Dumbells are a great tool to keep in your garage gym or apartment — they’re versatile and they save space. That said, why own 15 separate pairs of dumbbells when you could own one single pair of dumbbells that does the same job? Enter, adjustable dumbbells.
When it comes to selecting a pair of adjustable dumbbells, however, there are a few things to consider. How much money are you willing to spend? How much weight do you need or want in each bell? And what’s your overall skill level in the gym? Our team of experts, including personal trainers and athletes, tested more than a dozen products to find the best adjustable dumbbells on the market.
Best Adjustable Dumbbells
- Best Adjustable Dumbbells Overall: NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
- Most Versatile Adjustable Dumbbells: NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells
- Best User-Friendly Adjustable Dumbbells: REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbell
- Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Heavy Lifting: Snode 80lb Drop-Proof Dumbbells
- Best Budget Adjustable Dumbbells: Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbells
- Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Beginners: Bowflex SelectTech 553 Adjustable Dumbbell
- Best Dumbbells/Barbell Combo: LEADNOVO Adjustable Weights Dumbbells
- Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Small Spaces: FLYBIRD Adjustable Dumbbells
- Best Loadable Adjustable Dumbbells: CAP Barbell Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set
Best Adjustable Dumbbells Video Review
Check out our full video review of the best dumbbells on the market in 2024 as our Reviews Writer, Jake, takes you through all of our picks and explains why each one deserves its award.
How We Tested and Chose the Best Adjustable Dumbbells
Since these adjustable free weights have different forms and functions, there are several key factors to examine when purchasing. Our team of experts tested more than a dozen adjustable dumbbells while crafting this list. Here’s how we chose our top picks:
- Ease of Use: Adjustable dumbbells can be a little tricky to use, as they have several moving pieces that can get stuck, jammed, or out of line. We considered the changing mechanism on each set to evaluate the ease of use and durability.
- Dumbbell Style: Adjustable dumbbells come in all shapes and sizes, some of which are not so convenient. Luckily, today, round adjustable dumbbells (which feel like a standard dumbbell) are more common, according to Amanda Capritto, CPT, CF-L1, CES, CSNC. So, we prioritized shapes that were easy to maneuver and lift.
- Weight Range: Different adjustable weights offer different weight ranges, so our team tried to provide a variety that’s suitable for athletes of all levels.
- Increments: Some adjustable dumbbells have smaller gaps between weights (like two and a half pounds), whereas others jump in larger increments of five or ten pounds. We tested sets with a variety of increment options.
- Durability: Unfortunately, adjustable dumbbells aren’t as resilient as standard weights. Our testers selected products that are as durable as possible, taking them through several workouts and, in some cases, drop tests.
[Related: The PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Adjustable Dumbbells Deliver the Full Gym Experience in a Compact Design]
Best Adjustable Dumbbells Overall: NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
This Swedish-designed “smart” dumbbell adjusts from 5 pounds up to 80 pounds — all you have to do is twist the handlebar. Its sleek, modern design will make a great addition to any home gym.
Specs
- Available Weight: 5 to 80 pounds in 5-pound increments
- Shape: Round
- Plate Material: Steel
- Replaces: 16 pairs of dumbbells
- Price Per Pair: $745
Pros
- It has an easy-to-use handle twisting system,
- The steel-made dumbbells are sleek, modern, and save space.
- These go up to 80 pounds, whereas others only go to 50 pounds.
Cons
- This pair has a hefty price tag.
- The handle has a consistent diameter, which can feel uncomfortable.
This Swedish-designed “smart” NÜOBELL dumbbell has a twisting handle that changes weight in increments of five with ease, and makes a sleek addition to any home gym set-up. Plus, it looks sharp, and the steel plates are extremely durable. After taking the NÜOBELL through many bench presses, rows, lat raises, curls, goblet squats, and Romanian deadlifts, our testers gave these a 5 out of 5 for overall experience.
While many other brands use slide or quick-lock systems to switch between weights on their adjustable dumbbells, the NÜOBELL uses a twisting handle system — simply twist the handle to the number you want, pick up the weight, and you’re good to go.
