Flybird makes some of the best weight benches at their price point. But when their 3 flagship models have similar specs and prices, how do you know which one to choose? This article will analyze and compare all 3 models to help you choose the best Flybird bench.
On average, the FB149 is the best Flybird bench. The price is slightly higher than the other Flybird benches, but it has a superior build quality, functionality, ease of use, and overall customer satisfaction. However, the 20″ seat height can be too high for people under 5’7″.
2 years ago, I bought the FB139 because I was drawn to the low price and what seemed to me like marginal differences in specs between the FB139 and FB149.
Boy, what a mistake that was…
I sold it after a few months, bought the FB149 instead, and haven’t looked back since.
This post will explain why.
I’ll explain how small differences in the specs can have a large impact on user experience.
Hopefully, I can help you make a more informed decision and avoid the mistake I made!
Let’s jump right in.
Disclaimer: the specs provided in this review are based on my personal experience (where I’ve used the product) and personal research (where I’ve not used the product). I mention this because there are spec discrepancies between Amazon, the Flybird website, and user reviews. The specs are as accurate as possible to the best of my knowledge!
- Best Flybird Bench Quick Comparison
- I Personally Use The Flybird FB149 Weight Bench
- The FB149 Flybird Bench Has The Best Customer Satisfaction
- The FB139 Flybird Bench Has The Best Seat
- The FB149 Flybird Bench Has The Best Padding
- The Flybird FB149 Has The Best Frame Strength.
- The FB149 Flybird Bench Has The Best Stability
- The FB149 Flybird Bench Has The Best Foldable Convenience
- The FB149 Flybird Bench Has The Best FID Functionality
- All Three Benches Are Easy To Assemble
- The FB149 Flybird Bench Gives The Best Overall Value For Money
- Product Recap
- Conclusion
Best Flybird Bench Quick Comparison
Product | Brand | Description | Prime | Buy |
---|---|---|---|---|
TopTop Top Top | Flybird | BEST Flybird weight bench. FB149 flat/incline/decline adjustable and foldable. Sturdy and affordable with all the functions required from a weight bench. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
Flybird | BUDGET Flybird weight bench option. FB139 flat/incline/decline adjustable and foldable. Not as sturdy as the FB149. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price | |
Flybird | ALTERNATIVE Flybird weight bench option. Flat/incline/decline adjustable, foldable, and comes with a lower backrest support. FB149 offers better value for money in my opionion. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price | |
Flybird | FLAT Flybird weight bench option. Foldable but non-adjustable. FB149 offers better value for money in my opinion. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price | |
Top Top Top | BalanceFrom | High-density foam mat to protect your floor and bench. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
Top Top Top | PowerBlock | BEST heavy adjustable dumbbell to go with the Flybird bench. Option to upgrade weight using addon-kits. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
I Personally Use The Flybird FB149 Weight Bench
I’ve been using the FB149 Flybird bench for over a year now, and don’t regret it one bit!
This Flybird bench comparison summary gives you an idea of why I chose the FB149:
Metric | Flybird FB149 Adjustable Bench | Flybird FB139 Adjustable Bench | Flybird Adjustable Bench With Waist Pad |
---|---|---|---|
Customer satisfaction | 76% | 65% | 65% |
Seat Dimensions (LxW) | 15.4″ x 14.8″ / 20″ seat height / 1.5″ seat gap | 13.3″ x 12.9″ / 16.5″ seat height / 2″ seat gap | 13.3″ x 12.9″ / 16.5″ seat height / 2″ seat gap |
Padding | 2″ low-density foam / smooth faux leather | 1.8″ low-density foam / textured faux leather | 2″ low-density foam / Highly-textured faux leather |
Frame Strength | 700-lbs | 600-lbs | 650-lbs |
Stability (bench weight & base dimensions) | 26-lbs / 49.2″ x 15.7″ | 21-lbs / 42.3″ x 15.1″ | 21-lbs / 42.3″ x 15.1″ |
Folding Convenience (folding mechanism and folded dimensions) | Safety-bolt lock / 30.3″ X 16″ x 9″. | 3 safety-pin locks / 31.5″ x 12.6″ x 11.8″ | 3 safety-pin locks / 32.1″ x 15.7″ x 12.0″. |
FID Functionality (adjustment mechanism and flat/incline/decline settings) | Automatic adjustment bolt / 3x seat decline, 5x backrest incline, 2x backrest decline | 3 manual adjustment pins / 4x seat decline, 6x backrest incline | 3 manual adjustment pins / 4x seat decline, 6 x backrest incline |
Ease of Assembly | Less than 10 minutes | Less than 10 minutes | Less than 10 minutes |
Final Score | 8.3/10 | 6.7/10 | 6.8/10 |
Overall Value For Money | 6.6 | 5.6 | 6.2 |
Next, I’ll explain how each bench performed for each metric, and why I chose the final scores for each bench.
