TITAN X3 squat stand vs Rogue RML 390c [Article, Video]

This is a comparison between the TITAN X3 squat stand and the Rogue RML 390c. Follow the links for more detail.

Overview and review of the Rogue RML 390c

The Rogue RML 390C rack comes in at $915 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 RML 390C

The Rogue RML 390C is one of the lowest priced racks of Rogue where you can choose the color. This is the right choice for limited spaces that still want to show style. The available colors for the RML390C are

Bright blue
Bright green
Burnt orange
Dark blue
Dark red
Gunmetal
Light Gray
Rogue Red
Satin Black
Satin Clear
White

The rack weighs 265B on a footprint of 34'' or 40''x53''. The steel notes are made of 3x3'' 11 Gauge steel. It ships with J cups, Pin/Pipe safeties and band pegs. The RML 390C is compatible with the Monster Lite series and accessories. The length is 30'' or 36'', the width 49'' and the height 90.375''. At the lower end, you have the westside spacing which makes it possible to bench with lower increments in height. This also leaves more options for setting up bands for the Westside method for the squat and bench.

If you want a colored rack from Rogue this is the lowest entry price you can go for all other options come in with a higher price tag.

Pros of the RML390c

The RML 390C is a low price option to get a colored rack. It is also compact and can fit into more environments than its bigger counterparts. The westside spacing and compatibility with the Monster lite series set you up for future upgrades in case you want to do them.

Cons of the RML390C

For the price of an RML 390C, you can get more real estate from the Infinity series or fortis racks. If you don't care that much about the color you are probably better of going for an RM4 Fortis or RML 490.

Alternatives to the RML 390C

Alternatives to the RML 390C are

The RM4 is still below the $1000 threshold but gives you more rack space and makes you part of the Rogue Monster family. This is the part of the product line where Rogue adds new ideas more frequently. If you want to go big and do not care about color this is the better option at a minimally higher investment. The downside with this rack is that you will not get the Westside holes.

The RML 490 is the big black brother of the RML 390C if you don't make your rack being black and you want the westside spaced holes, this is the one to go for. It is only minimally higher in price and still delivers. You get a full rack in black for the price of a half rack in color.

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.