Having the best adjustable dumbbells in your gym can save you money and space and allow you to work your muscles more efficiently, making it possible to build mass and boost your strength in a time-saving manner.
A quick look at our top adjustable dumbbells for home gym
Best Adjustable Dumbbells that can support your Strength and Muscle Building Effort
Dumbbells are some of the most effective gym equipment to help you build strength and muscles.
But you will need many different weights as you progress through your training. Aside from the time-wasting involved in locating and changing dumbbells, storing them can be a headache for many lifters.
One practical solution is to get a pair of the best adjustable dumbbells to replace the many weights you will or have accumulated.
The best adjustable dumbbells comprise different weights built into one unit. Some can range from 5 pounds to 50 pounds, with some going up to 80 pounds and higher.
Thus the best adjustable dumbbells can replace up to twenty pairs of dumbbells, saving you money and precious gym space.
Related: 9 Best Rubber Hex Dumbbells To Help You Build Strength And Muscle Mass
But identifying the best adjustable dumbbells to support your muscle-building and strength-training efforts could cost you hours of training time. And that is where we come in.
Our team has done all the legwork and compiled a list of what our research and analysis identified as the best adjustable dumbbells in several groups.
And from our research, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 came out as the overall best adjustable dumbbells to help you achieve your weight lifting and fitness goals.
But we know each athlete has different goals and budgets. That can affect the choices they make.
Thus we have put together and detailed what we identify as the best adjustable dumbbells for any gym. We are sure one of these can help put you on the road to achieving your fitness goals.
Best Adjustable Dumbbells Overall: Bowflex SelectTech 552
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 is the must-have and our overall best adjustable dumbbells for any dedicated fitness and muscle-building enthusiast.
Bowflex produces two versions of the Selected dumbbells – the Bowflex SelectTech 552 and the Bowflex SelectTech 1090
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 contains 15 selectable weights from 5-52.5 pounds, making it accessible to beginners, intermediates, and seasoned athletes.
On the other hand, the Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Dumbbells replace 17 sets of weights, adjustable from 10 to 90 pounds, making them more relevant to intermediate and seasoned lifters and strength builders.
Selecting your required weight is straightforward. Just turn the built-in weight dial, and you are ready to go within 20 seconds, saving you time and energy.
An automatic locking system locks in the selected weight, leaving the rest in the storage tray. Drop it back into the tray after your workout to rerack, making it a simple and time-saving process. Thus you can choose weights that match your fitness levels and type of exercise without much interruption.
Some may find the unit bulky, but the heavy-duty ergonomic design is compact and space-saving if you compare the size with the number of single dumbbells it replaces into consideration.
Bowflex is renowned for producing high-quality and reliable fitness equipment for the home gym market, and the build quality of the SelectTech Adjustable Dumbbells is no different.
The units are well-designed and durable, and the consensus from the many thousands of buyers is that they are a pleasure to use. They work smoothly and quietly.
The rubberized grip is comfortable and offers a firm grasp, either with wet or dry hands. Each adjustable dumbbell ships with a storage base, making them much easier to store and helping you to keep them organized.
The Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbells are sold in pairs and are the best adjustable dumbbells to aim for.
They are a bit pricey but much cheaper if you compare the price of 15 or 17 dumbbells. Your purchase gives you a standard 2-year warranty, with other options available.
You also get a 1-year free trial membership to the JRNY app, giving you access to a library of exercises, workouts, tutor-led classes, etc., with your purchase.
Pros
- Options for beginner and seasoned athletes
- Wide selection of weights
- Replaces either 15 or 17 pairs of weight – depending on the chosen version
- Space-saving and time-saving
- Built-in selectable dial allows quick and easy selection of desired weight
- Easy to grasp.
