The Best Home Gym Equipment Under $500 in 2024

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Home gyms are convenient, effective and cost less in the long run than paying for pricey gym memberships. Setting up your own home gym can be expensive, especially if you’re looking to add multiple pieces of equipment, but it doesn’t have to be. That’s why we curated this list, so 2024 can be your year to get fit for less with the best home gyms under $500. Whether you’re looking for the best complete home gym, weight, workout or cable machines, we’ve got equipment to suit large and compact spaces, at various price points, for every budget. These are the best home gyms for under $500.

Our Picks for the Best Home Gyms Under $500 in 2024:

• Best Overall Home Gym System Under $500: TRX Home2 System
• Best Cable Machine for Home Gyms Under $500: Weider 2980 X Home Gym System
• Best Bench for Home Gyms Under $500: Force USA Mybench
• Best Compact Gym Under $500: Force USA Super Bands
• Best Power Rack for Home Gyms Under $500: Rep Fitness PR-1000 Power Rack
• Best Squat Rack for Home Gyms Under $500: Fringe Sport Squat Rack with Pull-up Bar
• Best Smart Home Gym Under $500: Tempo Move
• Best Weight Set for Home Gyms Under $500: NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells
• Best Squat Machine for Home Gyms Under $500: The DB Method
• Best Cardio Machine for Home Gyms Under $500: WalkingPad Foldable Walking Treadmill
• Best Core Equipment for Home Gyms Under $500: SideShaper

Best Overall Home Gym Under $500: TRX Home2 System

Key Features:

• Price: $230
• Features: Light, portable, adjustable, quick setup

The TRX Home2 System is essentially a gym in a bag, making it the ultimate in portable fitness equipment. This all-in-one suspension trainer provides a full gym experience powered by your own bodyweight, for all fitness levels and goals. This ultra-light system includes adjustable straps with comfortable handles, adjustable foot cradles, a carabiner for anchoring, a suspension anchor, a door anchor and a mesh travel bag to carry it all in. You can perform a wide range of exercises to target all major muscle groups, and it can be easily set up in seconds. Plus, it’s one of the best total gyms for small spaces and is super travel-friendly, so you can take your total gym with you wherever you go. .

Your exercises are going to be somewhat limited to what the straps can encompass, but you have multiple options and can target every part of the body. This isn’t the best option on the list for cardio workouts, but you could definitely work up a sweat if you apply HIIT style training to any sculpt workout on this suspension trainer.

To learn more about the TRX Home2 System, read our in-depth review here.

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Portable
• Versatile
• Easy to use/setup

Cons:

• Exercises somewhat limited
• Not best for cardio

Best Cable Machine for Home Gyms Under $500: Weider 2980 X Home Gym System

Key Features:

• Price: $280
• Dimensions: 76 inches H x 37 inches W x 65 inches L  
• Features: 80-pound weight stack, up to 214 pounds of resistance, high pulley with lat bar, low pulley, four-roll leg developer, ankle strap with handle, included exercise chart

The Weider 2980 X Weight System is a pulley system that enables you to strengthen and tone your whole body with a variety of muscle-sculpting stations. It features an 80-pound weight stack and offers up to 214 pounds of resistance, making it our top pick for best cable machine for home gyms under $500.

It includes a high pulley with a lat bar, as well as a low pulley to accommodate a variety of exercises with a wide range of motion that focus on the back, lats, biceps, deltoids, forearms and triceps. The chest fly station works the chest and shoulder muscles, including major and minor pectorals and anterior deltoids.

Strengthen and tone your lower body with the four-roll leg developer where you can work your quads, hamstrings, glutes and hip flexors. You can also target specific leg muscles with the help of the included ankle strap and isolate your biceps and forearms with the preacher pad.

Need some workout inspiration? Not to worry, the Weider 2980 X Home Gym System comes with a step-by-step exercise chart, created by a certified personal trainer, so you can receive guidance and optimize your workouts.

Some customers report they received damaged parts after shipping and that some pieces were missing. However, customer service is responsive. If you have any issues with missing or broken pieces, contact them right away.

