For such a "simple" strength training tool, little details can make a big difference. (Getty Images)
No shade to dumbbells, but if you're ready to take your fitness training up a peg, investing in a good set of weight plates is the logical next step. The best weight plates align with your budget and lifting needs. For example, cast iron plates are a no-brainer for durability and affordability, while rubber plates are a must for powerlifters who need to drop their weights from a height. Whatever your style, weight plates can transform your home setup into a professional-level workout space.
Cassandra Padula Burke, a certified public trainer, agrees, saying, "[Weight plates] can be used on a barbell but can also be used independently for exercises like overhead triceps extensions, Russian twists and shoulder presses." She also highlights that weight plates are perfect for strength building, allowing you to add heavier plates as you get stronger. "Weight plates allow you to progressively load muscles to improve strength and build muscle," she says. Plus, they're space-efficient. "They are easy to store and don't take up as much space as an equivalent variety of dumbbells would," she adds.
Ready to create a gym-quality lifting experience at home? You'll need three key pieces of equipment: a sturdy weight bench, a good-quality barbell and a set of weight plates. If you're unsure of what to buy or how to start, there's good news: We did the heavy lifting for you. Over six months, we rigorously tested five sets of weight plates, including rubber, cast iron and Olympic options. We also gathered expert insights from professional personal trainers and powerlifters and drew from our own experiences as lifters to inform our recommendations.
Material: Not specified | Coating: Rubber | Included weights: 2.5, 5, 10, 25, 35 and 45 lbs. | Type: Olympic | Grip handles: Yes | Standout features: Double grip handles
Sole SW106 Olympic Weight Plates clinched the best overall spot thanks to their superior quality and versatility. "The Sole plates are way more versatile and seem better quality overall," says Tim Strunk, a certified physical trainer. Jason Wrosch, certified physical trainer and head trainer at Eighty Twenty Club, agreed, saying the Sole plates were the "best out of all of them."
The trainers praised the Sole plates for their double grip handles, which make them easy to move, load and unload from the bar. The open grip handle design also stands out for its utility during off-barbell exercises, such as front raises or around-the-world shoulder movements.
Gym-goers who tested these weights highlighted additional grip-friendly features, like thumb indentations on all plates — even the smallest ones. These indentations enhance grip, allowing for a broader range of exercises without a barbell. The handles' rounded edges also added to their comfort during use. For quality and functionality, our trainers felt this set provided excellent value for lifters of all levels at a reasonable price point.
Sole’s claim of "minimal bounce" held up in our testing, making these plates a reliable choice for various training styles. Their durability was particularly impressive — they still looked brand new after being used up to six times daily in commercial gym classes.
However, some advanced powerlifters mentioned that these plates might not be their first choice for serious powerlifting sessions, as they're rubber-coated, not fully rubber. It's also worth noting these weights have an internal diameter of 2.14–2.15 and are designed to pair with the Sole Olympic Barbell (SW111).
Material: Vulcanized rubber | Coating: Rubber | Included weights: 10, 25 and 45 lbs. | Type: Olympic bumper | Grip handles: No | Standout features: Set includes a barbell and lock jaw collars
The Ethos 205 lb. Olympic Rubber Bumper Plate Set is our top pick for the best rubber plates due to its exceptional durability and versatility. Designed to withstand heavy, repeated use, these plates excelled during months of testing in a commercial gym environment, enduring up to six classes per day without any visible wear and tear. Their resilience makes them a reliable choice for intense training sessions, from traditional lifts to powerlifting and CrossFit-style movements.
Like the Sole plates, the Ethos bumper plates are built for rigorous, daily use. One professional powerlifter described them as "made to be dropped," underscoring their suitability for high-impact exercises. Their rubber construction effectively absorbs impact, making them ideal for movements like deadlifts, cleans and snatches.