- Storage tray included with each dumbbell
- 1-year free trial membership to the JRNY app
Cons
- Expensive
- Some may find it bulky and challenging to use
- Some durability concerns
Available Weights – Bowflex SelectTech 552: 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15, 17.5, 20, 22.5, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 52.5 pounds| No. of Sets: 15 | Assembled Weight with Base: 55.6 pounds | Product Length: 16.96 inches | Product Width: 8.3 inches | Product Height: 9 inches
Available Weights – Bowflex SelectTech 1090: 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90 pounds| No. of Sets: 17 | Assembled Weight with Base: 92.3 pounds | Product Length: 17.5 inches | Product Width: 9.5 inches | Product Height: 10 inches
Beginners can order a pair of the Bowflex SelectTech 552 dumbbells on Amazon.
On the other hand, experienced lifters can consider the Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Dumbbells, also available on Amazon.
Alternatively, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 for beginners and the Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Dumbbells are available for viewing and ordering directly from Bowflex.
Best Premium Adjustable Dumbbells: Nüobell Adjustable Dumbbells
The NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbell by SMRTFT is adjustable in 5-pound increments using a precision-engineered dial on the handle.
Changing weights is quick, smooth, and painless, making the NÜOBELL one of the best adjustable dumbbells to strive for.
Two versions of the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells are available – the NÜOBELL 550 which is the 50-pound version ranging from 5 to 50 pounds for beginners and intermediate exercisers and the NÜOBELL 580, an 80-pound option with 5-80 pounds of selectable weights for more experienced lifters.
They will need assembly after delivery, but most will find that straightforward and should be able to do that in about 10 minutes. Included manual with clear instructions and pictures makes the process uncomplicated, especially for experienced and intermediate lifters.
The design and build quality are of the highest level. TheNÜOBELLs are durable, sturdy, and well-made.
The weights are shaped like traditional dumbbells, giving users a similar feel. Thus users with experience using dumbbells will have no headache in adjusting.
The dumbbells are comfortable and effortless to use with wet or dry arms. The stainless steel handgrip has knurling for a firm and non-slip grip.
Each unit ships with a plastic cradle for storage, helping to keep it housed and organized. You can, however, opt for a storage rack or a stand at extra cost.
The stands may not be essential, but the racks are much more durable than the cradle and are worth considering. They can help improve the longevity of the dumbbells. Changing weight is also much better when the dumbbells are in the storage rack.
The NÜOBELLs are the best adjustable dumbbells for athletes looking for the traditional dumbbell experience with the benefit of a quick changeover.
Some may find the diameter of the weights much higher than they are used to. But the high-quality matte black steel plates look classy and pleasing to the eye. Some lifters may find that they rattle at times, but they are secure and work perfectly.
The NÜOBELL are expensive but worth it. You will still save a lot buying these than separate dumbbells.
They are space-saving and will take a tiny fraction of your gym space. They are available in four colors, Black, Matte Black, Ash White, or Tactical Green, allowing you to opt for a version to suit your taste and preferences. The Matte Black version has a rust-resistant aluminum handle and cradle
Pros
- Two versions are available for beginners and the experienced
- Available in four colors
- The design and shape give a traditional dumbbell feel
- Smooth weight change over processKnurled handgrip
Cons
- Expensive
- The 5-pound adjustable weight increments may not suit everybody
Available Weights – NÜOBELL 550: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 pounds| No. of Sets: 10 | Net Weight: 50 pounds | Product Length: 15.6 inches | Product Width: 7.2 inches | Product Height: 7.6 inches
Available Weights – NÜOBELL 580: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80 pounds| No. of Sets: 16 | Net Weight: 80 pounds | Product Length: 19.1 inches | Product Width: 7.2 inches | Product Height: 7.6 inches
The NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells are available on Amazon.
Alternatively, you can visit Rogue Fitness to view and order the SMRTFT NÜOBELL Dumbbells, where all four colors are available.
Best Adjustable Dumbbells For Power Lifters: PowerBlock Pro 50 Dumbbells
The PowerBlock Pro Dumbbells are heavy-duty, well-built, and designed to meet the needs of powerlifters.
The ProSeries are commercial-grade adjustable dumbbells with five different models, ranging from the Pro 32 with a maximum weight of 32 pounds to the Pro 175 with weights up to 175 pounds. Thus there is bound to be a version that can meet the needs of any lifter – from beginner to the very experienced.
The Pro 32, which is the lightest and cheapest, is not compatible with PowerBlock’s accessories like the kettlebell attachment and EZ barbell, but all others in the series are.
Each version ships with a compatible stand for storage and organization. The Pro 32, however, does not come with a storage unit.
Unlike most adjustable dumbbells with a rounded shape, the Powerblock Dumbbells are rectangular and look more like a building block, allowing them to stand out from other brands.
The concept behind the unconventional shape is to make them more stable and much easier to use.
The design and build quality of the Pro Series are exceptional. Built-in coated-urethane steel plates ensure smooth performance and minimum noise levels.
Each dumbbell has an open handle design to allow your arms to move freely and a contoured handgrip for a firm and comfortable grip. The PowerBlock Pro 50 and 90 Dumbbells have knurled steel handles for durability and better grip.
The Pro50 replaces 19 dumbbells with weights from 5-50 pounds, adjusting at 2.5-pound increments.
The simple pin weight-adjustment system allows an easy and quick selection of the required weight, saving you time and effort and eliminating the need for a dial.
The PowerBlock Pro Dumbbells are compact. Thus they are easy to store, saving you much gym space, compared to single dumbbells.
The PowerBlock Pro Dumbbells are the best adjustable dumbbells for seasoned lifters and a must-have for any busy training environment, especially those with limited spaces. They will also be a good fit for those who want adjustable dumbbells that can withstand rough and long-term use.
Pros
- Easy-to-use and smooth weight change mechanism
- Different weight sets available for all fitness levels
- Ships with compatible stands
- Suitable for commercial and busy training environments
- built to withstand rough and long-term use
Cons
- The design may not be convenient for bicep exercises.
Available Weights – Pro 50: 5-50 pounds adjustable in 2.5-pound increments or 5-pound increments| No. of Sets: 19 | Net Weight: 100 pounds | Product Length: 13 inches | Product Width: 7 inches | Product Height: 7.25 inches
Visit Amazon Now to view and purchase the PowerBlock Pro 50 Dumbbells.
Alternatively, PowerBlock Pro 50 Dumbbells and all the other versions, Pro 32, Pro 90, Pro 125, and Pro 175, are available for viewing and ordering from Rogue Fitness.
Best Compact Adjustable Dumbbells: PowerBlock Elite EXP
The PowerBlock Elite EXP follows the same design trend as the PowerBlock Series. The shape is like a block, setting it apart from other brands that adopt the rounded shape.
The notion behind the unusual rectangular shape is to allow better stability and user experience.
Like the Pro Series, the build quality of the Elite EXP is hard to fault. The USA-made Elites are durable, solid, and well-built.
They feature durable welded-steel weight plates for smooth operation and noise reduction and have a powder coat finish for durability.
The rubberized handles offer better and more comfortable grips.
Selectable weights range from 5-50 pounds, adjustable in 2.5-pound or 5-pound increments, making them relevant to novices, intermediate and ardent athletes. Heavy lifters may have to look elsewhere or purchase additional plates to meet their needs, thanks to the expandable capabilities of the Elite EXP.
The PowerBlock Elite dumbbells are compact, making them convenient for athletes in condos, apartments, or with small gyms, and are worth considering.
Pros
- Durable and well-constructed
- Easy to adjust and smooth to operate
- Rubberized handgrips for a firm and comfortable grip
- Expandable with the purchase of additional add-on weights
- Suitable for athletes at all fitness levels, including beginners
- Compact and easy to store
- Made in USA
Cons
- The shape may not work for everybody.
- Adjustment mechanism may take a while to get used to.
- They could be expensive for seasoned lifters aiming to expand in the future.
Available Weights: 5-50 pounds adjustable in 2.5-pound increments | No. of Sets: 16 | Net Weight: 100 pounds | Product Length: 12 inches | Product Width: 6 inches | Product Height: 6 inches
More info on the PowerBlock Elite EXP and purchasing options are available on Amazon.
Alternatively, you can view and purchase the PowerBlock Elite EXP in various set combinations from Rogue Fitness.
