Discover the key to an effective home gym with our guide on choosing weight plates. Learn the crucial differences between standard and Olympic plates, the pros and cons of materials like cast iron and rubber, and essential care tips for lasting performance.
You might think that weight plates matter the least of all the equipment for your home gym. After all, a weight is a weight, right? Well, not exactly. There are a lot of variables to consider when it comes to buying weight plates. If you get it wrong, your workouts are going to be affected.
As an in-home personal trainer, I have often gone into people’s home gyms only to find that the plates they’ve invested in are less than ideal. In this article, I’ll outline the critical considerations for gym owners to ensure you get it right the first time
There are two types of weight plates: standard and Olympic. Their main differences are their size, weight, and the bars they fit on
Standard plates have a center hole diameter of 1 inch (25.44mm). This will fit a standard but not an Olympic bar. Standard bars are lighter and not as durable as Olympic bars.
These plates also come in smaller weight increments than Olympic plates. You can get standard plates in 1.25. 2.5, 5, and 10 lb increments.
Olympic plates have a center hole diameter of 2 inches (50.88mm). This fits an Olympic bar. Olympic plates typically come in larger weight increments, such as 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs), 5 kg (11 lbs), 10 kg (22 lbs), 15 kg (33 lbs), and 20 kg (44 lbs).
I strongly recommend buying Olympic weight plates instead of standard plates. Olympic plates are designed to handle heavier loads than standard plates. They are far more durable and will fit more securely onto the bar than a standard plate
Most plate-loaded home gym machines will be designed to take Olympic plates. For instance, a plate-loaded leg extension/curl machine usually has a 2-inch diameter weight loading bar. A standard weight plate will not fit on this, so you won’t be able to use standard plates on it
You will also find it much easier to find other compatible training equipment to go with Olympic weight plates. These include collars, racks, and attachments
You’ll need to buy an Olympic bar with your Olympic plates. This will cost considerably more than a standard bar but will provide you with many more training options. You can perform Olympic lifts, such as the snatch, and clean and jerk
You will also find no uniformity in diameter and thickness for standard-weight plates. One manufacturer’s 10lb plate maybe twice as thick as another manufacturer's. This lack of consistency can be a real hassle
Plastic-coated standard weight plates tend to be especially thick, making it hard to load enough weight onto the bar.
Having narrowed our choice to Olympic plates, we now have to consider the different types of weight plate material. Here are the pros and cons of each one:
Bumper plates are made from dense, durable materials, typically rubber or a combination of rubber and metal. They are designed to be dropped from overhead without causing damage to the plates, the barbell, or the floor.
Over the years, several weight plate variants have emerged to cater better to iron pumpers' needs. Here’s an overview of what you will likely come across:
These are small weight plates used for increasing weight during strength training.
Fractional plates are helpful for those who want to make small, gradual progress in their lifts, especially when a standard 5 or 10-pound increase is too much. They are typically available in the following weight ranges:
HD (or heavy-duty) plates are generally more durable and robust than standard plates, designed to withstand heavy and frequent use in commercial gym settings.
They may have additional features like a thicker outer shell or a reinforced construction to ensure longevity.
The vast majority of weight plates are round. However, you may come across some brands that are either 8 or 12-sided. There is no practical benefit to this design. But there is a negative.
When you set a bar that is loaded with multi-sided plates on the floor after a lift, there is a possibility that it might not be stable. If you set it down near an edge, it might jump backward. That’s the last thing you want when you’ve just completed a new p.r. deadlift
As a result, I strongly recommend that you buy only round weight plates
Handling weight plates can get tricky, especially when dealing with 45lb plates. That’s why some manufacturers design their plates with inbuilt handles or grips. These often consist of a hole in the plate that you put your hand through to grasp the plate in one hand
Weights with gripping handles not only make it easier to carry the plate around your home gym. They also allow you to use the plate as a makeshift dumbbell. For instance, you can hold a 45lb plate in each arm to perform shrugs, the farmer’s walk or other exercises that involve holding weights at arm’s length
I recommend buying plates with built-in handles
The best weight plates will have a beveled edge to create a lip around the weight. This notch makes it much easier to pick the weight up off the floor when it is lying flat. It also allows you to remove plates from a bar more easily. That’s because the plates are not sitting flush up against each other. This can make a difference when you’re stripping plates off in the middle of a drop set where every second counts
Buying Olympic weight plates second-hand can save you some serious money. However, you have to be a discerning buyer, or you could end up with plates that are not fit for purpose
You should only buy second-hand plates that you are able to inspect in person. That rules out buying online. It also negates the need to pay through the roof for shipping costs
Here are some guidelines to follow when buying second-hand Olympic weight plates:
When it comes to weight plates for your home gym, Iron Bull’s got you covered. Our selection includes the following:
Our fractional plates are precision-engineered for micro-progressions in your weightlifting journey. With color-coded designs for easy weight identification, these plates fit standard 2-inch Olympic barbells.