“It’s super easy to adjust the weight,” according to Jake Herod, BarBend’s expert product tester, who gave the adjustability a 5 out of 5. “A lot of times, with adjustable they get stuck on you … that’s something I haven’t experienced with these dumbbells and I don’t think you will either.”
Want to see these weights in action? Watch our tester give these adjustable dumbbells a try.
The weight range here is wide as well, going all the way from five pounds up to a maximum weight of 80 pounds, which earned the weight range a 5 out of 5. “The passive volcano style knurling provides plenty of grip with little slipping in use,” our tester said, giving the knurling a 4 out of 5. “The only issue is that chalk may stick to the black zinc handle.” This isn’t a huge problem but some may not love that factor for aesthetics.
Aside from functionality, this piece of equipment looks both simple and sleek, making it a great (and aesthetically pleasing) addition to any home gym space. And each weight only takes up as much space as a shoe box, our tester says. So, they’re great for small spaces.
Unfortunately, these are a little pricey at $745, earning a 3.5 out of 5 for overall value. This may not fall in every athlete’s budget and there are cheaper options. However, for the weight range you get with this set, we definitely recommend this product if it’s in your price range.
| Factors | Rating |
| Overall Experience | 5 out of 5 |
| Knurling | 4 out of 5 |
| Value | 3.5 out of 5 |
Read our full NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells Review.
Most Versatile Adjustable Dumbbells: NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbell
These adjustable dumbbells replace 15 pairs of dumbbells with a top weight of 55 pounds, and feature steel handles that are knurled to assist your grip.
Specs
- Available Weight: 5 to 55 pounds in 2.5 and 5-pound increments
- Shape: Round
- Plate Material: Plastic and steel
- Replaces: 15 pairs of dumbbells
- Price Per Pair: $399
Pros
- The smaller weight increments allow for a larger workout variety.
- These dumbbells are very sturdy during workouts.
- These have included storage trays.
Cons
- The adjustment mechanism can be a little finicky.
- These weights only go to 55 pounds.
- The price tag is a little high.
Dumbbells that offer small weight increases allow you to do a wider variety of movements. If you’re an athlete who wants to do dumbbell presses and rear delt flyes with the same set, these Nordictrack dumbbells should be your go-to. Given the versatility of these smaller increments, our team gave the optionality with these dumbbells a 5 out of 5.
These weights are sturdy and well-balanced however they do have some plastic components, so we gave them a 4 out of 5 for durability. The steel handle has moderate knurling, so they feel secure in your hand, according to our tester, earning a 4 out of 5 for knurling. “The knurling is passive, so it won’t feel rough on your hands and they’re great for any gymgoer who likes a secure grip,” our tester said.
Unfortunately, the adjustment mechanism isn’t quite as simple as you might find with the NÜOBELL, for instance. You need to slide weight pin selectors to find your ideal resistance level. It doesn’t take super long but may not be ideal for quick-paced HIIT workouts, so we gave these adjustable dumbbells a 4 out of 5 in use.
Watch our tester Jake Herod try out the NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells himself.
Despite the slightly more tedious adjustment mechanism, we still think these are a great product for the budget-friendly price. We gave these NordicTrack dumbbells a 5 out of 5 for value, as the $399 price point is cheaper than many other products on the market.
| Factors | Rating |
| Overall Experience | 5 out of 5 |
| Durability | 4 out of 5 |
| Value | 5 out of 5 |
Read our full NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells Review.
Best User-Friendly Adjustable Dumbbells: REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells
These REP Fitness adjustable dumbbells are extremely user friendly, as the adjustable mechanism is simple and easy to use. Plus, these are relatively inexpensive compared to other products.
Specs
- Available Weight: 5 to 30 pounds, 5 to 40 pounds, 5 to 50 pounds, 5 to 60 pounds all in 2.5 or 5 pound increments
- Shape: Round
- Plate Material: Cast iron and steel
- Replaces: Up to 18 pairs of dumbbells
- Price Per Pair: Starting at $279.99
Pros
- The adjustment mechanism is extremely intuitive.
- These are among the most durable adjustable dumbbells.
- You can add 2.5-pound add-on weights.
Cons
- Some adjustable dumbbells do go to higher weights.
- The adder weights are a little slower to add or remove.
