8 Best Budget Barbells (2024): Cheap Barbells That Don’t Suck

In my home gym, I always make sure to invest in high-quality equipment, such as power racks, bumper plates, and barbells. However, if you are reading this list, you are likely on a tight budget and want to choose the best value bar. Plus, we can still find high-quality barbells without emptying our wallets.

Finding high-quality barbells on a budget requires some research, but I’ve done the legwork for you by compiling this comprehensive list.

• Best Budget Barbell: Living Fit Barbell
• Best Budget Multi-Purpose Barbell: REP Fitness Black Canyon Barbell
• Best Budget Olympic Weightlifting Barbell: Rogue IWF Olympic Weightlifting Training Bar
• Best Budget Barbell For Women: Rogue Bella Bar 2.0
• Best Budget Powerlifting Barbell: Titan Elite Series Power Barbell
• Best Budget Barbell For CrossFit: Rogue Echo Bar 2.0
• Best Budget Barbell On Amazon: XMark VOODOO Barbell
• Best Budget Trap Bar: REP Fitness Open Trap Bar

Best Budget Barbell

Living Fit Barbell

Specifications
Tensile Strength	200,000 PSI
Knurling	Medium Volcano
Center Knurling	No
Knurl Markings	Dual (IWF & IPF)
Shaft Diameter	28 mm
Coating	Chrome or Cerakote
Bushing/Bearing	Needle Bearings
Spin	Quick
Whip	Medium
Weight Capacity	1,500 lbs
Warranty	Lifetime

The Living Fit Barbell stands out as an exceptional choice for those seeking quality on a budget. This barbell is designed with features that typically belong to higher-end models, making it an excellent value for money.

The Living Fit Barbell’s knurling strikes a perfect balance—not too aggressive but still providing a secure grip for various lifts.

This makes it versatile for both high-repetition workouts and heavy lifting sessions. The whip, which refers to the bar’s flexibility under load, is moderate, providing just enough elasticity to be effective in Olympic lifts without compromising stability during power lifts.

In terms of specs, the Living Fit Barbell is crafted with attention to detail. It features a standard 28mm shaft diameter, which is comfortable for most lifters and allows for a good grip.

The spin of the bar is facilitated by needle bearings, which offer a quick rotation without adding unnecessary expense. This makes it ideal for both beginner and intermediate lifters who need reliable performance across a range of exercises.

The coating is chrome or a cerakote finish, which provides a decent level of protection against rust and wear while maintaining an attractive look.

When it comes to performance, the Living Fit Barbell holds its own. The tensile strength is rated at 200,000 PSI, which is more than sufficient for most lifters and ensures that the bar can handle heavy loads without bending or warping.

This level of tensile strength is a testament to the bar’s durability and reliability in demanding workout routines.

Pros

• Balanced knurling suitable for a variety of lifts
• Moderate whip, ideal for both Olympic and powerlifting movements
• Smooth spin due to bearings
• Chrome or Cerakote coatings offers decent protection and aesthetic appeal
• High tensile strength of 200,000 PSI ensures durability
• Excellent value for money

Cons

• Cerakote coating may wear over time
• Not ideal for highly specialized lifting needs due to its generalist design

Best Multi-Purpose Budget Barbell

REP Fitness Black Canyon Barbell

Specifications
Tensile Strength	190,000 PSI
Knurling	Medium Volcano
Center Knurling	No
Knurl Markings	Dual (IWF & IPF)
Shaft Diameter	28.5 mm
Coating	Bright Zinc OR Black Chrome
Bushing/Bearing	Hybrid
Spin	Smooth
Whip	Medium
Weight Capacity	1,500 lbs
Warranty	5 Years

This 20kg barbell blends functionality and durability, catering to both powerlifting and Olympic weightlifting, making it an exceptional choice for mixed-use training.

The Black Canyon Bar has robust finish options. Whether you choose the striking bright zinc or the sleek black chrome, both finishes enhance the bar’s rust resistance.

It has dual knurl markings compliant with International Weightlifting Federation and International Powerlifting Federation standards so you can Powerlift and perform Weightlifting movements with consistent hand placement.

