Fun fact, do you know why it’s called a preacher curl? Give up? The preacher curl gets its name from the formal similarity to a preacher resting over the parapet of a pulpit while preaching (can you see it now).
The preacher curl is one of the most effective ways to target the biceps brachii. It is an isolation (single-joint) movement that targets one muscle group. Incorporate the preacher curl at the beginning of your arm routine when your biceps are the strongest and most stable.
Preacher curls can be performed in various ways and positions, making them a great addition to any workout. You could use a free-weight preacher bench or preacher curl machine.
Preacher curl benches are no longer limited to commercial gyms. They have become popular enough to include in your at-home gym equipment mix.
Top 10 Best Preacher Curl Benches Tested/Ranked:
Check out our 10 recommendations for the perfect preacher curl machines to add more zest to your at-home gym.
- Best Overall: ER KANG Fitness Arm Preacher Curl Bench
- Best Rated: Deltech Fitness DF306 Pro Preacher Curl Bench
- Best Value: Flybird Adjustable Weight Bench
- Best Heavy-Duty: Flybird Adjustable Weight Bench
- Best Quality: Hoist Fitness Seated Preacher Curl Bench
- Best Home Gym: Weider Home Gym
- Best with Lying Leg Curl: Fitness Reality X-Class Light Commercial Utility Weight Bench
- Best Compact: Preacher Pad
- Best Comfort: StrengthTech Fitness USA-Made Adjustable Arm Preacher Curl Weight Bench
- Best Attachment: Deltech Fitness Preacher Curl Attachment
9 Best Preacher Curl Machines Based on Categories
Given below are the best preacher curl machines on the market:
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Best Overall
This is the best overall in terms of comfort, stability, durability, and newness on the market!
ER KANG Fitness Arm Preacher Curl Bench
ER Kang curl machine sports a 26” x 15” preacher pad, three setting adjustability for the barbell holder, seat, and pad, along with barbell catches made of damping pads to protect your barbells from wear and tear.
The frame is made with commercial quality 14 gauge steel. The whole machine only weighs 44 pounds. The biggest feature is the wheels attached to the frame make your machine portable.
Who Should Buy ER Kang Fitness Arm Preacher Curl Bench?
- Those looking for sturdy and commercial-like comfort for their home space
- Heavy lifters (max weight capacity 350 pounds)
- If you like to move your machines around or need to transport equipment
Who Should Not Buy ER Kang Fitness Arm Preacher Curl Bench?
- Anyone looking for a heavier weight capacity
ER KANG Fitness Arm Preacher Curl Bench Coupon
ER KANG Fitness Arm Preacher Curl Bench Coupon
ER KANG Fitness Arm Preacher Curl Bench ticks all the right boxes when it comes to a solid preacher curl bench. It has thick cushion pads with high elasticity and excellent air permeability. The sturdy bench can handle heavy weights without a problem, making it our top pick for the best preacher curl bench for your home gym.
Best Rated
On Amazon, this machine was the preferred choice by most reviewers. This preacher curl machine brand guarantees great customer service, easy assembly, and commercial and frame quality.
Deltech Fitness DF306 Pro Preacher Curl Bench
This preacher curl machine was built to last decades of heavy use. Deltech’s frame is fixed at a 45-degree angle to isolate the biceps. The gauge steel frame can hold up to 500 pounds and comes with 2-inch thick vinyl sweat-proof pads. The assembly is easy for beginners and fits perfectly in any home gym.
Who Should Buy Deltech Fitness DF306 Pro Preacher Curl Bench?
- Beginners looking for detailed instructions and easy assembly
- Large athletes or those lifting a lot of weight
Who Should Not Buy Deltech Fitness DF306 Pro Preacher Curl Bench?
- Those who want to protect their home floors (no wheels or safety scratch protectors)
- Taller athletes
Deltech Fitness DF306 Pro Preacher Curl Bench Coupon
Deltech Fitness DF306 Pro Preacher Curl Bench Coupon
Deltech Fitness DF306 Pro Preacher Curl Bench is among the highest-rated preacher benches on the market. It uses heavy gauge steel tubing and a super tough white powder coat paint that will last you a lifetime. This bench can hold up to 500 pounds.