For those who want an easy-to-use pair of adjustable weights, the REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells are extremely intuitive and simple to adjust. “These weights are incredibly easy to change,” our tester said, giving the overall experience a 5 out of 5. “They click when adjusted, so you get an audible confirmation you’re ready to lift. These are by far among the fastest-adjusting sets we’ve tested.”
Alongside the user-friendly appeal, REP’s weights are sturdy and well-crafted, earning a 4.5 out of 5 for durability. “These weights are tanks,” our tester said. “These dumbbells are super strong and can withstand being thrown or dropped easily. One of the best features is their durability.”
These have volcano-style knurling that feels really nice, our tester said, giving this factor a 4 out of 5. We didn’t notice any tears even after dynamic exercises like snatches, which is a plus. “I’d compare the knurling to a Rogue Echo bar but even more passive, so it works for a variety of athletes,” our tester said.
Unlike some other adjustable dumbbells, these come with two add-on plates that are separate from the cradled weights. These allow you to add on smaller increments to your lifts, though this does slow down the adjusting process a smidge, which may not be ideal for some HIIT workouts.
For overall value, our team gave these a 4.5 out of 5. In terms of quality and adjustment mechanism, they’re comparable to the NÜOBELL but you do have more price point options, which we like. These weights start at $279.99 for the five to 30-pound pair and go up to $499.99 for the five to 60-pound pair.
| Factors | Rating |
| Overall Experience | 5 out of 5 |
| Durability | 4.5 out of 5 |
| Value | 4.5 out of 5 |
Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Heavy Lifting: Snode 80lb Drop-Proof Dumbbells
These adjustable dumbbells offer weights ranging from 10 pounds to 80 pounds in 10-pound increments and are almost entirely made from metal.
Specs
- Available Weight: 10 to 80 pounds in 10-pound increments
- Shape: Round
- Plate Material: Cast iron
- Replaces: Eight pairs of dumbbells
- Price Per Pair: $795
Pros
- This weight goes to 80 pounds, ideal for heavy lifting.
- These adjust in 10-pound increments, which is great for compound exercises, like squats.
- The knurled handle offers a secure grip.
Cons
- The 10-pound increments aren’t ideal for accessory lifts.
- These are pricier than other options on our list.
If you’re used to warming up with 50-pounds, you need a pair of adjustable dumbbells that go higher in weight than most others. That’s where the Snode 80-Pound Drop-Proof Dumbbells come in.
Most adjustable dumbbells don’t go up to 80 pounds but these are ideal for heavy lifters. Unfortunately, these only adjust in 10-pound increments, so we had to give the optionality a 4 out of 5. But if you love to focus on big compound weightlifting movements, they’re a solid pick.
Considering heavy lifters may need to drop their weights every-so-often, these Snode dumbbells fit the bill. These earned a 5 out of 5 for durability and are the only adjustable dumbbells we’ve tested that are protected against drops up to 32 inches (about two and a half feet) from the ground. “Most other adjustable dumbbells actually recommend against dropping their weights entirely,” our tester said.
These handles are 36 millimeters, which is actually a little thicker than most adjustable dumbbells. This is ideal for heavy lifters, as it can provide a better grip on the weights (and maybe even a forearm pump). We gave the knurling a 4 out of 5, as it’s secure enough to minimize slipping but relatively standard.
The adjustment mechanism is pretty simple to use. All you have to do is twist the weights to adjust to your desired weight. However, these are pretty pricey. They cost almost the same as the NÜOBELL but they don’t have as many weight options, so we had to give the value a 4 out of 5.
These have 10-pound increment increases, which may work great for some athletes. But for others, these increments may be a little too big, especially if you’re working to increase your PR on a challenging exercise.
| Factors | Rating |
| Overall Experience | 4 out of 5 |
| Durability | 4 out of 5 |
| Value | 4 out of 5 |
Read our full Snode Adjustable Dumbbells Review.
Best Budget Adjustable Dumbbells: Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbells
Ativafit offers single-dumbbell buying options to save you coin while ensuring you still get a stellar workout. These dumbbells are available in 27.5, 44, 66, and 88 pounds.
Specs
- Available Weight: Max Weights of 27.5, 44, 55, 66 and 88 pounds in varying increments
- Shape: Hexagonal/Round
- Plate Material: Steel
- Replaces: Up to 12 pairs of dumbbells
- Price Per Pair: Starting at $299.99
Pros
- Ativafit lets you buy a single dumbbell, which is cheaper.
