The 10 Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Home of 2026, Tested by Fitness Experts, Athletes, and Coaches

Adjustable dumbbells have a habit of limiting your range of motion on moves like chest presses because of their bulky and, at times, awkward design that can get in the way of a full stretch. However, the REP x PÉPIN Fast Series dumbbells never had that issue in our testing. 

These dumbbells manage to pack a lot of weight in a compact design. Additionally, the 34-millimeter handle (bigger than an Olympic barbell) helps with comfort when pressing weights, earning the handle a 4.5-out-of-5 score.

Their ability to mimic the feel of traditional dumbbells, coupled with their elite durability and ultra-high weight capacity, makes the REP x PÉPIN ‘bells a no-brainer for the top spot on our list.

Durability: 5/5

Adjustment Speed: 4/5

Handle: 4.5/5

Why We Like REP x PÉPIN Fast Series Adjustable Dumbbells

These dumbbells, that GGR founder Coop Mitchell has affectionately coined the “Reppins,” are a collaboration between REP Fitness and PÉPIN—a Canadian company. The latter has a similar set of adjustable dumbbells at a much steeper price—their collaboration with REP allows them to drop the cost and add in some newer features, earning a 4.5 out of 5 on value.

RELATED: Pepin Fast Series Adjustable Dumbbells Review

One of the differences is the “Reppins” start at 10 pounds, whereas the original PÉPINs began at 20. That might not seem like a big deal, but as Coop pointed out to me, “This makes the dumbbells more accessible to other people who might use your home gym.” In terms of max weight, you have four options: 65, 85, 105, or 125 pounds. If you start smaller, you can also add more plates without purchasing a new cradle. These get a 5 out of 5 on its weight options.

RELATED: What Size Dumbbells Should I Buy?

Last, but certainly not least, the REP x PÉPIN Fast Series earns a 5 out of 5 on both durability and construction. REP conducted several drop tests on these things—as did we—and they survived each one. A lot of this durability comes from the almost entirely metal construction, leaving little room for weak points in the dumbbells.

What We Don’t Like About REP x PÉPIN Fast Series Adjustable Dumbbells

Although we like the value on the REP x PÉPIN Fast Series dumbbells, they are a premium product, and the price matches that. The 65-pound set starts at $899, and the 125-pound option will cost $1,500. It’s steep, but worth it…if it can fit into your budget.

Another slight callout is that the “Reppins” have a caged handle, similar to what you’d see on PowerBlocks, so they won’t feel exactly like your standard fixed weight. On the bright side, they come in handy during overhead presses or any other time you want to switch up your grip.

If the price tag is a bit much for now, try out the REP Fitness QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells. While they don’t go as heavy, they cost around $500 for up to 60 pounds, and they’re just as durable as the Fast Series, if not more so.

Testing Breakdown

We liked our time testing out the REP x PÉPIN Fast Series Adjustable Dumbbells, and that’s reflected in our scores.

Vs. The Average

Although a pricier dumbbell, the REP x PÉPIN Fast Series goes much heavier than the average adjustable dumbbells, maxing out to as high as 125 pounds.

Learn more in our full REP x PÉPIN Fast Series Adjustable Dumbbell review.

Serious lifters needing some space-saving dumbbells that still go heavy should consider the MX100 Evolution Series Adjustable Dumbbells. These heavy-duty dumbbells feature a range from 10 to 100 pounds with adjustments in 5-pound increments—as long as you’re OK with offset weight adjustments (making one dumbbell head slightly heavier than the other). They earn a 5 out of 5 for durability, too; built with an all-metal construction, these dumbbells can also handle accidental drops, as their two-year warranty covers drops from 30 inches high.

Not sure if you need 100 pounds just yet? MX Select has you covered with the brand’s MX70 dumbbells, as well, which can be expanded from 70 to 100 pounds over time. (As a side note, the MX55 Evolution Series reaches 55 pounds, but can’t be expanded.)