Best Value & Best Heavy Duty
This machine delivers the best bang for your buck and is the sturdiest of all preacher machines. It’s not just about how much weight can be stacked on a preacher bench but also the type of material used.
Flybird Adjustable Weight Bench
The Flybird Adjustable Weight Bench is the best-valued and heavy-duty preacher curl machine. Listed at number five in Roman Chairs, the machine is priced at a very reasonable $169. Although this is not the only machine on this list at this price point, the Flybird comes with additional functionalities, and you can load up to 700 pounds on this bad boy! That’s a hefty steal, in our opinion.
Who Should Buy a Flybird Adjustable Weight Bench?
- Folks who want adjustable and wider foot pedals with anti-slip grips
- People who want a bench for upper body, core, and stabilizer workouts
Who Should Not Buy a Flybird Adjustable Bench?
- Looking for lower body strength versatility in a multifunctional machine
Flybird Adjustable Weight Bench Coupon
Flybird Adjustable Weight Bench Coupon
Flybird Adjustable Weight Bench is one of the most versatile preacher benches on this list. It is a sturdy training equipment that requires minimal effort to assemble. This bench has a 700-pound weight capacity and has some incredibly comfortable and durable pads.
Best Quality
You know the name, so you know the product is legit. You may have to dig deeper into your pockets for this suggestion, but it’s worth it if you’re an experienced lifter. Do you want to bring the gym home? This product will give you a commercial gym feel in your own space.
Hoist Fitness Seated Preacher Curl Bench
Hoist Fitness is a brand name we’ve become familiar with. With a higher price point, you are paying for the gym experience at home. This preacher bench gives you that commercial gym feels with its high-quality craftsmanship. Overall reviews give it the highest rating; if you’re looking to splurge a little, this is the route.
Who Should Buy Hoist Fitness Seated Preacher Curl?
- Experienced lifters looking for a commercial-like gym machine for their home
Who Should Not Buy a Hoist Fitness Seated Preacher Curl?
- Beginners
- Anyone on a shoestring budget
Hoist Fitness Seated Preacher Curl Bench Coupon
Hoist Fitness Seated Preacher Curl Bench Coupon
Hoist Fitness Seated Preacher Curl Bench has a neat design and looks like it belongs in a high-ticket commercial gym. You must, however, be prepared to pay up for the top-notch quality as it is one of the pricier preacher curl benches on this list.
Best Home Gym
This is by far my favorite category. You will get the utmost bang for your buck with this option. It will make any garage gym more functional. Plus, it offers on-demand trainers within the first 30 days of purchasing! Hello, #1 at-home gym experience.
Weider Home Gym
Weider Home Gym is our pick for the best home gym. It is rated #1 in Standard Weight Training Benches.
The Weider Home Gym offers a 30-day trial of on-demand trainer workouts called iFit. The Weider also has a full-leg developer integration method for your quads and hamstrings. Remove the preacher pad and get seven adjustable bench positions for full-body workouts. It also supports Olympic plates.
Who Should Buy a Weider Home Gym?
- Those on a tight budget looking for a multi-functional machine
- Beginners who need access to an on-demand training app
- People who have Olympic weight plates in their home gyms
- Heavy trainers looking for versatility
Who Should Not Buy a Weider Home Gym?
- Those who like a quick and easy setup
- Lack of comfort compared to other products on the list
Weider Home Gym Coupon
Weider Home Gym Coupon
Weider machines are known for their high-quality products. This versatile training equipment has over 4,000 4.5-star reviews on Amazon. The Weider Home Gym comes with on-demand trainer-led workouts with a full-access 30-day iFIT membership to help you achieve your fitness goals.
Best with Lying Leg Curl
For those looking for versatile equipment, this category showcases a great product. You might have to shell out a little more money on this product. Still, for an experienced lifter, this preacher curl machine provides the highest weight capacity on our list, commercial gym feels, and is compatible with bigger ticket items made by the same company.
Fitness Reality X-Class Light Commercial Utility Weight Bench
This is the heaviest machine on our list. This machine has a 1500-pound user weight capacity.
