If you're building a home or commercial gym, few decisions matter more than your choice of weight plates. It might seem like a simple add-to-cart decision - but picking between Olympic vs standard plates actually affects your barbell compatibility, training flexibility, and long-term upgrade potential.

At BRIXX, this is one of the most common questions we get. While Olympic plates are the industry standard for commercial gyms and professional athletes, standard plates still exist in some budget setups or older home gym gear.

So which one is right for your space, training style, and equipment?

This blog breaks it down in plain terms - so you can make a confident, informed choice.

The Key Difference: Barbell Sleeve Size

The core distinction comes down to diameter.

• Olympic plates have a 50mm center hole - designed for Olympic barbells
  
  

• Standard plates have a 25mm hole - fitting smaller, non-Olympic barbells
  
  

It’s this measurement that determines which barbell (and other equipment) your plates will work with.

Olympic plates are compatible with commercial-grade barbells, racks, plate-loaded machines, and even functional rigs. Standard plates, by contrast, are limited to a smaller range of home-grade equipment.

Why Olympic Plates Are the Global Standard

Let’s cut straight to it - Olympic plates are the gold standard across the fitness industry. They’re what you’ll find in 99% of commercial gyms, competitions, and serious home gyms.

Here’s why they dominate:

1. Universal Compatibility
Nearly every high-quality barbell, rack, and machine is designed to work with Olympic-sized plates. That includes everything sold at BRIXX - from our squat racks to our pulley attachments.

2. Better Load Distribution
With a larger hole and wider plate surface, Olympic plates sit more securely on the bar and help distribute weight more evenly. This is especially noticeable at heavier loads.

3. Safer, Smoother Training
Olympic plates are less likely to shift or rattle during lifts. And because they're built to handle high-impact training, they reduce noise and floor damage when dropped (especially if you're using rubber-coated versions).

4. Built for Progression
Olympic plates come in a wider range of calibrated sizes, often including micro plates for progressive overload. Whether you're chasing PRs or following a structured program, Olympic sizing gives you better control.

5. Professional Feel
Training with Olympic plates simply feels better. The weight distribution, grip, and durability elevate your workout experience - and give you the confidence to train hard, day after day.

So Why Are Standard Plates Still Around?

Standard plates (with their 25mm hole) still exist - but mainly for legacy reasons. They tend to appear in:

• Budget home gym sets
  
  

• Older barbell kits
  
  

• Compact or fixed-handle equipment (e.g. curl machines)
  
  

• Lightweight rehab tools
  
  

They might appeal to beginners or people on a strict budget - but if you plan to train seriously or upgrade your gym over time, standard plates will quickly become a limitation.

They simply aren’t compatible with modern equipment, and their construction is often lower quality (thinner materials, poor coating, less accurate weight calibration).

Mid-Blog FAQ: Common Questions About BRIXX Olympic Plates

What makes the BRIXX Tri-Grip Olympic Plates stand out?
These plates are designed for ease of use, featuring a tri-grip handle layout that makes them simple to carry, load, and use in plate-only exercises (like Russian twists or lateral raises). The rubber coating protects your floors and equipment while providing a more comfortable grip.

Are they compatible with any barbell?
Yes - as long as you're using an Olympic-style barbell (50mm sleeve), they’re a perfect fit. All BRIXX barbells and racks are designed to pair with Olympic plates.

What weight increments are available?
BRIXX Tri-Grip plates come in a full range of sizes - including  5kg, 10kg, 15kg, 20kg, and 25kg options. This gives you full flexibility to build your set around your training level and budget.

Can I use these plates for machines as well?
Absolutely. They’re compatible with all Olympic-sized plate-loaded machines, making them a great investment for complete gym setups.

→ Explore the BRIXX Tri-Grip Olympic Plates

Hidden Costs of Choosing the Wrong Plate Type

Choosing standard plates to save money early on might seem smart - but it can cost you more in the long run. Here’s why:

• You’ll eventually outgrow your standard barbell or find it doesn’t fit your new equipment
  
  

• You’ll have to rebuy plates, racks, or accessories once you move to Olympic
  
  

• Many resale marketplaces devalue standard plates more quickly
  
  

If you plan to train for more than a few months, starting with Olympic plates is simply the smarter financial and functional move.

A Quick Word on Plate Styles

Within the Olympic plate category, you’ll find several styles - each suited for different use cases:

Tri-Grip Rubber-Coated Plates

These are the most versatile and beginner-friendly option. They’re quiet, durable, and great for both barbell lifts and standalone exercises. The tri-grip makes handling safer and more convenient.

Bumper Plates

Made entirely of rubber, these are ideal for CrossFit or Olympic-style lifts where dropping the bar is common. They reduce floor impact and noise but are bulkier than steel plates at the same weight.

Steel Calibrated Plates

Designed for powerlifting competitions, these are laser-precise in weight and take up less space on the bar. They’re a premium choice for advanced lifters.

For most BRIXX customers, Tri-Grip Rubber-Coated Olympic Plates hit the sweet spot between affordability, functionality, and durability.

What About Training Goals?

Here’s a quick comparison of which plate type suits different goals:

Storage & Compatibility Tips

• Olympic plates are easier to store neatly on plate trees or rack horns
  
  

• Many machines (lat pulldowns, leg press) have pegs built for Olympic-size holes
  
  

• Tri-grip plates allow for quicker changes between exercises
  
  

• If you’re short on space, stick with a clean vertical rack or wall-mounted storage
  
  

Final Thoughts: Invest Once, Train Forever

Your gym is a long-term investment - and your plates are the core of your setup. Choosing Olympic plates means:

• You never have to worry about equipment compatibility
  
  

• You’re ready for serious strength training and machine work
  
  

• You’ll get a more professional, satisfying training experience
  
  

The BRIXX Tri-Grip Olympic Plates offer one of the best value-for-money options in the Australian market today - combining safety, durability, and flexibility in one design.

And if you're based near Melbourne, remember: you can pick up directly from our Dandenong South warehouse and skip shipping costs entirely.

Location: 62 Goodall Cl, Dandenong South VIC 3175