However, as is common with rubber plates, they aren't as easy to grip as other types of plates due to their smaller lip at the edges. Loading heavy plates onto a high bar can be slightly challenging, but our trainers noted that the narrower profile is advantageous for stacking multiple plates on a barbell.
When the plates arrived, they initially felt slightly slippery — a residue likely from the manufacturing process — but this wore off after a few weeks. Despite this minor quirk, the Ethos plates proved to be well-made and reliable.
Another bonus? The price reflects the full weightlifting set, including six plates, two collars and a barbell. That said, if you already own a barbell or are looking to add just a couple of plates to your home gym, Ethos Bumper Plates can also be purchased individually at Dick's Sporting Goods.
Material: Rubber | Coating: Rubber | Included weights: 2.5, 5, 10, 25, 35 and 45 lbs. | Type: Olympic | Grip handles: Yes | Standout features: Tri-grip textured design, barbell included
The open and accessible tri-grip textured design made the Centr 300 Lb Olympic Set a no-brainer as our top pick if grip is your top priority. Strunk — who also dabbles in professional powerlifting outside of his career as a mover — chose this set for his personal home gym, praising its grip and sleek, streamlined design.
"The weight plates have a nice grip feature and seem much smaller and more compact than typical plates," he said. Additionally, as someone who trains with heavy resistance and powerlifting moves, he appreciated the fact that these plates are rubber, which he explained offers better protection against wear and tear from frequent use.
Reviews on the Centr website echo our findings, with shoppers noting that these weights are easy to pick up and offer a versatile range of weights (ranging from 2.5 to 45 pounds) to accommodate different fitness levels. As with the Ethos set, the biggest consideration is these weights are sold with a barbell, which may deter those who aren't looking to add a second (or even a third) bar to their setup.
Material: Blend of vulcanized rubber and recycled Nike footwear | Coating: Rubber | Available weights: 10, 15, 25, 35 and 45 lbs. | Type: Bumper | Grip handles: No | Standout features: Each batch is color-unique
Along with the Nike Coated Premium Barbell, I'm partial to the Nike Grind Bumper Plates because they're such a fun and colorful addition to a home gym. They combine practicality, durability and a touch of personality, making them our top pick for best training plates.
These plates stand out for their vibrant, colorful design, crafted from at least 30% recycled Nike Grind material — sourced from Nike footwear — which means every set is one-of-a-kind. On the days that I am just not feeling my workout, there's something about that bright orange bar and my colorful confetti bumper plates that helps keep me motivated.
From a performance standpoint, these plates excel as training tools. Drop-tested for durability, they’re suitable for everything from traditional weightlifting to CrossFit and Olympic-style lifts. However, Nike advises against dropping the 10- and 15-pound plates alone — they should be paired with heavier plates like the 25-, 35- or 45-pound options for safe use.
The plates' textured, bumpy surface boosts grip compared to smoother rubber plates like the Ethos. This texture, reminiscent of recycled playground material, makes the plates easy to handle during lifts. During testing, the plates held up exceptionally well with no visible wear or tear. The textured material raises minor concerns about potential flaking over time, but we haven't seen any issues so far.
Nike does include a disclaimer: Prolonged exposure to UV rays, sunlight or heat may cause the plates to develop yellow discoloration. While this doesn't affect their performance, it's worth noting if your workout space has multiple windows or tends to get toasty.
Lastly, keep in mind the price reflects the cost of just two 100-pound plates. Nike Grind Bumper Plates are sold in sets of two, with prices ranging from $46 to $100 per plate, or as a full set starting at $320.
Material: Cast iron | Coating: Baked enamel finish | Available weights: 35 and 45 lbs. | Type: Olympic | Grip handles: No | Standout features: Baked enamel finish
If you're looking to train old-school Arnold-style, these Flybird Cast Iron Olympic Weight Plates made of pure cast iron will do the trick. I know, technically, a 45-pound plate is a 45-pound plate, but whenever I lift with iron plates instead of rubber, I swear they feel heavier.