- The varying top weights are ideal for different fitness levels.
- Ativafit offers an 88-pound option, which is more than most competitors.
Cons
- The handles have little nubs on them, which some lifters may find uncomfortable.
- Buying two 88-pound dumbbells brings the price up considerably.
On a budget but looking to outfit your home gym with weights? Look no further than Ativfit’s array of affordable dumbbells that allow you to select from a range of weight options. We gave these weights a 4.5 out of 5 for value because you can truly customize your purchase, according to your budget.
Whereas most other brands offer a single max weight, Ativafit has many options. They offer sets in 27.5, 44, 55, and 66 pounds, as well as a single dumbbell that tops out at 88 pounds. Yes, you read that right — they sell single dumbbells. Even bought in pairs, these are a great deal, according to Jake Herod, BarBend’s expert product tester.
Similar to Bowflex, Ativafit has a dial system for speedy weight adjustments. “It’s really to adjust the weight,” according to Jake Herod, BarBend’s expert product tester, who gave the overall workout experience a 5 out of 5. “All you have to do is press the red button and twist one of the dials on the weight.”
Ativafit’s dumbbells earned a 4.5 out of 5 for durability. “There’s definitely a lack of plastic,” Herod said. “There’s definitely a little bit involved but I like how it’s centralized just to the adjustment mechanism. Durability shouldn’t be much of an issue whatsoever.”
These do go up in varying increments, which allows for extended optionality but can be a little confusing if you like to do standard five-pound weight increases. We did give the optionality a 4 out of 5, though, because we liked the flat base of the plates, enabling you to do push-ups or burpees.
“The rubber grips on the handles may not be for everybody,” Herod said, giving the handle structure a 3 out of 5. “I haven’t had my grip negatively affected but some people prefer knurling on their dumbbell handles.”
| Factors | Rating |
| Overall Experience | 5 out of 5 |
| Durability | 4 out of 5 |
| Value | 4.5 out of 5 |
Read our full Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbells Review.
Best Adjustable Dumbbell for Beginners: Bowflex SelectTech 553 Adjustable Dumbbell
These adjustable dumbbells replace 15 pairs of dumbbells with a top weight of 55 pounds, and feature steel handles that are knurled to assist your grip.
Specs
- Available Weight: 10 to 52.5 pounds in 2.5-pound increments
- Shape: Round
- Plate Material: Plastic and steel
- Replaces: 15 pairs of dumbbells
- Price Per Pair: $425
Pros
- These weights start at 5 pounds and increase at 2.5-pound increments.
- These are compatible with the JRNY app, which is great for beginners.
- The dial is easy to adjust while you’re training.
Cons
- More advanced lifters may want more than 52.5 pounds to lift with.
- We wish the handle had a knurling pattern, rather than rubber grip.
If you’re new to lifting, then there’s no need to go all-in with the heaviest pair of dumbbells you can find. Focus on finding high quality dumbbells that are comfortable, effective, and offer a range of weights with manageable increments. Bowflex’s SelectTech 553 adjustable dumbbells tick all those boxes.
These weights only go up to 52.5 pounds, which is plenty for most beginners. And you can adjust the weights in two and a half-pound increments, which allows newbies to increase their weight slowly. For optionality, we did have to give these weights a 3.75 out of 5, as they sit on the lighter side but again, great for beginners.
The adjustment mechanism is simple to use. All you have to do is spin the side dial. But we do wish the handles had some knurling. “I personally haven’t had any issues with the rubber,” according to Jake Herod, BarBend’s expert product tester, who gave the handles a 4 out of 5. “But it definitely has a way different feeling than a classic dumbbell.”
Bowflex uses a lot of plastic in these dumbbells’ components, which does hinder the durability a bit. “I don’t want you to think they’re going to break as soon as you drop them,” Herod said, giving the durability a 3.5 out of 5. “But you do run that risk if you were to put these back in their cradle too rough” For many beginners, though, the focus is form, not load. So, this shouldn’t be a huge issue.
