may want to consider a different bench.
We recently had the opportunity to test the REP AB-4100 Adjustable Weight Bench and were very impressed with its versatility, stability, and comfort and it’s weight of just 85 pounds.
Moreover, the bench can be adjusted to 7 different back positions and 3 different seat positions, giving you a wide range of exercises to choose from. We also found that the bench was very stable even when we were lifting heavy weights.
The padded backrest and seat were also very comfortable, even for long workouts.
One of the things we liked most about the REP AB-4100 Adjustable Weight Bench was its affordability as it just priced at $399.99 way cheaper than the REP AB-5200 or Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0. H
However, there were a few minor drawbacks that we noticed. The knobs that adjust the backrest and seat feel a bit cheap, and the back pad is a little shorter than some other benches on the market. Also to mention, it doesn’t have a decline option which can be a concern for some.
Related Articles:
Best adjustable weight benches
REP AB-3100
Pros
- The REP AB-3100 Adjustable Weight Bench is versatile offers multiple adjustable positions
- The bench is built with high-quality materials, providing stability and durability during workouts.
- The seat and backrest can be adjusted to different angles, allowing for a comfortable and personalized workout experience.
- The bench has a high weight capacity(700 lb), typically accommodating heavy lifters and providing a safe workout environment.
- The bench is user-friendly and straightforward to adjust.
- Really affordable at $270 then other expensive options.
Cons
- Bench can’t be declined
- Due to its robust construction, the bench may take up a significant amount of space.
- Paint seems to scratch way too easy.
- Minimum 30 degree incline angle.
- Lack of Pre-Set Angles
Great option on a budget (only $270) keeping in view the downsides
The REP AB-3100 Adjustable Weight Bench is REP’s most affordable option at $270, but it still offers a range of adjustable features.
It has six back pad positions, allowing you to go from a flat position to a 90-degree angle, and three seat angle options, going from flat to 20 degrees.
This heavy-duty bench is designed with a flat-incline configuration, lacking a decline position.
Moreover, its three-post design ensures that the legs of the bench won’t obstruct your feet during pressing exercises. Switching between angles is easy and secure thanks to the ladder adjustment design.
To enhance stability, the AB-3100 is equipped with grooved rubber feet on all three contact points, providing a firm grip. It also includes a vertical tube for additional support when dealing with heavy loads, with a weight capacity of 700 lbs.
The bench’s pads are covered in a non-slip, textured vinyl material that holds lifters in place and is easy to clean.
AB-3100 is available in four colours: metallic black, red, blue, and matte black.
The Flybird Weight Bench has a few notable drawbacks. Firstly, it lacks the ability to be declined, limiting its versatility for specific exercises. Additionally, its bulky size may pose a challenge for individuals with limited workout space or smaller home gyms.
Another concern is that the paint on the bench is prone to scratching easily, potentially compromising its appearance over time. Furthermore, the bench only offers a minimum incline angle of 30 degrees, which may not cater to the preferences of users who prefer a steeper incline angle, such as 15 or 20 degrees.
Product features:
Bench Weight:70lbs
Bench Height:16.75″
Bench Width:23″
Bench Length:50.5″
Back Pad Angles:0, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90
Seat Pad Angles:0, 10, 20
Back Pad Length:34.75″
Pad Width::11.75″ Tapered To 9″
Seat Pad Length:13″
Seat Pad Width:10.5″ Tapered To 8″
Pad Gap:1.7″
Total Length Of Pads:49.5″
Footprint:7.9 SQFT
Tolerance:3%
Weight Capacity:700lbs
Material:14- and 4-Gauge Steel
Amazon Basics Flat Weight Bench
Pros
- Priced at $50
- Sturdy Construction: The bench is designed with a durable and stable frame, capable of supporting various weights during workouts.
- Its flat and streamlined design allows for easy storage and transportation, making it suitable for small spaces or individuals who frequently move their equipment.
- Light weight: Weighs at just 21.6 pounds.Therefore,easy to move.
Cons
- Can be hard to assemble especially it can be hard to fit screws into nuts.
- Some users may find the padding on the bench to be thin or less comfortable compared to higher-end models.
- The weight capacity is not great
Really cheap option that works best according to what it offers.
We recently had the opportunity to test the AmazonBasics Flat Weight Bench, and overall, we found it to be a decent option for individuals on a budget who are looking for a simple and sturdy bench.
The affordability of this bench was a standout feature, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
The sturdy construction provided a stable platform for various exercises, and the compact design made it easy to store and transport. As we assembled the bench, we found the process to be straightforward and hassle-free, requiring minimal time and effort but users have reported difficulties
The AmazonBasics Flat Weight Bench has several noteworthy drawbacks. Firstly, it is a flat bench which allows for a limited variety of exercises.
