Buying guide for best adjustable dumbbells
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When people initially think about slimming down, they turn to diet. Once they feel they’ve reached their desired weight, their thoughts often turn to increasing their muscle mass. For more effective results, consider putting these two processes together. In a society obsessed with multitasking, bulking up and slimming down at the same time fits perfectly.
To improve your weightlifting results at home, you no longer need an expensive set of bulky free weights that occupies a lot of space. Instead, consider getting a good set of adjustable dumbbells, like our top choice, the PowerBlock Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbells, for a more efficient exercise routine at home.
Editors’ picks
PowerBlock Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbells
Weight: 50 lb (per dumbbell) | Grip Type: Padded | Materials: Powder-coat painted steel, polypropylene | Colors: Black
If you're after a no-nonsense, high-performance set of adjustable dumbbells, the PowerBlock Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbells delivers on just about every front. These dumbbells offer a weight range from 5 to 50 pounds per hand, with smooth 2.5-pound increments thanks to their clever magnetic selector pin. The design may not mimic the look of traditional dumbbells, but the functionality speaks for itself.
What makes the PowerBlock Elite EXP stand out is its durability and upgrade potential. Built from powder-coated steel and engineered to withstand tough training sessions, these dumbbells feel solid and dependable.
You can also expand them to 70 or 90 pounds with additional kits, which makes them a long-term solution as your strength grows. Some users are divided on the block-style design, but once you get used to it, it becomes second nature.
BowFlex Results Series SelectTech Dumbbells
Great Value
Weight: 52.5 lb (per dumbbell) | Grip Type: Rubber, Alloy Steel | Materials: Plastic, Rubber | Colors: Black
Bowflex is one of the most trusted brands for premium home exercise equipment, and these Bowflex Results Series SelectTech Dumbbells are no different. Made with durable alloy steel, these dumbbells are built to last and make it easy to perform different lifts right at home.
Each dumbbell adjusts from 5 to 52.5 pounds, making it suitable whether you’re just starting to lift or already experienced with different exercises. The locking system keeps the plates in place, so you don't have to worry about them accidentally shifting around as you lift, and the storage trays give you somewhere to keep them once you’re finished.
These dumbbells are a hit among beginners and seasoned gym-goers who want an easier way to train at home. Made with premium metal components, they’re built for durability and are great for training arms, chest, back and even legs without having to go to the gym.
LifeOG Adjustable Dumbbell Set of 2
Customer Favorite
Weight: 25 lb, also available in 50 lb | Grip Type: Anti-slip PE | Materials: Cast iron, polyethylene | Colors: Orange and black
With up to 25 pounds on each dumbbell, the LifeOG Adjustable Dumbbell Set of 2 is a versatile option that offers five different weight combinations for customizable workouts. They're easy to adjust with a simple twist function and secure locking mechanism, so it won’t take time away from your fitness plan. This pair is also available in a 50-pound option, which is suitable for those who prefer higher weight limits.
Made of rugged cast iron, these dumbbells are constructed to last. Hands slipping can be a concern when using dumbbells, especially if your hands get sweaty, but this pair offers a reliable grip. Covered in a slip-resistant polyethylene material with a textured design, they keep hands securely in place during workouts.
We also love that these dumbbells don’t take up a lot of storage space. Simply put the weights on the dumbbells and stack them on the included rack to keep them at the ready in your home gym or workout area.
CAP ADJUSTABELL Adjustable Dumbbell Set
Best Mid-Price Hex-Shape Dumbbell
Weight: 55 lb (per dumbbell) | Grip Type: TPU/chrome | Materials: Alloy steel | Colors: Black, chrome and copper
Adjustable dumbbells can be expensive, and while the CAP Adjustabell Adjustable Dumbbell Set isn’t exactly cheap, they’re a much more budget-friendly set than some of our other top picks. They have a more traditional hex design, but they offer outstanding durability, making them a great value pick.
You can adjust each dumbbell with a simple twist from 10 to 55 pounds in 5-pound increments, for a total of 110 pounds maximum. There aren’t any knobs, pins or levers, so that you can adjust the weight on the fly.
Although they’re cheaper and bulkier in shape than some more popular dumbbells, these still have a lot to offer. With a premium finish and greater resistance to wear, these are a great bargain pick and stand up well to years of intense training. Plus, you can choose between soft TPU or chrome handles, depending on your preference.