Our Olympic plates are expertly designed to cater to strength training and powerlifting. Made from cast iron, they guarantee reliable durability and top-notch performance at an unbeatable price point.
Our iron plates are manufactured using a solid, robust cast iron that ensures their longevity. The heavy-duty cast iron construction allows these plates to sustain intense workouts and heavy usage, making them an economical investment for your long-term fitness journey.
Clear, bold weight indications are embossed on each plate to avoid any mix-ups during your training sessions. With a classic black finish, these plates will bring a touch of professionalism to your home gym setup.
Having invested in some quality weight plates, you need to ensure that you take care of them. Here are a half dozen care and maintenance tips to keep your home gym weight plates in good order:
Wipe down the weight plates regularly to remove sweat, oils, and debris. Use a damp cloth with mild soap or a specialized gym equipment cleaner. This helps prevent the build-up of grime and maintains the appearance of the plates.
Store your weight plates in a cool, dry place to prevent rust and corrosion. Avoid placing them directly on concrete floors, as concrete can retain moisture. Consider using a rack or storing them on rubber mats to minimize contact with the floor.
While some weight plates, like bumper plates, are designed for dropping, others may not be as durable. Avoid dropping or slamming the plates on the floor unnecessarily, as this can lead to cracks, chips, or warping.
Regularly inspect your weight plates for any signs of damage, such as cracks, chips, or warping. If you notice any issues, stop using the plate.
If possible, rotate and flip your weight plates periodically. This helps distribute the wear and tear more evenly, especially if you tend to use specific plates more frequently. It can also prevent uneven wear on one side of the plate.
Be mindful of not overloading weight racks or barbells beyond their recommended capacity. Excessive weight stacking can lead to the deformation of the plates and compromise their structural integrity. Always adhere to the weight limits specified by the manufacturer.
Investing in quality weight plates for your home gym will pay off in terms of longevity, performance, and gym aesthetics. Prioritize Olympic over standard plates and then make your choices based on your specific training requirements. If you’re intending to buy second-hand, make sure you personally inspect the weights before handing over your cash
For the best quality and value in Olymoic home gym plates, check out the premium Iron Bull selection
A difficult question many home gym owners have to answer is, “What type of weight plates should I buy?” Bumper plates are arguably the most common style of plates you’ll find in home gyms, but you can also make a case for some solid metal plates. The reason so many athletes want bumper plates is because of their versatility. The rubber coating allows them to be used for Olympic and CrossFit style lifts since it protects the barbell and your floors from damage. Plus, they can also be used for powerlifts.
Metal plates aren’t as versatile as bumper plates, but that doesn’t mean they don’t serve a solid purpose. Metal plates are primarily used for the big three — squat, bench, and deadlift — since those lifts don’t require you to drop the barbell onto the ground. Metal plates are often made from steel or cast iron, and feature a thinner profile, so you can stack more plates on your barbell’s loading sleeves. On top of the materials used, the main differences between bumper plates and metal plates are the thickness of the plates, the style of workouts you can perform with them, and the price you’ll pay for each. Follow along as we compare bumper plates and metal plates, so you can decide which style belongs in your home gym.
A lot of athletes who work out from home want to make the most of their available budget by loading up on highly versatile equipment, and bumper plates fit that description. While some “cheaper” bumper plates feature cast iron inserts with a rubber coating, most companies use steel inserts. The rubber is designed to absorb the shock from when you drop a barbell to protect the plates, your barbell, your floors, and any surrounding equipment.
Rogue Echo Bumper Plates
Rogue Echo Bumper Plates
The Rogue Echo Bumper Plates are made out of quality virgin rubber and have steel inserts to limit bouncing when dropped during various exercises.
Shop Rogue FitnessThe rubber used tends to vary a bit, ultimately determining the plates’ durometer rating. For anyone who doesn’t know, a durometer rating will tell you how hard an object is. When it comes to bumper plates, it will tell you how hard a plate is, and how much bounce you can expect from it. Ranging from 65 to 100, the higher the rating, the less bounce you’ll be dealing with. Ideally, you’ll want as little bounce as possible, so you should target some plates with a high durometer rating — just be prepared to shell out some more cash.