We also noticed that, in some cases, the dumbbells can get stuck in the cradle as we adjusted the weights. This can be a problem for those who want to quickly transition from one weight to another. So, if you’re a big fan of HIIT training or ultra-short rest periods, you may prefer another option.
For overall value, we gave these a 4 out of 5. These are competitively priced at $425 but you can find cheaper options on this list.
| Factors | Rating |
| Overall Experience | 4 out of 5 |
| Durability | 3.5 out of 5 |
| Value | 4 out of 5 |
Read our full Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells Review.
Best Combo Dumbbells/Barbell: LEADNOVO Adjustable Weights Dumbbells
This nifty dumbbell set can transform into a barbell via a connector rod, so you can get your bilateral and unilateral work in.
Specs
- Available Weight: Available in max weights of 44, 66, and 88 pounds per pair
- Shape: Octagonal
- Plate Material: Iron, polyethylene , rubber
- Replaces: N/A
- Price Per Pair: $75.99-$159.99
Pros
- These dumbbells can convert into a barbell via a connecting rod.
- The barbell allows you to perform bilateral and unilateral movements.
- These are loadable dumbbells, so you can customize your weight.
Cons
- If you just want a pair of dumbbells, this is unnecessary.
- Since you load the plates individually, changing weights can be tedious.
If you’re looking to get more versatility out of your gym setup, then a dumbbell set that converts to a barbell will take your workouts far. This set comes with loadable dumbbells and a barbell from 44 to 88 pounds, giving you ample exercise options.
For durability, we gave this weight set a 4 out of 5. These are made with a combination of iron, polyethylene, and rubber, so they can withstand plenty of use. The plates are made with an iron sand mixture that isn’t as sturdy as pure iron but won’t rust or damage your floors as badly.
You can choose between a 44-, 66-, and 88-pound set but there’s quite a bit of optionality here, earning these weights a 5 out of 5 in that category. These come with multiple six- and four-pound plates, so you can load the dumbbells or barbell as you’d like. Plus, you can always buy more weights after the fact.
One downside is the adjustment mechanism, though, which brings down the overall use score to 3.5 out of 5. You need to load each dumbbell handle individually. And considering there are two sides to a dumbbell, that’s technically four loading spots. I’ve worked with loadable dumbbells in the past and I actually didn’t mind it too much. But if you’re constantly switching between weights, this can get pretty tedious.
For overall value, though, we had to give this set a 5 out of 5. An entire 88-pound set only costs $159.99 which is a fraction of the price of other adjustable dumbbells. Plus, you can get the LEADNOVO set on Amazon Prime, so it should arrive pretty quick.
| Factors | Rating |
| Overall Experience | 4 out of 5 |
| Durability | 4 out of 5 |
| Value | 5 out of 5 |
[Related: Best Barbells]
Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Small Spaces: FLYBIRD Adjustable Weights Dumbbells
This single 25-pound dumbbell is compact, adjusts in seconds, and has a sleek design. It's perfect for small apartments or other tight spaces.
Specs
- Available Weight: 5 to 25 pounds in five pound increments
- Shape: Round
- Plate Material: Plastic
- Replaces: Five pairs of dumbbells
- Price Per Pair: $99 per dumbbell
Pros
- One dumbbell takes up half the space of two.
- 25 pounds is a good max weight for people who are new to lifting.
- At this price, you can buy two if you want to “upgrade.”
Cons
- Advanced athletes will likely need a higher max weight than 25 pounds.
- The plastic build is going to be more fragile than a steel option.
If you live in an apartment or don’t have a dedicated training space, you’ll want to opt for a small single dumbbell. FLYBIRD has a single weight option that’s perfect for HIIT workouts and other single-dumbbell workouts.
FLYBIRD’s single dumbbell replaces five weights with a five, 10, 15, 20, and 25-pound option. To select the weight, you grip the non-slip handle and turn it to the dial’s corresponding number. “These are easy to use and change up,” according to our tester who gave this weight an overall 4 out of 5 in use. “You can hear the weight click into place. I do think the tray felt a little flimsy, though, as it’s just plastic.”
We did have to give these a 2.5 out of 5 for optionality, though. This weight only goes up to 25 pounds, which can be too light for many athletes. You also only get five-pound increments, so you can’t make tiny jumps in weight as with a two and a half-pound increment option.
