TITAN X3 squat stand vs Rogue R3 Bolt together [Article, Video]

This is a comparison between the TItan X3 squat stand and the Rogue R3 bolt together rack. Follow the links for more details.

Overview and review of the Rogue Bolt together R3

The Rogue R3 bolt together rack comes in at $725 and is one of the mid-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".

What else to consider from Rogue

Overview of the R3

The R3 Rogue Bolt together rack is part of the Rogue Infinity series and comes in black. It is manufactured in Columbus, Ohio. This rack is special as it is delivered in more parts than the standard R3. This makes it easier to install in narrow settings and to transport.

The R3BT is 24'' or 30'' in length and 43'' wide. The height comes to 90.375''. The stell notes are made of 2x3'' 11 Gauge steel. The total footprint comes to 34'' or 40''x53''. The R3 weighs about 200LB. As part of the Infinity series, this rack is compatible with the accessories from this line. It ships with 4 band pegs and to safety pins. A Fat/Skinny pull up bar is also included.

This is a good variation on the standard R3 which is a little more pricey but gives you more options for the installation itself. If you need a versatile half rack this is the way to go.

Pros of the R3

This rack is ideal if you have to get it up narrow staircases. If you want to install your rack in an attic or your gym is somewhere up a lot of stairs.

Cons of the R3

The infinity series is part of the Rogue portfolio that probably will get less attention over the years. Rogue has the Monster, Monster Lite, Infinity, and Echo series. The most additions to the portfolio have been made in the MOnster and Monster lite bracket. So don't expect too many extras for this rack, if you choose to buy it and work from the options already available.

Alternatives to the R3

Alternatives to the R3BT are:

The R3 is the same rack which comes in bigger chunks. If you have loads of space to install it and do not have to bring it up narrow staircases, go with this option.

The RM4 Fortis rack costs only slightly more money but will make you part of the Monser family of Rogue. If you want to protect your investment long term you might want to spend the extra $200 to have access to more upgrades instead of the R3BT.

If you want to acquire a full rack instead of a half rack for roughly the same money, go for the RE4. The RE4 is part of the Rogue Echo series and will set you back $650. If you only want a rack and do not care too much about upgrading it in the future this is a very good alternative to the RE3BT.

Overview and review of the X-3 Squat stand with pull up bar

The TITAN X3 Squat stand will put you back about $490. 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 X3 squat stand

The X3 is a squat stand which boasts 3x3 steel tubes. It is, therefore, a very sturdy squat stand compared to other 2x3 or 2x2 options. The X3 comes with Westside spacing in the lower part of the rack to allow for smaller increments on the bench press. The flat foot design saves you bolting it to the floor which makes it a very good option in some home gym scenarios. It also comes with spotter arms. The specifics and features of the squat stand are:

3" x 3" 11 gauge steel uprights
Westside hole pattern through bench zone
2" hole spacing above and below.
1,000 + lb capacity
Pair of UHMW lined X-3 JHooks included
Double-sided gusset plates
Standard 1.25" Pull up bar included
Mounted at your preferred height.
Pair of X-3 Spotter Arms included
Height: 92"
Width: 49"
Depth: 48"
Product Weight: 203 lb
Finish: Black Power Coating
Floor Space: 16.3 sq ft (49" x 48")

This is as sturdy as they come as far as squat stands go.

Pros of the X3 squat stand

As with all TITAN equipment, the first thing to note is the competitive price. You will have a challenge to find a good quality 3x3 squat stand for the same price. A squat stand also gives you the ability to drop weight easier than in a power rack. If you prefer the Olympic lifts over powerlifting this might be the better choice for you. A squat stand also saves space and can be easily transported.

Cons of the X3 squat stand

Especially for beginners, you have less protection. The spotter arms are fine and nice, but in practice, safety pins in a full rack are a lot more secure as you won’t miss them. The whole structure is also led likely to tip over if installed correctly. In addition, TITAN is known for inconsistencies on their finish.

Alternatives to the X3 squat stand

These are other options for the X3 squat stand:

For almost the same amount of money, you can get a colored version of the T3 rack. While the tubes are only 2x3 you will get a full rack in the color of your choice.

Another way to go is to save on the color to have more budget for different size options on the T3 and maybe even adding some plate holders. The T3 is available in a short and tall version to adjust the height. For depth, you can choose between 24” and 36”.

The T3 folding rack saves you about $100 on the X3 and can be installed in your garage. If you only train on the weekends or two days a week, this is a good option so that you can still use the garage or basement for your car/ miscellaneous rubbish you think is important ( I have that stuff in my attic). The savings can be put towards a barbell like the blues city or Atlas bar.

Summary of the X3 squat stand

A great option for anyone planning on a home gym for Olympic lifting or a gym that still has a corner left and does not j ow what to do with it. If you get the squat stand make sure you can store your plates somewhere separate.