Bumper plates tend to be thicker than metal plates since they need a bigger surface area to assist in shock absorption. This can also negatively impact the amount of weight elite strength athletes are able to load onto a barbell. The thickness of bumper plates tends to vary across all manufacturers and their various weight options, but the average 45-pound plate is about three inches thick. However, some may be as thin as 2.4 inches, and a 45-pound competition bumper plate is about 2.1 inches thick. The nice thing about bumper plates is that the diameters are uniform regardless of the weight you’re using. This is helpful for beginners as they’re learning proper lifting techniques for Olympic lifts with lighter weights.
Unlike bumper plates, metal plates aren’t very versatile, and are usually only used with a power rack, squat rack, or where you can safely ease them to the ground (like you can during a deadlift). Metal plates are typically made from cast iron or steel — though some companies may offer chrome plates. Because of the lack of a rubber coating, metal plates also tend to be more affordable than bumper plates.
Rogue Deep Dish Plates
Rogue Deep Dish Plates
These ductile iron weight plates are available in individual pairs, and full sets. They're also thicker than your standard weight plates, which makes them more durable.
Shop rogueMetal plates are usually used for powerlifting because you don’t drop the barbell during powerlifts, and in turn, don’t need the added protection that a rubber coating offers. This style of weight plate is typically thinner than a bumper plate, allowing you to stack more plates on your loading sleeves for heavier lifts. For example, a 45-pound metal plate is around 1.3 inches thick — making them almost a full inch thinner than the thinnest 45-pound bumper plates. Since you don’t need the diameter of these plates to be uniform, a 10-pound plate will be much smaller than a 45-pound plate.
Our reviews writer, Jake, compares bumper plates to metal plates in the BarBend garage gym, and puts both to the test. Follow along as he helps you decide which style is best for your workouts.
Even outside of the materials used to make these two types of plates, bumper plates and metal plates are still quite different. Let’s break down these major differences, from the price to the thickness, and the types of workouts you can perform with each.
If money is your main concern, metal plates will be the route to take since they’re cheaper. That said, you can still find some affordable bumpers out there.
Regardless of which fitness company you want to purchase your weight plates from, you’ll notice that bumper plates will be more expensive than metal ones. This is due to the added protection from their rubber coating. The price for bumper plates will also vary depending on the type of rubber used.
Competition and urethane bumper plates tend to be the most expensive. This is because the plates feature a harder surface, leading to a greater dead bounce and higher durometer rating — both tend to have a rating between 90 and 100. Standard bumper plates feature a virgin rubber coating that typically has a durometer rating between 80 and 90. These are typically black in color, but some companies will offer them in Olympic colors for more money.
The cheapest bumpers are typically crumb bumpers. These plates use recycled rubber, which makes them quieter than the rest. But since the durometer rating is typically not higher than 80, they’ll also bounce more, meaning you’ll need to be more careful when dropping your barbell.
For some reference numbers, Rogue’s competition and urethane bumper plates are priced around $330 for a 45-pound pair of plates. A standard pair of 45-pound bumper plates is about $200, and their crumb 45’s are around $175. Rogue’s plates are right around average compared to other companies, but they do charge for shipping on individual pairs, so you’ll wind up spending more money with them. That being said, you can definitely find some cheaper plates from competing brands — but they are likely cheaper for a reason and may not last you as long.
As a friendly reminder, metal plates will definitely be the way to go if you are working with a tight budget. They don’t feature a rubber coating, so what you see is what you get. However, the prices for metal plates will be determined by whether they’re made from cast iron or steel.
Since we compared prices for Rogue’s bumper plates, let’s do the same for the metal plates. Some of the most affordable plates are their Olympic and deep dish plates, which will run you around $170 for a pair of 45’s, while the absolute cheapest ones are the iron plates which are around $100 for a 45-pound pair.
Some people may be interested in the calibrated steel plates since they’re about as spot on in terms of actual weight as they can be (within 10 grams) — but they’re more expensive and will cost you around $240 for a pair of 45’s. They also offer some “wagon wheel” plates that resemble actual wagon wheels, and are designed to do block pulls during deadlift training without the actual blocks. These aren’t really meant for anything else, so it likely isn’t going to be worth spending nearly $600 on them.
While Rogue’s iron plates are about the same price as what you can find elsewhere, their steel plates tend to be slightly more expensive than the rest of the competition. This is due to the overall quality of the plates — plus, the branding definitely plays a role.
Bumper plates are much thicker than metal plates, and it’s easy to tell as soon as you look at the two side by side. Metal plates tend to be thinner since they aren’t meant for exercises where the barbell is dropped on the ground — such as a power clean. This thinner build also allows you to load more weight onto the barbell for a super heavy deadlift, back squat, or bench press.