The preacher curl is an added attachment that you can remove to work on your legs. Leg workout capabilities include hamstring curls and leg extensions. The adjustable leg lock allows for ab crunches.
Other features include:
- A 2.5-inch thick commercial-grade backrest and seat
- A 2.5-inch thick commercial-grade multi-layer foam-filled seat and backrest.
- Soft, durable, double-stitched vinyl-covered seat, backrest, and headrest.
- 40.5-inch extended back and headrest support.
- Multi-level adjustments.
- Smooth seven-level adjustable backrest from – 15 to + 85-degree angles.
- The bench seat has four adjustments (0, 5, 10, and 15 degrees).
- Independent backrest and seat adjustments. User height up to 6’4”.
- Oversized transportation wheels.
Who Should Buy Fitness Reality X-Class 1500-Pound Light Commercial Utility Weight Bench?
- Folks who want a versatile bench
- Experienced lifters who use large amounts of weight
Who Should Not Buy a Fitness Reality X-Class 1500-Pound Light Commercial Utility Weight Bench?
- Folks with limited space in their home gyms
- Beginners who want to move the bench around (weighs 140 pounds)
- Shorter athletes
- Those on a tight budget
Fitness Reality X-Class Light Commercial Utility Weight Bench Coupon
Fitness Reality X-Class Light Commercial Utility Weight Bench Coupon
Fitness Reality X-Class Light Commercial Utility Weight Bench has the highest weight capacity on this list. This bench can hold up to a whopping 1,500 pounds. It comes with a commercial-grade multi-layer foam-filled seat and backrest, making your training experience more comfortable.
Best Compact
This category gives us the most compact preacher curl equipment on the market. Great for intermediate and advanced users, this machine will save you a lot of space.
Preacher Pad
Upgrade your workout with this versatile and functional new way of curling. The preacher pad is designed to sit on your lap, on top of a bench, in front of a cable machine, or on a plyometric box. It makes it easy to take anywhere with you!
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The Preacher Pad has high-density foam and is exceptionally durable, budget-friendly, and space-saving.
Save space with the Preacher Pad, as it is the perfect size for your home gym. Normal preacher curl machines will take up 8-12 square feet, but this pad is 24” x 13” x 8”. It will save space in your gym and easily fit anywhere when not in use. It weighs three pounds, making it extremely portable.
Preacher Pad has the ideal size and shape for optimal performance. Simply place the pad in your lap while seated, and you instantly create the perfect angle to perform preacher curls, all while using the contours of your body as a natural support for the cushion.
Who Should Buy a Preacher Pad?
- Anyone with limited space in their home gym
- Anyone who wants to have their own preacher curl station in the gym
- Anyone who travels for work
- Boutique gym owners
Who Should Not Buy a Preacher Pad?
- Beginners
Preacher Pad Coupon
Preacher Pad Coupon
Preacher Pad is a must-have for people who own garage gyms. The versatile and easily-transportable training pad takes up little space and delivers muscle-ripping pumps. You could use it at various angles to train your guns uniquely.
Best Comfort
Preacher curls aren’t the most comfortable training equipment when it comes to the angle of the pad, bar height, and the width of the seat. This category keeps all that in mind for those who want the most comfortable preacher curl bench.
StrengthTech Fitness USA-Made Adjustable Arm Preacher Curl Weight Bench
Strengthtech is built with quality assurance. Made from the highest quality materials, the StrengthTech bench is the comfiest and most ergonomic preacher curl bench on the market. Soft yet supportive padding gives you the cushion you need when going for those last reps. Relieve stress on elbows and minimize “cheating” with this ergonomic weight training bench. It is made with double-stitched high-density performance foam (25.5″W x 15.5″L) and grade eight heavy-duty steel. StrengthTech preacher curl features a large cushion for comfortable seating.
Who Should Buy StrengthTech Fitness?
- Those who prefer a comfortable elbow pad
- Those who like a wider preacher curl pad
- Large athletes or those lifting a lot of weight
Who Should Not Buy StrengthTech Fitness?
