Best Adjustable Dumbbells: Build Lean Muscle, And Lose Weight Fast!

Our Recommended Adjustable Dumbbells:

Editor’s Choice

More Images

9.7/10 Our Score

• Each dumbbell adjusts from 5 to 52.5 pounds; adjusts in 2.5-pound increments up to the first 25 pounds
• Lets you rapidly switch from one exercise to the next
• Combines 15 sets of weights into one, using a unique dial system
• Eliminates the need for multiple dumbbells cluttering your workout space
• Two year warranty on weight plates and parts

Last update on 22nd September 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Check Price

When it comes to adjustable weights, this option from Bowflex is a worthy investment that deserves a place on any home gym. If you find that they fit your budget, you can’t go wrong investing in a set. This model is very easy to adjust and can go from 5 to 52 and a half pounds just by turning their dial adjustment mechanism.

What makes them a great choice is that they offer 2 and a half-pound increments for the first 25 pounds of weight per dumbbell, allowing you to fine-tune them to your liking in no time. This is vital if you plan to add them to your workout as it unlocks a wide range of exercises and allows you to build out strength steadily. If you aim to minimize your transition times, you will be pleased with this set. I would consider them a great option when it comes to versatility.

They are sold as a pair, which might be a drawback for some. On most occasions, having a pair is vital to perform exercises, so you can get a great price by going to the pair right from the start. They are ideal for anyone that loves to use one adjustable set instead of going for multiple dumbbells. Not only will you save a lot of space and money, but they are so easy to adjust that you will allow for quick adjustments between sets.

I would consider them the perfect option for home gym owners looking for an affordable way to train without piling up multiple dumbbells. They are built like a tank, so they will more likely withstand a lot of beating and still perform as intended for many years to come. After all, this is an investment that any home gym deserves.

Backed by a long-lasting warranty from the manufacturer, this is a set that can be found at a reasonable price online.

They are definitely worth checking out before making up your mind. if you are willing to invest in a great pair, this is probably your best best when it comes to built quality and ease of use. The small increments for the first 25 pounds is a great feature that makes this the most worthy investment on the list.

Runner-up

More Images

9.5/10 Our Score

• SET INCLUDES – 200 POUND TOTAL: TWO 17” dumbbell handles, FOUR 2.5-pound plates, FOUR 5-pound plates, SIXTEEN 10-pound plates, and FOUR star-lock collars. Great for targeting individual muscle groups or incorporating into a full body workout.
• CAST IRON WEIGHT PLATES FIT 1-INCH STANDARD HANDLES AND BARS – Plates will accommodate all standard 1-inch handles and bars. High-grade cast iron plates covered with black epoxy finish prevent rust and corrosion for years to come.
• 17-INCH DIAMOND KNURLED CHROME HANDLE – Crafted from cold rolled steel with medium-depth diamond knurling for a secure, non-slip, no-rip grip.
• STAR-LOCK COLLARS WITH RUBBER O-RINGS – Course thread star collars are easy to tighten and loosen on threaded ends and help keep weight plates securely fashioned while weightlifting.
• EASY USE & STORAGE – Compact design makes this set convenient and easy to use and store. This all-in-one dumbbell set eliminates the need for multiple dumbbells in your home gym.
  included components: 2 dumbbell handles; 4 collars; 24 weight plates
  sport type: Weightlifting; Exercise & Fitness

Last update on 22nd September 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Check Price

This is probably the best bet for very lifters willing to invest in adjustable dumbbells for their home gym. Ranging from 40 up to 200 pounds, they will handle anything you throw at them. If you plan to workout on max loads, this is a worthy candidate that deserves having a closer look at while researching.

The set contains two 17″ handles that you can load with the included plates for a full-body workout. It comes with everything you need to get started, including two star-lock collars to hold the plates. It has a range of weights from 2.5 pounds up to 10 pounds each for speedy weight selection.

I like that the handles feature diamond knurling that allows for tight, no-slip slip, and the cast iron weight plates are built to last a lifetime. This is an all-in-one solution that will cover any exercise regarding lifting weight you might think. You will be able to build up muscles with no compromises.

