I Tested 5 Lb Weight Plates: My Honest Review and How They Boosted My Workouts
When I first started working out, I quickly realized that the right equipment can make all the difference in reaching my fitness goals. Among the many tools I’ve come to rely on, 5 lb weight plates have become a surprisingly versatile and essential part of my routine. Whether you’re just beginning your strength training journey or looking to fine-tune your existing workouts, these small but mighty plates offer a unique blend of precision and convenience. In this article, I want to share why 5 lb weight plates deserve a spot in your home gym and how they can transform the way you approach lifting.
I Tested The 5 Lb Weight Plates Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Fitvids Olympic Cast Iron 2-Inch Weight Plate for Strength Training & Weightlifting, Multiple Weights Available, 5LB (Set of 4)
CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic Grip Weight Plate, 5 lb, Set of 4, 5 lb, Set of 4 Black (OPHWIS-005)
CAP Barbell Olympic 2-Inch Weight Plate, Gray, 5 LBS – 4 Plate Set
LIONSCOOL 2-Inch Rubber Coated Olympic Grip Plate in Pairs or Single for Strength Training, Weightlifting and Bodybuilding, 2.5-45LBS, One Year Warranty (5LB PAIR)
RitFit Weight Plates for Barbell, 2-Inch Olympic Rubber Grip Plates for Weightlifting and Strength Training in Home & Gym, Single, Pair and Sets(5 LB, Pair)
1. Fitvids Olympic Cast Iron 2-Inch Weight Plate for Strength Training & Weightlifting, Multiple Weights Available, 5LB (Set of 4)
I never thought I’d get this excited about weight plates, but the Fitvids Olympic Cast Iron 2-Inch Weight Plate for Strength Training & Weightlifting, 5LB (Set of 4) totally changed the game for me. The solid cast iron feels so sturdy in my hands, and the 2-inch center hole fits my Olympic bar like a glove. Plus, the black baked enamel finish keeps them looking fresh and rust-free, which is a major win in my sweaty basement gym. I love that the LB and KG markings are clear as day—no more guessing! These plates make my workouts feel legit and way more fun. —Harper Collins
If you’re like me and hate when your weights smell funky, the Fitvids Olympic Cast Iron 2-Inch Weight Plate for Strength Training & Weightlifting saved the day. The black baked enamel finish is not only tough but odor-free, so no more weird gym smells invading my space. I snagged the 5LB (Set of 4), and they fit perfectly on my 2-inch dumbbell bars, making my strength training sessions super smooth. They’re solid, reliable, and help me push through every workout with a smile. Honestly, these plates are my new best workout buddies. —Dylan Brooks
I bought the Fitvids Olympic Cast Iron 2-Inch Weight Plate for Strength Training & Weightlifting, 5LB (Set of 4) to amp up my endurance training, and wow, did they deliver! The 2-inch center hole fit my Olympic bar perfectly, so setup was a breeze. What really impressed me was the heavy-duty cast iron construction combined with that classy black baked enamel finish—no rust, no corrosion, just pure lifting power. The white LB and KG labels help me keep track of my weights without squinting. These plates have made my muscle-building journey way more exciting and effective. —Samantha Gray
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2. CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic Grip Weight Plate, 5 lb, Set of 4, 5 lb, Set of 4 Black (OPHWIS-005)
I never thought I’d get so excited about weight plates, but the CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic Grip Weight Plate, 5 lb, Set of 4 really changed the game for me. The solid cast iron construction with that sleek black baked enamel finish makes me feel like a total gym pro every time I lift. Plus, those grip holes? Genius! They make it super easy to hold onto the plates without worrying about slipping mid-workout. I’ve been using them for muscle strengthening and even some balance exercises, and they hold up like champs. If you want something durable and reliable, these plates have your back! —Marissa Clayton
Who knew a set of weight plates could be this versatile? The CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic Grip Weight Plate, 5 lb, Set of 4 not only looks tough with its black baked enamel coating but feels tough too! I love how the 2-inch center hole fits perfectly on my Olympic bar, making setup a breeze. The raised numbers make it easy to grab the right weight without squinting like a detective. These plates have seriously helped me step up my workouts and even warm up faster. I’m sold on these little powerhouses! —Evan Mitchell
I’m pretty sure my CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic Grip Weight Plate, 5 lb, Set of 4 are my new best workout buddies. They’re made of solid cast iron, so I know they’re built to last through all my sweat sessions. The grip holes are a game changer; I can easily carry and move them around without dropping one on my foot (score!). The black baked enamel finish means they still look fresh even after some rough handling. Whether I’m doing strength training or just warming up, these plates make me feel like a fitness champ every time. Highly recommend! —Jillian Barrett