Durability: 5/5

Weight Options: 5/5

Handle: 3.5/5

Why We Like the MX100 Evolution Series Adjustable Dumbbells

With their all-metal construction, the MX100 Evolution Series Adjustable Dumbbells earn a 4 out of 5 in the category, only docking a point for the plastic cradles. These dumbbells use steel plates to keep the dumbbell length relatively short, too; at 100 pounds, the MX100s are just shy of 17 inches long.

These dumbbells are adjusted through the same dials used in the previous iteration, the MX Select Adjustable Dumbbells, with added improvements according to GGR founder Coop Mitchell. He told me, “The Evolution Series uses a knob on each dumbbell head that displays the weights instead of numbering 1 through 10, making it easy to know what weight you’re adjusting to.” As such, he rates the adjustment speed at 4 out of 5.

Maxing out at 100 pounds, these dumbbells go very heavy, earning a 5 out of 5 for weight optionality. Their retail price is just over $1,000, but you’ll often find them marked down to around $849—a great price for the maximum weight, earning them a 4.5 out of 5 for value.

What We Don’t Like About the MX100 Evolution Series Adjustable Dumbbells

There’s a lot to like about the MX100 Evolution Series, but according to Coop, the handle isn’t a high point. Available in an ergonomic rubber grip or a straight knurled handle, Coop told me, “Both are just OK. I prefer knurling, but the knurled handle is thinner than the rubber grip. I’d rather have a thicker knurled handle instead of picking between just these two options.” Accordingly, Coop rates the handle at 3.5 out of 5.

Additionally, the MX100 dumbbells can make weight changes in as little as 5 pounds, but that’s done by offsetting one dial adjustment, which may make the dumbbells feel unbalanced in use. If you prefer a balanced feel, you’ll be limited to 10-pound weight increments, or you’ll have to purchase micro-weight plates at an additional cost.

Want a thicker handle? Check out the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Adjustable Dumbbells, which offer an ergonomic or knurled handle that’s 38 millimeters in diameter—larger than the MX Select’s 29-millimeter knurled option.

Testing Breakdown

Coop wasn’t thrilled with either of the Evolution Series’ handle options, but everything else in our testing led to scores of 4 out of 5 or higher.

Vs. The Average

While a bit more expensive than the average adjustable dumbbell, the MX100 Evolution Series Adjustable Dumbbells go much heavier and still maintain a narrow profile at their highest weight.

No matter how hard you’re struggling with a rep, you need to make sure to never drop an adjustable dumbbell—but in the event of an accidental slip or drop, the ultra-durable Snode AD80 adjustable dumbbells have you covered. Their nearly all-metal construction is top-notch, earning a perfect 5-out-of-5 score for durability in our testing.

They’re also one of the only adjustable dumbbells whose warranty covers drops up to 32 inches in height; most other adjustable dumbbells recommend you don’t drop their products at all.

Durability: 5/5

Weight Options: 4/5

Adjustment Speed: 4.5/5

Why We Like Snode AD80 Adjustable Dumbbells

GGR founder Coop Mitchell used the Snode AD80s and conducted some drop tests to assess their durability. They held up incredibly well at their lightest and heaviest settings. “While I don’t recommend you drop any fitness equipment,” Coop told me, “It’s nice to know that nothing will happen to these if they fall out of your hands [from a reasonable height].”

These dumbbells are shaped like traditional dumbbells and felt like pro-style dumbbells during testing. While not completely a metal construction, Snode does use fewer plastic components than most other adjustable dumbbells, earning the AD80s a 4 out of 5 for their construction.

Coop admits the knurling on the metal handle is a bit more passive than he’d like, but it’s still grippy enough for high-rep workouts. He rates the handle a solid 4.5 out of 5 and also calls out the 36-millimeter diameter of the handle, which is thicker than most other adjustable dumbbells. “This gives you a better pump when lifting with them, especially for your forearms,” Coop explained to me.