Metrics I used to score each Flybird weight bench:
- Total customer satisfaction score: I used the formula (star rating x number of ratings). This allowed me to combine all the individual reviews for a particular bench and assign a total rating for that bench. Therefore this metric accounts for both quality and quantity of reviews. I then standardised the number into a percentage. The higher the percentage, the better the overall customer satisfaction.
- Seat dimensions score: Based on the seat length, width, and height from the floor. For me, this is an essential metric. You want a seat that’s big enough to accommodate your body but not so big that it restricts leg movement. You also don’t want a seat that’s too tall since you’re feet may not be able to touch the ground. The higher the score, the better the seat ergonomics.
- Padding quality score: Based on the padding and outer lining used in the seat and backrest. Padding that’s thicker and has a higher density is more comfortable, supportive, and less prone to warping when put under heavy weight. Different outer lining materials will also affect the overall feel of the bench. The higher the score, the more comfortable and the better quality of padding.
- Frame strength score: Based on the steel gauge and specified weight capacity of the bench. This is an essential metric. You want your bench to be made from heavy-duty steel that can take a lot of weight. The higher the score, the stronger the frame, and the more weight it can take.
- Stability score: Based on the weight of the bench and dimensions of the base. A bench that’s heavy and with a wide base is more stable than a bench thats light with a narrow base. The higher the score, the more stable the bench will be (particularly when used to lift heavy loads).
- Folding convenience score: Based on the folding mechanism’s ease of use, dimensions of the folded bench, and % space savings as a result of folding. The higher the score, the easier it is to fold the bench and the more space-saving benefits you will get.
- FID functionality score: Based on the number of functional FID settings available and the adjustment mechanism’s ease of use. The higher the score, the more exercises you can do with the bench and the easier it is to adjust the angle.
- Ease of assembly score: Based on my personal experience and comments from other users on Amazon and Youtube. The higher the score, the easier and faster the bench is to assemble.
- Overall value for money score: I used the formula (final score ÷ website price). Final score being the average of the metrics described above, and website price being the current price of each bench on the Flybird Fitness website. The higher the score, the more you get for your money.
The FB149 Flybird Bench Has The Best Customer Satisfaction
Here’s what you need to know about the differences in customer reviews for the three Flybird benches.
FB149 overall customer satisfaction: 7.6/10.
Rating | Ratings Count | Customer Satisfaction (ratings count x star) |
---|---|---|
5 Stars | 11,612 | 58,060 |
4 Stars | 3,198 | 12,792 |
3 Stars | 1,178 | 3,534 |
2 Stars | 337 | 674 |
1 Star | 337 | 674 |
Total: | 16,662 | 75,734 |
Overall, the Flybird FB149 has a higher number of Amazon reviews as well as slightly better reviews, compared to the FB139.
This is one of the main reasons why I chose the FB149 in the first place.
Almost 80% of users gave this bench at least 4-stars.
For me, that’s a great sign to consider a product.
With this said, the FB139 reviews aren’t bad. They’re just not as numerous as the FB149 reviews.
FB139 overall customer satisfaction: 6.5/10.
Rating | Ratings Count | Customer Satisfaction (ratings count x star) |
---|---|---|
5 Stars | 10,023 | 50,115 |
4 Stars | 2,760 | 11,040 |
3 Stars | 1,017 | 3,051 |
2 Stars | 291 | 582 |
1 Star | 291 | 291 |
Total: | 14,382 | 65,079 |
The FB139 reviews are actually pretty good.
