If you’re building a home gym from scratch, the most efficient setup isn’t just a barbell but also a simple combination that covers all major movements. Having a home gym doesn’t have to be expensive but you want to choose the right barbell set that makes a difference in both performance and long-term value.
If you’re comparing options, one factor that most people overlook is the shipping cost. For instance, a lower-priced barbell can quickly become more expensive than a higher-priced barbell if you add the freight cost of $100-$300.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best barbell set options available, including which ones offer free shipping and determine the most efficient setups for home gyms.
What to Look for in a Barbell Set
Before choosing a set, focus on these key factors:
- Weight Capacity
- Beginners: 300 - 500 lbs
- Intermediate: 500 - 700 lbs
- Advanced: 700+ lbs
- Barbell Quality
- Tensile strength: durability
- Knurling: grip comfort
- Spin: smoother lifts
- Plate Type
- Iron plates: more affordable
- Bumper plates: quieter and safer
- Shipping Costs (Most Overlooked)
Many buyers focus only on price and ignore shipping costs. This is where the difference between brands becomes imperative.
Recommended Home Gym Setup for the Best Value
Step 1: Start with a Full Barbell Set Combo
A standard barbell and plates combo allows you to train:
- Squats
- Deadlifts
- Bench Press
- Rows
This is the bread and butter of your strength training.
Step 2: Add an EZ Curl Bar for Arm Training
To complete your setup, adding a 47” EZ Curl Bar gives you:
- Better isolation for biceps and triceps
- More comfortable grip angles (less wrist strain)
- Additional exercise variety
This is one of the simplest ways to upgrade your training without adding much more cost.
Why This Combo Works
Instead of buying multiple machines, this setup maximizes space efficiency, keeps your total cost lower, and gives you a complete training system. It’s technically the easiest way to build a home gym on a budget.
Action
- Start with a reliable barbell set with plates, then upgrade your setup with an EZ curl bar for added versatility.
- Add an EZ curl bar to complete your setup:
Most home gym setups start with a barbell but the most reliable and lasting setups are built with an ancillary system with racks, benches, and barbell collars.
Best Barbell Set Options for Home Gyms
1. XMARK Barbell Sets (Best Overall Value - Free Shipping)
If you’re looking for the best balance of price, durability, and total cost, XMARK is a MUST–HANDS DOWN.
Why it’s a must:
- Free shipping on ALL sets
- Long-term value for home gym people
- Commercial quality
- Ideal for beginner to advanced lifters
Works for:
- Price-conscious buyers
- First-time home gym setups
- Garage gyms
The biggest advantage:
What you see is exactly what you get. What you envision at checkout.
2. Muscle D Barbell Sets (Commercial Quality Performance)
Muscle D equipment is built for higher-end training environments and heavier use.
Pros:
- Commercial-grade durability
- Designed for serious strength training
- Built to last in high-traffic environments
Cons:
- Shipping is typically separate due to freight handling
Works for:
- Performance-focused lifters
- Training facilities or serious home gyms
- Upgrading setups
3. Rage EZ Curl Bar (Add-On for Arm Training)
Rage offers a more targeted option with its 47” EZ Curl Bar, designed specifically for arm training movement like bicep curls and tricep extensions.
Pros:
- Great for isolating biceps and triceps
- More comfortable grip angle than straight barbells
- Solid addition to any home gym setup
Cons:
- This is not a full barbell set so you will need to make this an addition
- Shipping costs may apply depending on the order
Works for:
- Adding variety to your workouts
- Arm-focused training
- Supplementing your main barbell setup
This works best alongside a regular barbell set, not as a replacement.
Free Shipping vs Paid Shipping
(What Actually Saves You Money?)
Here’s a simple comparison:
|
Examples |
Price |
Shipping |
Total |
|
XMARK set |
$399 |
Free |
$399 |
|
Muscle D set |
$300 |
$165 |
$465 |
|
Rage EZ Curl Bar |
$45 |
$20 - $50 |
$65-$95 |
Ironically, the “cheaper” option isn’t always cheaper. The biggest advantage for price-conscious buyers is usually free shipping.
So Which Barbell Set Should You Choose?
On a budget or starting out:
Go with XMARK
Benefits:
- Lower total cost
- No shipping fees
- Solid performance
Building a serious setup:
Go with Muscle D
Benefits:
- Higher durability
- Better long-term investment
- Built for heavier use
Adding or Upgrading:
Go with Rage
Benefits:
- Barbell variety
- Reduced stress on the wrist and better grip overall
- Fits 2" Olympic Plates (not included)
Conclusion
If you’re trying to maximize value, start with XMARK and upgrade over time. Most people start with a barbell and build from there with racks, benches, and barbell collars. You could even go with complete packages to bundle them up to get comprehensive performance.
Need Help Choosing the Right Setup?
If you’re not sure which barbell set fits your space or goals, I can help you choose the right setup based on your training style and budget. Building your gym the right way from the start changes the overall game.