“I have to question the durability just because there’s a lot of plastic on this weight,” our tester said, giving the durability a 2.5 out of 5. “The weight plates also seem to move a little as if they’re not totally secure. They won’t necessarily break but I wouldn’t drop this weight.”
For value, though, this weight is definitely budget-friendly. One dumbbell is $99, so even if you bought two to create a pair, it’s still cheaper than most other options on the market. “This weight won’t last decades but if you want a simple weight for occasional at-home workouts, it would do the trick,” our tester said.
| Factors | Rating |
| Overall Experience | 4 out of 5 |
| Durability | 2.5 out of 5 |
| Value | 4 out of 5 |
Best Loadable Adjustable Dumbbells: CAP Barbell Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set
These loadable dumbbells are ideal for those who want a piece of versatile workout equipment. You can customize the weight to your preference and the iron will last plenty of workouts.
Specs
- Available Weight: 25 to 105 pounds in 1.25-, 2.5-, and 5-pound increments
- Shape: Round
- Plate Material: Iron
- Replaces: N/A
- Price Per Pair: Starting at $39.40
Pros
- You can load individual plates onto these dumbbells to customize your weight.
- The heavy-duty iron can withstand plenty of use.
- You can buy additional plates after purchase.
Cons
- Loading the weights can be tedious.
- These aren’t as space-saving as a true adjustable dumbbell.
Loadable dumbbells are an excellent choice for those who have space to spare and want a truly customized lifting experience. This CAP Barbell Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set includes plates in one and a quarter-, two and a half-, and five-pound increments. For optionality, our team gave these a 5 out of 5, as the options are pretty endless. You can also buy additional plates for heavier lifts.
When it comes to durability, don’t expect these to break down any time soon. They’re made of iron with a chrome finish, so they’re plenty durable. I owned my own set for years with zero dents, damage, or rust, so I’d certainly give them a 5 out of 5 for durability.
For overall use, I’d give these a 3.5 out of 5. Personally, I don’t mind the loading process but I get that it can be tedious. You need to load plates onto each side of the dumbbells (hence the four collars), which takes time and doesn’t work if you like to switch quickly between weights. But I recommend getting creative. If you’re doing shoulder presses, superset with a lateral raise, load the dumbbells with your shoulder press weight and use the 5-pound plates for your lateral raises.
The handles are knurled but the knurling is pretty passive. I’d give the knurling a 4 out of 5 but it does come down to personal preference. I like an aggressive knurling pattern, especially since the chrome can feel a little slippery if you’re sweating.
For overall value, I’d give these a 4.5 out of 5. They’re definitely cheaper than the non-loadable adjustable dumbbells and they go higher in weight. Plus, I actually like that you can buy separate plates. Pro tip: Read specs carefully before you buy. These are not the same as barbell plates and they have a smaller hole. You need to find plates that are compatible with one-inch handles. But in my experience, they weren’t tough to find.
| Factors | Rating |
| Overall Experience | 3.5 out of 5 |
| Durability | 5 out of 5 |
| Value | 4.5 out of 5 |
Benefits of Adjustable Dumbbells
Adjustable dumbbells are a great idea for a lot of reasons. Primarily, they save a ton of space in your home compared to a full set of traditional dumbbells. But they also make it much easier to switch weights during a workout, and, while a pair can be expensive, they can actually save you money versus buying a whole rack of weights.
Space Saving
This is the obvious one. A single pair of adjustable dumbbells is usually about the size of two shoe boxes sitting side by side. Compare that to an entire set of dumbbells with comparable weights, say, five to 50 pounds in five-pound increments, which can literally fill up most of a bedroom. If you’ve got an entire room or a garage as a workout space, that can work, but even then, adjustable dumbbells can free up that room for a treadmill or a plyo box or two.
Ease of Use
Every lifter knows the irritation of lugging one set of dumbbells back to the rack to swap weights. With adjustable dumbbells, you can swap your weights out with a twist of a knob. This comes in extremely handy if you’re doing drop sets or building up in weight.