The medium-depth, volcano-pattern knurling offers an excellent grip that doesn’t shred your hands, perfect for high-rep workouts.

The hybrid bushing/bearing system in the sleeves provides a smooth rotation and controlled movement. It accommodates the rapid sleeve rotation required for the Olympic lifts with enough stability for powerlifting exercises.

With a medium whip, the bar is responsive enough for dynamic Olympic lifts while maintaining the rigidity needed for heavy powerlifting. There is no center knurl, which means less neck irritation in the front rack position.

The 28.5mm shaft diameter is standard with a hybrid multi-purpose barbell. The REP Fitness Black Canyon Bar is a beast with a 190ksi tensile strength meaning it can take a beating. The 1% weight tolerance means it’s within 0.2 kg of the stated weight.

It is rated at 1,500lbs reassures that it can handle heavy loads without bending or warping. All of these epic features for $270 and 5 year warranty makes the REP Fitness Black Canyon Bar the best budget barbell you’ll find.

Pros

• Medium volcano knurling prevents skin tearing from repetitive lifting. However, this can be a disadvantage when lifting heavy weights in hot weather.
• High tensile strength allows it to withstand abuse without deforming.
• Hybrid bushings and bearings for outstanding performance during the Powerlifts and Olympic lifts.
• Dual knurl markings for Powerlifting and Olympic Weightlifting.

Cons

• Knurling isn’t as aggressive as specialist barbells.
• The Black Canyon Bar is REP Fitness’s “affordable” version of the Colorado bar.
• Due to the coating, you may need regular barbell maintenance to remove chalk buildup, which is not present with hard chrome finishes.

Best Budget Olympic Weightlifting Barbell

Rogue IWF Olympic Weightlifting Training Bar

Specifications
Tensile Strength	215,000 PSI
Knurling	Moderate Knurling
Center Knurling	Yes
Knurl Markings	Single (Olympic Weightlifting)
Shaft Diameter	28 mm
Coating	Bright Zinc
Bushing/Bearing	Needle Bearings
Spin	Fast
Whip	Whippy
Weight Capacity	Not Available
Warranty	Lifetime

You may be asking why I’ve included a $560 barbell in a list of low-cost bars—it’s because an IWF-certified Olympic weightlifting barbell typically costs more than $900.

Being IWF-approved indicates the barbell is competition-ready and meets their criteria, including a tight weight tolerance and a near-perfect production procedure.

For $560, this barbell is a steal. Why do Olympic weightlifting barbells cost so much more than others? The construction and materials are unique to Weightlifting bars.

First, the Rogue IWF Olympic Weightlifting Training Bar boasts an incredible 215,000 PSI tensile strength, which means it will never deform or break with proper use.

Non-aggressive knurling on the bar allows you to work out for lengthy periods of time without the risk of ripping your hands or dealing with uncomfortable grips.

The bar’s needle bearings give a buttery-smooth spin, essential for doing clean and jerks or snatches with precision while protecting your wrists and elbows.

The bar has a bright zinc coating providing it a different feel than the harsh chrome you might use on competition day while providing adequate rust protection.

And the best part? Rogue offers a lifetime warranty. This way, you’re entering into a lifelong connection with a brand that stands behind the quality and longevity of its gear.

Pros

• IWF-certified barbell at half the price of leading weightlifting brands.
• High tensile strength allows the barbell to withstand the rigors of everyday weightlifting training without breaking or deforming.
• Needle bearings provide quick spin during Olympic lifts, protecting your wrists and elbows.
• A lifetime warranty means you will get a replacement if any problems arise years after you’ve bought the bar.

Cons

• The bright zinc coating degrades over time, especially if you use your bar almost daily.
• Due to the coating, you will need to do regular barbell maintenance to remove chalk buildup.

Best Budget Barbell For Women

Rogue Bella Bar 2.0

Specifications
Tensile Strength	190,000 PSI
Knurling	Rogue Hybrid Knurling (Moderate)
Center Knurling	No
Knurl Markings	Dual
Shaft Diameter	25 mm
Coating	Black Zinc
Bushing/Bearing	Bushings
Spin	Smooth
Whip	Light Whip
Weight Capacity	Not Available
Warranty	Lifetime

When you pick up the Rogue Bella Bar 2.0, you’ll notice it feels lighter than a standard weightlifting bar. That’s because the 15kg bar is intended explicitly for female athletes.

