AOKNV Squat Rack Power Cage Review: Can This 1200 lb Rack Handle Heavy Powerlifting?
The AOKNV power cage offers basic squat rack functionality at $204, but lacks the Smith bar system that buyers searching for smith machines expect. It works well as a budget power rack for simple barbell exercises.
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Key Specifications
Best For
How this product scores for different use cases
The 1200 lb capacity and multi-grip pull-up bar offer solid home gym functionality at $204. However, it lacks a Smith bar and cable system, limiting exercise variety compared to comprehensive home gym setups.
The 1200 lb capacity falls short of serious powerlifting needs (typically 2000+ lbs). The 2x2 inch frame with 1.8mm thickness provides adequate but not exceptional durability for heavy compound lifts.
The 45.6 x 44.3 inch footprint (14.1 sq ft) is relatively compact, but the 77.3 inch height requires 8+ foot ceilings. Lack of plate storage reduces space efficiency for small apartments.
This is primarily a power rack, not an all-in-one system. It lacks cable crossover, lat pulldown, low row, dip station, and Smith bar functionality that define comprehensive home gyms.
The safety arms and J-cups provide basic protection, but the absence of a Smith bar eliminates the guided bar path critical for beginners and rehabilitation. No counterbalanced bar means no reduced starting weight option.
While marketed for residential use, the 1200 lb capacity and lack of commercial-grade features make it unsuitable for high-traffic gym environments. The frame construction doesn't meet commercial durability standards.
Our Verdict
This AOKNV power cage costs $204 and holds 1200 lbs. The 2x2 inch frame with 1.8mm steel walls provides adequate strength for home workouts. You get safety arms, J-cups, and a multi-grip pull-up bar included.
The adjustable height system moves from 8.7 to 71.7 inches. This lets you position the barbell at different levels for various exercises. The compact 45.6 x 44.3 inch footprint fits most garage gym spaces.
You cannot use this as a Smith machine. It lacks the guided vertical bar path entirely. The product title mentions power cage and squat rack, which accurately describes its function.
The 1200 lb capacity works for beginners and intermediate lifters. Advanced powerlifters who squat or deadlift over 400 lbs may find this limiting. The frame gauge at 1.8mm thickness sits in the acceptable range for residential use.
You miss out on cable attachments, dip stations, and plate storage. Most competitors at $300-400 include these features. The $204 price reflects the basic feature set.
The 77.3 inch height requires at least 8 foot ceilings. The 82.72 lb weight means you can move it if needed. Assembly takes approximately 2-3 hours with basic tools.
This rack suits budget-conscious buyers who need basic barbell training. You get free weight exercises like squats, bench press, and pull-ups. The safety features protect you during solo training sessions.
You should look elsewhere if you want a true Smith machine. The vertical bar path and guided movement system do not exist here. This functions solely as a traditional power rack.
What We Like
- Costs just $204, making it one of the most affordable power cages available
- 2x2 inch steel frame with 1.8mm thickness provides solid construction for home use
- Multi-grip pull-up bar lets you work different muscle groups with varied hand positions
- Adjustable height ranges from 8.7 to 71.7 inches for customized exercise positioning
- Includes safety arms and J-cups for protected solo lifting sessions
What Could Be Better
- No Smith bar for guided vertical lifting, despite being marketed for smith machine searches
- Weight capacity of 1200 lbs falls below the 1500 lb average for power racks
- Missing cable crossover system that most multi-functional home gyms include
- No weight plate storage pegs to organize plates and save floor space
- Lacks dip station attachment that competitors typically offer at this price point
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"
Does this include a Smith bar for guided vertical lifting?
No, this is a power cage without a Smith bar system. It uses standard free weight barbells that move in all directions, not a fixed vertical track.
What is the maximum weight capacity?
The cage holds 1200 lbs total. This includes the weight of the bar plus all plates you load on it.
How much ceiling height do I need?
The rack stands 77.3 inches tall. You need at least 8 foot ceilings, plus extra space if you plan to do overhead exercises.
Does it come with weight plates or a barbell?
No weights or barbells are included. You get the cage frame, safety arms, J-cups, and pull-up bar only. You must buy plates and bars separately.
Can I add cable attachments later?
The product specifications do not mention cable attachment compatibility. The frame design focuses on free weight exercises without cable system integration.
Best For
How this product scores for different use cases
The 1200 lb capacity and multi-grip pull-up bar offer solid home gym functionality at $204. However, it lacks a Smith bar and cable system, limiting exercise variety compared to comprehensive home gym setups.
The 1200 lb capacity falls short of serious powerlifting needs (typically 2000+ lbs). The 2x2 inch frame with 1.8mm thickness provides adequate but not exceptional durability for heavy compound lifts.
The 45.6 x 44.3 inch footprint (14.1 sq ft) is relatively compact, but the 77.3 inch height requires 8+ foot ceilings. Lack of plate storage reduces space efficiency for small apartments.
This is primarily a power rack, not an all-in-one system. It lacks cable crossover, lat pulldown, low row, dip station, and Smith bar functionality that define comprehensive home gyms.
The safety arms and J-cups provide basic protection, but the absence of a Smith bar eliminates the guided bar path critical for beginners and rehabilitation. No counterbalanced bar means no reduced starting weight option.
While marketed for residential use, the 1200 lb capacity and lack of commercial-grade features make it unsuitable for high-traffic gym environments. The frame construction doesn't meet commercial durability standards.
Scores
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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)
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)
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