Just like the FB149, almost 80% of the FB139 reviews received 4-stars or more.
But since this is a no-holds-barred comparison, I will try to scrutinize every little detail.
The fact of the matter is that the FB149 has more 5-star reviews, and this gives it a slight edge over the FB139.
Flybird Bench w/ Waist Pad Overall customer satisfaction: 6.5/10.
Rating | Ratings Count | Customer Satisfaction (ratings count x star) |
---|---|---|
5 Stars | 10,024 | 50,120 |
4 Stars | 2,760 | 11,040 |
3 Stars | 1,017 | 3,051 |
2 Stars | 291 | 582 |
1 Star | 291 | 291 |
Total : | 14, 383 | 65,084 |
The Flybird bench with waist pad has similar overall customer satisfaction as the FB139 (slightly less than the FB149).
This comes as no surprise.
The FB139 and Flybird bench with waist pad are very similar benches (almost identical).
In fact, from here onwards, whenever I compare the FB149 with the FB139, you can also assume the same comparison to the Flybird bench with waist pad (unless stated otherwise).
The FB139 Flybird Bench Has The Best Seat
Here’s what you need to know about the differences in seat dimensions between the three Flybird benches.
FB149 seat dimensions: 7/10
- Length: 15.4″.
- Width: 14.8″.
- Height from the floor: 20″.
- Seat gap: 1.5″.
The FB149 seat is wider and longer than the average weight bench.
The seat also gets even wider towards the end.
And this is one of my major complaints about the FB149.
This odd design forces your legs apart when you plant your feet into the ground (for example during an incline bench press).
This can be extremely annoying and can even prevent a solid foot-floor connection.
The seat also sits oddly high, measuring 20″ from floor to seat.
This is much more than the average bench 17-18″ seat height.
As a result, people under 5″7 may struggle to get a firm foot-floor connection.
But this issue can be mitigated by adjusting your sitting position.
I’m only 5″5.
And whilst the seat height issue is annoying, it’s not a major disaster.
I can just slide my butt down and it’s fine.
Finally, the 1.5″ gap between the seat and backrest feels great (it’s hardly noticeable).
The seat height isn’t the only issue with the FB149. There are other things you should be aware of too (which is expected for a weight bench at this price). You can check out my Flybird FB149 adjustable weight bench review for a full list of pros and cons!
FB139 seat dimensions: 8/10.
- Length: 13.3″.
- Width: 12.9″.
- Height from the floor: 16.5″.
- Seat gap: 2″.
The FB139 seat is narrower, shorter, and more comfortable compared to the FB149 (which is far too wide).
In fact, I’d say the FB139 seat is pretty much perfect (for me anyway).
Regarding the seat height, Flybird seems to have taken the complete opposite direction with this bench.
The FB139 seat only stands 16.5″ off the ground.
Whilst this is perfect for people under 5″7 to get a solid foot-floor connection during the bench press, it has a major pitfall.
Since the seat is significantly shorter, your body can overhang from the backrest.
This can cause your head to bang into the ground during the decline sit-up or become unsupported in the bench press.
The issue mainly seems to apply to people above 6’2″ though.
Finally, the gap between the seat and backrest is slightly larger in the FB139.
It’s not a major issue, but can be noticeable in certain sitting positions.
Flybird bench w/ waist pad seat dimensions: 8/10.
- Length: 13.3″.
- Width: 12.9″.
- Height from the floor: 16.5″.
- Seat gap: 2″.
The seat dimensions are near identical to the FB139.
The FB149 Flybird Bench Has The Best Padding
Here’s what you need to know about the differences in seat/backrest padding between the three Flybird benches.
FB149 padding quality: 9/10.
- Padding thickness: 2″ low-density foam.
- Outer lining: smooth faux leather.
For a mid-range weight bench brand, all of the Flybird benches have surprisingly comfortable padding.
The FB149 features a 2″ low-density foam padding, which is slightly thicker than the FB139.
Even under 300+ pounds of load, the FB149 is comfortable to lay on.
More importantly, the padding doesn’t warp when weight is applied (which can happen to cheap benches).
Instead, the seat/backrest is comfortable and provides great support.
The padding is lined with smooth faux leather.
And whilst it’s smooth, the leather also provides enough grip to prevent the torso from slipping during exercises like the bench press.
FB139 padding quality: 8/10.
- Padding thickness: 1.8″ low-density foam.
- Outer lining: textured faux leather.
The FB139 features a 1.8″ low-density padding, which is 0.2″ thinner than the FB149.
To be honest, the difference is hardly noticeable even when comparing the two benches side by side.
What IS noticeable, however, is the outer lining.
The FB139 features a faux leather lining just like the FB149, but it’s textured.
I’m not sure why Flybird did this.
The texture doesn’t add much in the way of grip (as you’d think it would).
In fact, it actually feels less “grippy” compared to the FB149 and Flybird bench with waist pad.
Flybird bench w/ waist pad padding quality: 8.5/10.
- Padding thickness: 2″ low-density foam.
- Outer lining: highly-textured faux leather.
The Flybird bench with waist pad sits right between the FB149 and FB139 with regards to the padding quality.
Just like the FB149, it’s also padded with 2″ low-density foam.
I’ve not personally used it, but I imagine it’s of the same quality as the FB149 2″ foam, which is very comfortable.
“The Flybird bench with waistpad has a more grippy and rubbery feel compared to the FB139.”
Matt, Home Gym Reviews.
Similar to the FB139, this bench also has a textured faux leather lining.
But the texture is much more pronounced compared to the FB139.
And this provides a good grip.
And what about the waist pad?
According to Matt, the waist pad is more of a gimmicky feature rather than a functional one.
It’s supposed to provide lower back support, but the bad design means you’re back hardly even touches the support section at all.
Therefore the main “distinguishing feature” about this bench, is actually redundant.
The Flybird FB149 Has The Best Frame Strength.
Here’s what you need to know about the differences in frame strength between the three Flybird benches.
FB149 frame strength: 8/10.
- Steel gauge: Heavy-duty frosted steel.
- Weight capacity: 700-lbs.
All the Flybird benches are made from the same heavy-duty frosted steel tubing.
It’s not the strongest steel on the market, but it’s acceptable for this price range.
One of the main reasons I chose the FB149 is because it has the best weight capacity out of all the Flybird benches.
I’ve tested the FB149 to 500-lbs.
It felt safe and I’m confident in Flybird’s 700-lb stated capacity for this bench.
Do you even need a 700-lbs capacity?
In my opinion, it’s a bit overkill for dumbbell exercises for most people.
But it does mean you have the flexibility to use the bench for moderately heavy barbell lifting (something you might want to do in the future).
I’m not entirely sure why the FB149 has a higher weight capacity than the FB139 (seeing as both are made from the same type of steel).
I suspect it’s got something to do with the FB139’s poorer construction.
The FB149 bench is the perfect accompaniment for selectorized dumbbells. Together, they serve as a simple but effective home gym for skinny beginners to build at least 20-pounds of muscle.
If you’re interested, then I highly recommend pairing the FB149 with the Powerblock Elite series.
These dumbbells are the ones I personally use. They are some of the heaviest and most affordable adjustable dumbbells you can get. You also get the renowned Powerblock brand quality, customer support, and 5-year warranty.
If you can’t spend ~300$ on dumbbells, then the Yes4All spinlock dumbbells are a great budget alternative.
FB139 frame strength: 6/10.
- Steel gauge: Heavy-duty frosted steel.
- Weight capacity: 600-lbs.
Amazon states the FB139 has a 600-lb capacity, whilst the Flybird website states 500-lbs.
Having personally tested this bench, I guess that the capacity is closer to 500-lbs than it is to 600-lbs.
The bench just doesn’t seem stable or sturdy enough to handle anything over 400-lbs.
This is not an issue for beginners, or if you train with dumbbells only.
But if heavy barbell training is on your agenda, or if you’re bodyweight is over 200-lbs, then you should avoid this bench.
Flybird bench w/ waist pad frame strength: 6/10.
- Steel gauge: Heavy-duty frosted steel.
- Weight capacity: 650-lbs.
The Flybird bench with waist pad has a similar weight capacity to the FB139.
It’s supposed to have a 650-lb weight capacity.