I would consider this a great investment that can be found at a reasonable price. They are a little pricier than their competitors, but they have a 200-pound weight capacity. A feature that is hard to find on other products at this price range. If you fancy a set in your workout, they definitely worth having a closer look before committing to another option.

Value For Money

More Images

9.1/10 Our Score

• Has a weight range of 5-50 lbs per hand
• Replaces 20 pairs of dumbbells or 1050 lbs of free weights in the space of 1 pair
• patented compact design is easy to use and weight changes take just seconds
• Urethane coated steel weight plates for smooth & quiet performance
• Allows 2.5 lb or 5 lb increments
• Sold as a pair and ships in 2 boxes
• Weight Increments : 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15, 17.5, 20, 22.5, 25, 27.5, 30, 32.5, 35, 37.5, 40, 42.5, 45, 47.5 and 50 lbs per hand
• Dimensions : 13″L x 7.” W x 7.25″ H

Last update on 22nd September 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Check Price

Powerblocks are easily among the top choices you will find on the market today. They are widely known as the go-to solution for home gym owners, and they deserve to check out before making up your mind.

The downside is that they are a pricier option, and many people will be hesitant at first. To be honest these are an investment and should be treated with this mindset when researching. These PowerBlocks will last for a lifetime, and it’s the best option to consider if you don’t factor in budget constraints.

I love how quickly you can change between weight increments, and the 50 lbs per hand are perfect for most lifters. If you need more than that, you should check out other products on the list. I would consider this a great budget and space saver to replace 20 pairs of free weights in a neat and compact solution. The 2.5 lbs increments are quite handy and will allow you to perform a wide range of exercises in the comfort of your home gym.

These Powerblocks are a high-quality set that will last for a lifetime. It helps you save a ton of space, and it’s cheaper going the adjustable dumbbells route anyway. If only they were not that expensive, but if you find they fit your budget or get a great deal on the used market, go to it by all means. You can’t go worth investing in PowerBlocks.

Adjustable Dumbbells vs. Fixed Dumbbells

When it comes to building strength and increasing muscle mass, professional bodies builders and trainers don’t recommend standard dumbbells. They advise dumbbells that can be adjusted to suit your workout needs and offer the freedom of changing the weight in between sets comfortably. Here’s how adjustable dumbbells differ from other types:

Capacity: Adjustable dumbbells typically come with a higher capacity than standard ones, that’s because they are designed to hold more weight on each end. Most models range in weight from 5 to over 200 pounds max weight and are typically made from cast iron.

Training with them helps build muscle mass and increase strength without having to go to the gym. They allow you to adjust their weight in small increments, and one set helps you work out your entire body. While they’re generally more expensive than regular ones, they can be excellent investments.

Weight Increments: It’s easy to find dumbbells with increments of 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 pounds but you can get adjustable dumbbells with smaller increments like 2 pounds too.

Price: The price for the best adjustable dumbbell set is usually higher than standard dumbbells. That’s because they are more durable and offer great features like quick change functionality, ergonomic grips, better warranty, etc.

Materials Used: Adjustable dumbbells tend to use materials that are stronger than standard ones. These can include cast iron or rubber handles that offer greater ease of use and safety.

Benefits of Adjustable Dumbbells

There are many benefits to adjustable dumbbells that you just can’t get with traditional dumbbells. They can save space, reduce clutter and make strength training simple. Here are some of the things you’ll enjoy using them:

• Cost-effective: A pair of adjustable dumbbells is way cheaper than buying individual dumbbells.
• Space friendly: If you have a small house, adjustable is the perfect workout equipment for you. No need to spend on separate dumbbells that take up too much space! An adjustable exercise set is great for people who are short on space.
• Versatile: They are versatile enough that you can use one end to do squats or deadlifts (much like using an Olympic barbell), while the other end is great for chest exercises like dumbbell flyes, chest presses, and more!
• Save time: If you’re someone who doesn’t have the time to hit the gym, adjustable dumbbells are perfect as they can give you a complete workout at home.

Although they cost more than standard sets, adjustable dumbbells are worth the price as they offer many benefits. They allow you to work out at home and save time as well as space! The best adjustable dumbbells come with great features like ergonomic grips that fit your hands better and prevent discomfort. Some even include locking mechanisms to keep the weights secure.

