Best Strength Training Plates of 2026

Arlen Smith Avatar
Arlen Smith
Last Updated: Jan 18, 2026

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Strength training plates are an essential component of any weightlifting routine. These plates come in a variety of sizes and weights, making them suitable for all levels of fitness enthusiasts. Made from durable materials such as cast iron or rubber, they are designed to withstand heavy use and provide a safe and effective way to build muscle mass and increase strength. Some plates even feature innovative designs that allow for easy handling and storage. Whether you are a seasoned weightlifter or just starting out, incorporating strength training plates into your routine can help you achieve your fitness goals.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Amazon Basics 25lb Olympic Grip Weight Plate Cover #TOP 1
Amazon Basics 25lb Olympic Grip Weight Plate
ftb score rating icon 9.8
CAP Barbell Economy Olympic Bumper Plate 45 lb Cover #TOP 2
CAP Barbell Economy Olympic Bumper Plate 45 lb
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Fitvids Olympic Rubber Weight Plates 45 LB Cover #TOP 3
Fitvids Olympic Rubber Weight Plates 45 LB
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Strength Training Plates

#TOP 1

Amazon Basics 25lb Olympic Grip Weight Plate

Amazon Basics
IR91042-OP-1x25LB
charcoal
25 lb, 1pc, 2"
Amazon Basics 25lb Olympic Grip Weight Plate Cover
Amazon Basics 2-inch Olympic Grip Weight Plates, 25lb Weights, Single

The Amazon Basics 25lb Grip Plate is designed to enhance your strength and endurance training. Its Olympic grip design lets you hold the plate securely, making it easier to handle during workouts. This plate fits standard Olympic barbells with rotating sleeves, which is perfect if you’re serious about powerlifting, Olympic weightlifting, or CrossFit. The built-in grip holes provide a non-slip surface, so you can confidently lift without worrying about dropping the plate. Plus, the clear weight labels help you quickly identify the plates, saving time during your workout sessions.

What We Like
Good quality for price
Timely delivery
Accurate weight
Highly recommended
Durable construction
What We Don't Like
May not be aesthetically pleasing
Possible shipping or order mix-up
#TOP 2

CAP Barbell Economy Olympic Bumper Plate 45 lb

OPR6IS-045
Black
45lbs - Single
CAP Barbell Economy Olympic Bumper Plate 45 lb Cover
CAP Barbell Economy Olympic Bumper Plate with Blue Logo, Black, 45 lb Single

The CAP Barbell Bumper Plate is designed to fit Olympic barbells with its 2-inch center hole, making it easy for you to add weight to your workouts. Its unique manufacturing process uses a mix of virgin and recycled rubber with a sturdy steel hub, ensuring the plate is durable and uniform in size for consistent performance. The rubber coating helps protect your equipment and floors from damage during use, while the steel insert provides a secure fit on your barbell, preventing unnecessary wear. This plate is a reliable choice for any home gym, helping you boost your workout intensity safely and effectively.

What We Like
Accurate weight measurement
Budget-friendly pricing
Durable construction
Good for home gyms
Easy weight identification
What We Don't Like
Mild rubber odor
Slight oily residue
#TOP 3

Fitvids Olympic Rubber Weight Plates 45 LB

QD-HP-BLK45P
Black
45LB Pair
Fitvids Olympic Rubber Weight Plates 45 LB Cover
Fitvids Olympic Rubber Weight Plates 45 LB Pair Black

The Fitvids Olympic Rubber Plates offer a durable option for your strength training needs. Made from virgin rubber and designed with a 2-inch center hole, these plates fit securely on standard Olympic bars, ensuring a stable workout. Their high-quality rubber construction helps reduce bouncing, which not only makes your exercise safer but also protects your floors from damage. Plus, with clear labels in both pounds and kilograms, you can quickly identify the weight, making it easier to track your progress and switch plates during workouts. These features make the Fitvids Olympic Rubber Plates a practical choice for anyone looking to improve muscle strength, endurance, or flexibility.