Cost-Effectiveness
This might sound counterintuitive when you look at some of the prices here, but $400 for a set of adjustable dumbbells isn’t that bad when you consider that a full set of five- to 50-pound dumbbells can cost $1,000 or more. “Adjustable dumbbells offer all the same fitness benefits as fixed dumbbells but with the added benefit that they can be less expensive than a set of fixed dumbbells and they take up less space,” Amanda Capritto, CPT, CF-L1, CES, CSNC said.
Building Strength
Although some trainers or athletes may suggest lifting free weights are more effective at building muscle than machines, that may not necessarily be the case. (1) After testing one against the other, researchers have found that free weights (like adjustable dumbbells) and weight machines build strength similarly.
However, free weights can be more helpful for building better balance through unilateral training, for instance.
4 Things to Consider Before Buying
Before you buy a pair of adjustable dumbbells, read through all the factors worth considering to find your perfect pair.
1. Weight
A set of adjustable dumbbells isn’t going to do you any good if they don’t weigh enough. The tricky thing is, while max weights can vary, many of these dumbbells have similar dimensions. It’s not like with traditional dumbbells, where you can eyeball the weights and pick the bigger ones.
“It’s ideal to choose a pair that has a maximum weight that’s more than you can currently lift, so you can progressively overload with them,” Amanda Capritto, CPT, CF-L1, CES, CSNC recommends. Read the specs carefully, and pick a set of dumbbells that maxes out at 10 to 20 pounds above your top weight, if possible. That way, you still have some room to grow with them.
2. Increments
Weight increments are also a key factor when choosing adjustable dumbbells. Most weights go up by five- to 10-pound increments, but that may be too much for a beginner. Few things are more frustrating than being a bit too strong for the weight you’re at, but not strong enough for the next jump in weight. Try to find dumbbells that go up in five-pound increments at the most.
3. Durability
Even if you’re not one of those athletes that drops weights from overhead (don’t, by the way), there’s still a chance that you’ll drop a dumbbell every now and then. And if you manage to break a weight plate or the adjustment mechanism when you do, you’ve just flushed a few hundred dollars down the drain.
“Steel models will naturally be more durable, but plastic models have also lasted the test of time,” Capritto said. “As long as you don’t drop them or throw them around (please don’t), you shouldn’t run into too many issues with durability.”
4. Price
Of course, no dumbbells will do you any good if you can’t afford them. Figure out what you’re willing to spend, then stick as close to that budget as you can.
[Related: Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells vs. Nuobell Adjustable Dumbbells Review]
How Much Do the Best Adjustable Dumbbells Cost?
The best adjustable dumbbells vary pretty widely in cost, ranging from less than $100 to well over $400. Thankfully, we tested and picked a variety of products that have price points for all budgets.
| Best Adjustable Dumbbells Overall | NUOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells | $745 |
| Most Versatile Adjustable Dumbbells | NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbell | $399 |
| Best User-Friendly Adjustable Dumbbells | REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells | Starting at $279.99 |
| Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Heavy Lifting | Snode 80lb Drop-Proof Dumbbells | $795 |
| Best Budget Adjustable Dumbbells | Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbells | Starting at $299.99 |
| Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Beginners | Bowflex SelectTech 553 Adjustable Dumbbell | $425 |
| Best Combo Dumbbells/Barbell | LEADNOVO Adjustable Weights Dumbbells | $75.99 to $159.99 |
| Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Small Spaces | FLYBIRD Adjustable Weights Dumbbells | $99 per dumbbell |
| Best Loadable Adjustable Dumbbells | CAP Barbell Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set | Starting at $34.90 |
Adjustable Dumbbells vs. Fixed Dumbbells
Fixed dumbbells are what you see at most big box gyms. They have iron handles with knurling (most of the time) and rubber-coated bells at either end. Your favorite CrossFitter is probably repping out cleans and snatches with rubber hexagonal dumbbells. If you’ve seen Mat Fraser’s home gym, he has a wall full of these dumbbells. Literally.
Compared to adjustable dumbbells, the fixed variety is typically more durable and is available in more weight. Durability is important if you’re swinging and snatching the bell overhead. The components of fixed dumbbells are also far more cohesive than adjustable dumbbells.
An adjustable dumbbell often has loose plates that connect and disconnect to the handle (which makes them adjustable). But as a result, the dumbbell isn’t as sturdy. By comparison, the fixed dumbbell is welded to the weight, so it feels more solid in your hand.