Feierdun Adjustable Dumbbells
Most Versatile
Weight: 45 lb | Grip Type: Nonslip | Materials: Alloy steel, iron, polyethylene | Colors: Black
When you want more than just a pair of dumbbells, the Feierdun DS2 Adjustable Dumbbells Set has you covered. It comes with barbells, kettlebells and even push-up stands, so you can do a variety of exercises with just one set, making it a terrific value.
Made with safety in mind, it features a smooth multi-turn threaded locking design. This keeps the weights securely in place, whether you want to do curls, kettlebell swings or lunges. And their nonslip grip helps you work out comfortably and confidently.
You'll also appreciate the quality of the materials. The exterior is made of high-quality, nontoxic polyethylene, so there are no strange odors or off-gassing when you open the box. The plates are constructed with high-density iron sand, meaning these will never rattle or leak like weights that use loose river sand.
Overall, it's a great set that lets you achieve a full-body workout at home. Plus, for peace of mind, Feierdun provides three years of coverage if the weights should become damaged.
Feierdun DB3 Adjustable Dumbbell Set
Best for Light Training and Rehab
Weight: 10 lb (per dumbbell) | Grip Type: Soft TPU, Raised Dot Texture | Materials: Alloy Steel/ABS/Silicone | Colors: Purple, Gray, Pink, Blue
Some of our other top adjustable dumbbell picks are geared more toward experienced lifters. However, if you need something lighter for rehabbing after an injury or light resistance training, we highly recommend the Feierdun DB3 Adjustable Dumbbell Set.
These dumbbells have a lightning-fast system that lets you make adjustments in just 1 second. You can go as low as 2 pounds and as high as 10 pounds per dumbbell. The 4.5-inch handle fits nearly all hand sizes, and the raised dot texture provides excellent grip so you can focus on your lifts instead of worrying about slippage.
These weights are ideal for toning, burning fat or building strength for lighter lifts like lateral raises and overhead triceps extensions. They’re super compact compared to bulkier sets, and the square design means they won’t roll away when you put them down. Plus, they’re available in four stylish colors: blue, pink, gray and purple.
Core Fitness Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set
Backed by a 2-Year Warranty
Weight: 50 lb (per dumbbell) | Grip Type: Contoured, textured, soft grip | Materials: Composite, aluminum | Colors: Black
If you're looking for an efficient way to build out your home gym without sacrificing space or convenience, the Core Fitness Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set checks a lot of boxes. Each dumbbell offers weight settings from 5 to 50 pounds and uses a Twist Lock mechanism that lets you adjust weights with a simple turn of the handle. There's no need to mess with pins, dials or sliders.
What really stands out is the combination of comfort and durability. The contoured, soft-grip handle provides a secure feel without slipping, even during sweaty workouts. The composite and aluminum construction feels solid and well-balanced.
Users consistently praise how compact the design is, easily replacing an entire rack of dumbbells while taking up minimal room. Assembly is straightforward and quick, usually taking about 30 minutes.
Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell Set
Best Drop-Tolerant All-Metal Dumbbells
Weight: 50 lb (per dumbbell) | Grip Type: Alloy Steel/Textured | Materials: Alloy Steel | Colors: Silver
Many adjustable dumbbells can break if you drop them, but the Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell Set is built for maximum durability. They can be placed in any position, and the adjusting mechanism is intuitive, so they’re a good pick even if you’re a beginner.
They have a 6.8-inch handle, meaning almost anyone can comfortably hold them, and each dumbbell can be adjusted up to 50 pounds. To adjust each weight, just unscrew both ends and add or remove plates as you like. The snap design between the plates ensures safety at all times, and the plates always fit tightly so you can focus on your lifts rather than anything else.
The unconventional design and shape might catch you off guard at first. However, these dumbbells are among the most durable we’ve encountered, and they don’t feel weird at all during lifts like bicep curls, skullcrushers or lateral raises. Overall, an excellent pick for novice and experienced lifters.
Snode AD80 Drop-proof Cast Iron Adjustable Dumbbells
Best for Heavy Lifting
Weight: 80 lb (per dumbbell) | Grip Type: Chrome/textured | Materials: Cast iron | Colors: Black
The downside to most adjustable dumbbell sets for experienced lifters is that they aren’t heavy enough for different lifts like shoulder press, bent-over rows or incline press. The solution we recommend is the Snode AD80, which features dumbbells that go up to a whopping 80 pounds each.
These are made of heavy-duty cast iron, making them extremely durable and built to last through several years of intense training. You can adjust each dumbbell from 10 to 80 pounds in 10-pound increments, and the round plates help keep your form consistent and reduce fatigue and injury risk. The dial ring keeps the plates in place, even if you drop them, and the integral molding throughout the plate creates a more durable build.
