TITAN T3 Yoke vs Rogue SM2.5

This is a comparison between the TITAN T3 Yoke and the Rogue SM2.5 squat stand. Follow the links for more details.

Overview and review of the Rogue SM 2.5 Monster squat stand

The Rogue SM 2.5 squat stand comes in at $744 and is one of the better 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".

What else to consider from Rogue

Overview of the SM 2.5

The Rogue SM 2.5 Squat stand uses the beams of the Rogue Monster series and creates a very sturdy squat stand. This stand is built in Columbus, Ohio and comes in black. With the flat foot design of Rogue, it does need to be bolted to the ground.

The SM2.5 has 1000 lb weight capacity and comes in at a height of 103''. The steel notes are made from 3x3'' gauge steel. The overall footprint comes to 50''x54''. This stand comes with J Cups in the delivery to get you up and running.

Pros of the SM 2.5

A squat stand is a great alternative when you want to do weightlifting training. It gives you more room to throw the weight about than in a powerlifting cage. It is also less material in case you have to fill an entire gym, have to transport the stand often or want to able to change things quickly. The SM 2.5 will be easy to transport and serve you well in these scenarios.

Cons of the SM 2.5

A squat stand by itself is not ideal for powerlifting. If you count in the safety arm spotters you will be close to $1.000 again and might as well go for a full rack that costs a bit more but leaves you with a full cage and safety for the bench press without having to buy extra accessories.

Alternatives to the SM 2.5

Alternatives to SM 2.5 are:

SM3
SM2
RM4 Fortis rack

The SM3 comes with the same specs except that the height is different. This option is for your tall athletes. If you want to outfit an entire gym maybe mix the SM3, SM2.5, and SM2 to serve various heights. It is also a good way of adding a very high pull up bar to your gym without having to invest in an entire rig or rack.

The SM2 is the smallest of the Rogue Monster squat stands. It comes in at 90.375''. This might be a good option when your ceilings are low or you are a smaller athlete with no need for a very high pull up bar.

The RM4 Fortis rack is an alternative to the squat stands which comes in at roughly the same price if you count the spotter arms. If you want to powerlift this might be the better investment of your money than having a squat stand.

Overview and review of the TITAN T3 Yoke

The TITAN T3 Yoke with pulley will put you back about $350 - $370. 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 under $500”

Overview of the T3 Yoke

Yokes are great alternatives to power racks as they are portable, come with the plate storage and can be used for home carries. If you want to add a versatile tool to your gym you should definitely consider a yoke. Here are the specs and features of the TITAN version:

Yoke details

Use as a Squat / Press Stand, Push or Drag Sled, or Yoke.
A staple for Strongman training.
Adjustable crossbar to custom fit your height
Integrated vertical plate storage.
2" hole spacing on uprights
1" Westside spacing through the bench zone
92" design makes for an ideal pull up bar height.
2.95" Crossbar diameter.:
Weight: 178 LB
Height: 92"
Inside width: 45"
Footprint: 51" x 52"
Uprights: 2"x3" 11 gauge steel
Weight capacity: 750 LB

Pros of the Yoke

Multifunctional Gym Equipment which is a great addition if you have to space to do carries. Kills many birds with one stone at a very good price.

Cons of the Yoke

This item has a lot of welding to be done. These might be of poor quality with TITAN is this is where they often cut corners to justify the low prices. This will be mostly cosmetic, not functional.

Alternatives to the Yoke

T3 fold back rack
X2 and incline combo

The T3 uses a folding concept but with 2x3 steel tubes to be stored against the wall when you don’t use it.

The X2 is one of the cheapest series in the TITAN line up. With its 2x2 steel tubes, it uses the least material to build a rack. If you want to downsize on all ends to fit a bench and rack into $500 budget comfortably, this is for you.

Summary for the Yoke

A Yoke is always a good, cost-efficient option for many use cases. TITAN's price on it makes it extra sweet.