What We Like
Durable rubber coating
Accurate weight
Minimal bounce
Clear print markings
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Initial rubber odor
Price increase
#TOP 4

CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic Grip Weight Plate, 5 lb, Set of 4, Black

OPHWIS-005
5 lb - Set of 4
CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic Grip Weight Plate, 5 lb, Set of 4, Black Cover
CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic Grip Weight Plate, 5 lb, Set of 4, 5 lb, Set of 4 Black (OPHWIS-005)

The CAP Barbell Olympic Grip Plate is a set of four 5 lb weight plates made of solid cast iron with a durable black baked enamel finish. The weight plates have a 2-inch center hole to accommodate Olympic bars and feature grip holes for a secure grip during use. The baked enamel coating ensures a durable and reliable weight that will last through grueling workouts, and the raised numbers help to easily identify weight sizes. These versatile weight plates can be used for muscle strengthening exercises, endurance training, and to increase flexibility and balance. The CAP Barbell has been a pioneer in the fitness industry for over 30 years and has locations worldwide.

What We Like
Excellent value
Durable build quality
Snug bar fit
Attractive finish
Easy to handle
What We Don't Like
Minor cosmetic imperfections
Occasionally rough edges
#TOP 5

CAP Barbell Economy Olympic Bumper Plate Set

OSR6IS-260
Black
260 lb - Set
CAP Barbell Economy Olympic Bumper Plate Set Cover
CAP Barbell 260 LB Economy Olympic Bumper Plate Set with Color Logo | Black

The CAP Barbell Bumper Plates come in pairs ranging from 10 to 45 pounds, fitting standard Olympic barbells with a 2-inch hole, making it easy for you to customize your workout. These plates feature a unique manufacturing process that combines virgin and recycled rubber with a steel hub, ensuring durability and a consistent size across all weights. The rubber coating protects both your equipment and floors from damage, while the steel insert keeps the plates securely in place on the barbell, giving you peace of mind during lifts. Ideal for home gyms, these plates help you boost strength and burn more calories effectively. Note that the set ships in multiple boxes, which may arrive separately.

What We Like
Durable construction
Good value for price
Consistent weight accuracy
Easy bar fit
Shock absorption/bounce
What We Don't Like
Initial rubber odor
Oily coating on arrival

Fitvids Cast Iron 30-Pound Weight Plate

SF-RUCK.30
Black
30 pounds
Fitvids Cast Iron 30-Pound Weight Plate Cover
Fitvids Cast Iron Plate, Weighted Plate for Swings, Squat, Strength Training, Fitness Workout, and Home Exercises, 30-Pound

The Fitvids Cast Iron Plate offers a heavy-duty design made from durable cast iron with a sleek black finish, ensuring long-lasting use. Its smooth, well-crafted handle gives you a comfortable and secure grip, making your workouts safer and more effective. The plate’s rounded edges are thoughtfully designed to fit easily into laptop compartments or elastic pockets, adding convenience for storage or transport. You can also slip this weight into a backpack for added resistance during walks or runs, helping you improve strength and posture with minimal effort. This versatile plate is a great addition to your home fitness routine.

What We Like
Fits most ruck and hiking bags
Sturdy cast iron construction
Affordable alternative to name brands
Comfortable carrying handle
Edges are nicely rounded
What We Don't Like
Basic design, nothing fancy
#TOP 7

JFIT Cast Iron Olympic 2-Inch Grip Plates

20-6650-pr
GRIP PLATE
JFIT Cast Iron Olympic 2-Inch Grip Plates Cover
JFIT Cast Iron Olympic 2-Inch Grip Plate for Barbell, 2.5 Pound Set of 2 Plates Iron Grip Plates for Weightlifting, Crossfit - 2” Weight Plate for Bodybuilding

The JFIT Grip Plates are built from heavy-duty cast iron, making them tough and durable for any workout, whether you're a beginner or experienced lifter. Their semi-gloss finish gives them a sleek, professional look, and the weight markings are clear, so you can quickly find the size you need. These plates also feature a unique handle design, making them comfortable to hold and easy to move, load, and store. Plus, they fit all standard Olympic bars with a 2-inch hole, helping you add extra challenge to your strength training routine with ease.

What We Like
Durable build quality
Wide range of weight options
Easy grip design
Fits standard Olympic barbells
Attractive appearance
What We Don't Like
Single plate per purchase
Coating can be slippery
#TOP 8

Yes4All Cast Iron Rucking Weight 10 LB

U7TV
Black
A. Single
Yes4All Cast Iron Rucking Weight 10 LB Cover
Yes4All Cast Iron Rucking Weight for Backpack, Training Weight Plate with Ergonomic Rounded Handle, Protective Glossy Finish for Weighted Walking, Hiking, Rucking, Resistance Workout, 10 LB

The Yes4All Rucking Weight is a sturdy 10-pound cast iron plate designed for weighted walking, hiking, and resistance workouts. Its durable black coating ensures it holds up well in different conditions, so you can rely on it for long-term training. The dual ergonomic handles with a textured grip make it easy and comfortable to insert or remove the weight from your backpack, giving you better control during your workouts. Plus, the rounded edges protect your bag and other gear from scratches, and the size fits most laptop compartments, adding to its convenience and versatility.