Adjustable dumbbells are both cost-effective and space-efficient. For example, to own all of the weights that the NordicTrack adjustable dumbbell offers, you’d pay hundreds of dollars. NordicTrack costs about half as much and fits neatly in the corner of a room. The space and money you save are, far and away, the best aspects of owning adjustable dumbbells.
Working Out At Home With Dumbbells
Two dumbbells (even one) can be more than enough for a solid full-body workout. You don’t need to deadlift hundreds of pounds — but you do need a plan of attack. When it comes to working out at home, the best starting point is exercise selection. Because you cannot load your body up with a ton of weight, a full-body workout will stress the most muscles and burn the most calories.
There are seven primary movement patterns that you want to hit when creating a full-body workout. If you select an exercise from each of the following categories, then you can rest assured that you’re covering all of your bases. Note: The exercises below are just examples, so feel free to sub any of the moves below for similar exercises.
- Horizontal Push: Push-up, dumbbell floor press
- Horizontal Pull: Bent-over dumbbell row, inverted row, rear delt lateral raise
- Vertical Push: Overhead press, half-kneeling overhead press, pike push-up
- Vertical Pull: Assisted pull-up
- Knee-based Movement: Goblet squat, reverse lunge
- Hip-based Movement: Dumbbell deadlift, single-leg Romanian deadlift, dumbbell swing
- Core: Plank, Plank with dumbbell pull-through, Russian twist
Next, you’ll need to choose the number of sets and reps you’re going to do. Because you’re likely working out with lower weight, you’ll want to pump out more volume. Aim for four sets per movement for 15 reps. To ramp up the intensity even more, you can create a circuit, performing each move right after the other. This option is more intense, so you’ll want to do three rounds. Rest one minute after each circuit.
Final Word
Adjustable dumbbells are among the most versatile training tools. Although these are more expensive than a standard pair of dumbbells, they’re smaller and allow you to adjust the weights to your preferred resistance. Adjustable dumbbells aren’t a must-have (standard dumbbells still do the trick) but if you’re training in an apartment or don’t have an entire garage gym, this durable workout tool is an excellent alternative.
FAQs
Are adjustable dumbbells safe to use?
When used properly, adjustable dumbbells are as safe as regular dumbbells. When you move weight, there’s always a measure of risk, so it’s always a good idea to have a spotter available.
Are adjustable dumbbells worth it?
Adjustable dumbbells are a great addition to a home gym. They save an enormous amount of space, are cheaper than a full set of dumbbells, and they make switching weights much faster.
How do adjustable dumbbells work?
Adjustable dumbbells are single sets of dumbbells that can change weight. Most of them are basically handles with sets of plates attached. To adjust the weight, you generally have to twist a dial to select your weight, and then pick up the dumbbells, leaving the extra weight in the rack. For instance, if an adjustable dumbbell’s max weight is 50 pounds, that’s what it’ll have on the handle to start. If you want it to weigh 35 pounds, select that weight. When you pick it up, it’ll leave 15 pounds of plates on the rack, so that the dumbbell only weighs 35 pounds.
Are adjustable dumbbells better than fixed dumbbells?
Not necessarily. The major benefits of adjustable dumbbells are that A) they’re more space-efficient than owning a rack of fixed dumbbells, and B) they’re more cost-effective since you’re getting multiple pairs for a fixed cost.
Am I too strong for adjustable dumbbells?
Strength is relative to your personal ability and goal. IF you’re an elite-level powerlifter, then, yeah, adjustable dumbbells may not serve you as well as heavy fixed dumbbells or a barbell. On the other hand, many adjustable dumbbells go up to 50-ish pounds, which is plenty of weight. You can also do more reps to increase the overall tension in your muscles.
How Should I train with adjustable dumbbells?
Because you won’t have access to a ton of weight, opt for high-intensity workouts that have you performing many reps in a short amount of time. You can get a lot done in 30, even 20 minutes if you put the pedal to the floor and grind out a full-body workout.
References
- Haugen, M.E., Vårvik, F.T., Larsen, S. et al. Effect of free-weight vs. machine-based strength training on maximal strength, hypertrophy and jump performance – a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 15, 103 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13102-023-00713-4