- Shorter athletes
- People with limited space in their home gyms
StrengthTech Fitness USA-Made Adjustable Arm Preacher Curl Weight Bench Coupon
StrengthTech Fitness USA-Made Adjustable Arm Preacher Curl Weight Bench Coupon
StrengthTech Fitness USA-Made Adjustable Arm Preacher Curl Weight Bench is a sturdy preacher curl bench available in two colors — black and orange. The heavy-duty bench has an ergonomic design suitable for exercisers of all shapes and sizes.
Best Attachment
Already have a bench and don’t want to buy a new full-fledged preacher bench? This is the most attachment-friendly item on our list and the most fiscally smart.
Deltech Fitness Preacher Curl Attachment
This is the smartest option on our list. Although the Deltech Fitness Preacher Curl Attachment is made specifically for the Deltech Fitness bench, it has universal capabilities. Made for any standard two-inch tube, it has a mounting tube standing at 1-¾ inches. The attachment has 11 height adjustments and is made of the same steel gauge and coating as the Dettech full bench.
Who Should Buy DelTech Fitness Preacher Curl Attachment?
- Those with compatible Deltech benches (The compatible benches are the DF102 Flat To Incline Bench, the DF9500 Flat/Incline/Decline Bench, the DF1000 Olympic Weight Bench, the DF1050 Olympic Squat Combo Bench, and the DF2000 Standard Weight Bench.)
- Folks on a budget
- Those with limited home gym space
Who Should Not Buy DelTech Fitness Preacher Curl Attachment?
- Those who don’t have compatible benches (check measurements before purchase)
Deltech Fitness Preacher Curl Attachment Coupon
Deltech Fitness Preacher Curl Attachment Coupon
Deltech Fitness Preacher Curl Attachment is the best option for people who own the Deltech Fitness bench and don't want to splurge on a standalone preacher curl bench. This $99 attachment can hold up to 150 pounds.
How Much Do The Best Preacher Curl Benches Cost?
Preacher curl machines can come as an attachment, a preacher curl pad with a base, or a part of a multifunctional machine. They can cost anywhere from $100-$500. Below are the price points and pro tips for our top preacher curl machine picks.
| Category | Product | Name | Price | Pro Tips |
| Best Overall |  |
ER KANG Fitness Arm Preacher Curl Bench | $239 | Extra thick cushions, strong structure, easy to maneuver around your home. |
| Best Rated |  |
Deltech Fitness DF306 Pro Preacher Curl Bench | $189 | Easiest to assemble, quality, and sturdy frame. |
| Best Value |  |
Flybird Adjustable Weight Bench | $169 | A multi-functional machine that gives you the best bang for your buck. |
| Best Heavy-Duty | |
Flybird Adjustable Weight Bench | $169 | Can hold up to 700 pounds. At $169, it is a hefty deal. |
| Best Quality |  |
Hoist Fitness Seated Preacher Curl Bench | $499 | Popular brand. Uses stainless steel and soft cushioned seats. |
| Best Home Gym |  |
Weider Home Gym | $169 | A bang for your buck multi-functional weight machine with a little extra help for beginners learning how to lift. |
| Best with Lying Leg Curl |  |
Fitness Reality X-Class Light Commercial Utility Weight Bench | $499 | The best multi-purpose preacher curl on the market. |
| Best Compact |  |
Preacher Pad | $150 | Most versatile, transportable, and space-saving equipment on the list. |
| Best Comfort |  |
StrengthTech Fitness USA-Made Adjustable Arm Preacher Curl Weight Bench | $439 | Made for all-sized athletes up to over 6 feet tall. Has some of the most comfortable cushions. |
| Best Attachment |  |
Deltech Fitness Preacher Curl Attachment | $99 | Do you already have a bench and just want the attachment with no additional furniture? Look no further! |
What is a Preacher Curl Bench?
A preacher curl machine is an isolation machine that focuses on building bigger and stronger biceps. The machine places you in a strict angled position that helps you focus on the target muscles.
There are a few preacher curl machine variations.
- The fixed preacher bench with a weight stack: This version has a selectorized weight stack. You can choose your weight, adjust your seat for the correct height and adjust the arms for the correct length. Using a supinated (underhand grip), you move the handles towards your shoulders and slowly back down to the starting position.