What We Like
Perfect fit in GORuck packs
Dual handles for versatility
Excellent build quality
Great value for price
Easy to add/remove weight
What We Don't Like
Unclear sourcing information
Weight slightly underlisted
#TOP 9

EVERYMATE Fractional Weight Plates Set

(0.25+0.5+0.75+1) Fractional Plates Set
Colorful
EVERYMATE Fractional Weight Plates Set Cover
EVERYMATE Fractional Weight Plates Set of 8 Micro Plate Pair 0.25LB 0.5LB 0.75LB 1 LB for Olympic Barbells Strength Training

EVERYMATE Weight Plates is a set of 8 steel fractional plates that are perfect for strength training. The set includes 2 x ¼ LB, 2 x ½ LB, 2 x ¾ LB, 2 x 1 LB plates, which can help you to slowly increase your weight-bearing load by putting on an extra ½ LB to 5 LB. The color coding and digital signs make it easy to identify different weight plates during exercise, saving you time. The plates are corrosion-resistant, and they have no peculiar smell, which means you don't have to worry about any unpleasant odors during your workout. These weight plates are suitable for people of all levels, from beginners to experienced weight lifters.

What We Like
Micro weight increments
Color-coded variety
Fits Olympic and standard bars
Accurate weight measurement
Durable and portable design
What We Don't Like
Paint may chip
Lettering can wear off
#TOP 10

GORUCK Ruck Plate 20LB

GORUCK
302006-20LBW
Black
20LBS
GORUCK Ruck Plate 20LB Cover
GORUCK Ruck Plate 20LB - USA Made Weighted Plates for Rucking, Strength Training & Fitness, Compatible w/Rucker & Ruck Plate Carrier

The GORUCK 20LB Ruck Plate is made specifically to fit GORUCK packs, ensuring it slides easily into your Rucker or Ruck Plate Carrier. This means you can quickly add or remove weight without any hassle during your workouts. Built from cast iron with a strong powder coat, it’s designed to handle intense training without cracking or rusting, giving you a durable and reliable weight. The plate’s rounded edges and wide handles make it comfortable to carry and help protect your floors and gear from damage. Plus, it’s proudly made in the USA, guaranteeing high-quality craftsmanship you can trust.

What We Like
Perfect fit for ruck bags
Solid and durable construction
Made in America
High quality finish
Effective for ruck training
What We Don't Like
Minor rough spots on coating
Buying Guide Image

The Basics of Choosing the Strength Training Plates

Introduction

When it comes to strength training, one of the most important pieces of equipment you'll need are weight plates. These discs come in a variety of sizes, materials, and designs, and choosing the right ones for your training routine can be a bit daunting. In this article, we'll explore the different types of weight plates and provide some tips on how to select the best ones for your needs.

Types of Weight Plates

There are two main types of weight plates: Olympic and standard. Olympic plates are typically used in professional weightlifting competitions, as they have a standardized diameter of 2 inches and are made to fit onto Olympic-sized barbells. Standard plates, on the other hand, have a diameter of 1 inch and are designed to fit onto standard-sized barbells.

In terms of material, weight plates can be made of iron, rubber, or a combination of both. Iron plates are the most common and the most affordable option, but they can be noisy and prone to rusting. Rubber plates, on the other hand, are quieter, more durable, and easier on the floor, but they can be more expensive.

Choosing the Right Size

When selecting weight plates, it's important to choose the right size for your training needs. Beginner lifters will typically start with smaller plates, such as 2.5 or 5 pounds, and gradually progress to heavier weights as they build strength and confidence. Advanced lifters, on the other hand, may need larger plates, such as 25 or 45 pounds, to continue challenging themselves and making progress.

It's also a good idea to choose a range of plate sizes, rather than just one or two, so that you can mix and match weights as needed for different exercises and sets. For example, a set of 2.5, 5, 10, and 25 pound plates would provide a good range of options for most lifters.

Additional Considerations

In addition to size and material, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing weight plates. First, consider the design of the plates. Some plates have easy-grip handles, which can make them easier to pick up and handle. Others have raised lettering or numbering, which can make it easier to identify the weight of each plate.

