TITAN Series power rack vs Rogue SM1 [Article, Video]

This is a comparison between the TITAN Series power rack and the Rogue SM1. Follow the links for more details.

Rogue SM1 Squat Stand

The Rogue SM1 squat stand comes in at $595 and is one of the low-range options for under $1000 from Rogue. Learn more in this review which was originally published in the Article "Which Rack to buy from Rogue for under $1000".

Overview of the SM1

The SM1 is the smallest of the Monster series Squat stands and does not include a pull-up bar. It comes in black and is manufactured in Columbus, Ohio. This stand bridges the gap between power racks and squat stands and can be built into a full rack over time if you have the funds available. It has the flat foot design, which enables you to use it without bolting it to the floor.

The SM1 is 73'' high and has a footprint of 50''x54''. The steel notes are 3x3'' 11 gauge steel. Based on this the SM1 is fully compatible with Rogues' Monster series and accessories. The delivery includes J Cups and has a weight capacity up to 1000LB.

If you want a simple squat stand which is built like a tank, this is the option for you.

Pros of the SM1

The SM1 is made from the most sturdy design you can get in the market. This stand won't break on you and is built like a rack. If you want the best from the lowest price range of Rogue, this is the one to go for.

Cons of the SM1

Squat stands are great for weightlifting. When it comes to powerlifting buying one might be false economy thinking. For the bench press, you will need spotter arms to train by yourself. Adding these to the price tag brings the squat stand price including the arms in the range of a rack. Then you might as well get a rack and save yourself the hassle.

Alternatives to the SM1

Alternatives to the SM1 are:

The SM2 and SM3 are variations of the Monster squat stand which come with a pull-up bar. The SM2 has a height of 103'' while the SM3 is around 108''. Depending on your needs these might be a better option to cover all the exercises you want to do.

The RML3WC is a foldable rack at roughly the same price as the SM1 which can be bolted to the wall. As a nice extra, it also can be folded in. This way you have more options to transform small spaces based on your needs.

Overview and review of the Titan Series power rack

The Titan Series power rack will put you back about $1000. TITAN is well known for their very good prices compared to their competition and will get you started on your home gym. This review was originally posted in “which Titan rack to buy for over $500”

Overview of the TITAN power rack

The Titan series power rack is the flagship rack from TITAN which is currently available. You will get an overbuild cage with a lot of space inside to play around with. If you are a massive athlete or just like big, star things, this is a good option for you. It also includes all of the its and bits and plate storage to get you started. A barbell and plates would have to be purchased separately to make a full set. The specifications of the TITAN power rack are:

3” x 3” 11 Gauge Tubing and bolt-together design.
Includes (2) 1” Diameter Pins w/ 1.5” Pipes for
Includes (4) Bolt-On Weight Plate Holders
Includes (4) Band Pegs.
Includes a pair (2) Sandwich J-Hooks.
numbered laser cut holes
Keyhole side spacing
1” bolts
Max height of 94” for pull-up bar.
Overall Weight: 388 LB
Overall Height: 100”
Footprint (including bolt-down plates): 53” x 55.5”
Overall Depth: 48”
Inside Depth: 42
Overall Width: 48”
Inside Width: 42”

This rack will make a fine centerpiece of your gym for years to come.

Pros of the Titan power rack

You will get a massive rack for a very competitive price. TITAN also offers a wide arrange of attachments to tend to all of your own or clients needs in the future. Once bolted down this thing does not move anywhere. Ideal for big guys lifting big things.

Cons of the TITAN power rack

As Titan seems to operate on lower margins than their competition you might find that the finish or welds of racks can be inconsistent. If you make less money per transaction you usually have to make up for it by cutting corners by buying different quality material from different suppliers on the cheap or pay your staff less. As we are talking racks here, this might not be as bad as with medication. However, if you get furious about little cosmetic blemishes or less than perfect craftsmanship, don’t buy from TITAN.

Alternatives to the TITAN power rack

Here are some alternatives to the TITAN power rack:

The X3 is basically the same model as the Titan rack with two differences. It doesn’t have numbered holes on the uprights and the keyhole design. This means that you can use fewer attachments with it which you have not necessarily bought from Rogue.

The T2 model comes in various shapes and heights and can be configured differently for your home gym to make it fit your space. The main difference to the other Titan racks is that the uprights are 2x2 instead of 2x3 or 3x3.

The T3 rack model is also very similar to the Titan rack but comes at a lower cost. It is the same as the X3 except that it has 2x3 Gauge uprights instead of 3x3.

Summary for the TITAN power rack

If you only want to buy a rack from TITAN and want the best, this is the one to go for. Also if you want to buy a lot of racks and don’t care about the finish that much, TITAN is a great option. If you are a smaller athlete and want to save money you might want to look at the other TITAN models as well, especially the X3.