These dumbbells are the most expensive ones on our list. For lifters who are only just starting, it’s probably best to look at one of our more beginner-friendly models. These are ideal for experienced lifters who need more weight to help them tone and build strength for various lifts.
Lifepro Adjustable Dumbbells
Best for Multiple People
Weight: 25 lb (per dumbbell) | Grip Type: Alloy steel/textured | Materials: Alloy steel | Colors: Black/blue
The Lifepro Adjustable Dumbbells aren’t as expensive as some other models, but they’re not as lightweight as some cheaper ones either. They go all the way up to 25 pounds each, so they’re a solid choice if you’re physically rehabbing an injury or just want to tone with lighter sets of common exercises.
Made with alloy steel and featuring a textured grip, these dumbbells are easy to hold, and the plates aren’t nearly as bulky as other sets, making them suitable for beginner lifters. The quick-adjust dial lets you go from 5 to 25 pounds in 5-pound increments, and the pin lets you change weights quickly between sets, so you never have to wait to increase or decrease the weight.
Whether you’re looking for a dumbbell set for full-body training or to hyper-target specific muscles like your arms, these are fantastic for most home lifters. Plus, they’re a lot more compact than many other dumbbell sets for home workouts.
How we analyzed
We researched several adjustable dumbbells, but ultimately the ones that made the final cut offered a solid combination of functionality, quality and performance. Our top priority was ensuring a foolproof adjustable function and quality that’s built to last. We also considered customer reviews and included models with rave reviews only.
Adjustable dumbbells explained
An adjustable dumbbell uses a series of removable plates to achieve different levels of weight. The ease of removing and replacing these weight plates makes adjustable dumbbells a desirable, flexible option.
The weight plates sit in a rack with the bar in the middle. To select the desired weight for the adjustable dumbbell, twist a dial or move a pin to a new position on the rack.
The rack then attaches the needed weight plates to the bar to equal the selected weight. When you lift the dumbbell, any unused plates remain in the rack.
Expert Tip
Always lift your adjustable dumbbells with good form. As a general rule, you should always lift in a slow and controlled manner.
BestReviews Fitness Expert
Systems for selecting the weight
Ease of use is a key characteristic of adjustable dumbbells, and designs for selecting the proper weight vary widely. With some sets, you must manually slide and lock the weight plates onto the bar. Others implement rack mechanisms that lock the plates automatically.
What about cost? Clamp systems cost less than other types of adjustable dumbbells. Dial and selector pin systems are offered at similar price points. Beyond the weight-selection system, the cost for the adjustable dumbbells depends on the amount of available weight and the number of weight plates included.
Clamp system
An adjustable dumbbell that uses a clamp system requires you to slide the weights onto the bar manually. You spin a nut or collar onto the end of the bar to secure the weights with the clamp system. This system differs from some other adjustable dumbbells that automatically attach the weight plates.
Dial system
The dial system is the easiest adjustable dumbbell configuration to use. You simply turn a dial on a rack of plates, setting it to the desired total weight.
This locks the weight plates equal to the desired weight onto the bar. Simply lift the bar, and your weightlifting session begins.
To change the amount of weight locked onto the bar, just set the bar back into the rack. Twist the dial again to reset the desired weight, locking the new plate configuration onto the bar. Then lift the bar again with the new weight.
Selector pin system
The selector pin system works in a manner similar to the dial system for adjustable dumbbells.
Instead of twisting a dial to set the desired weight, though, you slide a selector pin into the hole representing the desired weight.
As with the dial system, the selector pin locks the weight plates onto the bar.
Expert Tip
Don't drop your adjustable dumbbells. Many come with “do not drop” labels. This may sound obvious, but it's the most important thing to avoid if you want to keep your adjustable dumbbells functioning.
BestReviews Fitness Expert
Pros and cons of adjustable dumbbells
Compared to other exercise equipment or gym memberships, adjustable dumbbells can be quite advantageous. They also come with some limitations. The pros and cons of this type of equipment depend largely on the exercise scenario you desire.
Cons
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Locking process: Some adjustable weights use an automatic locking system for safety. Others require you to lock the weight plates manually. Should you forget to lock the weights in place, the weight plates may fall, causing injury.
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Huge weights: Adjustable dumbbells lack the sheer weight needed for powerlifting. A gym with large free weights and machines works better for bodybuilders and powerlifters.