Another important factor is the weight tolerance of the plates. Most plates have a tolerance of +/- 3%, which means that the actual weight of the plate may be slightly different than the advertised weight. For example, a 10 pound plate with a 3% tolerance may actually weigh anywhere from 9.7 to 10.3 pounds. It's important to choose plates with a low tolerance to ensure that you're lifting the weights you expect.

Finally, consider the warranty and return policy of the weight plates you're considering. Most plates come with a limited warranty, but the length and terms of the warranty can vary. It's a good idea to choose plates from a reputable manufacturer with a generous warranty and return policy, in case you encounter any issues with your plates.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right weight plates for your strength training routine is an important decision. Consider the type, size, material, design, weight tolerance, and warranty of the plates, and choose the ones that best meet your needs and budget. With the right weight plates, you'll be well on your way to achieving your strength training goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you build muscle with weight plates?

Yes, training with weight plates is a form of resistance/strength training that can help build muscle. It provides the body with increased muscle mass and stronger bones.

2. Why are lifting plates so expensive?

Lifting plates are generally made from materials like iron, steel, or rubber. These materials, especially in large amounts needed for a set of weight plates, can be expensive. Additionally, rubber plates tend to be more expensive than iron plates. The cost of weightlifting plates also increases as you require a larger quantity of weight for your training needs.

3. What weight are weight lifting plates?

Weight lifting plates come in various weights. Standard plates with a 25mm center hole are commonly available in sizes like 1.25 kg, 2.5 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg, 15 kg, and 20 kg. In the case of pound-denominated plates, they can be found in sizes like 2.5 lb, 5 lb, 10 lb, 25 lb, 35 lb, and 50 lb. There are also less commonly seen plates with weights like 0.5 kg, 7.5 kg, 25 kg, or 1.25 lb, 7.5 lb, 12.5 lb, 20 lb, and 100 lb.

4. Are weight plates effective?

Weight plates are highly effective for strength training. They are a staple for any home gym as they allow you to perform a wide range of exercises and progressively increase the resistance. With a barbell and weight plates, you can target and strengthen various muscle groups, making them essential for building strength and improving overall fitness.

5. Can you damage growth plates lifting?

The belief that weight training could damage growth plates in pre-pubescent youth has been dispelled with empirical evidence. Medical experts now understand that weight training is not harmful to growth plates. However, it is always important to consult with a professional and ensure proper form and technique when lifting weights, especially for young individuals.

6. Why are powerlifting plates so thin?

Powerlifting plates, specifically thin profile calibrated plates, are designed to be thinner and have tighter tolerances. This allows for more weight to be loaded onto the bar and brings the weight closer to the center of mass. The thinner profile and tighter tolerances provide a different feel on the bar, with less bar bend and whip.

7. Do calibrated plates feel heavier?

Calibrated plates may feel heavier for two reasons. Firstly, they are actually heavier than standard plates. Secondly, the density of the weight is squeezed into a smaller surface area, giving the illusion of a heavier weight. This difference in weight and density can make the lifting experience feel different when using calibrated plates compared to standard plates.

Editor's Notes

During our strength training plates research, we found 26 strength training plates products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 105,603 customer reviews through our big data system to write the strength training plates list. We found that most customers choose strength training plates with an average price of $29.52.

The strength training plates are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of strength training plates, including CAP Barbell, Fitvids, JFIT, Yes4All, EVERYMATE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Arlen Smith Avatar

Arlen Smith is a writer and a surfer who lives in Los Angeles, he runs a popular blog that focuses on surfing skills and popular surf spots around the world. He enjoys the sun, the beach and the feeling of surfing. His expertise ranges from categories such as climbing, swimming, boating and outdoor sports.

Strength Training Plates Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Amazon Basics CAP Barbell Fitvids CAP Barbell CAP Barbell Fitvids JFIT Yes4All EVERYMATE GORUCK
Item Weight 25 Pounds 45 Pounds 30 Pounds 20 Pounds 56.53 Pounds 2 Pounds 5 Pounds 11.3 Kilograms 5 Pounds 20 Pounds
Material Cast Iron Alloy Steel, Rubber Rubber Cast Iron Cast Iron Cast Iron Cast Iron Cast Iron Alloy Steel Powdercoating, Iron
Color charcoal Black Black 5 lb, Set of 4 Black Black Black GRIP PLATE Black Colorful Black
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy