The Best Adjustable Dumbbells: A Comprehensive Buying Guide

Adjustable dumbbells are a game-changer for home gyms, offering a versatile, space-saving solution that brings the benefits of a full dumbbell set into a compact, adjustable design.

With weight ranges typically spanning from 3-5 pounds up to 90 pounds, adjustable dumbbells can meet the needs of everyone in the household, from beginners to seasoned lifters. Their compact design not only saves space but also makes it easier to manage progressive overload and target multiple muscle groups with just one set.

Read below to see why adjustable dumbbells are a smart investment for your fitness journey, and find out which are the best adjustable dumbbells!

What are Adjustable Dumbbells?

There are currently three options for adjustable dumbbells in the market: sliding pins, rotating dials, and screw-lock dumbbells.

The systems allow you to set the weight that you want between sets. While adjustable dumbbells are designed to save space, the designs also aim to make the weight change process easy and efficient so you can have a quality workout without difficulty.

You do not want to waste time changing weights between each exercise, and you do not want fixed weights to clutter up your home.

For these reasons, adjustable dumbbells are popular for every level of trainee who wants to work out at home.

Pros and Cons of Adjustable Dumbbells

Adjustable dumbbells offer a range of benefits that make them an excellent choice for home gyms, but there are a few downsides to consider as well. Here’s a breakdown of the main pros and cons to help you decide if they’re the right fit for your workout needs.

Pros of Adjustable Dumbbells

• Compact Design: Adjustable dumbbells save significant space, replacing the need for fifteen or more sets of traditional fixed dumbbells. This makes them ideal for small home gyms or workout areas with limited space.
• Cost Savings Over Time: Although they come with a higher upfront cost, adjustable dumbbells are a cost-effective choice. Instead of purchasing multiple sets to accommodate strength progression, one pair can support your entire fitness journey.
• Easy Weight Adjustment: Many adjustable dumbbells allow you to quickly change the weight by turning a dial or sliding a selector pin. This feature is particularly beneficial for exercises like supersets or circuit training, where minimal rest is preferred.
• Versatility for All Fitness Levels: With weight options typically ranging from 3-5 lbs to 90 lbs, adjustable dumbbells provide flexibility for beginners, intermediate users, and advanced lifters. They allow gradual increases in weight, supporting muscle growth and strength gains.
• Improved Workout Efficiency: The quick adjustability makes it easy to switch weights during different exercises, maximizing workout time and ensuring that you can maintain intensity during sets.

Cons of Adjustable Dumbbells

• Higher Initial Investment: Adjustable dumbbells are generally more expensive upfront compared to fixed dumbbells. However, given their longevity and the savings on not needing multiple pairs, they can be a worthwhile investment for serious home fitness enthusiasts.
• Increased Maintenance Needs: Unlike traditional dumbbells, adjustable models have more moving parts, which can make them prone to wear or breakage over time. This means they require a bit more care, and it’s advisable to handle them gently to extend their lifespan.
• Weight Limitations: While adjustable dumbbells cover a broad range, some models may max out at a weight that advanced lifters might quickly surpass. Be sure to check the weight range before purchasing to ensure it aligns with your current and future strength goals.
• Less Durability Compared to Fixed Dumbbells: Because of their moving parts and mechanisms, adjustable dumbbells may not be as durable as traditional, solid-cast dumbbells, particularly if dropped or handled roughly.
• Bulkier Shape: Some adjustable dumbbells are bulkier than standard fixed weights, which can make certain exercises, like curls or chest presses, slightly more awkward compared to regular dumbbells.

The Best Adjustable Dumbbells (2024)

Here are the best adjustable dumbbells you can buy this year:

PowerBlocks Adjustable Dumbbells

PowerBlocks Adjustable Dumbbells are a versatile, compact choice for lifters of all levels, using a sliding pin mechanism for quick and easy weight adjustments.

Starting at $199 for the Sports Series and $299 for the Elite Series, PowerBlocks offer options for nearly every strength level, with expansion packs available for additional weight capacity.

Key Features

• Rectangular Design: PowerBlocks have a unique rectangular shape with the handle positioned in the center for balanced weight distribution.
• Precision Weight Adjustments: The dumbbells come with adder weights inside the handle, allowing for smaller adjustments in 2.5- or 5-pound increments, which is ideal for fine-tuning weights during progressive strength training.
• Sliding Pin Mechanism: The magnetic selector pin makes weight adjustments quick and easy by sliding it into color-coded or numbered slots, depending on the model.
• Durable Construction: Made with powder-coated steel weight stacks, these dumbbells are designed for durability. The handles are padded for comfort and stability during workouts.