Best Budget Compact Adjustable Dumbbells: Synergee Adjustable Chrome Dumbbells
The design of the Synergee Adjustable Chrome Dumbbells is much different from all others on the list.
It combines steel, chrome, and foam to manufacture an ultra-compact adjustable dumbbell selling at a price that is hard to beat.
Each dumbbell has four adjustable weight combinations. And you have the option to purchase one of the three available sets.
Selecting your required weight is done by turning the chrome-coated steel plates to lock them into place. The process is simple and smooth. It saves time and energy and requires no collars.
The build quality is high, and the Synegee dumbbells are well-made. The steel handgrips, encased in protective foam, are sweat resistant and offer a firm but comfortable grip, protecting your palms from blisters.
The Synergee Adjustable Dumbbells have a solid feel, but the available weight options go up only 20 pounds which is very low. Thus they are more suitable for beginners and casual exercisers. They are compact and will hardly take up any space in your gym.
One major limitation is the weight adjustment process. The weights must be screwed on, which could be inconvenient for many exercisers.
Pros
- Good build quality with a solid feel
- Foam-padded handles for comfort
- Compact space-saving design
Cons
- Expensive for the weights on offer
- The weight selection mechanism may not be the best, and some may find that tiresome.
Available Weights – 10-Pound Set: 5, 7, 8, 10 pounds| No. of Sets: 4 | Weight Range: 5-10 pounds | Maximum Length: 8.6 inches | Weight Diameter: 2.3 inches
Available Weights – 15-Pound Set: 7, 10, 13, 15 pounds| No. of Sets: 4 | Weight Range: 7-15 pounds | Maximum Length: 8.6 inches | Weight Diameter: 3.9 inches
Available Weights – 20-Pound Set: 10, 14, 16, 20 pounds| No. of Sets: 4 | Weight Range: 10-20 pounds | Maximum Length: 10.2 inches | Weight Diameter: 3.9 inches
The Synergee Adjustable Dumbbells are available on Amazon.
Alternatively, visit Synergee Fitness, where you can view and order any of the four sets of Synergee Ultra Compact Adjustable Dumbbells.
Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Beginners: Flybird Adjustable Dumbbells
The Flybird Adjustable Dumbbells are our best adjustable dumbbells for beginners, but they will also be a good option for casual lifters.
The build quality is acceptable, and the cast iron weight plates are well-made and look solid.
Changing weights is effortless. It involves placing the unit in the supplied tray, lining the plates, and twisting the handle till there is a click, and you are good to go.
Two weight sets are available – A combination with 5-25 pound weights at 5-pound increments for novices.
Exercisers with some lifting experience can opt for the 11-55-pound version. We, however, find it unusual that the weights in this model have 11-pound increments, which could be challenging to many.
The handle is textured and offers a good and comfortable grip, especially with dry hands. But it could get slippery with sweaty hands. Knurling on the handgrips would have made it better. Thus, while the design could benefit those without experience working with knurled handgrips, some seasoned and intermediate lifters may find that unsatisfactory. Wearing gloves could resolve the issue, though.
You can buy the Flybird Adjustable Dumbbells in singles, making it appealing to those on a low budget, but we do not recommend that as the best route.
Pros
- Acceptable build quality
- Low price point
- Simple and smooth weight selection mechanism
- Sold in singles or as a pair
- Different weight combination options are available
Cons
- Replaces only five different weights
- No knurling on handle makes it challenging to use with wet hands.
Available Weights – 25-Pound Set: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 pounds| No. of Sets: 5 | Weight Range: 5-25 pounds | Product Length: 14 inches | Product Width: 7.9 inches | Product Height: 6.7 inches
Available Weights – 55-Pound Set: 11, 22,33, 44, 55 pounds| No. of Sets: 5 | Weight Range: 5-55 pounds | Product Length: 16.1 inches | Product Width: 6.9 inches | Product Height: 7.9 inches
Visit Amazon Now to view and purchase the Flybird Adjustable Dumbbells.
Best Budget Adjustable Dumbbells: NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells
The NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells, our best adjustable dumbbells for exercisers on a budget, look more like traditional dumbbells.
The design and shape make them much easier to work with, especially for those who have used dumbbells in the past.
