If you like the idea of the BetterMe Pilates Essential Kit but not the $198 price, you are probably looking for a kit with the same core props for less. Here is a straight side-by-side of the BetterMe Essential Kit and the Pilamie Home Pilates Kit: what is in each box, price, delivery and returns, and where each one comes out ahead.
Full disclosure: this is our own kit being compared, so read it with that in mind. Pilamie is not affiliated with BetterMe, and we have not tested BetterMe's kit. BetterMe details come from its own store listing, checked on September 29, 2026. Check the BetterMe store for current prices and contents.
Only after the numbers? See our BetterMe Pilates kit price guide, checked on October 7, 2026, including the lower offer prices.
Side by side
| BetterMe Pilates Essential Kit | Pilamie Home Pilates Kit | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $198 | $49.99 |
| Pilates ring | Yes (fiberglass, NBR foam) | Yes, padded grips, about 15 in (38.5 cm) |
| Small soft ball | Yes (PVC) | Yes, 9.84 in (25 cm), with inflation straw |
| Loop bands | Yes, fabric (cotton and polyester) | 5 thin stretch bands, extra-light to extra-heavy |
| Long resistance band | Yes (TPU) | Yes, 59 in (150 cm), plus a figure-8 band |
| Stretching strap | Not listed | Yes, 6 ft (183 cm) |
| Arm and thigh toner | Not listed | Yes |
| Grip socks | Yes | Yes, 2 pairs |
| Carry bag | Not listed | Yes, drawstring bag |
| Mat | Not included | Not included |
| Workout plan | Classes in the BetterMe app, sold separately | Free printable 28-day plan, no app or subscription |
| Colors | Several (for example ivory, mint, raspberry pink) | Pink only |
| US delivery | 2 to 5 business days (per its FAQ) | 1 to 3 business days to process, then usually 3 to 7 business days, free and tracked |
| Returns | 30 days | 30 days |
Where the BetterMe Essential Kit comes out ahead
- Fabric loop bands. Fabric bands tend to roll and pinch less on bare legs than thin stretch bands. If that matters to you, it is a real point in BetterMe's favor.
- Color choice. Several matching colors versus our single pink.
- Faster stated delivery. BetterMe quotes 2 to 5 business days in the US. Ours is a few days longer once processing time is included.
- App classes. If you want guided video classes and are happy to pay for the app, BetterMe's kit and app are designed to go together.
Where the Pilamie kit comes out ahead
- Price. $49.99 versus $198, for the same core props: ring, ball, loop bands, long band and grip socks.
- More pieces. A stretching strap, a figure-8 band, a toner, a second pair of socks and a carry bag are included.
- Five labeled resistance levels. You can progress from extra-light to extra-heavy without buying new bands.
- A plan with no subscription. The 28-Day Pilates Challenge is a printable plan built around the pieces in the kit, and it is yours to keep.
- One package. The whole kit ships together from our US warehouse, so you are not waiting on separate parcels.
Which should you choose?
- Choose BetterMe if you want fabric bands, a specific color and the BetterMe app, and the price fits your budget.
- Choose Pilamie if you want the classic ring, ball and bands, a free plan to follow, and to spend about $150 less while you find out whether home Pilates sticks.
- Either way, add a mat if you do not have one. Neither kit includes it.
See the Pilamie Home Pilates Kit, $49.99
Want the full BetterMe line-up, including the Studio and Power Kits? Read our BetterMe Pilates kit review. Comparing other brands too? Use the checklist in what to compare in any Pilates kit.