But I have little confidence in this claim, since the frame on this bench is nearly identical to the FB139, and my experience with the FB139 frame is pretty disappointing (see above).
The FB149 Flybird Bench Has The Best Stability
Here’s what you need to know about the differences in stability between the three Flybird benches.
FB149 stability: 8/10.
- Bench weight: 26-lbs.
- Base dimensions (L x W): 49.2″ x 15.7″.
Out of all the Flybird benches, the FB149 is the only one where I felt the bench to be genuinely stable.
The bench itself weighs 26-lbs.
Whilst this isn’t the heaviest bench on the market (premium benches average around 50-lbs), it’s one of the heaviest foldable benches.
The hefty weight combined with the wide base of this bench makes it feel very stable.
I’ve used it to bench press 300-lbs (plus my 160-lb body weight) and it feels great.
My only stability issue with the FB149 is the crappy round foot grips (what were they thinking?!).
Unlike the flat foot grips on the FB139 which are pretty good, the FB149 foot grips can slide about when your legs push against the floor with a lot of force.
This can be annoying during heavy incline bench presses.
Why couldn’t Flybird just use the same foot grip on both benches?!?!
FB139 stability: 6/10.
- Bench weight: 21-lbs.
- Base dimensions (L x W): 42.3″ x 15.1″.
The FB139 does not feel stable at all compared to the FB149.
It’s because the bench itself weighs just 21-lbs and the base is also quite narrow.
As a result, the bench wobbles whenever you give it more than 400-lbs (free weight + bodyweight).
I tried a 250-lb bench press on the FB139, and it’s safe to say I won’t be doing it again any time soon…
One good thing about the FB139 is the foot grip.
It’s flat.
And this provides a better surface area for contact, compared to the FB149’s rounded foot grips.
Flybird bench w/ waist pad stability: 6/10.
- Bench weight: 21-lbs.
- Base dimensions (L x W): 42.3″ x 15.1″.
As I mentioned earlier, I’ve not personally tested the Flybird bench with waist pad.
But it has the same weight, base dimensions, and construction as the FB139.
So I assume this bench is just as unstable.
My assumptions are supported by other reviews I’ve seen.
Finally, just like the FB139, this bench also has flat foot grips which are better than the FB149.
The FB149 Flybird Bench Has The Best Foldable Convenience
Here’s what you need to know about the differences in folding convenience between the three Flybird benches.
FB149 folding convenience: 9/10.
- Folding mechanism: hand-folded and locked with a safety bolt.
- Folded dimensions (L x W x H): 30.3″ X 16″ x 9″.
- Space savings compared to unfolded state: 80%.
The folding mechanism of the FB149 is one of its best features.
All you have to do is remove a single bolt a hinge in the middle of the bench, and the bench folds in half.
It’s all pretty effortless.
The footrest is also collapsible, making this bench even more compact and stow-able.
Furthermore, the FB149 can stand vertically in the folded state.
This means you don’t have to lean it against a wall or lay it flat on the ground.
As a result, you minimize the risk of scratching the padding on the bench (as well as the paint on your walls).
Not to mention a vertical-standing bench also saves a lot more floor space compared to a flat-lying bench.
If you want to find out exactly how the FB149 folds and adjusts, you can have a look at my Flybird adjustable weight bench instruction manual.
Top tip: if you’re trying to build muscle at home but have limited space, the FB149 can be combined with resistance bands for a simple but cheap and space-efficient home gym.
Although they may not be as fun to use, bands are just as effective as dumbbells for beginners to build muscle.
If you’re interested, I would highly recommend the Undersun Fitness bands.
I used them to maintain my muscle mass during the 2020 gym closures. They’re a bit more expensive than their budget competitors but also offer superior quality (they come with a lifetime warranty).
If you want to avoid blisters and burns, I’d also recommend getting some gloves.
They don’t need to be expensive or fancy.
They just need to provide a comfortable barrier between your hands and the bands.
I use and recommend the Ihuan ventilated neoprene gym gloves.
FB139 folding convenience: 6/10.
- Folding mechanism: hand-folded and locked with a safety pin.
- Folded dimensions (L x W x H): 31.5″ x 12.6″ x 11.8″.