The unit offers 15 different weights at a reasonably good price, but the build quality is good, and the product looks sturdy and well-made.
The knurled handle gives a good and firm grip, allowing you to use the unit with wet and dry hands.
It comes with a tray for storage and for selecting your desired weight.
The weight selection mechanism involves sliding a pin selector, which may not be as intuitive as the dial system on the Bowflex SelectTech Adjustable Dumbbells, but it is quick and works well.
The NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells are available as a 25-pound weight combination set to meet the needs of beginners. Seasoned exercisers can opt for the 55-pound model.
Pros
- Shaped like traditional dumbbells, making them easy to work with.
- Acceptable build quality
- Replaces 15 pairs of dumbbells, saving space and selection time
- Storage tray included
- Knurled handle for a better grip
- Keenly priced
Cons
- May not be suitable for heavy lifters
- Selection mechanism is not as fluid as in some other models
Available Weights – 55-Pound Set: 10, 12.5, 15, 20, 22.5, 25, 30, 32.5, 35, 40, 42.5, 45, 50, 52.5, 55 pounds| No. of Sets: 15 | Weight Range: 5-55 pounds | Product Length: 11.4 inches | Product Width: 19.4 inches
The NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells are available on Amazon.
Best Adjustable Dumbbells – Highly Recommended: ProForm Weight Dumbbells
The ProForm Weight Dumbbells, with weight discs in the shape of traditional dumbbells, come in two different weight combinations, a 25-pound weight option for beginners and a 50-pound version for more experienced lifters.
The 50-pound Select-a-Weight version, with 10-pound weight increments ranging from 10-50, thus can replace ten dumbbells to save you space.
The build quality is acceptable, with the weight disc made from steel and hardened plastic for durability.
The handle is comfortable and gives a firm grip, allowing you to use the dumbbells without gloves.
It comes in a storage tray with clear markings, allowing you to identify each weight.
The sliding weight selection mechanism works smoothly, and you can complete the switch within 15 seconds, saving you valuable training time.
Your purchase gives you free trial membership to the iFit app, giving you access to a library of exercises, workouts, trainer-led classes, etc., to help with your training.
The ProForm Weight Dumbbells are compact, sturdily built, and competitively priced. They are worth considering.
Pros
- Acceptable build quality
- Replaces 10 dumbbells, saving valuable gym space
- Two weight combination options are available to meet the needs of beginners and intermediate exercisers.
- Space-saving and compact
- Easy and smooth adjustment system
- Storage tray included
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy lifters
- Some may find the 10-pound weight increments too wide for convenience
Available Weights – 50-Pound Set: 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 pounds| No. of Sets: 5 | Weight Range: 10-50 pounds | Product Length: 20 inches | Product Width: 17 inches
The ProForm Weight Dumbbells are available to view and buy on Amazon.
Best Adjustable Dumbbells – Highly Recommended: Core Fitness® Adjustable Dumbbells
The Core Fitness® Adjustable Dumbbells will need assembly, but many will not find it complicated. Many can put them together in less than minutes.
The build quality is acceptable, and our research concluded the dumbbells are solid and durable.
The ergonomic rubberized handle gives a firm and secure grip, particularly with dry hands, but it could be slippery when wet.
The weights range from 5-50 pounds, incrementing at 5-pound intervals. Thus the Core Home Fitness adjustable dumbbells will suit beginners and intermediate exercisers.
Changing between weights is smooth and effortless, requiring a simple twist of the handle, allowing you to select weights in 5-pound increments. While the operation is not as sophisticated as on the Bowflex SelectTech Adjustable Dumbbells, the mechanism works well, and you can change weights within seconds.
The dumbbells ship with a storage tray, which also works as the changing station.
The Core Fitness units are high quality and one of the best adjustable dumbbells worth considering for any home gym and are worth considering.
