The Best Weightlifting Plates
If you're looking to upgrade your home gym with a squat rack, bench press, or sled, then you're going to need some weight plates, too. They're extremely simple to use and are quite versatile when it comes to resistance training. Even without any type of barbell, you can use weight plates alone to get a killer workout by holding one close to your chest during squats or activating your arms during overhead moves. With that said, due to the number of different types of plates offered today, it can be challenging to find the right set for your home gym. This is where we step in. To help you find the best weight plates for you, we've created a list of our top choices, so keep reading to find the best new addition to your strength training arsenal.
CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic Grip Plate
The whole package
Made of solid cast iron, this weight plate is a favorite in weight-lifting communities. The two-inch center hole will allow the plate to fit onto any Olympic bar, while the baked enamel coating will keep this thing protected during intense workouts. You’ll be able to choose from a single plate or up to a set of four, with each plate ranging from 2.5 pounds to 45 pounds. Plus, we appreciate that the numbers on each plate are raised to better identify the weight. So if you’re in need of some traditional, solid, dependable weight plates, this option by CAP could do the trick.
Pros:
- Made from durable cast iron
- Baked enamel finish
- Grip slot for easy handling
Cons:
- Plates may be smaller than you’d expect
HulkFit Iron Plate
Pick your poison
Achieve the exact weight you need with this wide range of plate options. Sold as singles, you’ll have the choice between 2.5-, 5-, 10-, 25-, 35-, and 45-pound plates to help maximize your weight training performance. They’re crafted from durable cast iron and coated with an enamel finish, and each plate offers large grip holes for a secure hold. The mindfully designed grip holes make training without a barbell a breeze, too. We also appreciate that these plates are labeled with both pounds and kilograms for universal readability.
Pros:
- Offered in both 1- and 2-inch holes
- Wide range of weight options
- Excellent weight accuracy
Cons:
- They aren’t the most attractive weight plates
Sporzon Cast Iron Weight Plate
Break a sweat, not your bank
Offered with 1- or 2-inch center holes, these weight plates come at a price that can’t be beaten. Choose from plates ranging from 2.5–45 pounds, all of which have been finished with a black baked enamel to prevent any corrosion, rust, or unpleasant odor. The plates have a nice width as to not take up too much space on the bar or your display rack, and the grip strips allow you to have a solid hold while performing exercises without barbells. Overall, if you’re on a budget, this is a great choice.
Pros:
- Easy-to-grip holes
- High-quality iron material
- Great value for the price
Cons:
- Not sold as pairs
AMGYM Olympic Bumper Plate
Quiet and durable
Modern, quiet when dropped, and aesthetically appealing, these bumper weight plates could be your new favorite. Ideal for explosive high-rep weight training, these plates are made from 100% high-density natural rubber that provides low bounce and can withstand repeated drops. They’re designed to protect your bars and floors, and they come in different colors according to their weight for easy identification — even from a distance. Compatible with Olympic barbells and offered as singles or in a pair, these bumpers offer high quality at a pretty decent price.
Pros:
- 100% natural rubber
- Low-noise and low-bounce
- Available in singles or pairs
Cons:
- There may be a slight smell from the rubber, though it’ll most likely fade quickly
CAP Barbell Olympic Weight Plates Set
An excellent choice for beginners
If you’re just starting your collection of weight plates, we recommend this set by CAP. You’ll have the option between two bundle deals: the first bundle offers two 25-pound plates while the second bundle will give you four 10-pound plates and two 5-pound plates. They accommodate 2-inch bars and feature oversized grip holes, so they’re quite easy to handle. Plus, the plates are designed with solid cast iron that makes them strong and durable. So if you’re in need of more than just one or two plates for your home gym, this set is perfect to get you started.
Pros:
- Bundle options available
- Great value for the price
- Made for standard 2-inch bars
Cons:
- We wish there was a bundle offered with heavier weights
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for when choosing weight plates?
We recommend you first take a look at the material of the plates you plan on purchasing. Most plates are made from cast iron or rubber. Some are fully rubber while others are iron plates with a rubber coating, so be sure to note the difference. Bumpers are great for home gyms with delicate flooring or for high-repetition training since they can be dropped repeatedly without being damaged or causing damage. You should also check that the weights are as accurate as possible. And finally, determine the plate’s durability. Since most plates are made from iron, they shouldn’t break from regular use. But it’s not impossible. Although rare, durability issues are most common in plates with grip holes, so keep this in mind when buying.
Can I do exercises with weight plates if I don’t have a bar?
Absolutely. Even though weight plates were meant to be used with bars, there are plenty of beneficial workouts you can do without a bar. Especially if you own plates that have grip holes, you can use them in place of most exercises you would normally use dumbells for. For example, you can try floor presses by lying on your back, holding the plate over your chest, and pressing the plate toward the ceiling. You can also do weighted situps, wall sits, squats, bent-over rows, and overhead lunges, just to name a few.