Rogue Change Plates Review

Introduction

Not 1, Not 2, Not 3, Not 4, Not 5… depending on the amount of weight you are getting, it’ll likely cost you approximately $6 a pound for these change plates. That’s about 3x more expensive than traditional iron plates from Rogue. However, there are some advantages that make them a favorite of many.

Rogue Change Plates are quite the investment when there are cheaper substitutes, but they are accurate, much quieter than iron, fit tight on the bar, and bring some color to the gym. These benefits exist, but are plates like this a necessity? Definitely not. Nevertheless, they are some of the nicest plates you’ll find. These Change Plates are an option to consider for anyone looking to get more than your classic iron plates.

SPECS

The LB Change Plates come in four sizes (1.5, 2.5, 5, and 10 lbs). The 1.5 and 10 lb options are white, with the 5 pounders being blue, and 2.5 lb option green.

There are also KG options (pictured below) that start at 0.5 KG and end with 5KG. All of these are stunning plates with the Rogue logo featured above and below the collar. They add a nice “pop” compared to many dull change plates. If you are considering these plates, aesthetics likely play a significant role.

These can be bought in pairs or sets and include a + or – weight tolerance of 10 grams, which is about as accurate as it gets.

The dimensions include:

• 1.25LB: 133.3MM diameter / 10MM width
• 2.5LB: 162MM / 15MM
• 5.0LB: 190MM / 19MM
• 10.0LB: 230MM / 26MM

Overall, they are a bit thicker than most iron change plates, but will not take up too much space on the bar.

With a 50.4 mm collar opening, they fit nicely around the bar. Plus, since the change plates are rubber coated, they’re nearly silent, and there is no rattling noise. Whether you are loading the plates or lifting, these help keep your gym quiet. Some may prefer the classic sound of iron, but most home gym owners with people in the house want a more peaceful alternative.

The rubber coating within the center of the plates removes much of the need for collars. While they may move slightly, they’re much less likely to fall of or even get close to the edge.

It is also convenient to have the ability to add them outside of the collar while adding incremental weights to your sets.

Rubber is easier on the barbell than iron. These plates will not scratch up your bar.

This rubber coated option is easy to hold and grip with your hand. If sitting next to an iron plate, you’re most likely going to grab these 100% of the time. They’re also comfortable to use for movements like lat raises or any other movement you’d do with a light weight dumbbell.

The change plates can get scuffed up pretty quickly but are easy to clean up. By simply taking a wet rag and scrubbing, you’re able to get most of the scuffs off relatively efficiently.

Conclusion

As discussed, these change plates are not a necessary item that you need to add to your home gym. You’re most likely going to add them because you like the look and want something that’ll stand out. Plus, it’s a nice convenience to not rely on having collars for every single lift and they make much less noise than iron. They’d be a luxury to have for most but would make for a better workout experience within the home gym though.