Pros

• Space-Efficient Design: PowerBlocks are one of the most compact adjustable dumbbell systems available, requiring no additional storage stand and fitting seamlessly into small home gyms.
• Balanced Weight Distribution: The square shape ensures even weight distribution, making them feel balanced and steady during exercises.
• Upgradeable Options: Many PowerBlock models, especially in the Elite series, offer expansion packs to increase weight limits, accommodating strength progression over time.

Cons

• Higher Price Point: PowerBlocks are an investment, with prices higher than many other adjustable dumbbells. However, their durability and flexibility can make them worth the price.
• Series Compatibility Limitations: PowerBlock series are not interchangeable, so if you plan to expand your set, it’s best to start with the expandable models or the Elite series for long-term flexibility.
• Weight Limit Cap: Expansion packs only allow weight increases up to 90 lbs per dumbbell, which may fall short for advanced lifters aiming for higher weights.

PowerBlocks Adjustable Dumbbells are a reliable choice for home gym users seeking space-saving, durable, and upgradeable dumbbells with precision weight adjustments.

Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.

Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells

Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbells offer a convenient, space-saving design with a selection dial at each end for quick weight adjustments.

The SelectTech 552 model retails for $329, while the heavier 1090 model costs $599, both designed to streamline home workouts with adjustable weight options in a single compact set.

Key Features

• Quick Selection Dial: Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells use an intuitive selection dial that lets you easily switch between weights, making transitions between exercises seamless, especially beneficial for circuit training and supersets.
• Built-in Casing for Storage: The dumbbells come with a dedicated storage case, which not only helps with transportation but keeps the weights securely in place when not in use.
• Quiet, Padded Plates: Each weight plate has a plastic coating around the metal, minimizing noise and making workouts quieter. The padded handles add comfort for lifting, especially during heavier sets.

Pros

• Easy and Fast Adjustments: The selector dial system allows rapid weight changes, ideal for minimizing rest time during intense workout routines or supersets.
• Versatile for Asymmetrical Training: Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells are designed to allow different weights on each side, a unique feature that supports asymmetrical workouts and helps improve balance and stability.
• Compact Storage Design: The included storage case and compact size make them suitable for small spaces, eliminating the need for multiple sets of weights.

Cons

• Bulky Handle Design: The longer handles provide a comfortable grip but make the dumbbells bulkier, which can feel awkward during exercises like curls or rows.
• Less Durable: These dumbbells are not designed to withstand drops, as the plastic-coated plates and brackets may be susceptible to damage.
• Limited Expandability: Unlike other adjustable dumbbell systems, the Bowflex SelectTech models do not offer expansion packs, so you are limited to the maximum weight of each model.

Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbells are an excellent choice for users seeking a quick-adjusting, versatile, and compact weight solution for their home gym, though users should handle them with care to maximize their durability.

Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.

Final Thoughts: Which Adjustable Dumbbells Should You Buy?

Strength training offers more than just physical gains—it promotes mental well-being, boosts mood, and plays a key role in reducing the risk of chronic health issues like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

To get the most out of your workouts at home, investing in a set of high-quality adjustable dumbbells can significantly elevate your fitness routine, enabling both variety and progressive overload without the need for multiple dumbbell sets.

Adjustable dumbbells stand out as essential additions to any home gym. They combine the versatility of a complete dumbbell set with the compactness needed for smaller spaces, allowing you to perform a wide range of exercises without crowding your workout area.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced lifter, there’s an adjustable dumbbell option to match your specific strength level, budget, and space constraints.

• For Budget-Friendly Options: Consider adjustable dumbbells like PowerBlocks, which provide an excellent balance between cost, quality, and expandability. Starting at a lower price range, they still offer the ability to progress by upgrading as needed.
• For Quick Adjustments: If your focus is on time-efficient training with quick weight changes, such as supersets or circuit training, Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells with their intuitive selection dial may be ideal. Their quick adjustability allows seamless transitions, although they may lack the durability of other brands and should be handled with care.
• For Heavy Lifting and Longevity: If you plan to pursue heavier lifting and need a durable, expandable option, the PowerBlock Elite series offers weights up to 90 lbs per dumbbell and is built to withstand rigorous use. These are great long-term investments for those who prioritize durability and growth potential.

Adjustable dumbbells provide flexibility, space savings, and quality workout experiences right at home.

Choosing the right pair ultimately depends on your fitness goals, budget, and space.

By selecting the right adjustable dumbbells, you can maximize your training potential and enjoy the full benefits of strength training without the hassle of multiple, fixed-weight dumbbells.

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