RELATED: 15 Exercises for the Best Forearm Workouts

What We Don’t Like About Snode AD80 Adjustable Dumbbells

At their maximum weight of 80 pounds, the Snode dumbbells are just over 18 inches long, which is a tad longer than your average adjustable dumbbell. Longer dumbbells can start to feel awkward through certain movements, cutting down on your range of motion or being difficult to control. They still feel pretty good in use according to Coop, but it’s something to call out just in case.

The main annoyance with these adjustable dumbbells is that they go up in 10-pound increments. They still earn a 4 out of 5 for weight changes due to their max weight, but 10-pound jumps can make progressive overload a little tough—you’d ideally want some smaller jumps when training with this intent.

You can buy 2.5- or 5-pound magnetic plates that can attach to either end, though we would’ve liked to have seen that on the product due to how pricey it is (to be clear, we do think the AD80s are worth the price due to the heavy-duty construction).

If you need a pair of adjustable dumbbells that use 5-pound increments but still hit similar weights as the Snode AD80, check out the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells, which go from 5 to 80 pounds in 5-pound increments. They’re also similarly priced, although the durability is a bit less.

Testing Breakdown

The warranty on the Snode AD80s is shorter than most dumbbells at two years, but the protection plan covers drops from 32 inches, which is a rarity for adjustable dumbbells. Here’s how they scored across all our testing metrics.

Vs. The Average

While pricier than your average pair of adjustable dumbbells, the durability and quick-changing dial adjustments make the Snodes worth it, in our opinion.

Learn more in our Snode Adjustable Dumbbell review.

Of all the space-saving dumbbells we’ve tested, NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells are amongst the best, especially with how easy they are to use. In just a matter of seconds, you can change from 5 pounds up to 80 pounds simply by twisting the handle. GGR founder Coop Mitchell told me that they consistently had one of the fastest recorded times for changing weights in our testing, earning one of the few perfect 5-out-of-5 scores for their adjustment speed.

Construction: 4/5

Adjustment Speed: 5/5

Handle: 4.5/5

Why We Like NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells

The quick-change adjustment of NÜOBELLs is one of the best features, but there’s plenty more to like about these adjustable dumbbells. “For one, they’re well-built and look sharp,” Coop said to me, rating the design and aesthetics at 4.5 out of 5. You can choose from four different colors for these dumbbells. Plus, the flat plate design sets these apart, as it makes for a more natural feel than some dumbbells that have awkward head profiles—like Bowflex SelectTech’s.

RELATED: NÜOBELL Vs Bowflex Dumbbells

Due to the use of metal plates and their uncaged handle design, the NÜOBELLs feel just as good as fixed dumbbells. “If you closed your eyes during a bench press, you wouldn’t even know you were using an adjustable dumbbell,” Coop explained to me. 

Unlike many dumbbell sets that use contoured handles with rubber or foam grips, the NÜOBELLs use a barbell-style handle with a surprisingly aggressive knurled finish. This handle makes this dumbbell set really appealing to people who normally do barbell exercises, since you’ll get a feeling and grip similar to what you’re used to. We rate the handle at 4.5 out of 5.

What We Don’t Like About NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells

The biggest gripe we have with the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells is that they use quite a bit of plastic in their construction. Durability-wise, these dumbbells won’t hold up as well as an all-metal construction, so they earn a 3.5 out of 5 in the category. “This is not a set of adjustable dumbbells I would suggest dropping from even a couple of inches off the ground,” Coop added.

Also, these dumbbells lack upgradability: The max weight is 80 pounds, and there’s no way to go heavier in the future. Still, if you don’t need more than 80 pounds in each hand, these could be a great option.

If you’re looking to go beyond 80 pounds in your dumbbells, check out the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells, which can be expanded from 80 to 100 pounds.

Testing Breakdown

Although the durability isn’t as solid as we’d like to see, NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells performed well in our testing. Here’s how they scored.