Moreover, assembling the bench can be challenging, particularly when it comes to fitting screws into nuts. Additionally, the padding on the bench is reported to be thin and less comfortable than higher-end models, potentially affecting workout comfort during longer sessions.
Another drawback is its lower weight capacity, which may not accommodate heavier lifters. While the bench generally has a non-slip surface, some users have experienced slipperiness when sweating during intense workouts, compromising stability and safety.
Product features:
Item Weight: 21.6 Pounds
Material: Alloy Steel, Polyvinyl Chloride
Colour: Black
Product Dimensions: 11.22″D x 40.94″W x 17.91″H
Frame Material: Alloy Steel
Rogue Fold-Up Utility Bench
Pros
- The Rogue Fold-Up Utility Bench features a fold-up design, allowing you to easily store it in compact spaces when not in use.
- Rogue is known for its high-quality construction, and this bench is no exception.
- The bench offers multiple adjustable positions, including various incline angles, allowing you to perform a wide range of exercises.
- The bench typically comes with thick and comfortable padding, providing support and cushioning during workouts.
- The bench is designed to be user-friendly, with quick and convenient adjustment mechanisms,
Cons
- Higher price point($320),
- Lack of Decline Position
- Depending on the specific model, the assembly process may be more involved or time-consuming compared to other benches.
- The bench itself can be heavy at(48 lbs) and thus difficult to move
- While the bench can be folded up for storage, it may still be bulkier and less portable compared to other lightweight and compact benches on the market.
After extensively testing the Rogue Fold-Up Utility Bench, we were highly impressed by its space-saving design, sturdy construction, and adjustable positions.
The fold-up feature allowed for easy storage in compact spaces, while the bench’s durability ensured long-lasting performance. Moreover, the ability to adjust the incline angles provided versatility for targeting different muscle groups during our workouts.
Furthermore, the thick and comfortable padding added support, making our exercise sessions enjoyable. The user-friendly design facilitated quick adjustments, making transitions seamless.
While the Rogue Fold-Up Utility Bench comes at a higher price point of ($320) and might be heavy to move(48 lbs), its exceptional quality and functionality make it a worthwhile investment for serious fitness enthusiasts.
In addition, the weight capacity, although adequate for most users, may be limiting for heavy lifters. Overall, the Rogue Fold-Up Utility Bench exceeded our expectations and proved to be a reliable and versatile addition to any home gym.
Product features:
Colour: Black
Made In USA: Yes
Length: 47” (Pad)
Width: 14” (at base)
Height:17” Unfolded, 7.5” Folded
Foot Print: 47” x 14”
Steel Notes: 2×3” 11-Gauge Steel
Other Product Specs: Pad 47″ x 12″
Pad Thickness: Varies
Flybird Weight Bench at Amazon
Best weight bench on Amazon
- Priced at $160
- 7 back-pad and 3 seat-pad positions
- 800 lb weight capacity
Pros
- The Flybird Weight Bench is often praised for its affordability($159.99),
- This weight bench offers multiple adjustable positions with 7 back positions and 3 seat positions for full body workout.
- Made of commercial thickness steel, past thousands of weight test to ensure safety for workout every time
- The Flybird Weight Bench is has a compact size, making it suitable for home gyms or smaller workout spaces (like mine)
- Very comfortable to use
- No Assembly require
- This bench offers a great 800 lb weight capacity.
Cons
- The decline of the bench can be uncomfortable for some users.
- The bench can be a little high for even tall people
- When laid flat (ie: bench press), the gap between the upper and lower portion of the bench can be a little too big. It may feel like there was a big hole under your back that lacked support.
- Durability Concerns: I am not sure about the long-term durability of certain components. i.e the fabric on the seat
- A few users have mentioned stability concerns, with the bench wobbling or feeling less stable during intense or heavy lifting sessions.
We had the opportunity to put the Flybird Weight Bench to the test, and overall, we found it to be a budget-friendly option with some notable features.
One of the standout pros of this weight bench is its affordable price point($159.99), making it accessible to individuals looking to establish a home gym without breaking the bank.
The adjustable positions were a welcome feature, allowing us to target different muscle groups and perform a variety of exercises effectively.
Additionally, the compact and space-saving design made it a practical choice for our smaller workout area, as it didn’t take up much space when not in use as you can essentially fold it up.
Furthermore, It doesn’t require any assembling.
However, the Flybird Weight Bench has a few notable issues. Firstly, the decline position can be uncomfortable for certain users. Additionally, the height of the bench may be slightly high, even for taller individuals.
Another discomfort arises when using the bench in a flat position, such as during bench presses, as the noticeable gap between the upper and lower portions of the bench can create a feeling of inadequate support, resembling a large hole under the back.
In addition, there were instances where the bench felt slightly wobbly, which compromised our confidence and form during certain exercises.
Marcy Olympic Weight Bench MD-85
Pros
- The MD-857 offers a wide range of exercise possibilities
- This weight bench is built with durable materials and a solid frame and feels secure during intense workouts
- The MD-857 features adjustable backrest and seat positions, allowing users to customize their workout angles and target specific muscle groups effectively.
- weight capacity of 600lb!
- It also has weight plates storage facilitating your workout
- The bench is equipped with thick and comfortable padding, ensuring a cushioned surface for optimal comfort during workouts.
Cons
- The assembly process for the MD-857 can be time-consuming
- Non-Foldable Design: Unlike some other weight benches, the MD-857 does not offer a foldable feature, which may be a disadvantage for users who prioritize space-saving and easy storage.
- Weight: It weighs 103 pounds therefore is challenging to move
- Base: For some people the base might not be wide enough hence providing instability
- Too tall: Bench can be even a tiny bit tall for a 6ft 3in!
Having tested the Marcy Olympic Weight Bench MD-857, we found it to be a versatile and durable option for a comprehensive full-body workout.
The wide range of exercise possibilities impressed us, as it allowed us to target various muscle groups with exercises such as chest presses, leg workouts, and arm exercises. The sturdy construction, with its rugged foam and vinyl materials, provided the stability and support needed for intense lifting sessions.
We appreciated the adjustable backrest and seat positions, which allowed us to customize our workout angles and effectively focus on specific muscle groups.
Moreover, the bench’s Olympic weight compatibility, with a maximum weight capacity of 600 pounds, made it suitable for users who prefer using standard Olympic weights. The inclusion of weight plate storage was an added convenience that facilitated our workout sessions.
Additionally, the thick and comfortable padding ensured a cushioned surface that enhanced overall comfort during workouts.
However, a few cons came to light during our testing. The assembly process of the MD-857 proved to be time-consuming and required a moderate level of technical expertise, which could be a drawback for some users.
Furthermore, The non-foldable design meant that it lacked space-saving and easy storage capabilities, which may be a disadvantage for those with limited workout areas. Moreover, the weight of the bench, totalling 103 pounds, presented challenges when it came to moving or relocating it.
In addition to this we also recognised that for some users, the base of the bench may not provide enough width, leading to potential instability during exercises. Lastly, the bench’s height could be an issue for taller individuals, with even a slight increase in height causing discomfort for users around 6 feet 3 inches tall.
Sole Fitness SW116
Best Multi-Purpose Weight Bench
- Priced at $350
- 9 different back positions and 5 seat pad positions
Pros
- The SW116 can be adjusted to 9 different back positions and 5 different seat positions.
- The SW116 is made from heavy-duty steel and has a weight capacity of 550 pounds
- The SW116 has a padded backrest and seat that are comfortable to use, even for long workouts.
- The SW116 is a very affordable option for an adjustable weight bench priced at just $350.
- The SW116 is made from high-quality materials and is built to last.
- The SW116 has built-in storage for weights and other workout accessories, which saves space in your gym.
Cons
- Knobs feel cheap
- Back pad is a little shorter than some other benches
- Not as sturdy as some other benches:
The SOLE Fitness SW116 Weight Bench is a great option for most people looking for a versatile, stable, comfortable, and affordable adjustable weight bench. My personal experience with this has been great, although it’s not very popular it really provides value for money.
The SOLE Fitness SW116 is a versatile and affordable adjustable weight bench that offers a wide range of exercise options. With 9 different back positions and 5 different seat positions, this bench provides ample variety to suit your workout preferences.
Its adjustability allows you to target specific muscle groups effectively and customize your routine.
Moreover, stability is a key feature of the SW116, constructed with heavy-duty steel and boasting a weight capacity of 550 pounds. It ensures a secure and stable platform, giving you the confidence to lift heavy weights without worry.
The padded backrest and seat provide exceptional comfort during workouts, supporting your body even during longer sessions. it is made with durable commercial-grade cushions and can withstand wear and tear while offering enduring support.
Notably, the SW116’s affordability is another highlight, priced at just $350. It presents an accessible option for individuals looking to upgrade their home gym without breaking the bank. Furthermore, the bench is built to last, utilizing high-quality materials that ensure durability and long-term use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the suitable weight bench is essential for a successful fitness journey. Factors like bench type, adjustability, weight capacity, build quality, and budget play a vital role. Whether a seasoned athlete or a beginner, a well-chosen weight bench can enhance workouts and long-term fitness goals.
