Best Adjustable Weight Bench Under $200: Everything You Need to Know

What is the best adjustable weight bench?

This depends on what is most important to the buyer. All products listed are rated as some of the best available under 200USD for different reasons.

The Flybird bench seems to be one of the most popular benches available regardless of price.

Are adjustable benches worth it?

Yes. Many users rave about their increased efficacy during home workouts with the use of a bench.

It opens various new exercises that people can perform and there is a range of affordable models that are still very well built and durable.

What is a good price for a weight bench?

Prices can range quite a lot depending on the brand and what’s included.

The most popular benches tend to be around 100-200 USD as you can find affordable yet quality products that are safe to use.

These benches, depending on the chosen model, tend to provide the stability and purpose needed for majority of people.

Many benches under 100USD can lack stability and durability. Most models in this price range should likely be avoided although there are a couple available that work well for lighter waders and smaller users.

Who makes the best weight bench?

This depends greatly on the type of weight bench, inclusions, adjustability, and primary purpose.

Key Decision-Making Factors When Choosing a Bench:

Size

• It’s important to find a weight bench that will accommodate the height and weight of the user.
• Some are better suited to shorter or taller people depending on the size.
• The size may also be important based on how much room is available for the home gym.
• If space is limited buyers may want to opt for a model that is foldable for storage. 

Stability

• Stability is crucial when it comes to exercising effectively and safely. 
• Many of the cheapest benches available are not stable enough for the buyer’s needs. 
• It’s important to find a balance between the weight of the bench and how much stability it provides. 
• The main components that provide stability are weight, size, length of the base, and adjustment points. 

Capacity

• There is a wide range of various maximum weight capacities for benches depending on the make and model.
• Buyers should choose a bench that has a weight capacity high enough to accommodate their bodyweight plus any free weights they will be using.
• It’s a good idea to allow for progressions, strength gains, and heavier weights. 
• Exceeding maximum weight capacities can be unsafe. 

Adjustability

• This is important so buyers can use the bench for various exercises and increase versatility.
• This can include different adjustment positions for both the backrest and seat for some.
• Some models might accommodate incline, flat, and decline with varying numbers of angles in between while others may be far more limited.
• Buyers should choose a bench that has enough adjustment positions to accommodate their various exercises.

Attachments

• Attachments are more important to some users than others
• Various attachments can increase the versatility of a bench allowing buyers to do different exercises
• Attachments may include-
  • Leg developer/extender
  • Footholds
  • Handles
  • Wheels
  • Barbell rack
  • Compatibility with other machines i.e.- squat rack, smith machine, etc.
  • Resistance band attachments
  • Adjustable pads

Best Weight Benches

1. Flybird Adjustable Weight Bench

Flybird is one of the most popular adjustable benches and costs less than 200 USD.

It comes highly recommended on Amazon and has over 15,000 reviews.

The bench is made of commercial thickness steel and has passed thousands of weight tests to ensure safety for workouts. 

With a 700 lbs. Weight Capacity is designed with a unique frame with a triangular structure and made of heavy-duty commercial quality steel, which is very sturdy and durable. The FLYBIRD has a foldable bench, easy to carry with a folded size of 30″ L x 16″ W x 9″ H. 

Additional Details:

• Lightweight
• Easy to store and move
• Assembled size- 49.2-inch L x 15.7-inch W x 44.5 inch H
• Weight- 28.4 POUNDS
• User height- Up to 6.2′
• Adjustable angles range from 95 degrees to 215 degrees
• Exceptionally stable for such a light bench

Price:

• $149.79

Best for:

• Foldable
• overall
• adjustability

User Reviews:

2. Marcy SB 670 Adjustable Weight Bench

The Marcy bench is an excellent choice for a durable weight bench at a very affordable price.

The adjustable utility bench from Marcy is ideal for working out and building up the muscles in your chest, shoulders, back, abs, and more.

It’s a great unit for a full-body workout, whether you’re at home or the gym. The back pad is highly adjustable and can be set to different angles to help perform chest exercises such as incline, military, decline, and flat presses.

The tilting seat can be adjusted to 3 positions to fit any user. Not only is this equipment highly adjustable, but it’s also adaptable! Attach it to other squat racks, half cages, and Smith machines and get the most out of your workout. 

Additional details:

• Wheels and handle
• Weight- 52 Pounds
• 600 lbs. Capacity
• two-year limited warranty against defects
• the right amount of comfort and padding
• wide rear stabilizer bar
• compatible with many smith machines and racks
• Folds flat for storage

Price:

• $116.75

Best for:

• Value

User Reviews:

3. Gymenist Weight Bench

An extremely light bench at a cheap price, yet still stable.