Vs. The Average

NÜOBELLs are about as close to the average adjustable dumbbell as you can get, except for the higher price. Many will find the cost suitable, however, for the quick adjustments that the dumbbells can make.

For more, read our full NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells review.

Typically, we’d recommend lighter adjustable dumbbells to people new to strength training—around 50 pounds or so. However, we like the new Results Series SelectTech 1090s from Bowflex for beginners, as they’re a well-rounded pair of adjustable dumbbells that hit solid marks in most of our testing categories. These dumbbells also go all the way up to 90 pounds, a max weight that newer lifters can progress toward, and are often on sale for under $700 with financing options, to boot. As such, these dumbbells earn a 4 out of 5 for their value.

The Results Series 1090 SelectTech dumbbells replace the previous version, the original SelectTech 1090s, which were recalled in 2025 due to potential impact hazards from the plates dislodging during use. If you own the original Bowflex 1090 Adjustable Dumbbells, you may be eligible for a refund or replacement. To learn more about the recall process, read the Consumer Product Safety Commission statement.

Durability: 4/5

Adjustment Speed: 4/5

Handle: 3/5

Why We Like the Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Adjustable Dumbbells

The most apparent difference between the original and the Results Series 1090s is the aesthetic, which our expert tester and workout enthusiast rated at 4 out of 5. The original iteration had red accents that popped on the dumbbells, but the new 1090 adjustable dumbbells use more subdued, neutral colors. “The silver handle is classy, and the black plates complement it well,” our tester says. “There’s no flashy design, either, so they’d fit in any home gym just fine.”

Along with the sleek aesthetics, our tester loved the adjustment mechanism, which she rated at another 4 out of 5. She felt the dumbbells were very easy to use, and told me, “The dial was smooth, never sticking at any point, and it easily picked up the correct weight I was trying to lift.”

With a weight range of 10 to 90 pounds, the Bowflex Results Series 1090s easily score a 5 out of 5 for weight options. They go up in 5-pound increments and provide plenty of options for newer and intermediate lifters alike. Beginners may not need the max weights of these dumbbells at first, but over time, users may require the heavier totals for exercises like goblet squats or dumbbell deadlifts.

What We Don’t Like About the Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Adjustable Dumbbells

The chief complaint we have about the Bowflex Results Series 1090 SelectTechs is the handle, which Bowflex classifies as “knurled hand grips.” This handle is designed like the original 1090s that GGR founder Coop Mitchell tested, of which he simply said, “This isn’t knurling.” 

Instead of a crosshatch knurled pattern, these handles have raised bumps across the top and bottom of the grip area. Our product tester had no issues with her grasp, but people who prefer more aggressive knurling will likely be disappointed with this design, so it earns a 3 out of 5.

Our tester also noticed some rattling from the weights during her workout involving squats, curls, and presses. However, this can be fairly typical for adjustable dumbbells since the weight plates are removable. That said, these dumbbells survived a drop from shoulder height in testing with no issues, so they earn a 4 out of 5 for durability (but we recommend never dropping your dumbbells).

If you’re a beginner wanting a less expensive option, check out the NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Adjustable Dumbbells. The weight range only goes to 55 pounds, but they cost less than $400.

Testing Breakdown

The Bowflex Results Series 1090 SelectTech Adjustable Dumbbells exceeded our testing benchmarks in every category except the handle. Nevertheless, these can still be a solid choice for beginners and serious lifters alike.

Vs. The Average

The Results Series SelectTech 1090s are pricier than your average adjustable dumbbells, but they also have a higher weight range and convenient weight selection dial system.

Learn more about the original iteration of these adjustable dumbbells in our Bowflex 1090 review.

It’s hard to call a pair of dumbbells a “set,” but I can see it with the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells. You can start with a 40-pound set, but with expander kits up to 100 pounds, the Pro EXP replaces up to 30 pairs of dumbbells, giving the adjustable dumbbells a 4 out of 5 for weight options (only because the expander kits cost extra).