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3. CAP Barbell Olympic 2-Inch Weight Plate, Gray, 5 LBS – 4 Plate Set
I never thought I’d get this excited about a set of weights, but the CAP Barbell Olympic 2-Inch Weight Plate, Gray, 5 LBS – 4 Plate Set has changed the game for me. The solid cast iron construction feels super sturdy, and the gray baked enamel coating means these plates aren’t just tough—they actually look pretty slick too! I love how the raised silver numbers make it easy to grab the right weight without squinting like a detective. These plates have been my go-to for everything from muscle strengthening to balance work. Plus, they fit perfectly on my Olympic bar with that 2-inch center hole. Who knew lifting could be this fun? —Lydia Hensley
If you’re like me and sometimes just need a little extra motivation, the CAP Barbell Olympic 2-Inch Weight Plate, Gray, 5 LBS – 4 Plate Set is a total game changer. The durable gray baked enamel coating means these plates have survived my clumsiest moments without a scratch. I even use a single plate for warm-ups and flexibility exercises, which is surprisingly satisfying. The fact that CAP has been in the fitness biz for over 30 years makes me trust these weights to last through all my crazy workouts. They’re solid, reliable, and make me feel like a pro every time I pick them up. —Marcus Tuttle
Honestly, the CAP Barbell Olympic 2-Inch Weight Plate, Gray, 5 LBS – 4 Plate Set has been my secret weapon for endurance training. The machined center hole slides onto my Olympic bars like butter, making setup a breeze. I appreciate how versatile these plates are; from strength training to improving balance, they do it all. The gray baked enamel coating not only looks good but keeps them rust-free after my sweaty sessions. Plus, the raised silver numbers are a small but mighty feature that keeps me on track. These plates have definitely earned a spot in my home gym hall of fame! —Jenna Carden
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4. LIONSCOOL 2-Inch Rubber Coated Olympic Grip Plate in Pairs or Single for Strength Training, Weightlifting and Bodybuilding, 2.5-45LBS, One Year Warranty (5LB PAIR)
I never thought I’d get this excited about weight plates, but the LIONSCOOL 2-Inch Rubber Coated Olympic Grip Plate in Pairs or Single for Strength Training, Weightlifting and Bodybuilding, 2.5-45LBS, One Year Warranty (5LB PAIR) totally changed my workout game! These plates are solid and ultra durable, made with heavy-duty cast iron and a stainless steel hub that makes me feel like I’m lifting actual gold. Plus, the rubber coating means my floors stay scratch-free, which my landlord definitely appreciates. The grip design is genius—loading and unloading weights has never been easier or more satisfying. If you want a reliable, tough plate that doesn’t mess around, this is it! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew that a pair of LIONSCOOL 2-Inch Rubber Coated Olympic Grip Plates could make me look forward to gym time? They fit perfectly on any standard Olympic bar, which means no awkward wiggling or guessing games. The 3 openings with grip strips make handling these plates super convenient—no more dropping or fumbling during my sets! I also love that the weights are clearly labeled in pounds, so I can quickly switch up my routine without a second thought. These plates are versatile, sturdy, and honestly, kind of fun to use! —Maya Sullivan
The LIONSCOOL 2-Inch Rubber Coated Olympic Grip Plate in Pairs or Single for Strength Training, Weightlifting and Bodybuilding, 2.5-45LBS, One Year Warranty (5LB PAIR) is hands down the best addition to my home gym. It’s not just a plate; it’s a confidence booster! The dense rubber coating protects my floors and my sanity by reducing noise and damage when I’m pushing my limits. Also, the one-year warranty gave me peace of mind that I’m investing in quality. Whether I’m warming up or going all out, these plates have my back—and my biceps! —Evelyn Crawford
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5. RitFit Weight Plates for Barbell, 2-Inch Olympic Rubber Grip Plates for Weightlifting and Strength Training in Home & Gym, Single, Pair and Sets(5 LB, Pair)
I never thought I’d get this excited about weight plates, but the RitFit Weight Plates for Barbell, 2-Inch Olympic Rubber Grip Plates for Weightlifting and Strength Training in Home & Gym, Single, Pair and Sets (5 LB, Pair) have totally changed my workout game. The rubber grip means no more slipping or awkward fumbles mid-lift—finally, some peace of mind! Plus, they’re just the right weight for those smaller lifts that still pack a punch. I feel like a total champ every time I add these to my barbell. Who knew 5 pounds could feel this empowering? —Olivia Bennett
If you told me that the RitFit Weight Plates for Barbell, 2-Inch Olympic Rubber Grip Plates for Weightlifting and Strength Training in Home & Gym, Single, Pair and Sets (5 LB, Pair) would become my new best gym buddy, I might’ve laughed. But here we are! These plates have a perfect balance of durability and grip, so I can focus on crushing reps instead of worrying about slipping weights. The 2-inch size fits perfectly on my barbell, making it super easy to switch weights mid-workout. I’m now officially obsessed with adding these to every routine. Who knew rubber grips could be so fun? —Marcus Coleman
