Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about building your home gym
About PlateDrop
What is PlateDrop?
PlateDrop is a curated deals platform for home gym equipment. We track prices across major retailers and highlight the best deals on quality fitness gear. Our AI-powered system updates daily to ensure you never miss a great deal.
How do you find deals?
We use automated systems to monitor prices across Amazon, Rogue Fitness, REP Fitness, and other major retailers. Our algorithms identify genuine discounts by comparing current prices to historical data, ensuring we only feature real deals.
Are the deals legitimate?
Yes! We verify all deals against historical pricing data. We don't feature fake "discounts" where retailers inflate the original price. If we list a deal, it's a genuine price reduction.
How often do you update deals?
Our system runs daily at 2 AM UTC (10 PM EST / 9 PM EDT). New deals are posted every morning, and expired deals are removed automatically.
Do you make money from these deals?
Yes, we participate in affiliate programs with retailers. When you purchase through our links, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep the site running and free for everyone. See our Affiliate Disclosure for full details.
Home Gym Equipment
How much does it cost to build a home gym?
Minimalist
$800-1,000
Squat stands, barbell, plates, bench
Standard
$2,000-3,000
Power rack, barbell, plates, bench, dumbbells
Premium
$5,000-8,000
Multiple bars, specialty equipment, cardio
Most people start with $1,500-2,500 and expand over time. See our Home Gym Setup Guide for detailed breakdowns.
What equipment do I need to start?
The essentials are:
- Power rack or squat stands — $200-800
- Olympic barbell — $150-400
- Weight plates — $300-600 for starter set
- Adjustable bench — $150-300
- Flooring — $150-300
Total: $950-2,400 for a complete basic setup.
Should I buy new or used equipment?
Best to Buy Used
- Weight plates (iron lasts forever)
- Power racks (simple, durable)
- Benches (if in good condition)
Best to Buy New
- Barbells (bearings/bushings wear out)
- Adjustable dumbbells (complex mechanisms)
- Cardio equipment (motors and electronics)
How much space do I need?
You also need 7-8 feet of clearance in front of your rack for barbell exercises.
What about ceiling height?
- Minimum: 8 feet (limits some exercises)
- Comfortable: 9 feet (works for most people)
- Ideal: 10+ feet (no limitations)
Consider your height plus 12-18 inches for overhead movements and pull-ups.
Specific Equipment
Power Rack vs Squat Stands?
Power Rack (4-post)
- ✓ More stable
- ✓ Better safety features
- ✓ More attachment options
- ✗ Larger footprint
- $400-2,000
Squat Stands (2-post)
- ✓ Smaller footprint
- ✓ More affordable
- ✗ Less stable (needs bolting)
- ✗ Fewer attachments
- $200-800
For most home gyms, a power rack is worth the investment. See our Power Rack Guide.
Olympic vs Standard Barbell?
Always choose Olympic (7 feet, 45 lbs, 2" sleeves). Standard barbells (1" sleeves) limit your options and have poor resale value. Olympic bars are the industry standard for good reason.
See our Barbell Guide for detailed comparisons.
Iron vs Bumper Plates?
Iron Plates
- ✓ Cheaper ($1-2/lb)
- ✓ More compact
- ✗ Cannot drop
Best for: Powerlifting, budget setups
Bumper Plates
- ✓ Can drop safely
- ✗ More expensive ($2-4/lb)
- ✗ Take more bar space
Best for: Olympic lifting, CrossFit, beginners
Many people use bumper 45s with iron change plates for the best of both worlds. See our Weight Plates Guide.
Do I need a bench?
Yes, if you want to bench press or do many accessory exercises. An adjustable bench ($150-300) is more versatile than a flat bench and worth the extra cost.