Despite the heft of these cast iron plates, they're surprisingly comfortable to lift and load, primarily thanks to a generous lip that's easy to grasp. We also liked how the plates give you freedom when choosing a bar — they have a 2-inch diameter center hole, making them compatible with any standard Olympic barbell.
Flybird's website points out that these weight plates are ready to use right out of the box — no chemical smell or greasy residue like you sometimes get with rubber ones. The plates also have a baked enamel finish, which helps prevent corrosion and rust.
While these plates were previously available in 10 and 25 pounds, only the 35 and 45-pound plates are listed on the company's website at the time of publication.
Thanks to their versatility, weight plates can be used on their own for functional training or paired with a barbell for compound lifts. Whether made from iron, steel or rubber, each type serves a purpose — from powerlifting to CrossFit. Here's a breakdown of the primary options:
Standard weight plates: Designed for a standard barbell with a 1-inch diameter, these plates are best suited for casual or beginner lifters.
Olympic plates: These plates fit Olympic barbells with a 2-inch diameter. They can be made from steel, iron or rubber and are known for their high weight accuracy, making them a staple for serious strength training.
Training plates: Often lighter and available in smaller weight increments, like 2.5 and 5 pounds, training plates are perfect for beginners or those refining their technique and form. Because of their low weight, they help lifters gradually increase strength while focusing on proper movement patterns.
Bumper plates: Thicker and more shock-absorbent than traditional plates, bumper plates are designed for exercises like deadlifts and those performed during CrossFit workouts where weights are frequently dropped from thigh height. These plates are made from all rubber or with a rubber coating over a steel or iron core, offering durability and safety.
Competition and powerlifting plates: These plates are engineered for maximum weight accuracy and precision. They're typically reserved for high-level strength competitions.
The best weight plates for your home gym depend on your goals, space and how you like to train — whether you're chasing PRs (personal records) or you're just trying to challenge yourself on leg day. Here's what our experts say you should keep in mind when picking your plates:
According to Burke, durability is an important factor, though it may be outweighed (no pun intended) by other considerations, like your workout space and budget. Still, when possible, opt for weight plates designed to withstand regular use. Cast iron and steel plates, for example, are incredibly durable and have been trusted since the 19th century, but they can be noisy and may damage floors or walls if dropped.
Rubber-coated plates are quieter and less likely to cause damage, making them a good choice for apartments or shared living spaces. Burke explains that rubber plates are still highly durable because they often have an internal iron or steel core for added strength.
High-quality construction and accurate calibration are key. "Weight plates should be accurate within 1% to 2% of the specified weight," Burke notes. This accuracy ensures consistent training and prevents imbalances — for instance, poorly calibrated weights could cause problems when loaded on a barbell, causing discrepancies in load between one side and the other. Many manufacturers list their plates' weight calibration online, but you can also contact the company before purchasing to double-check.
For serious lifters or those aiming for precise progression, Raymond Agostino, physical therapist and sports performance coach, recommends competition-grade plates with a weight accuracy to within 0.5%. However, he adds that standard weight tolerance is adequate for most home gym setups.
Burke also points out that poor construction and damage to the plate, such as chipping or cracking, can affect the accuracy of the weight. "Damage to the rubber coating of the plate can expose the iron underneath, making it vulnerable to corrosion, which may cause weight loss," she says. This brings us to the next consideration: material and coating.
Weight plates are typically made from cast iron, steel or rubber, with some rubber plates featuring a metal core. As Agostino points out, each material has its pros and cons. "Cast iron plates are cost-effective and compact, steel plates are durable [and] rubber-coated plates are quieter and protect floors," he says.