Durability: 5/5

Aesthetics: 4.5/5

Handle: 3/5

Why We Like PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells

Expert product tester and founder of Garage Gym Reviews Coop Mitchell has been a fan of PowerBlock adjustable dumbbells since they first came out (including the PowerBlock Elite and Sports Series), and the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP are a solid upgrade from previous iterations. Steel weight plates are molded over with a urethane coating, making for a solid 4-out-of-5 score for the construction. The brand also has a reputation for durable equipment, earning them a 5 out of 5 score for durability.

These dumbbells feel great in use, according to Coop. “They aren’t overly large at their top weights, and they feel pretty good in training,” he told me. However, people new to PowerBlocks will probably have to get used to the box shape and caged handle, so he rated the design and aesthetics at 4.5 out of 5.

Another big plus of the Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells is that you now have an option for a knurled handle—a callout that Coop had for previous models. You can still go with a rubber grip (it was fine in our tests), but if you prefer a knurled handle, go with it; it doesn’t affect your cost. The 38-millimeter thickness of the handle may take some getting used to, though, so we rate the handle a 3 out of 5.

What We Don’t Like About PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells

“The reason I love PowerBlocks is because of how durable they are,” Coop said to me. “They’re some of the most proven dumbbells on the market.” Still, the box design and caged handle may be enough to detract buyers from these adjustable dumbbells. With many adjustable dumbbells trying to mimic traditional fixed dumbbells, some folks may opt for those instead of the PowerBlocks.

The other major callout we have is that these dumbbells can get pricey, especially at the heavier weights. The maximum weight of 100 pounds will cost nearly $1,200, which can be outside of some people’s budgets. You can buy the starting 40-pound set and add on kits as needed, if you don’t want to spend all of your money at once, though.

For a dumbbell that can go heavy but still feels like a traditional dumbbell, try out the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells, which have a round shape and traditional knurled handle while capable of weights up to 80 pounds.

Testing Breakdown

Here’s a look at how the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells scored in our testing. With middle-of-the-road scores in the handle and value, it still performed well in other aspects.

Vs. The Average

These dumbbells can go far heavier than the average max weight of 80 pounds, although the dumbbells will be considerably larger than your common adjustable dumbbell, being 2 inches longer than the average.

You can check out our PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells review for more on PowerBlock’s latest dumbbell set.

Simply put, the REP Fitness QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells are among our favorite adjustable dumbbells on the market thanks to their nearly all-metal construction, quick-adjustment mechanism, and solid value. A 30-pound set goes for roughly $336, while the 60-pound set costs around $576.

They’re also incredibly comfortable to train with, thanks to the 32-millimeter handle and rounded weights that make these adjustable dumbbells feel like traditional models. Another highlight is the lack of a caged handle, like you’d see with PowerBlocks, helping the QuickDraws flex some ergonomic prowess and earning the handle a 4-out-of-5 rating from our testers.

Durability: 5/5

Handle: 4/5

Value: 4.5/5

Why We Like REP Fitness QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells

One of the most notable features of the QuickDraws is their durability and lifetime warranty: These have been dropped more than 100,000 times by REP Fitness from multiple angles and heights (including from a roof) to ensure they don’t shatter if you let go during a heavy shoulder press or biceps curl.

We conducted our own tests, and after several drops at the lightest and heaviest weights, GGR founder Coop Mitchell was comfortable rating them at 5 out of 5 for durability.

REP Fitness was able to accomplish this level of durability with a mostly metal construction—the only plastic is in places to prevent metal from rubbing against other metal—as well as steel support rods on one side of each handle, earning another 5 out of 5 for the construction.

RELATED: Does Dumbbell Shape Actually Matter?