Pros:

• 80-pound weight stack
• Multiple, versatile muscle sculpt stations
• Up to 214 pounds of resistance
• Step-by-step exercise chart

Cons:

• Shipping issues
• Missing pieces

Best Bench for Home Gyms Under $500: Force USA MyBench

Key Features:

• Price: $400
• Dimensions: 22 inches H x 30 inches W x 67 inches L 
• Features: Flat/incline/decline, preacher curl attachment, leg developer attachment, 705-pound weight rating, lifetime structural warranty

The Force USA MyBench adjusts seamlessly from laying completely flat, to an incline or a decline thanks to its laser cut, thoughtful design. The seat pad can also be adjusted independently for better positioning and comfort while you sweat.

This bench includes a separate leg developer for leg extensions and height-adjustable preacher curl attachment that can be interchanged easily for even more versatility to build muscle in your workouts. It features a 705-pound weight rating, convenient handle and dual rear transport wheels for portability.

The frame is made of a durable steel with an eco-friendly powder coating. The padded portions are constructed of high-density foam padding covered in commercial grade upholstery that’s rip-resistant. Force USA offers a limited lifetime structural warranty on this bench, making this piece of workout equipment a worthy investment.

Pros:

• Flat/incline/decline
• Preacher curl attachment
• Leg developer/leg extension attachment
• 705-pound weight rating

Cons:

• Pricey
• Exercises somewhat limited

Best Compact Gym Under $500: Force USA Super Bands

Key Features:

• Price: $15 to $60
• Resistance: Five to 250 pounds
• Features: Compact, multiple sizes/weight increments, durable, lightweight, portable

Intensify and maximize any exercise with Force USA Super Bands. These loop bands come in extra-small to XXXL sizes ranging in resistance levels from five to 250 pounds. They’re budget-friendly, so you can buy multiple bands for more versatility as you grow stronger.

These bands are color coded according to size for quick and easy identification. Resistance bands are a great total-body, low-impact workout making them a perfect addition to any home gym. They provide some of the best, most effective, core and strength training exercises, as well as a wide range of rehabilitation exercises. Resistance bands used by seniors are a great beginner friendly, low-impact workout.

Ergonomically designed to handle the toughest of workouts, the Force USA Super Bands feature a one-piece molded construction, are ultra-durable and built to last. They’re lightweight, compact and portable. Take them with you when you travel; just throw your bands in your bag and you have a take-anywhere gym.

Pros:

• Many sizes and weight increments
• Durable
• Lightweight and portable
• Compact

Cons:

• Not great for cardio

Best Power Rack for Home Gyms Under $500: REP Fitness PR-1000 Power Rack

Key Features:

• Price: $400
• Dimensions: 48 inches D x 58 inches W x 83.6 inches H
• Features: Compact, 14-gauge steel frame; dual pull-up bars; storage pegs; extended safeties; J-cups; numbered uprights

The REP PR-1000 is outfitted with everything you need for the ultimate in weight training and weightlifting. This affordable power rack features numbered uprights for quick, seamless adjustments and protective J-cups to shield your barbell and rack from wear and tear. It’s outfitted with dual 1.25-inch and two-inch pull-up bars for various grip challenges and extended safeties that can hold an extra barbell if needed. You’ve got built-in weight plate storage pegs on the back base, which also add stability to the cage.

It has a 14-gauge steel frame and can handle a weight load up to 700 pounds. If you really want to trick it out, it’s compatible with many different add-ons, including REP’s dip, lat pulldown and landmine attachments, as well as more weightlifting storage, additional J-cups, cannonball grips and pin safeties.

Pros:

• Numbered uprights
• Protective J-cups
• Dual pull-up bars
• Storage pegs
• Extended safeties

Cons:

• Additional attachments not included
• Purchasing add-ons can get pricey

Best Squat Rack for Home Gyms Under $500: Fringe Sport Squat Rack with Pull-Up Bar

Key Features:

• Price: $299
• Dimensions: 46.5 inches D x 49.5 inches W x 84.5 inches H
• Features: Pull-up bar, J-cups, storage pegs, low-profile, versatile

The Fringe Sport Squat Rack with Pull-Up Bar is a low-profile, well-outfitted, versatile piece of equipment. It’s got a compact four-foot by four-foot footprint making it a great squat rack for small spaces, and when paired with a barbell, can be used in exercises that target all your major muscle groups for effective weight training.

It features a steel frame, designed for strength and durability with a weight capacity of up to 450 pounds. It features enhanced uprights for improved stability, a pull-up bar, protective J-cups and weight pegs for added storage. According to reviews on the Fringe Sport website, users say this squat rack is easy to assemble and a great value, with one user writing, “I was so pleased to find this squat rack 100-200 dollars cheaper than the rest out there. I have a smaller barbell and it fits perfectly on the rack!”

The brand's website says that this rack can be assembled in under an hour, and that one person can do the job, but it's better to have two people working on it. This compact, low-profile design can work in both small spaces and large.

Pros:

• Pull-up bar
• Protective J-cups
• Storage pegs
• Compact footprint

Cons:

• Barbell sold separately

Best Smart Home Gym Under $500: Tempo Move

Key Features:

• Price: $495
• Dimensions: 13.5 inches D x 13.5 inches W x 22 inches H
• Features: Connected fitness, stores up to 90 pounds, AI weights, color coded

Tempo Move is a smart home fitness system that focuses on weightlifting. The Move is a compact storage cabinet that can hold up to 90 pounds in just over one square foot. It fits 16 weight plates, two dumbbells and four weight collars vertically, with grooved trays for organization and easy grabs.

The weights are outfitted with AI sensors that recognize and track your stats. This system is powered by the Tempo Core, which is a small, portable dock. Dock your phone in the Core and follow along with classes on your iPhone or TV to get real-time weight and form guidance.

The Core fits in the palm of your hand and detaches from the Move, so you can take it with you anywhere for guidance and coaching on the go.

Check out our in-depth Tempo Move review for more information on this smart home fitness system. 

Pros:

• Very compact
• Stores up to 90 pounds
• Connected fitness
• Color coding

Cons:

• Core is travel-friendly, Move is not

Best Weight Set for Home Gyms Under $500: NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells

Key Features:

• Price: $349
• Weight increments: 10, 12.5, 15, 20, 22.5, 25, 30, 32.5, 35, 40, 42.5, 45, 50, 52.5 and 55 pounds
• Features: 15-in-one weights, iFit connectivity, weight increments adjust between 10 and 55 pounds, 30-day iFit trial included, smooth adjustments

No home gym is complete without a set of free weights. Rather than spending valuable money and space on multiple sizes of weights, an adjustable set of dumbbells is an excellent option. That’s why we recommend NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells. These 15-in-one dumbbells can be adjusted from 10 to 55 pounds and include convenient storage trays to keep them protected and out of the way. They feature a smooth weight selection system, and there are 15 possible weight adjustments per dumbbell for versatility while you exercise.

While you can use these weights on their own, opting into the iFit monthly membership will help you maximize this purchase. iFit is NordicTrack’s fitness subscription service that grants users access to thousands of on-demand classes taught by top-notch instructors. An iFit membership includes classes in many different fitness modalities, so you’re not restricted to just classes that include these dumbbells.

The cool thing about iFit classes is that they’re set in exotic locations around the world. You can create up to five profiles per family membership, so everyone can enjoy. Plus, you’ll get personalized lifestyle coaching in exercise, activity and sleep. These weights include one 30-day trial of iFit, and then you’ll have to opt into the membership which is $39/month if you want to continue.

Pros:

• 15-in-one weights
• 10- to 55-pound weight increments
• iFit connectivity
• Smooth adjustments

Cons:

• iFit monthly membership sold separately

Best Squat Machine for Home Gyms Under $500: The DB Method

Key Features:

• Price: $299
• Dimensions: 39.5 inches H x 20 inches W x 45.5 inches L  
• Product weight: 29.5 pounds
• Weight capacity: 250 pounds
• Features: Modified squats, lightweight, foldable, versatile, wheels for portability

This all-in-one squat machine puts a twist on the traditional squat. The DB Method shifts your body’s center of gravity, isolating the glutes (not the legs), making them the star of your workout, while reducing stress on the knees and back. But that’s not all! You can also use this machine to isolate just your chest, arms and abs. DB Method offers a full body workout in minimal time.

It’s very lightweight at just 29.5 pounds. We love that it can be easily folded and stored for convenience, and it’s equipped with wheels on back for portability. One downside is the squat machine has a user weight capacity of up to 250 pounds, so it may not be suitable for everyone. For an additional cost you can purchase accessories like a resistance band, weighted belt, yoga mat and workout DVDS to take your fitness routine to the next level.

Pros:

• Designed for squats
• Full body exercise options
• Lightweight
• Folds

Cons:

• 250-pound weight capacity

Best Cardio Machine for Home Gyms Under $500: WalkingPad Foldable Treadmill

Key Features:

• Price: $499
• Dimensions: 5.0 inches H x 21.5 inches W x 56.37 inches L  
• Features: Foldable, portable, easy to store, walking mat

When it comes to trying to add a cardio machine to your home gym, a lot of options like best in home treadmills, ellipticals or an exercise bike can be a huge financial investment. That’s why the WalkingPad Foldable Treadmill is our pick for the best cardio machine for your home gym under $500. It features a foldable design that can conveniently be set up under a desk, in your home gym or living room to keep you in active mode.

This under-desk treadmill features foot-sensing speed control that will modify itself to your pace, or you can control it manually via remote between 0.5 to 3.75 miles per hour. The handheld remote is where you can view your stats, and connect to the KS Fit app to track your progress over time. It’s important to note that while this treadmill is a great way to get your steps in, it is not designed for running.

Pros:

• Foldable
• Portable
• Walking mat

Cons:

• Pricey
• Not for running

Best Core Work Machine for Home Gyms Under $500: Sideshaper

Key Features:

• Price: $300
• Dimensions: Not listed, but ships in box with dimensions 40 inches x 22 inches x 7 inches
• Features: Collapses flat, built-in rep and heart rate monitor, LCD display

This compact, foldable core machine can be set up virtually anywhere in your home. It features a bi-lateral swivel that targets all abdominal muscles including the obliques. It’ll also hit on your lower back and upper body muscles, toning your arms, back and glutes at the same time.

It’s outfitted with an LCD display where you can see your time, repetition and calories burned. When in use, you’ll need about a six by four-foot square area to do your workouts.

Pros:

• Collapses flat
• LCD display
• Bi-lateral swivel

Cons:

• Exercises somewhat limited

How to Choose the Best Home Gym Under $500

Type of workout

When choosing the best home gym for you, definitely consider what kinds of workouts you want to accomplish. Are you looking for something all-encompassing? Then maybe the TRX Home2 System, Weider 2980 X Home Gym System or a set of resistance bands would be best for you. Are you looking for a specific piece of equipment like a squat rack, bench press or cardio machine? Are you trying to build muscle mass or lose weight? Your favorite fitness modality and your fitness goals play the key role in choosing which equipment is best for you.

Weight or resistance capacity

Weight or resistance capacity is integral to your long term success. You want to choose something that can accommodate the weight or resistance you need right now, with ample room to grow as you get stronger.

Apps and guided instruction

If you’re someone that loves fitness apps and guided instruction, choosing a connected fitness system like Tempo Move or the NordicTrack 15-in-one dumbbells with iFit will suit you best. These services paired with your smartphone provide a way to track and store your performance metrics, give valuable insights to help achieve your fitness goals and provide the coaching you need to take your training to the next level.

Versatility

It’s never a bad thing to have a versatile home gym. Choosing something that can target the entire body with a wide array of exercises will net you the best bang for your buck and keep your body from plateauing in the long run.

Size

Measure the space where you’re planning on putting your home gym to ensure the dimensions will fit comfortably and safely.

Assembly

Some of the home gyms on this list are easy to set up and break down alone, while some require an additional set of hands. Some of this equipment may require expert assembly.

FAQs

How do I choose a home gym machine?

Choose a home gym machine that aligns with your favorite workout type, suits your space, aligns with your fitness goals and works within your budget.

Is it better to have a home gym or go to a gym?

This comes down to personal preference. Do you enjoy taking group fitness classes or working out with friends? Then a gym membership might be for you. However, if you want to roll out of bed and into your workout, a home gym might be the more convenient and cost effective option in the long run.

Can I build muscle without weights?

Yes, according to this 2019 study you can build muscle without free weights, resistance bands or adjustable resistance. While it’s possible to build muscle doing bodyweight exercises, experts say the best way to put on muscle mass is lifting heavy weights.

What do I need to know before building a home gym?

You need to know how much space you have, what your home gym budget is and what your fitness goals are to ensure the home gym you choose will work for you.

How big does a home gym need to be?

There are no size requirements. Our best overall home gym: the TRX Home2 System, can fit in a bag, so it really comes down to your personal preference.

How much should you invest in a home gym?

There’s no right or wrong answer to that question. You should invest as much as you can or want within your budget. You should concentrate on investing in high-quality pieces of equipment that are built to last. In the end, it’s better to invest in something that’s slightly more expensive, but more durable, than something that will stop working or break after minimal use.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right exercise equipment for your home gym can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Every product that made this list is a worthy investment that will provide effective training and last a long time.