Editor’s Note: This was updated on 1/22/22 with new information.
Weight benches are an essential part of any home gym. While there’s hardly a weight training program out there that doesn’t include a bench press, they are actually much more versatile than that and allow you to perform quite a few strength training exercises.
My general advice is to buy the best equipment you can (reasonably) afford but if you’re like me, you’re on a budget and can’t always invest a lot in gym equipment. Not only that but prices just on everything just keep going up 1 Thanks Joe Biden!.
So what’s a “cheap?” weight bench cost? I’d say anywhere from $50 to $150 would be on the cheaper end. Anything below that, I wouldn’t trust 2you tend to get what you pay and anything more expensive than that is no longer cheap.
Which is where this page comes in. If you did a quick search, you probably noticed there are quite a few cheap weight benches out there with newer ones being added all the time. But are these weight benches really any good? Or will you just be wasting your money?
One thing to keep in mind – all of these weight benches will have some flaws or limitations. They might not be the most comfortable to use. Need wheels to easily move the bench? Well, you’ll probably have to look elsewhere. Those limitations might be perfectly fine in your situation but just keep them in mind before purchasing!
So, with that said, in this review I’ll walk you through 5 of the top options when it comes to affordable weight benches so that you can choose the best one for you.
Oh, one last note, if you’re specifically looking for an affordable and foldable weight bench, then see this review page.
Now, here’s a quick weight bench overview –
Top 5 Cheapest Weight Benches
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#1 Gold’s Gym XR 5.9 Weight Bench
A simple, relatively comfortable, and sturdy adjustable weight bench, the XR 5.9 is a good budget weight bench.
Typically selling in for $50-$60, it can be adjusted to 6 different positions – including incline and decline – which is nice to when performing other exercises like rows, dips, and crunches. It also has a pretty durable sewn vinyl seat and vinyl covered back making for easy cleaning.
It’s pretty easy to assemble as the instructions and parts are marked very well; a couple socket wrenches and/or adjustable wrenches and a Phillips screwdriver and you are ready to go.
With a max user weight of 300 lbs, the weight bench is decently strong while not being very big. The size is great if you’re limited on space but is too small if you’re any taller than 6’3”.
Choosing between barbells vs dumbbells? I think this would be a good budget adjustable bench that works great with dumbbells.
You can get the XR 5.9 weight bench on Amazon or Wal-Mart if you want to check it out further.
#2 FLYBIRD Adjustable Bench, Utility Weight Bench
A bit more expensive that our previous entry, the FLYBIRD adjustable bench is one of the most versatile weight benches and is definitely a step up.
Not only does it fold up when not in use, it has 6 back support adjustment angles and an adjustable 4 position seat. Personally, I don’t usually adjust the seat position but it’s a nice option when you’re doing certain exercises, like an incline bench press.
It uses some pretty heavy duty steel and is surprisingly strong with a 600lbs total weight capacity, again, which is a pretty impressive feature for a weight bench in this category. It also has comfortable and durable leather pads that utilize high density foam padding. And, lastly, it comes fully assembled.
It does have one really big con, though. Because of it’s size, the recommendation from FlyBird is to use it only for users up to a height of 5’9″. If you’re taller, you’ll want to go with another option with a longer backrest.
The warranty is okay at 1 year, although only 30 days on the padding. It’s well-reviewed and if I made you even slightly curious, you can check it out on Amazon.
#3 AmazonBasics Flat Weight Workout Exercise Bench
This is a probably the best budget weight bench. It’s a simple weight bench for those who just need something sturdy to use for their presses, dips, flies, or other exercises.
This flat bench is made of high-quality steel frame (for its price) to ensure its durability and according to the manual supports a max of 385 lbs (user + weights). It also has plastic feet – although no wheels – which means it won’t damage your floor.
And, lastly, assembly is quick and easy provided you can use some simple tools.
The cons? This is a simple flat bench: you can’t adjust it and can’t fold it, so you need to have ample workout space to store it just as it is. You also can’t do anything like incline or decline presses unless you get clever. For example, you could do decline pushups by putting your feet on the bench and your hands on the ground.
But, if simplicity and quality at a very low price are what you’re after, this weight bench delivers, so get on it and check it out.
#4 Marcy Multi-Position Workout Utility Bench
Recently updated, another great addition to your home fitness equipment, this Marcy bench supports up to 400 lbs (including your weight) and can be adjusted in 6 different positions, including a 90 degree position.
The top position would be great if you planned on working in some shoulder presses and wanted some additional back support.
On the comfort side, the 2″ thick high density foam padding on the seat and back pad make this a nice option. And the leg rollers (if you do sit-ups) are covered in foam for additional comfort.
Lastly, a really nice feature that you sometimes won’t even find in more expensive weight benches is that this bench folds flat – to a height of 11.5″ – when not in use. That makes it easy to push under a bed or put it into a closet when not in use.
A couple of the cons of this bench are some assembly issues and there are some users with issues with the safety pins.
Check it out on Amazon if you want to get it.
#5 Finer Form Upgraded Multi-Functional Bench
The final weight bench on our list is one that is rather unique and highly adjustable weight bench. In fact, it’s really more of a multi-functional bench than any other weight bench on this list, albeit you do pay more for that versatility.
You can use it for hyperextensions, just like you would use a roman chair. Or as an adjustable sit-up bench to work your abs. As a decline or flat bench so you can work multiple dumbbell exercises including chest presses, dumbbell rows, dips, and flies.
It has 8 levels of adjustment (although, sadly, no incline bench) and is durable, sturdy, and made with quality material. A 660 lb max weight capacity means it should hold up well and allow for plenty of “growing room” as you get stronger.
On the negative side, the bench is a bit short and might be uncomfortable for taller users. Additionally, the assembly could be a little bit more clear and the plastic footrests are more of a nuisance than a help.
If you’re interested, you can find it on Amazon.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, there are plenty of options if you’re looking for an inexpensive bench to complete your home gym. Choosing the best one is really a personal choice depending on your specific needs, wants, and budget.
If you’re just looking for a budget flat bench to do your presses, the AmazonBasics one is a great choice.
If you’re looking for a little more variety, but your budget is still pretty tight then the Marcy adjustable bench is a great choice.
Finally, the FLYBIRD and Finer Form workout benches are slightly more expensive, but also come with more options and you can perform a wider range of exercises with them.
If you like this weight benches review, please take a moment to check out our other fitness equipment reviews to learn more about adjustable dumbbells, cheap dumbbells, and other home gym equipment such as air bikes, and cheap squat racks.
PS! If you’re looking for the cheapest possible option, it’s also possible to do exercises without a bench. It’s a bit harder to pull off correctly, but definitely doable.
Article by:
Daniel DeMoss
I’m a personal trainer based in Denver (Matrix Gym) and a true fitness nerd. If I’m not training clients or working out at my home gym, I’m probably skiing, cycling or hiking with my dog Rufus.
Get in touch: daniel@dumbbellsreview.com