Weightlifting and CrossFit require women to utilize a 15 kg barbell with a shaft diameter of 25mm. Female lifters benefit from the smaller shaft because their hands are usually smaller than men’s. A smaller diameter shaft will make it simpler to handle snatches.

While the shaft diameter is smaller, the quality is not compromised because it is made of the same material as the Ohio bar, which has a 190,000 PSI tensile strength and will not flex with use. It has a decent whip, making it ideal for CrossFit and weightlifting.

This bar, however, may be used for high-strength workouts and powerlifting since it has twin knurl markings and bronze bushings that provide a smooth spin.

The hybrid knurling provides a solid grip without being too aggressive. The Bella Bar 2.0 has the same finish as the Ohio bar but with a black zinc coating to prevent rust. However, the wear issue remains the same.

Rogue also offers a lifetime construction warranty, so as long as you use the bar properly and avoid dropping it with iron plates, you’re covered.

A women’s barbell is also extremely reasonably priced. At $235, you’re paying a fourth of the price of a standard weightlifting barbell. You may also find it in the Rogue Boneyard, which further lowers the price.

Pros

• At 15 kg and 25 mm shaft diameter, it’s specifically designed for women
• ¼ the cost of high-end women’s weightlifting barbells.
• The same production method as Rogue’s Ohio bar, which has a tensile strength of 190,000 PSI.
• Ideal for CrossFit and Weightlifting while also allowing for heavy strength movements.

Cons

• The black zinc coating will eventually wear down, particularly in the regions held the most.
• The coating on the barbell needs routine maintenance, such as cleaning off chalk buildup.

Best Budget Powerlifting Barbell

Titan Elite Series Power Barbell

Specifications
Tensile Strength	225,000 PSI
Knurling	Aggressive
Center Knurling	Yes
Knurl Markings	Single (Powerlifting)
Shaft Diameter	29 mm
Coating	Hard Chrome
Bushing/Bearing	Bushings
Spin	Smooth
Whip	Stiff
Weight Capacity	2,000 lbs
Warranty	1-Year

When you unrack the Titan Elite Series Power Barbell, you’ll notice the sturdy 29mm shaft diameter of a powerlifting barbell. Its strong mountain knurling is the game changer.

Whether it’s a sweaty deadlift or a challenging set of squats, this gripping pattern keeps the bar firmly in your hands, providing an unrivaled combination of comfort and control.

You may find it painful and uncomfortable if you’re not used to aggressive knurling. Due to its outstanding rust resistance and tactile feel, the barbell has a hard chromium plating, common on luxury barbells. High-quality chrome coatings resist chipping and peeling.

The maximum weight capacity is 2000 pounds, and the tensile strength is 220,000 PSI, enough even for elite powerlifters. It is the barbell with the highest tensile strength on this list since it is designed to handle incredibly heavy weights on the big three lifts.

The rough center knurling ensures it stays on your back when squatting and does not slip onto your chest when benching. One disadvantage is that Titan only offers a one-year warranty, despite many other brands giving at least ten years or a lifetime.

However, at $230, there aren’t many Powerlifting barbells with these features and specifications.

Pros

• It is specifically developed for powerlifting, with a high tensile strength and a weight capability of 2000 pounds, to prevent bending or breaking.
• Aggressive knurling for big deadlifts and bench presses.

Cons

• Only one year warranty is not reassuring of the longevity of the bar.

Best Budget Barbell For CrossFit

Rogue Echo Bar 2.0

Specifications
Tensile Strength	190,000 PSI
Knurling	Rogue Hybrid Knurling
Center Knurling	No
Knurl Markings	Single (Weightlifting)
Shaft Diameter	28.5 mm
Coating	Bright Zinc
Bushing/Bearing	Bushing
Spin	Smooth
Whip	Good
Weight Capacity	Not Available
Warranty	1-Year

The Rogue Echo Bar 2.0 is part of Rogue’s Echo series, which is a low-cost equipment range. Think of it as a low-cost Ohio bar. Because of the versatile 28.5 mm shaft diameter, decent whip, and 190,000 PSI tensile strength, it’s an excellent CrossFit companion.