- The preacher bench that allows free weights: You can use dumbbells, barbells, or the EZ bar on this bench. It’s best to start light on this exercise. On the front side of the preacher pad is a weight holder. Place your desired weight there. You can adjust the seat so that your armpits sit on top of the preacher pad. Grab your weight, rest your arms on the pad, and curl up towards your shoulders, returning slowly to the starting position.
What To Look For in a Preacher Curl Bench?
Consider the following aspects before buying a preacher curl machine:
Usage & Durability
You should consider usage and durability before buying a preacher curl bench. Preacher curls are isolation training equipment; buying one for your home gym might not be the most practical decision. You should first think to yourself, “Do I do enough curls to get just a curl machine, or should I consider a multifunctional bench or maybe just an attachment that fits the equipment I already have?”
Once you have analyzed your needs, decide on the most durable machine. How much weight are you usually curling? Will you need a bench with a weight capacity of 350 pounds? Pay attention to the material of the framework and curl padding. Are you getting an eight or 14-gauge steel or lead? Are the pads durable against sweat and wear and tear?
Space
Adding more equipment to your home space can be good. However, you don’t want to order the wrong-sized machine. Pay attention to the dimensions of the curl machine. The average preacher curl machine will take up 8-12 square feet. If you don’t have the space, consider multi-function, travel-sized, or attachment options.
Comfort
Most preacher curl machines aren’t comfortable and usually don’t adjust that well at a commercial gym. Shorter clients with shorter arms complain about being unable to reach the barbell holders. Taller clients usually complain about seat height adjustability and foot pads being too small. Larger clients usually complain about the seat and the pad not being wide and cushioned enough. Either way, find a preacher curl machine that offers multiple levels of adjustments and comfort.
Versatility & Function:
Look for a preacher curl machine that positions you correctly. If on a multi-functional bench, ensure you can adjust it into the correct position. Functionality is important too. Find a versatile bench that you can use for multiple exercises.
How We Ranked the Best Preacher Curl Bench
We used the following parameters to rank the preacher curl machines reviewed in this article:
- Reviews: Customer ratings, Amazon, and product reviews with videos are the best way to determine the best preacher curl machines. We cross-analyzed and compared hundreds of similar products to determine the best on the market.
- Value: When investing in gym equipment, you want machines that provide longevity. When rating the best preacher curl machines, we looked at the best quality materials used to protect your home space and a bench that serviced more than one function.
- Convenience for at-home gym space: Space saving is essential when building a garage gym. We selected preacher curl machines that were compact, easy to assemble, and comfortable.
Benefits of Preacher Curl Bench
The controlled movement of the preacher curl allows you to focus solely on your biceps. It’s more beneficial than a standing bicep curl because it removes room for error. When you perform a standing biceps curl, you increase the risk of swaying or swinging the weight up, not fully utilizing the concentric and eccentric movement of the exercise.
FAQs
Can I perform the preacher curl without a preacher curl bench or machine?
You can perform the preacher curl without a bench or machine. It can be performed on a stability ball, over a chair, or on an incline bench. Ultimately, using a preacher bench or pad is better because it places you in the correct position and is safer.
Are standing curls just as effective as preacher curls?
Standing bicep curls utilize the core and glutes as stabilizers. There is more room for error when performing the standing or sitting bicep curl. You might swing the weight while curling; this engages other parts of your body, removing tension from your biceps.
How many sets should you perform with the preacher curl?
This is a muscle-building-focused exercise. You should ideally stay in the 8-12 rep range on this exercise and perform 3-4 sets. This can be supplemented with another exercise or performed on its own.
Wrapping Up
Preacher curls are a staple in most arm day training routines. If you want to build strong and bigger bicep muscles, add the preacher curl to your next upper body day.
This article discussed our top picks for the best preacher curl bench on the market. The ER KANG Fitness Arm Preacher Curl Bench is our best overall preacher curl bench.
If you’re looking for a multi-functional preacher curl bench, go for the best-valued Flybird Adjustable Weight Bench.
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