The Gymenist is a great traveling bench and great for home storage. This bench can be adjusted to all positions from incline, flat & decline. 

The seat can also be adjusted to three different positions.

There’s also a free cushion included for the back that you can move up and down the back of the bench to put it where it’s most conformable for you. 

Additional details:

• The back can be adjusted to 6 positions
• Seat can also be adjusted to three different positions
• Footrest for decline support
• Can be folded flat & half the size of the actual bench
• The ends of the legs can be rotated if the floor is not balanced
• Folded dimensions- 34 x 18 x 10 inches
• Supports Up to 550 LBS 
• weighs 26lb 
• Not as durable as some slightly more expensive models
• Wide and comfortable seat

Price:

• $89.99

Best for:

• budget

User Reviews:

4. Weider Platinum Standard Bench

This Weider bench is an excellent choice for an affordable option that includes a rack.

Gain access to on-demand trainer-led workouts with a full-access trial of the iFit membership This weight bench is compatible with 6.5-foot standard barbells and 1” standard weight plates (sold separately).

Integrated Leg Developer allows you to train your quads, hamstrings, glutes, and hip flexors. Tear-resistant vinyl is easy to wipe clean after an intense workout. Choose between 2 levels of incline, flat, or decline positions to execute a variety of strength-building exercises. 

Additional details:

• Sturdy fixed uprights are built to support up to 110 pounds
• 410-Pound Total Weight Capacity
• Dimensions- 47.44 x 17.72 x 6.89 inches
• Weight- 50 Pounds
• Easy to adjust and will store all your weight plates
• Strong safety pins
• The price is great for the quality
• Might not suit taller weightlifters
• Easy to assemble, sturdy, lightweight
• Barbell rack cannot support heavyweight

Price:

• $119.00

Best for:

• Included barbell rack

User Reviews:

5. Steelbody Deluxe 6 Position Utility Weight Bench

The steel body bench is great for those looking for a well-built, functional, and simple bench.

Training equipment has 2-inch thick padding with sturdy faux canvas vinyl covering for comfort and has non-marking foot pads and end caps to prevent floor scraping when moving the bench. 

Perfect for beginners and long-time trainers. This versatile bench can be used to train different parts of your physique such as the chest, core, and upper and lower limbs. 

Bench pads are customizable to fit every position. The backrest pad can be adjusted into 6 positions, which include Military, incline, and flat. The seat pad can be rearranged into 5 positions to accommodate the backrest pad positions. 

The Steelbody deluxe utility bench is an exercise bench that can be used for lifting weights and strength training.

The platform can be used for arm lifting exercises, back training, ab workouts, and bench presses, and other workouts. 

Additional details:

• ideal for both novice lifters and veteran trainers alike
• Extremely durable, sturdy, and comfortable
• maximum weight of 800lb
• Weight- 53 Pounds
• Transport wheels
• The heavy and wide frame makes it very stable
• 6 back positions and 5 seat positions

Price:

• $158.97

Best for:

• Weight capacity
• stability

User Reviews:

6. CAP Barbell Bench

The CAP bench is closer to the 200-dollar range but is worth the extra money for many users. Assembled specifications are 53 inches L x 27 inches W x 45 inches H (in upright position). 

Use weight bench alone or with dumbbells or resistance bands and tubes or use with the CAP FM CB8008 Ultimate Power Cage for more options. 

Additional details:

• constructed with 2×2 inch steel tubing
• seven-position back pad and three-position seat pad
• Two resistance band posts provide an added feature for versatile workouts
• Built-in transportation wheels
• Available in blue, black, green, orange, red, white, yellow, and gray
• Weight: 45 lb.
• Maximum weight capacities for the bench are 500 lb (flat position, including the user) and 400 lb (inclined positions, including the user)
• No Decline setting
• Very quick and easy adjustments
• Good quality for the price

Price:

• $179.99

Best for:

• Quick adjustments
• Incline angles

User Reviews:

7. Escape Fitness Multi-Purpose Fitness Station Deck

This is the best choice for anyone looking for a fitness deck/step that can double as a basic bench.

Versatile design with total body strength and cardio home workouts for fitness pros and novices, men, and women.

Equipped with 16 configurations all in 1 with a weight bench, stepping platform, plyometric box, and resistance tubes. 

Lift backrest for an integrated storage bin to access equipment easily and quickly. Features adjustable backrest with steel tubing support and 3 different angles (30, 45, and 70 degrees) for the weight bench. 