If you're new to weight training, dumbbells may seem like a more approachable and versatile option. But trust us: weight plates are just as versatile. Noelle McKenzie, a certified physical trainer and correctional exercise specialist, explains that weight plates can double as dumbbells for exercises like chest flies, curls and raises, while also offering added functionality. Beyond their traditional use with a barbell for heavier lifts, weight plates can be used creatively for bodyweight exercises, like planks or wall sits, introducing variety and challenge to your workouts. Ultimately, how you plan to use the plates will determine the type of plates to buy and how heavy you need your weights to be.
McKenzie emphasizes that weight plates are more space-efficient than dumbbells or kettlebells, as they can be stored on a plate tree or mounted on a wall.
Umo Callins, a certified physical trainer and board-certified sports dietitian, recommends choosing a weight plate based on your budget, the floor it will be used on and how the weights will be used.
"If you plan on squatting, deadlifting and doing Olympic lifts, bumper plates work best because if you drop the bar, the plates will have some level of bounce," she says. "Plus, as long as your bar has a high whip grade, they will not bend your bar over time."
Overall, bumper plates are Callins's go-to recommendation. "Bumper plates are easier on your flooring, not loud when dropped and allow you to do more varieties of barbell training," she notes.
While top-tier Olympic weight plates aren't necessary for most home gyms, going too cheap may sacrifice durability and end up costing more over time. Ideally, opt for a good-quality, durable set made by a reputable manufacturer. Depending on the brand, some plates are covered under warranty, providing additional peace of mind.
To determine the best weight plates for every fitness level, two professional personal trainers, several powerlifters and a diverse group of casual gym-goers of varying ages and abilities rigorously tested five weight sets, providing a well-rounded perspective on each plate's performance. The plates were used regularly over six months to assess their durability and reliability with repeated use in home and commercial gym environments. Each set was evaluated based on its materials, durability, performance and overall value.
Our final list was determined using a combination of tester feedback, expert insights from personal trainers and our own lifting experience.
Most weight plates are designed to fit either a standard barbell with a 1-inch diameter or an Olympic barbell with a 2-inch diameter. If you’re unsure, check the manufacturer’s specifications to confirm compatibility. For added assurance, consider purchasing a coordinated set of plates and barbells to guarantee a perfect fit.
Cast iron and steel plates are highly durable and built to last, but they’re not intended to be dropped during workouts. In contrast, rubber-coated plates are designed for high-impact movements like deadlifts and snatches, safely absorbing the force when dropped on the ground. This makes them ideal for more dynamic training styles.
Most weight plates should be accurate within their reported 1% to 2% range. Some manufacturers also list the weight plate calibration for accuracy. On our list, for instance, Ethos reports that its weight plates are calibrated to +0.1% to -0.05% of 20 kg.
Metal plates can be wiped down with a cloth, dried and occasionally treated with WD-40 to prevent rusting. Rubber plates can be cleaned using mild dish soap and water, then towel-dried. To prolong the life of all weight plates, avoid exposing them to excess moisture or humidity and store them off the floor whenever possible.
Always use reliable equipment and regularly inspect weight plates for signs of damage, such as cracks or chips. When lifting a barbell, prioritize safety by using equipment like clips or collars, racks and safety arms and enlist a spotter whenever possible. It's also important to take care when storing weights. Improperly stacked plates can pose a falling hazard or result in pinched fingers. To minimize risks, use a plate tree or designated storage system.
Raymond Agostino, DPT, sports performance coach and owner of Agostino Athletics in Fort Myers, Fla.
Cassandra Padula Burke, MFS, RDN, CPT, owner of Catalyst Performance Lab in Finksburg, Md.
Umo Callins, MS, RD, LD, CSSD, CPT, a sports dietitian and fitness coach based in Oklahoma City, Okla.
Noelle McKenzie, CPT, correctional exercise specialist and co-founder of Leading Edge Personal Trainers in New York,
Tim Strunk, CPT, former head trainer at Eighty Twenty Club in Lapeer, Mich.
Jason Wrosch, CPT, head trainer at Eighty Twenty Club in Lapeer, Mich.
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
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