- Space savings compared to unfolded state: 70%
Man, I can’t emphasize enough how annoying this bench is to fold!
Unlike the single-bolt mechanism of the FB149, the FB139 requires you to remove 3 pins from the frame (one to fold the seat, one to fold the backrest, and one to fold the bench in half).
And I say “pins” because they are literally pins compared to the FB149’s thick heavy-duty bolt.
Not only have you got to remove 2 extra pins compared to the FB149, but because the pins are so small and thin, it also makes the process very fidgety (you have to align the pins back into their hole after removing them).
Additionally, the pins aren’t physically attached to the frame.
And this means they can be easily misplaced.
Furthermore, the footrest is not collapsible.
As a result, it awkwardly sticks out when the bench is in the folded state, making the FB139 less stow-able than the FB149.
Finally, the front legs don’t touch the ground in the folded state.
This means you have to lay it horizontally on the ground, and this takes up a lot of space.
One positive feature about the FB139 though is a handle that allows you to hang the folded bench on a hook.
Flybird bench w/ waist pad folding convenience: 6/10.
- Folding mechanism: hand folded and locked with a safety pin.
- Folded dimensions (L x W x H): 32.1″ x 15.7″ x 12.0″.
- % space savings compared to unfolded: 70%.
The Flybird bench with waist pad has the same folding mechanism as the FB139 and looks just as annoying and fidgety to use…
It’s a no from me I’m afraid.
The FB149 Flybird Bench Has The Best FID Functionality
Here’s what you need to know about the differences in FID (flat/incline/decline) functionality between the three Flybird benches.
FB149 FID functionality: 9/10.
- Seat FID settings: 3 decline settings (0°, -20°, -30°).
- Backrest FID settings: 5 incline settings (0°, 20°, 40°, 50°, 85°) and 2 decline settings (-20°, -40°).
- FID adjustment mechanism: automatic fast-pull bolt.
The FB149 has a total of 7 backrest FID angles and 3 seat FID angles (including the flat settings).
In my opinion, this is more than enough for the casual lifter and bodybuilder alike.
It uses 2 automatic quick-lock bolts to adjust the angle (one for the seat and one for the backrest).
The bolt is spring-loaded, quick to use, and secure.
It’s also physically attached to the mainframe, and this makes it impossible to lose it (unlike the FB139).
The bolt also aligns automatically with the holes, making for effortless angle adjustments.
Overall, the mechanism is satisfying to use and durable (I’ve not had any issues in the 1 year that I’ve been using the bench on a near-daily basis).
FB139 FID functionality: 4/10.
- Seat FID settings: 4 decline settings (0°, -10°, -20°, -30°).
- Backrest FID settings: 6 decline settings (0°, 20°, 30°, 40°, 60°, 80°).
- FID adjustment mechanism: manual pin and latch securement.
- Footrest: non-collapsible and foam-padded.
The FB139 only has 6 backrest incline angles and 4 seat decline angles.
Yup, the backrest can’t be declined.
Again, I don’t know what Flybird was thinking here.
In my opinion, 6 backrest incline angles are overkill for a bench like this.
I’d much rather lose a couple of incline settings in favor of 2 decline settings instead…
But that’s not even the biggest issue with this bench.
“The FID adjustment mechanism on the FB139 is poorly designed and really really bad overall.”
Gamerbody
The biggest issue (and the reason why I sold it to buy the FB149) is the crappy FID adjustment mechanism.
It’s the same fidgety and annoying mechanism used to fold the bench (described previously).
Honestly, it takes 3 times longer (at a minimum) to adjust the FID on the FB139, compared to the FB149.
Flybird bench with waist pad FID functionality: 4/10.
- Seat FID settings: 4 decline settings (0°, -10°, -20°, -30°).
- Backrest FID settings: 6 decline settings (0°, 20°, 30°, 40°, 60°, 80°).
- FID adjustment mechanism: manual pin and latch securement.
- Footrest: non-collapsible and foam-padded.
The Flybird bench with waist pad uses the same FID adjustment mechanism as the FB139.
And this means it has the same issues.
I also mentioned previously that the lower lumbar support is pretty ineffective.
And I want to stress this point again as I feel it to be important.