How Do Adjustable Dumbbells Work?

The importance of having a set at home cannot be overstated. An adjustable dumbbell set allows you to have a full set of different weights without having to buy an entire rack. By adding or removing plates, you can raise or lower their weight. This feature makes them more space-efficient than, for example, a fixed dumbbell set. Moreover, they enable users to do exercises that need different weights for each hand.

One of the biggest complaints about weight lifting is that it is too expensive to buy all the different weights. For example, a complete set that weighs 5 pounds up to 50 pounds costs more than $300. These pairs of dumbbells will help you save money over the long run since you won’t have to buy a set every time you need more weight.

A pair will cost less than all those fixed-weight alternatives needed to fill up a stand. Ideally, you want to store them on a dedicated stand, instead of the floor, so factor in this expense too. If you are looking for a great bundle that comes with a stand, check out the professional line of PowerBlocks.

Types

If you are looking for a pair to complete your home gym, you need to consider which type you prefer. The three most common types include dials, spinlocks, and pins to choose the weight you lift.

The twist-lock design that you can find on some models is also a popular option, and sometimes it’s more affordable to buy. This design features weight plates held by a lock, so you need to twist the handle to choose the amount of weight you want and then lock it in place.

The second type of adjustable dumbbell is a pin-loaded type. Pin-loaded dumbbells have a series of pins that you can turn to adjust the weight level, ranging from 10lbs up to 90lbs for some models.

On the flip side, they are typically bulkier and more expensive than dial-type adjustable dumbbells. They are best suited for people who have a lot of weight to adjust and want to keep the plates secured when they aren’t being used.

Keep in mind that it comes to personal preference which type to choose. Models with selector pins tend to be more durable since they have fewer moving parts. It’s up to you to decide which feels more comfortable on your hands, so it is wise to try them before committing to a specific type.

The third type is a dial-adjusted dumbbell that uses weight disks with premeasured weights on them which you can place inside the handle. These allow you to adjust the weight quickly and easily. The process is also much quieter than other types of dumbbells, so no more loud clunking when you’re at home!

The adjustable dumbbells that feature dials on each end are among the most expensive options on the market to consider. There are markings on these knobs to help you with weight selections, and once you select the desired weight, any unused is left behind. This type allows you to use offset lifting if you like by placing heavier weights on one end.

They are good for people who have a small workout space because they don’t take up much room. They are also secure and safe to use. The dial-type is a popular type of adjustable dumbbell because it allows you to adjust the weight quickly and easily. This type of dumbbell usually comes with plastic caps or rubber stoppers at the ends of each handle to prevent damage from occurring when the weights are not in use.

Things to Consider When Looking for the Best Adjustable Dumbbells for You:

Weight Capacity Range

It is vital to pick adjustable dumbbells that match your fitness goals so you won’t outgrow your set. You will find models that go up to 15 pounds, ideal for toning but not a great investment for strength training. If you want a toning set, going for up to 15 pounds per dumbbell is ideal as you won’t need more weight for high repetition workouts. While most people will tell you to get PowerBlocks and you will be fine, the truth is there is no one-size-fits-all option, so take your time.

You want to pick a set that can help you increase your maximum limit as you progress for strength training. It is wise to invest in sets that reach 50 lbs or more. Try to test them in person, as it is vital that they don’t feel awkward in your hands. After all, you can use ankle weights if you want to make small adjustments to your workout routine!

Increments

Once you settle on the maximum weight, you need to pay close attention to the increments on the adjustable dumbbells you are interested in. There are plenty of models that feature 5 lbs increments, while another popular option is 2.5 lbs increments.

It is up to you to decide but keep in mind that smaller increments render them more versatile. This way they can cover more exercises, from tricep curls to shoulders and chest presses, plus they are also great for toning. Try to buy products from reputable brands, like Bowflex, PowerBlocks, Iron Master, to name a few, as they are well built, and will last for many years to come.

Weight Indicator Readout

While there is no perfect model that has everything, you should make sure the adjustable dumbbells you like have a weight indicator readout. This feature comes in particularly useful when the increments and weights on each end differ greatly.