Pros
- Durable and well-made
- Easy weight selection system
- Replaces ten pairs of dumbbells
- Soft and comfortable handle
Cons
- Requires assembly
- Some rattling from the plates
Available Weights – 50-Pound Set: 15, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 pounds| No. of Sets: 10 | Weight Range: 5-50 pounds | Product Length: 14.5 inches | Product Width: 7.9 inches | Product Height: 7.2 inches
You can visit Amazon Now to view and order the Core Fitness® Adjustable Dumbbells.
Factors to consider before choosing the best adjustable dumbbells for your home gym
Investing in the best adjustable dumbbells can leave a small dent in your bank balance. Thus you should ensure you are making the right choice.
Below are some factors to consider when looking for the best adjustable dumbbells for your gym.
- Weight Range
The weight range of the best adjustable dumbbells you choose should match your current skill level. It should also have higher weights to support your training for a considerable period.
The best adjustable dumbbells have weights ranging between 5-50 or 5-55 pounds, with a few going up to 90
But the weight increments differ between models. That could be 2.5, 5, or even 10 pounds.
The best adjustable dumbbells with 2.5-pound weight increments will be ideal, especially for novices.
Intermediate and seasoned athletes can do with 5-pound weight increments, but some may find that challenging.
Thus the best adjustable dumbbells to are those with small weight increments. And the more the increment settings, the more precisely you can adjust the weight you want to lift. Ideally, you should choose a unit with not less than five increment settings. - Size and Dimensions
The size and dimensions vary greatly.
The size of the adjustable dumbbells should be comfortable for you to handle or maneuver during your training.
Ensure the dimensions and shape allow you to do different exercises without restrictions.
The best adjustable dumbbells can replace several traditional dumbbells, but some can be bulky. Ensure you have enough room in your gym to house the pair.
Choosing a model with a storage cradle or tray can help you organize and store them, saving time and effort. - Ease of Weight Selection
How smoothly and quickly can you change weights?
The best adjustable dumbbells should be effortless to switch weights to help reduce training downtime.
Ensure you can identify the different weights in the unit to avoid confusion and making the wrong selection. - Number of Weights per Unit.
You can substitute many traditional dumbbells with one or two best adjustable dumbbells. But the quantity they replace varies between models.
Is your choice of adjustable dumbbells replacing 5, 10, 15, or 20 pairs? Ensure the unit you choose contains enough weights to make your investment worthwhile. - Build Quality
Any fitness equipment must be well-built, durable, and sturdy. The best adjustable dumbbells do not come at a low price. Thus ensure you choose a product with high-quality materials that can withstand regular use without breaking down quickly.
The build quality should be high, and the units should serve you well for many years.
Are adjustable dumbbells worth it?
Yes. Adjustable dumbbells are worth it.
Adjustable dumbbells can be a valuable investment for anyone looking to work out at home. Getting a pair in your gym can give you many benefits.
They can replace many sets of traditional dumbbells, saving lots of space in your home gym.
Buying several sets of traditional dumbbells can be expensive, especially if you are an ardent lifter. Adjustable dumbbells can be more cost-effective as it involves many different weights in one unit at a price much lower than buying them individually.
Changing the weight on adjustable dumbbells is effortless and most situations, without tools.
Adjustable dumbbells allow you to increase the weight in small increments and progress with your training without spending more on dumbbells.
They are convenient for those who train at home and could be a valuable addition to any garage or home gym.
How Do Adjustable Dumbbells Work?
Adjustable dumbbells are a type of weight lifting equipment that allows you to adjust the weight of the dumbbell to suit your specific needs.
They are a convenient and space-saving weight lifting solution at home.
They allow you to adjust the weight for different exercises, helping you progress in your strength training as you get stronger.
Adjustable dumbbells have several components working together to create an adaptable weight system.
The main component of adjustable dumbbells is the weight plates. The plates fit onto a central handle with a textured grip.
Changing the weight of the dumbbell involves removing or adding weight plates, usually by turning a dial or a similar mechanism or adjusting a pin or clamp mechanism to secure the weight plates and lock them onto the handle.
When locked, the weight plates do not disengage during your workout.
The best adjustable dumbbells come in different weight ranges, depending on the model and brand. You can adjust the weights in 2.5-pound increments on some models, while others do it in 5-pound or 10-pound increments.