Pros
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Small size: Adjustable dumbbells require a limited amount of storage space versus other types of weightlifting equipment. Because of the small size, adjustable dumbbells work well for moving to new rooms or locations, and simply not taking up much space in your home.
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Low cost: Adjustable dumbbells come at a lower price point over the long run compared to other weightlifting choices. That’s especially true when compared to a monthly gym membership.
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Moving weights around: Simplicity in design exists at the heart of using adjustable dumbbells. Although it takes a bit of time to adjust the weight on each barbell, this method works easier than adjusting weights on large barbells.
Picking the proper adjustable dumbbell set
To gain the most from an adjustable dumbbell set, you must select the right design and weight limit.
Look at your storage space
Some adjustable dumbbell sets include a stand for the racks. Such stands sit at waist height, making it easier to grab each bar and adjust the weight plates. Other racks sit directly on the ground. Racks with a stand require more space, so consider this before choosing.
Consider automatic vs. manual sets
Some adjustable dumbbells are configured by sliding the weight plates onto the bar manually. You attach a collar or nut to the end of the bar to ensure the weight plates remain in place. If you prefer an automatic selection and locking process, a dial or selector pin system works better.
Start with the desired weight
Any adjustable dumbbell set offers a range of weights. Determine the amount of weight needed for your exercise routine — if the dumbbells fit your entire routine, you’re more likely to use them regularly. Adjustable dumbbell sets that offer more weight carry a higher price point, so choose carefully to avoid wasting money.
Consider types of exercise
To help you determine how much weight you should get in your set, think about your exercise plans. If you plan to do mostly arm exercises with the weights, a smaller maximum weight fills your needs. Exercises such as bench press and squats require larger amounts of weight.
Expert TIp
A warm-up is essential before any workout, and especially before an intense workout. This will get your circulation going and prepare your muscles for exercise. Each warm-up should consist of 10 minutes of static and dynamic stretching.
BestReviews Fitness Expert
Understanding weight increments and weight range
Understanding the minimum weight increments and weight ranges for the weight plates within your dumbbell set helps you pick the right set.
Weight range
The weight range is the difference between the smallest total weight in the set and the largest total weight. The minimum weight consists of the bar and nothing else. The maximum weight includes all of the weight plates on the bar.
An adjustable dumbbell set with a large weight range provides more flexibility in the types of exercises you can perform. It also allows multiple people with differing weightlifting experiences to use the same set. In other words, a large weight range in an adjustable dumbbell set provides more versatility than a set with a smaller weight range, but might not provide the precision in increments found in a smaller set.
Expert TIp
Never lift a weight you can’t handle. Adjustable dumbbells have many weight increments, and lifting heavy poundages on heavier adjustable dumbbells can be tempting, but this can lead to serious injuries.
BestReviews Fitness Expert
Weight increment
The weight increment is the difference between weights in the set. The increment should align to the loads you need for the exercises you perform. For example, if your array of exercises includes 12-pound, 14-pound and 18-pound weights, a set with increments of 5 pounds won’t do.
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Small increments: If the minimum weight in the set measures 1.5 pounds, for example, your changes to the weight bar must occur in 1.5-pound increments. This means when switching to a larger weight, minimal differences occur. When starting out with a 5-pound weight exercise, the next level increase becomes 6.5 pounds. Such an increment works very well when using small amounts of weight.
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Large increments: On the other hand, if you choose a set with 5-pound increments, the set will provide a greater maximum weight than a set with 1-pound or 1.5-pound increments. This increased weight range gives you more options for types of exercises and weight in a given exercise.
FAQ
Q. What is the easiest type of adjustable dumbbell to use?
A. Even though they come at a higher cost, adjustable weight sets with dials and selector pins remain the easiest to use. Such systems allow you to pick your desired weight and begin working out without needing to manually slide weights onto the bar.
Q. Will I save some money with adjustable barbells?
A. Adjustable barbells represent one of the least expensive options for weightlifting. Expect to pay roughly in the $50-to-$125 range for an entry-level set of adjustable barbells. More advanced sets exist in the $125-to-$300 range. Understand that you may need more than one set to receive the ranges of weight you need for your various exercises.
Overall, the expense remains low when compared to other types of weightlifting equipment, such as traditional barbells. And when paying roughly $40 per month for a gym membership, adjustable barbells save money in the long run.
Q. Which companies create the best brands of adjustable dumbbells?
A. Stick with well-known brands to receive the best quality in adjustable dumbbells. Some of the best brand names include Bowflex, CAP Barbells, Power Block, Unipack and Yes4All.