AOKNV Power Cage Squat Rack: Can 1200 lb Capacity Work for Apartment Gyms?
A budget power cage offering essential safety features and 1200 lb capacity for $130, ideal for basic barbell training but lacking Smith bar and cable systems.
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Key Specifications
Best For
How this product scores for different use cases
The 1200 lb capacity and adjustable safety features support most home training needs. The $130 price point offers excellent value, though it lacks a Smith bar for guided movements.
The 77.3 inch height and approximately 14 sq ft footprint fit most spaces with standard ceilings. The lack of cable systems and compact attachments limits space efficiency compared to all-in-one units.
The 1200 lb capacity falls short of serious powerlifting demands (2000+ lbs typical). The 2x2 inch frame with 1.8mm thickness provides adequate but not commercial-grade durability for heavy compound lifts.
Safety arms and J-cups provide basic protection for learning proper form. However, the absence of a counterbalanced Smith bar or guided bar path limits safe progression for true beginners.
This is a basic power cage without Smith bar, cable crossover, lat pulldown, or dip station. The limited attachment options (approximately 4 stations) fall short of comprehensive training variety.
The 1200 lb capacity and residential-grade construction cannot withstand commercial use demands. Missing commercial-grade certification and heavy-duty features make it unsuitable for gym environments.
Our Verdict
The AOKNV Power Cage delivers basic squat rack functionality at a bargain price. You get safety arms, J-cups, and a pull-up bar for $130. This covers fundamental compound lifts without extra features.
The 1200 lb capacity supports intermediate lifters but limits serious powerlifting goals. The 2x2 inch frame with 1.8mm steel provides adequate strength. Your heavy squats and bench presses stay safe with adjustable safety positions.
You miss out on Smith bar guidance and cable training options. This is a bare-bones power cage, not an all-in-one gym. The compact footprint works for home spaces under 8-foot ceilings.
The price-to-capacity ratio beats most competitors at $0.11 per pound. You save money but sacrifice versatility. Your training focuses on barbell movements only.
This cage suits budget-conscious lifters who own free weights already. You need basic safety equipment without premium features. Your $130 investment covers essentials for years of home training.
What We Like
- Extremely affordable at $130, costing just $0.11 per pound of capacity
- 1200 lb weight capacity handles most home gym training needs
- Multi-grip pull-up bar included for upper body variation
- Adjustable safety arms and J-cups with 8.7 to 71.7 inch range
- Compact 14 sq ft footprint fits garages and basements easily
What Could Be Better
- No Smith bar for guided barbell movements or solo training safety
- Missing cable crossover system for functional training exercises
- Weight capacity of 1200 lbs falls below 1500 lb category average
- No weight plate storage pegs to organize equipment
- Frame uses 2x2 inch tubing, smaller than 3x3 inch commercial standard
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 | Yes |
| 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 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)
Does this power cage include a Smith machine bar?
No, this is a free weight power cage without a Smith bar. You use your own Olympic barbell for exercises. The safety arms and J-cups hold the bar during lifts.
What is the weight capacity and will it handle heavy squats?
The cage holds 1200 pounds total. This capacity works for most home lifters doing squats, bench press, and deadlifts. Serious powerlifters lifting over 1200 lbs need heavier equipment.
How much space does this power cage need?
The cage measures 45.6 inches wide by 44.3 inches deep, taking up 14 square feet. You need at least 77.3 inches of ceiling height. Add 2-3 feet around all sides for safe movement.
Can I do cable exercises or lat pulldowns on this rack?
No, this power cage has no cable system, lat pulldown, or low row attachment. You can do pull-ups on the multi-grip bar. All other exercises use free weights and barbells.
What safety features protect me when lifting alone?
The cage includes adjustable safety arms and J-cups that move from 8.7 to 71.7 inches high. These catch the barbell if you fail a lift. The safety system works for squats, bench press, and overhead lifts.
Best For
How this product scores for different use cases
The 1200 lb capacity and adjustable safety features support most home training needs. The $130 price point offers excellent value, though it lacks a Smith bar for guided movements.
The 77.3 inch height and approximately 14 sq ft footprint fit most spaces with standard ceilings. The lack of cable systems and compact attachments limits space efficiency compared to all-in-one units.
The 1200 lb capacity falls short of serious powerlifting demands (2000+ lbs typical). The 2x2 inch frame with 1.8mm thickness provides adequate but not commercial-grade durability for heavy compound lifts.
Safety arms and J-cups provide basic protection for learning proper form. However, the absence of a counterbalanced Smith bar or guided bar path limits safe progression for true beginners.
This is a basic power cage without Smith bar, cable crossover, lat pulldown, or dip station. The limited attachment options (approximately 4 stations) fall short of comprehensive training variety.
The 1200 lb capacity and residential-grade construction cannot withstand commercial use demands. Missing commercial-grade certification and heavy-duty features make it unsuitable for gym environments.
Scores
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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)
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)
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"
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