It uses bushings to provide a smooth spin, making it suitable for high-rep Olympic lifts and heavy-duty training routines.

It’s a cost-effective CrossFit barbell. It only has Olympic knurl marks, so a barbell with dual knurl markings, like the Ohio bar, is a better choice if you intend to power lift.

The Rogue Echo Bar 2.0 has a bright zinc coating that looks good and is rust-resistant but will deteriorate with usage. There is no center knurling, which is great for a CrossFit where you will practice high-rep cleans and thrusters.

Because it is within their budget range, Rogue only provides a one-year warranty. For $265, you get a nice barbell at the lowest price point. Also, don’t forget to check out the boneyard to see if you can acquire this for as low as $165.

Pros

• Made to the same specifications as the Rogue Ohio bar but for a lower price.
• Ideal for CrossFit, with a good whip, smooth spin, and Olympic knurl markings.
• You might be able to get it for less at the boneyard.

Cons

• When you’re doing CrossFit, a one-year warranty is too little.

Best Budget Barbell On Amazon

XMark VOODOO Barbell

Specifications
Tensile Strength	185,000 PSI
Knurling	Smooth
Center Knurling	No
Knurl Markings	Dual
Shaft Diameter	28 mm
Coating	Chrome, Manganese Phosphate
Bushing/Bearing	Needle Bearings
Spin	Fast
Whip	Moderate
Weight Capacity	1,500 lbs
Warranty	None

I’m not a fan of purchasing barbells from Amazon. However, if you are on a really tight budget, you may search there. This is the cheapest barbell on the list, priced at $162. The low price, as usual, means you will need to make some sacrifices.

The most noticeable is the manganese phosphate coating. This is one of the lowest-quality barbell coatings, causing the barbell to rust. To avoid corrosion, regularly apply oil to the barbell and wipe it clean.

This is a practice I don’t like doing after training when I’m exhausted. The knurling is also overly smooth, providing less grip than other cheap barbells on this list. The XMark VOODOO Barbell does, however, have some solid characteristics.

The 185,000 PSI tensile strength, 1500 lb weight capacity, and needle bearings ensure longevity and resistance to deformation. It spins well, making it suitable as a hybrid barbell.

This model would not be my first choice for a major lifting barbell. However, barbells like this have a place in your collection as they are perfect to be used and abused in power racks and landmines.

You don’t have to worry about scratching or destroying the knurling because this is a low-quality barbell explicitly designed for such purposes.

Pros

• The cheapest barbell with decent functionality is best utilized in a power rack or landmine to avoid damaging your higher-quality barbells.
• Needle bearings provide rapid spin for fast movements.
• Excellent tensile strength and weight capacity.

Cons

• It’s Amazon, so there’s no warranty, only a return period.
• The manganese phosphate coating wears quickly and does not prevent the barbell from rusting.
• Requires regular maintenance.
• The knurling is too smooth.

Best Budget Trap Bar

REP Fitness Open Trap Bar

Specifications
Tensile Strength	N/A
Knurling	Medium Depth
Center Knurling	N/A
Knurl Markings	N/A
Shaft Diameter	25 mm
Coating	Chrome
Bushing/Bearing	N/A
Spin	N/A
Whip	N/A
Weight Capacity	500 lbs
Warranty	5-Year

The Rep Fitness Trap Bar is not the cheapest, but I am sure you will not be pleased with the knurling or sleeve length of anything priced lower than this. The cheapest trap bars on Amazon or at specific manufacturer’s stores include smooth diamond knurling and slippery, oil-coated surfaces.

Furthermore, their short sleeves prevent them from supporting enough weight. You should expect this if you buy a bar at $90 to $130.

Hence, the REP Fitness Trap Bar is the best deal for the money. Yes, it costs $265, but it is still half the price of higher-end trap bars.

It has dual handles, allowing you to deadlift or carry using either the high or low handles. The handles are 25 mm in diameter, the same as a women’s barbell, and are easier to grip.

The knurling is medium depth, which is why I included this trap bar on the budget barbell list. Cheaper trap bars are too smooth.

