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It takes a lot of effort, dedication, and money to build a home gym. I started small with a good set of dumbbells and a handful of kettlebells to try and keep my cost manageable. I grew up training with a barbell and a set of plates in the garage, but those rusted over time.
After a couple of years of using limited equipment and body weight, I cleared enough room and added a squat rack. I’m not exaggerating when I say that that simple rack with its pull-up bar and cheap j-hooks has been a game changer for me. But I’m getting to the point where it’s time for another upgrade.
I’m not quite ready to pull the trigger, but I’ve narrowed it down to the Titan T-3 vs. Rogue R-3 power racks. The reviews are pretty mixed when comparing these two, so I'm letting you in on everything I’ve learned so far in case you’re in a similar position.
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Titan T-3 Details
The first thing anyone notices about Titan Fitness equipment is the price. I've even done a double-take myself because the price is much lower than other brands. The next thought is always, what do they sacrifice to keep the price so low? The answer is not much. Their materials are strong, durable, and functional.
Titan’s T-3 series power rack is a big bang for your buck. This rack can hold up to 1,100 pounds in the rack position and 4,400 pounds overall. The posts are made from 11-gauge steel and are two inches by three inches, which is common enough to be compatible with most accessory equipment.
This rack isn’t the sturdiest model or the nicest to look at (despite three different color options), but it will get the job done without blowing a hole in your budget. Will it blow you away with features? Again, no. But Titan Fitness is for the person who wants the basics.
What We Like
- 2 pull-up bars; 1 standard 1 ½” bar, and a fat 2” bar
- Strong construction that can be bolted to the floor
- Easier to move
- 1” hole spacing in the bench area
- Optional plate storage
What We Don’t Like
- The included j-hooks are not durable at all
- Safety bars are not included
- The pin and pipe safeties are not included
BUY: Titan T-3 Series Power Rack
Rogue R-3
Rogue’s approach to equipment is much different than Titan’s. Rogue equipment is top-of-the-line in every aspect, and the company is constantly innovating features to give you a better experience. Of course, that means Rogue has a higher price point but is it worth the money?
The reason Rogue’s equipment is more expensive is the construction. Rogue is 100% made in the USA. They only use the best materials and are quick to correct any imperfections. The average person may not be able to tell the difference, but how this attention to detail impacts the R-3 power rack is clear.
The R-3 is welded instead of bolted at the joints for maximum stability. All of the holes are laser cut, exact, and clean. The powder coat finish is Rogue’s own formula and has a long record of durability. It would be very difficult to find a rack with better construction than Rogue’s R-3, and of course, all of the basic accessories come included.
What We Like
- Included pipe and pin safeties are thicker than average
- 1” hole spacing in the bench area, 2” spacing elsewhere
- Smaller footprint than its competitors
- Compatible with all of Rogue’s Infinity attachments
- Materials and construction is all done in the USA
What We Don’t Like
- Expensive
- The logo is a sticker rather than a laser cut
- Some users say the rack is not very sturdy without being bolted down
Titan T-3 vs. Rogue R-3: Features and Accessories
The Titan T-3 and the Rogue R-3 have two-by-three-inch uprights, which is pretty standard for lighter racks. This means that either power rack is compatible with accessories made for this size, no matter the brand.
Both racks include most of the necessities, but simply put, the R-3 has far more optional features. The R-3 is compatible with all of Rogue’s Infinity accessories which is a line that includes around 50 products. And because they’re from the same brand as the rack, they’ll fit seamlessly.
Titan and Rogue Fitness Equipment Considerations
Cost
I’ve mentioned the price difference a few times, but let’s take a deeper dive. The T-3 can cost anywhere between $490 and $690 depending on what options you choose. On the other hand, the base model R-3 costs a little over $800. That is a huge difference, especially when Titan offers free shipping and Rogue does not.
Warranty
This section will be brief because there is not much of a comparison between Titan and Rogue’s warranties. The frame and construction of the T-3 comes with a one-year warranty, while the R-3 is covered for life.
You'll want to factor in peace of mind when considering the price difference.
My Verdict
I’m very partial to Rogue as a brand, but in this case, I have to go with Titan’s T-3 power rack. There is not much of a difference between these two racks functionally. And I don’t think I’m hard enough on my equipment to need to pay a premium just for higher construction quality. But that's just me; if you're looking for something durable and have a bigger budget, then Rogue all the way.
FAQs
Floor Mounted vs. Free-standing Racks?
Floor-mounted racks are far more stable than free-standing racks, especially if you lift heavy. You might be able to get away with using a free-standing rack in your home gym, but if possible, I would choose the mounted rack.
Squat Rack vs. Power Rack?
The difference between squat racks and power racks boils down to shape. Power racks are shaped like a cage to give you more lifting options and storage while squat racks are usually simpler. I prefer power racks.
Power Rack vs. Functional Trainer?
Power racks are for training with free weights, while functional trainers are for pulley systems. Which is better for you will depend on your preferred training style.
About the Author
Cory is a certified personal trainer and fitness nutrition coach. After spending six years as an educator and coach, Cory joined the ACTIVE team as a staff writer turning his passion for education toward helping ACTIVE readers live their best, healthiest lives.
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