Bumper plates are thicker partly because of the rubber coating, but also because the actual steel is thicker. This is necessary since you’ll likely be using them for a lot of Olympic and CrossFit lifts, so you need the plates to absorb the shock that occurs. While competition bumper plates are thinner than standard and crumb bumpers, they’re still thicker than metal plates, so you won’t be able to toss as many plates onto your barbell.
For example, a 45-pound USA Olympic plate from Rogue is just under an inch thick, while their thinnest bumper plates — the competition bumpers — are 2.1 inches thick. While bumper plates may prevent you from lifting as heavy as you can with metal plates, that thickness is crucial for protecting the plates since it will decrease the chance of them bending over time.
It’s no secret that bumper plates are the most versatile of the two as they allow you to perform powerlifts and Olympic lifts. Metal plates are meant for powerlifts only, as they don’t offer the shock absorption necessary for other lifts.
So if you want to spend one day repping out some squats, and the next day perfecting your clean & jerk, bumper plates are the way to go. However, if you don’t have any interest in Olympic lifts, you’ll be better off saving some money and snagging a set of metal plates to fit your lifting program.
When deciding which plates are “better”, it really just depends on your preferred workout style. If you’re a powerlifter who just wants to focus on that style of lifting, then you’ll be better off with some metal plates since you don’t have much of a need for the added protection that bumper plates offer. On the other hand, if you do want to work on your power cleans, you will definitely want to get yourself some bumper plates so you aren’t ruining your barbell and surrounding equipment. Plus — and maybe most importantly — you can avoid being the obnoxious neighbor.
You’ll also want to focus on the money you’ll spend with each option. If you want to save some of that hard-earned cash, it’s no secret that metal plates are going to be your best bet. At the end of the day, it’s up to you to decide what type of plates will best suit your needs — we just want to offer a few highlights to help you work it out.
It depends on how strong you are. If you are someone who is able to put the weight limit of a barbell to the test, then you’ll want some thinner plates, so you can load on more weight. Even if you were to go with bumper plates, you’ll still want to find some that feature a thinner profile to accommodate your strength level.
If you’re not testing your barbell’s tensile strength, the thickness won’t affect anything other than the whip. “Whip” is the amount of bounce that occurs mid-lift during exercises like a power clean. The thicker the plate, the more bounce you’ll experience. You might want to consider that if you’re someone who is working in some Olympic lifts. Thicker bumper plates are going to be more helpful for beginners who aren’t tossing on multiple plates as they ensure the plates won’t bend from being dropped repeatedly. However, expert-level lifters may not need that extra thickness as they’re most likely loading up multiple plates, and the shock will be spread throughout each one.
Looking for the right pair of weight plates to add to your home gym can be a bit overwhelming since there are a lot to choose from. You’ll have to consider the style of lifts you’re hitting, and of course, how much money you want to spend. Bumper plates and metal plates are two completely different styles of plates that are meant for completely different types of workouts.
Bumper plates are definitely the most versatile of the two, and likely the most popular for home gym owners since you can use them for all of your workouts. They have a protective outer coating to help keep your floors safe, but because of that added protection, they do tend to be more expensive. They’re also thicker than metal plates, so they may not always be the best fit for powerlifters. Though we can’t make the decision for you, consider your current fitness regimen, and be sure to use this article as your guide to finding the right type of plates to suit your needs.
Are Bumper Plates more expensive than Metal Plates?
Generally speaking, yes, bumper plates are going to cost you more than metal plates will — regardless of where you’re purchasing your plates from. This is due to the added protection from the rubber coating. Even bottom-tier bumper plates are more expensive than metal plates, so keep that in mind when filling out your home gym. If you don’t see yourself performing any lift where the barbell is dropped on the ground repeatedly, you’ll be better off saving your money and buying some metal ones.
Will bumper plates last me longer than metal plates?
This is a bit of a difficult question to answer, mainly because you use each plate differently. With metal plates, all you really need to worry about is rust forming over time. But with bumper plates, it’s going to depend on the quality of the rubber and metal inserts. If you go for some cheaper plates, there’s a higher chance of the rubber cracking and the plates bending from being dropped repeatedly. But if you buy a high-quality set of bumpers, they’re likely to last you a solid 10 years.
Can I do anything with bumper plates that I can’t with metal plates?
Yes, you can absolutely do more with bumper plates than you can with metal plates. Metal plates are ideal for powerlifts where the bar won’t be dropped. Bumper plates can be used for powerlifts, as well as Olympic lifts thanks to the rubber coating.