It’s chrome-coated for rust protection and weighs 55 pounds, so it’s heavy-duty. Unfortunately, its weight capability is only 500 pounds. Many males will lift over 500 pounds on the trap bar deadlift, especially with the high handles, so keep this in mind.

It also comes with a 5-year warranty, giving you ample time to put it through its paces.

Pros

• Has better knurling and longer sleeves than the typical budget trap bar on Amazon
• 25 mm diameter handles make gripping easier.

Cons

• 500 lbs weight capacity is low for a trap bar.

How To Pick The Best Budget Barbell

Tensile Strength

Tensile strength indicates a barbell’s ability to resist deformation. High tensile strength is considered as greater than 180,000 PSI. The greater the number, the stronger the bar. High-tensile strength barbells are available even on a tight budget.

So, investing a little less does not mean you can’t get a good barbell in this aspect.

Coating

The majority of the inexpensive bars on this list use a zinc coating. This is the compromise that comes with being cheap. Top-notch barbell manufacturers use solid chrome or stainless steel. A zinc coating is less expensive but will wear off over time.

Knurling

Knurling patterns on premium bars tend to be more refined and comfortable, making them easier to hold without causing any discomfort. Less precise knurling, which could be excessively harsh or too soft, is possible with cheaper bars.

Most barbells on this list have moderate knurling which is good enough for most home gym lifting.

Bushings vs. Bearings

Bushings are commonly utilized on lower-cost bars, while bearings are used on higher-end barbells. However, this is not always the case. High-end Powerlifting bars require bushings to reduce spin, but in most cases, bars with bushings are less expensive.

Go for bearings if you’re dabbling in Olympic Weightlifting or CrossFit.

Spin

High-quality barbells spin more smoothly, thanks to superior bushings or bearings. Needle bearings have a quicker spin rate than bushings and are better suited for Olympic Weightlifting, where you need a fast turnover of the barbell.

Diameter

Regardless of your budget, you may get a barbell with any shaft diameter. Typically, sizes fall between 28- and 29-mm. Olympic weightlifting bars and some multi-purpose bars are 28 mm in diameter, multi-purpose bars are 28.5 mm, and powerlifting barbells are 29 mm.

Whip

Money isn’t a determining factor in whip. As a result of their versatility, many of the barbells included here have good whip. What the barbell is used for determines how much whip it has. If you want more control when lifting, a powerlifting bar is a good choice that is slightly stiffer.

Price

When choosing a budget barbell, I define a budget offer as less than $300. When you buy cheap, around $200, you usually get a barbell that isn’t worth lifting or is prone to damage and breaking.

However, some specialized barbells, such as Olympic Weightlifting bars, are more expensive, even in budget versions. The Rogue IWF Weightlifting Barbell is the cheapest Weightlifting Barbell, priced at $560.

Warranty

Rogue Fitness has a lifetime warranty on most barbells, making them a fantastic choice. However, whether purchasing from their Boneyard or Echo series, you can expect a guarantee of no more than one year.

Unfortunately, this feature must be compromised while on a tight budget.

Frequently Asked Budget Barbell Questions

How Much Should You Pay For A Barbell?

Your budget determines the amount you spend on a barbell. A reasonable guideline is to spend at least $200. It is the most crucial piece of lifting equipment for your home gym and worth investing in.

What Is The Best Weight Barbell For A Beginner?

Beginners should always use an Olympic barbell. It weighs either 45 lbs or 20 kg for men and 35 lbs or 15 kg for women.

What Barbell Should I Start With?

Begin with a multi-purpose barbell, which offers the best of both worlds. The same barbell can be used for both heavy-strength exercises and quicker Olympic-style lifting. If you desire to take strength sports further, you can purchase a specialized barbell if you have the money.

Summary

While barbells are essential gym equipment, we all have a limited budget. Fortunately, with the rise in popularity of lifting and home gyms, many companies produce high-quality barbells for a fraction of the cost of high-end models and this list should provide you with the right choice regardless of your preferences and needs.

Living Fit has exploded in the barbell market making affordable barbells that are excellent quality and can handle the rigors of tough home gym training.

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