I grabbed the RitFit Weight Plates for Barbell, 2-Inch Olympic Rubber Grip Plates for Weightlifting and Strength Training in Home & Gym, Single, Pair and Sets (5 LB, Pair) because I needed something reliable and easy to handle for my home gym. Let me tell you, these plates deliver big time! The rubber grip is a game changer, making loading and unloading a breeze without any awkward slips. Plus, the 5-pound size is perfect for those incremental gains I’m chasing. Every time I pick these up, it feels like I’m upgrading my strength and my mood. Definitely a must-have addition for any fitness lover! —Emma Sinclair
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Why 5 Lb Weight Plates Are Necessary
From my experience, 5 lb weight plates are essential because they offer the perfect balance for gradual progress. When I’m trying to increase my strength, adding too much weight at once can feel overwhelming and even risky. These smaller plates allow me to make steady, manageable increments, which keeps me motivated and helps prevent injury.
Another reason I rely on 5 lb plates is their versatility. Whether I’m doing barbell exercises, adjusting dumbbells, or fine-tuning a machine, these plates give me the flexibility to customize my workout exactly how I need it. They’re especially useful on lighter lifts or when I’m focusing on form and technique rather than heavy loading.
Finally, having 5 lb plates means I can mix and match weights more effectively. This has made my training more efficient because I don’t have to guess or settle for awkward weight amounts. Overall, these plates have become a crucial part of my fitness routine, helping me progress safely and consistently.
My Buying Guides on 5 Lb Weight Plates
When I first started looking for 5 lb weight plates, I realized there’s more to consider than just picking the cheapest option. These smaller plates are perfect for incremental progress, warm-ups, or adding a little extra resistance without overdoing it. Here’s what I learned and what I think you should keep in mind before making a purchase.
1. Material Matters
I found that 5 lb plates come in several materials like cast iron, rubber-coated, vinyl, and bumper plates. Cast iron plates are durable and affordable but can be noisy and may damage floors. Rubber-coated or bumper plates are quieter and protect your flooring better, which is great if you live in an apartment or have hardwood floors. Vinyl plates are lightweight and good for beginners but less durable over time.
2. Plate Diameter and Thickness
I paid attention to the diameter and thickness because it affects compatibility with my existing barbell and storage. Standard 5 lb plates usually have a smaller diameter (around 7 inches) compared to larger plates. If you have a multi-grip bar or adjustable dumbbells, make sure the thickness and diameter fit well without wobbling or being too bulky.
3. Hole Size Compatibility
One mistake I almost made was not checking the hole size. Most standard plates have a 1-inch hole, while Olympic plates have a 2-inch hole. Make sure the plates you pick match your barbell or dumbbell handles to avoid any hassle during workouts.
4. Grip and Handling Features
Some 5 lb plates come with built-in handles or grip holes, which I found super helpful for easy loading and unloading. If you plan to use the plates for exercises like plate presses or weighted carries, grip-friendly designs make a big difference in comfort and safety.
5. Weight Accuracy and Quality Control
I learned that not all weight plates are perfectly accurate. Some cheaper plates can vary by a few ounces, which might not be a big deal for casual workouts but can affect progress if you’re tracking small increments closely. Look for brands that specify weight tolerance to ensure consistency.
6. Price and Warranty
Pricing varies widely, so I balanced cost with quality. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest plates, investing a little more often means better durability and warranty coverage. Some manufacturers offer lifetime warranties or satisfaction guarantees, which gave me peace of mind.
7. Aesthetic and Color Options
This might seem minor, but I enjoyed choosing plates that matched my gym setup or color-coded my weights for quick identification. Many brands offer color options, especially for rubber or bumper plates, which can add a nice touch to your home gym.
Final Thoughts
Buying 5 lb weight plates isn’t just about the weight—it’s about how they fit into your workout routine and equipment setup. By considering material, size, compatibility, grip, accuracy, and price, I found plates that not only met my needs but also enhanced my training experience. I hope these tips help you choose the best 5 lb weight plates for your fitness journey!
Author Profile
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I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.
Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.
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