Additional details:

• Dimensions- 43.31 x 12.99 x 13.98 inches
• Capacity- 375 Pounds
• 16 configurations. Includes incline/decline ‘ramp’ mode and weight bench configurations
• Anti-slip top mat with anatomic target.
• Resistance tube channels.
• Low Step setting (20.5cm /8 inches) minimizes joint impact. High Step setting (35.5cm /14 inches)
• Choose between 30°, 45°, and 70° angles
• steel tubing supported backrest
• use it as a stepping platform, plyometric box, for resistance tubes, and more

Price:

• $149.99

Best for:

• Versatility
• Fitness deck

User Reviews:

Why Should I Use a Bench Press?

Numerous studies have been done on the effects of bench presses and how they increase the efficacy of workouts. 

One study was titled “The Effects of Bench Press Variations in Competitive Athletes on Muscle Activity and Performance”

The study aimed to compare the EMG activity performing 6RM competition-style bench presses. Twelve bench press athletes competing at the national and international level participated in the study.

EMG activity was measured in the pectoralis major, anterior and posterior deltoid, biceps brachii, triceps brachii, and latissimus dorsi. 

Major Results

• Non-significant differences in activation were observed between the three bench positions except for 58.5-62.6% lower triceps brachii activation, but 48.3-68.7% greater biceps brachii activation in the inclined bench. 

• Non-significant differences in activation were observed between the three bench positions except for 58.5-62.6% lower triceps brachii activation, but 48.3-68.7% greater biceps brachii activation in the inclined bench. 

• Non-significant differences in activation were observed between the three bench positions except for 58.5-62.6% lower triceps brachii activation, but 48.3-68.7% greater biceps brachii activation in the inclined bench. 

• Non-significant differences in activation were observed between the three bench positions except for 58.5-62.6% lower triceps brachii activation, but 48.3-68.7% greater biceps brachii activation in the inclined bench. 

Another study compared the muscular activation of the pectoralis major, anterior deltoid, and triceps brachii during a free-weight barbell bench press.

Fourteen healthy resistance-trained males (age 21.4 ± 0.4 years) participated in this study. One set of six repetitions for each bench press condition at 65% one-repetition maximum were performed. 

Major Results

• The sEMG of the upper pectoralis displayed no difference during any of the bench conditions when examining the complete concentric contraction

• The results of this study support the use of a horizontal bench to achieve muscular activation of both the upper and lower heads of the pectoralis. 

• A bench incline angle of 30° or 45° resulted in greater muscular activation during certain time points, suggesting that it is important to consider how muscular activation is affected at various time points when selecting bench press exercises.

An important study called Maximal Strength Performance and Muscle Activation for the Bench Press and Triceps Extension Exercises Adopting Dumbbell, Barbell, and Machine Modalities Over Multiple Sets

was done in 2017. 

The purpose of this study was to investigate muscle activation, total repetitions, and training volume for 3 bench press (BP) exercise modes (Smith machine [SMBP], barbell [BBP], and dumbbell [DBP]) that were followed by a triceps extension (TE) exercise. Nineteen trained men performed 3 testing protocols in random order. 

Major Results

• The results indicated that significantly higher total repetitions were achieved for the DBP (31.2 ± 3.2) vs. the BBP (27.8 ± 4.8). 

• For the TE, significantly greater volume was achieved when this exercise was performed after the BBP (1,204.4 ± 249.4 kg) and DBP (1,216.8 ± 287.5 kg) vs. the SMBP (1,097.5 ± 193 kg). 

• During the succeeding TE exercise, significantly greater activity of the TB was observed when this exercise was performed after the BBP vs. the SMBP and DBP.

• Therefore, it seems that the variation in BP modes does influence both repetition performance and muscle activation patterns during the TE when these exercises are performed in succession.

A study from 2018 was done called Muscle Activity in Upper-Body Single-Joint Resistance Exercises with Elastic Resistance Bands vs. Free Weights. 

The main objective of this study was to compare the muscle activation levels induced by elastic resistance bands versus conventional resistance training equipment (dumbbells) in the upper-body resistance exercises flyes and reverse flyes.

The level of muscle activation was measured with surface electromyography in 29 men and women. 

Major Results

• Elastic resistance bands induced slightly lower muscle activity in the muscles most people aim to activate during flyes and reverse flies, namely pectoralis major and deltoideus posterior.

• However, elastic resistance bands increased the muscle activation level substantially in perceived ancillary muscles, that is deltoideus anterior in flyes, and deltoideus medius and trapezius descendens in reverse flyes, possibly due to elastic bands being a more unstable resistance modality.

• Overall, the results show that elastic resistance bands can be considered a feasible alternative to dumbbells in flyes and reverse flyes.