TITAN X3 squat stand vs Rogue RML 490C [Article, Video]

This is a comparison between the TITAN X3 squat stand and Rogue RML 490c. Follow the links for more details.

Overview and review of the Rogue RML 490C Power Rack

Price: 1.075

This review was originally posted in the longer article "Which strength equipment to buy from rogue" in which you can read about 25 products of Rogue which cost more than 1.000$. The Rogue RML 490C rack is a stylish and not too expensive Rogue option for your home gym. See the details in this article.

Overview of the RML 490C

The Rogue RML490C weighs 340LB and comes in with a footprint of 53''x53''. This is a solid full rack in the mid-range price area of Rogue. It is 90.375'' high and comes with a free choice of color. The colors to choose from are:

Bright Blue
Bright Green
Burnt Orange
Dark BLue
Dark Red
Gun Metal
Light Gray
Rogue Red
Satin Black
Satin Clear
White

With this rack, you will be entering the Monster Lite series of Rogue and accessories. You can also have a look at the Monster Lite rigs to built a solid CrossFit gym. This is a good entry point to build from for powerlifters and other heavy lifting needs alike. Rogue provides a long list of accessories for their Monster lite series.

How many clients should the Rogue RML 490C bring you?

If you think that the RML 490C will bring you 4 new clients who pay you 50$ on a 1-year retainer it is worth the investment. This will yield 2.400$ net new revenue against an investment of 1.075$. Adjust the numbers for your own gym accordingly.

Pros of the RML 490C

The Monster Lite gives you a full rack in which you can train with space. You will be secure and be able to maneuver without feeling cramped

Cons of the RML 490C

The 490C does not leave a lot of room to store any plates. Be prepared to find other solutions to store the plates or upgrade to a 690C rack to get the plates organized.

Conclusion

The Rogue RML 490C is a great option to be nice to your bank account while still getting a solid piece of Rogue into your gym.

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.