Looking for a BERG PlayBase Alternative?

Written by Gary McGeown, founder of Trampolines Ireland · Checked October 2026

You like the PlayBase but want to spend less, or you just want to see the options before deciding. Here is an honest look at the cheaper ways to get one, starting with the version most people don't know about.

The best alternative is often the TT version

The PlayBase Medium and Large come with a choice of end frames. The standard version, TL, has a tumble bar at one end and a ladder at the other. The TT version has a tumble bar at both ends instead.

Everything else is the same: the same galvanised, powder-coated steel frame, the same accessories, the same 400kg maximum frame load and the same 10-year frame warranty (13 years when registered with BERG). It is €150 less.

• PlayBase Medium TT: €1,349 (TL €1,499)
• PlayBase Large TT: €1,599 (TL €1,749)

Who the TT suits

• Children who can already climb. If they can get up a frame without a ladder, two tumble bars give more to hang and spin on.
• Families adding a platform + slide or a climbing net. These give children a way up, so a built-in ladder matters less.
• Anyone happy to add the ladder later. The ladder side frame is sold separately for €552.

The trade-off: there is no built-in ladder. For younger children who need an easy way up, the TL is usually the better choice. Not sure? Our kids climbing frames by age guide can help.

TT vs TL vs LL compared

The Wall and Extra Large come in one version only. Full price list on the prices page.

The PlayBase Wall from €999

The PlayBase Wall is the lowest-priced way into the range at €999. It fixes to a solid wall, such as the wall of your house or garage. It is not designed for fences or timber panels. Check the fitting instructions, or call us on 01 960 1641 if you are unsure about your wall. It is 2.4m wide, takes 1–2 swing-type accessories and needs 4m × 3m clear in front of the wall.

It is ideal for narrow gardens. See climbing frames for small gardens.

Buy the frame now, add accessories later

You don't need to buy everything at once. Every frame works with a single swing seat, and the free swing seat offer covers that while stocks last. Add a slide, climbing wall, climbing net or basketball hoop for birthdays or next summer.

Prices for every add-on are on the accessories page, and our swing sets guide explains how many swings each frame takes (Medium 2, Large 3, Extra Large 4). The Extra Large at €1,999 gives the most room if you plan to add a lot.

A quick way to decide

• Your children are under 6, or this is their first frame: the TL gives them an easy way up.
• You are adding a platform + slide or a climbing net anyway: the TT saves €150 and they still have a way up.
• Your budget is tight now but you want a ladder eventually: start with the TT and add the ladder side frame (€552) later.
• You have a suitable wall and a smaller garden: the Wall at €999.

Whichever you choose, the frame is stocked in our Irish warehouse with 48hr delivery on in-stock models and free delivery over €300. If you would like a second opinion, call us on 01 960 1641 and tell us your children's ages and garden size.

What about a wooden climbing frame?

Wooden frames are the other common choice, and some families prefer the look. The fair comparison is about materials and upkeep rather than one brand against another.

The PlayBase is galvanised, powder-coated steel: no timber to rot, no annual treatment, no concrete (the free-standing frames use ground anchors), and accessories that change as children grow into teens. Read the full PlayBase vs wooden climbing frame comparison, why families choose metal climbing frames, and what's involved in installation. Our buying guide covers the rest.