The waist pad is supposed to relieve lower back stress when you’re sat in different FID positions.
But from what others have said, I feel like Flybird added it for the sake of aesthetics rather than genuine functional benefits.
All Three Benches Are Easy To Assemble
All three benches are straightforward to set up and can be used within 10 minutes of unboxing.
Amazon says no assembly is required, but that’s not 100% true.
All of the Flybird benches come partially assembled.
All you have to do is screw the footrest onto the mainframe (no tools required).
This takes less than 10 minutes if you’re good with your hands or 20 minutes if you’re like me (terrible at building stuff).
I also recommend you use a 7mm hex key and 11mm spanner to double-tighten the screws before use.
For this reason, all three benches get a 9/10 for ease of assembly.
The FB149 Flybird Bench Gives The Best Overall Value For Money
As mentioned at the start, I calculated a value for money score based on the formula (final score ÷ website price), where the final score is the average of all individual metric scores given for that bench.
Final Score | Flybird Website Price | Value For Money Score | |
---|---|---|---|
FB149 | 8.3/10 | $125.99 | 6.6 |
FB139 | 6.7/10 | $119.99 | 5.6 |
Flybird bench with waist pad | 6.8/10 | $109.99 | 6.2 |
In my opinion, whilst the FB149 is a bit more expensive than the other two Flybird benches, the extra cost is worth it.
Overall, it gives you a much better value for money.
If you’re someone who’s looking to build a stronger physique at home (especially the chest), then this bench will be worth every cent.
You can check out my other article for a complete guide to building 10-lbs of muscle as a skinny dude.
Top tip: If you’re considering buying a Flybird bench, then the FB149 beats it’s little brothers hands down. I’ve been using the FB149 for a year now and can’t recommend it enough. It’s comfortable, easy to use, and provides versatile angle adjustments. If you’re interested, you can find the Flybird FB149 adjustable weight bench (link to check cheapest Amazon price) here.
But as I mentioned, it isn’t great for people under 5’7″ or over 6’0″.
If this is you, then I’d instead recommend the Fitness Reality adjustable weight bench (link to check cheapest Amazon price). The footrest isn’t as comfortable as the Flybird, but the seat and backrest are much better for very short/tall people.
Product Recap
Product | Brand | Description | Prime | Buy |
---|---|---|---|---|
TopTop Top Top | Flybird | BEST Flybird weight bench. FB149 flat/incline/decline adjustable and foldable. Sturdy and affordable with all the functions required from a weight bench. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
Flybird | BUDGET Flybird weight bench option. FB139 flat/incline/decline adjustable and foldable. Not as sturdy as the FB149. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price | |
Flybird | ALTERNATIVE Flybird weight bench option. Flat/incline/decline adjustable, foldable, and comes with a lower backrest support. FB149 offers better value for money in my opionion. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price | |
Flybird | FLAT Flybird weight bench option. Foldable but non-adjustable. FB149 offers better value for money in my opinion. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price | |
Top Top Top | BalanceFrom | High-density foam mat to protect your floor and bench. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
Top Top Top | PowerBlock | BEST heavy adjustable dumbbell to go with the Flybird bench. Option to upgrade weight using addon-kits. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
Conclusion
This post has examined customer satisfaction, build quality, functionality, ease of use, and overall value for money for Flybird’s 3 flagship models:
- FB149.
- FB139.
- Bench with waist pad.
In my opinion, the FB149 is the best Flybird bench.
It outshines the other 2 benches in all aspects except for the seat.
The FB149’s seat sits 20″ from the floor, and this is generally acceptable for anyone over 5’7″.
But if you’re on the shorter side, you may struggle to get a solid foot-floor connection during the bench press.
Whilst the FB149’s seat ergonomics has a lot to be desired, you should also remember to take this bench for what it is.
It’s designed to be an affordable, convenient, and space-effective adjustable weight bench option for small home gyms.
And it fulfills this role perfectly well.
For what you pay, this bench is a fantastic buy!
What do you think about the Flybird benches?
Let me know in the comments!
Thanks for reading guys!
Peace Out,
Kal
(Biochemistry BSc, Biomedical Sciences MSc, Ex-Skinny Guy)