Think about it: working out with this kind of dumbbell forces your brain to work overtime since it needs to focus on two ends at once, so it is essential that you don’t have to squint or fiddle with knobs. The readout will let you know the total weight of each product at a quick glance, and it will also show you which end has more weight.

Material and Durability

Adjustable dumbbells can be made from different materials, like steel and cast iron. These sets tend to last long and resist regular wear and tear even more than plastic models, but they might require a bit of maintenance before you start using them.

Another option is rubber-coated metal adjustable dumbbells that don’t need oiling or maintenance. On the downside, some models are prone to dents and scratches, but they will act as good resistance weights for moderate exercises like tricep workouts.

If you want to invest in a set of adjustable dumbbells that feature a rubber coating, choose those with solid metalheads because nickel-plated steel tends to flake. If you want to buy adjustable dumbbells that can be used for years and will withstand regular use at home, opt for those made from solid cast iron or steel. Cast iron weights won’t break easily and they are heavy, which means your adjustments won’t be off-balance.

Since adjustable dumbbells are generally more expensive than regular sets, make sure you choose the right weight capacity. If you plan on working out at home for years to come, make sure your equipment can hold up under pressure and has a decent warranty too. This way you won’t have to worry about replacing broken adjustable dumbbells.

Storage Options

You don’t have to invest in a rack if you plan on using your adjustable dumbbells at home, but this is a great way to keep them organized and out of the way when not in use. There are several models that can be adjusted from flat to perpendicular, so they won’t take up much space, while others are designed to be stacked.

If you want an option that can rest flat against the wall, be sure to check if it allows you to remove plates without having to unscrew them first. If these adjustable dumbbells are your only fitness equipment, you want them out of the way when not in use so you can make room for other things.

Easy to Use

Have no idea how they work and what the difference is between a selector pin and a dial? Well, there are adjustable dumbbells that feature snap-lock mechanisms and dial adjusters (selector pin). The weight is adjusted using a selector pin or by turning a dial on the end of the dumbbell.

Selector pin adjustable dumbbells are great for beginners, as they offer easy weight adjustments with minimal parts that can break or malfunction. If you feel like taking your workouts to the next level, opt for adjustable dumbbells with dial adjusters because they allow for more precise increments and you can spend less time fidgeting with the equipment.

Budget and Warranty

Even though you get what you pay for, it is still possible to find adjustable dumbbells that won’t break the bank, but do your research before making a purchase. Since there are plenty of models on the market today, always choose models made by reputable brands like Bowflex or Iron Master.

A basic set will cost around $300, but if you want more bells and whistles, like a storage rack or stand, adjustable dumbbells can cost anywhere from $400 to $700. There are also great deals online and at discount stores, so always check out what’s on sale before making your final decision.

Just like with most fitness equipment, adjustable dumbbells come with a warranty. Some models are backed by a five-year warranty and others offer lifetime coverage, so the choice is yours.

Balance

Look for a model that has a uniform weight distribution. This means your adjustable dumbbells should have the same amount of plates on each end, which is great news if you plan on doing different types of exercises at home.

Be aware that some models have more weight on one end than the other, so this might affect how you work your muscles. Keep in mind that a slight weight difference won’t have a huge impact on your overall performance or how your body reacts to the exercise. For some exercises having the option to shift the weight balance will come in handy, but you might want to consider a different set if this is what you are after.

Safety Features

Adjustable dumbbells are relatively safe to use if you know what you are doing. Of course, there are always risks associated with exercise, but adjustable dumbbells are less likely to cause injuries compared to free weights or other equipment that requires you to sit or lie down on the floor. However, this doesn’t mean you should ignore certain safety features.

Choose adjustable dumbbells with non-slip grips because they are easier to handle, regardless of how much you sweat during your workout. If your hands get sweaty, you should avoid models that have smooth metal plates because these can be slippery and dangerous if dropped on your foot or other body parts. It’s also recommended that you invest in adjustable dumbbells with ergonomic or rubberized handles, as these are more comfortable to lift and won’t rub against your hands.

FAQ