AOKNV Power Cage Squat Rack with 1200 Pounds Capacity: Can It Handle Heavy Lifting?
This $249 power cage provides basic squat rack features with 1200 lb capacity and essential safety equipment. You sacrifice versatility features like cables and Smith bar for significant cost savings.
Check Price on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Key Specifications
Best For
How this product scores for different use cases
The 1200 lb capacity and adjustable height range (8.7-71.7 inches) support most home training needs. However, the lack of cable system and limited attachments reduce versatility for comprehensive home gym setups.
The 45.6x44.3 inch footprint (14 sq ft) is reasonably compact for apartments. However, the 77.3 inch height requires 8-foot ceilings, which may be tight for some apartments.
The 1200 lb weight capacity falls below the 1500+ lb standard serious powerlifters typically require. The 2x2 inch frame with 1.8mm thickness provides moderate structural support but may limit confidence during maximum lifts.
Missing critical all-in-one features including cable crossover, lat pulldown, low row, and dip station. The unit functions primarily as a basic power rack rather than a comprehensive training system.
The absence of a Smith bar means no guided barbell path for safe learning. While it has safety arms and J-cups, beginners benefit more from counterbalanced bars and controlled movement patterns this unit doesn't provide.
This equipment lacks commercial-grade features, heavy-duty construction, and the 1200 lb capacity is insufficient for high-traffic gym environments. The residential-use designation confirms it's not built for commercial demands.
Our Verdict
The AOKNV Power Cage delivers basic squat rack functionality at a budget price. You get essential safety features and 1200 lb capacity for $249. This represents solid value for the entry-level market.
The 2x2 inch frame construction provides adequate support for beginners and intermediate lifters. Safety arms and J-cups protect you during bench press and squat sessions. The adjustable height range handles most standard barbell exercises.
You miss key features that define modern home gyms. No cable system means you cannot do lat pulldowns or cable flyes. No Smith bar removes the guided barbell path many beginners prefer. No plate storage adds clutter to your workout space.
The compact footprint works well in tight spaces like apartments or small garages. You need only 14 square feet of floor space. The 77-inch height requires standard 8-foot ceilings.
This rack suits budget-conscious buyers starting their strength training journey. You save money compared to full-featured units costing $800-$2000. Plan to add separate cable attachments or plates if you want more exercise variety.
What We Like
- Weight capacity reaches 1200 lbs, suitable for most intermediate lifting programs
- Price point of $249 offers strong value at just $0.21 per pound of capacity
- Adjustable height from 8.7 to 71.7 inches accommodates users from 5 feet to over 6 feet tall
- Includes safety arms and J-cups for protected solo training sessions
- Compact 14 square foot footprint fits in small garage or basement spaces
What Could Be Better
- No Smith bar included, limiting guided barbell exercises for safe training
- Missing cable crossover system for functional training and accessory work
- 2x2 inch frame tubes are smaller than 3x3 inch standard on heavy-duty racks
- No weight plate storage pegs, requiring separate storage solution
- Lacks dip station attachment for bodyweight tricep and chest exercises
Full Specifications
Dimensions
| Height | 77.3" |
| Length | 45.6" |
| Width | 44.3" |
| Footprint | 14.0 sq ft |
| Weight | 82.72 lbs |
Build Quality
| Commercial Grade | No |
| Linear Bearings | No |
Movement System
| Smith Bar | Not Included |
| Bar Path | Vertical |
| Counterbalanced Bar | No |
Features
Included Features
Not Included
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Power Cage, 1200 Pounds Multi-Functional Home Gym Squat Rack, 2 "X 2" 1.8mm Thickened Steel Pipe Square Frame with 2 Barbell Protection Stands And 2 Barbell Stands, Adjust Gears 8.7 "to 71.7" (red)
Does this power cage include a Smith machine bar?
No, this unit does not have a Smith bar. It functions as a free weight power rack with open vertical bar path. You need to control the barbell yourself during all exercises.
What is the footprint size of this rack?
The rack measures 45.6 inches long by 44.3 inches wide. This equals about 14 square feet of floor space. You can fit it in most garage corners or spare rooms.
Can I do cable exercises on this power cage?
No, this rack has no cable crossover system. You cannot do lat pulldowns, cable flyes, or tricep pushdowns. You need to buy separate cable attachments or machines for those exercises.
How much weight can the safety arms hold?
The product lists 1200 lb overall capacity but does not specify separate safety arm capacity. The main frame supports 1200 lbs for squats and bench press work.
Does this come with weight plate storage?
No, this rack has no weight plate storage pegs. You need to buy a separate plate tree or store plates on the floor. This keeps the price low but requires extra storage planning.
Best For
How this product scores for different use cases
The 1200 lb capacity and adjustable height range (8.7-71.7 inches) support most home training needs. However, the lack of cable system and limited attachments reduce versatility for comprehensive home gym setups.
The 45.6x44.3 inch footprint (14 sq ft) is reasonably compact for apartments. However, the 77.3 inch height requires 8-foot ceilings, which may be tight for some apartments.
The 1200 lb weight capacity falls below the 1500+ lb standard serious powerlifters typically require. The 2x2 inch frame with 1.8mm thickness provides moderate structural support but may limit confidence during maximum lifts.
Missing critical all-in-one features including cable crossover, lat pulldown, low row, and dip station. The unit functions primarily as a basic power rack rather than a comprehensive training system.
The absence of a Smith bar means no guided barbell path for safe learning. While it has safety arms and J-cups, beginners benefit more from counterbalanced bars and controlled movement patterns this unit doesn't provide.
This equipment lacks commercial-grade features, heavy-duty construction, and the 1200 lb capacity is insufficient for high-traffic gym environments. The residential-use designation confirms it's not built for commercial demands.
Scores
Check current price and availability
Check Price on AmazonMore from AOKNV
See All →2 "X 2" 1.8mm Thickened Steel Pipe Square Power Cage, 1200 Pounds Multi-Functional Home Gym Squat Rack with 2 Barbell Protection Stands and 2 Barbell Stands, 14 Adjustment Gears (red)
Power cage, 1200 pounds Multi-Functional Home Gym Squat Rack, 2 "X 2" 1.8mm Thickened Steel Pipe Square Frame with 2 Barbell Protection Stands and 2 Barbell Stands, 14 Adjustment Gears (red)
2 "X 2" 1.8mm Thickened Steel Pipe Square Power Cage, 1200 Pounds Multi-Functional Home Gym Squat Rack with 2 Barbell Protection Stands and 2 Barbell Stands, Adjust Gears 8.7 "To 71.7" (red)
2 "X 2" 1.8mm Thickened Steel Pipe Square Power Cage, 1200 Pounds Multi-Functional Home Gym Squat Rack with 2 Barbell Protection Stands and 2 Barbell Stands, Adjust Gears 8.7 "To 71.7"
Ready to buy the AOKNV AOKNV Power Cage Squat Rack?
Check the latest price and availability on Amazon. Free shipping available on eligible orders.
Check Price on Amazon