The starting weight is 5 pounds and REP has options going up to 30, 40, 50, and 60 pounds, going up by 10 pounds, or 2.5 and 5 pounds with the addition of micro-adjustment plates. They have lock-and-load switches on each plate that give a satisfying click to let you know the weights are loaded and in place. Coop rates the QuickDraw Dumbbells’ design a 4 out of 5, and let me know, “The smaller adder weights can be a bit of a nuisance to add or remove from the dumbbell.”

What We Don’t Like About REP Fitness QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells

Our team had mixed reviews on the dumbbell handle; everyone liked the straight, knurled handle, but GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, CPT, mentioned to me, “The volcano knurling is more passive than other bars and dumbbells I’ve used or tested.” This shouldn’t be a deal-breaker for most people, however, as Coop and other testers liked the handle.

As previously mentioned, the QuickDraw adjustable dumbbells can be expanded up to 60 pounds, which may be a bit low for some athletes and home gym owners. We rate the weight options at 3 out of 5, accordingly.

If 60 pounds as a maximum weight is too light for you, REP has partnered with PÉPIN to create the REP X PÉPIN Fast Series Adjustable Dumbbell that reaches up to 125 pounds.

Testing Breakdown

Although the REP QuickDraws have a lower maximum weight than other dumbbells, they scored incredibly well for durability and construction. Here’s a look at all performance ratings from our equipment testing.

Vs. The Average

These dumbbells are cheaper than the average adjustable dumbbell, although they don’t quite reach the average maximum weight. Still, their high durability and lifetime warranty will make it worth it to users wanting a smaller weight range.

Our REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbell review has our full thoughts on this equipment.

The Rogue Loadable Dumbbells are some of the best loadable dumbbell handles we’ve ever tested. Available in 10- or 15-pound options, you can load whatever weight plates you have available in your gym, meaning you can go as heavy as you need for virtually any exercise. 

The DB-15 model—named so because it weighs 15 pounds—has 6.75 inches of loadable sleeve length, so the sky’s the limit with getting these dumbbells heavy. It gets a 4 out of 5 for weight options, only because it’ll depend on the weight plates you have in your garage gym.

Construction: 4.5/5

Adjustment Speed: 3/5

Handle: 4.5/5

Why We Like Rogue Loadable Dumbbells

“With a 28.5-millimeter knurled handle, these dumbbells are basically a miniature Rogue Ohio Bar,” Coop told me, rating them at 4.5 out of 5 for both durability and construction. They’re great for rows, bench press, and goblet squats, but the handles also rotate with bronze bushings, making them excellent for dynamic movements, too—dumbbell snatches, clean and jerks, and more.

With the handle knurled just like a Rogue barbell, the Rogue Loadable Dumbbells earn a 4.5 out of 5 for their handles, making it easy to grip for static and dynamic movements alike. You can comfortably bench, row, or deadlift with dumbbells like these—really whatever dumbbell exercise you can think of, making them one of the most versatile adjustable dumbbell options available to home gym users.

What We Don’t Like About Rogue Loadable Dumbbells

Even though these dumbbell handles are versatile, weight changes will be slower than other adjustable dumbbells since you’ll have to load weight plates and secure them with a barbell collar. As such, these get a 3 out of 5 for adjustment speed, but they will still work fine for most exercises and workouts.

Another callout is the price. Sold individually, one 15-pound loadable dumbbell costs $150, which is pricey compared to other similar options. This is still cheaper than most adjustable dumbbells, but it’s certainly a splurge for a loadable dumbbell handle.

There are good options on the market for far less money than these, like the Titan Loadable Olympic Dumbbell Handles—a pair costs less than a single DB-15.

Testing Breakdown

Plate-loaded dumbbells will generally be slower to make weight adjustments than other adjustable dumbbells. Here’s how that consideration affected the Rogue Loadable Dumbbells’ scores.

Vs. The Average

Unlike most adjustable dumbbells, the Rogue Loadable Dumbbells are sold individually, meaning you’re paying double for a pair of handles. Still, the durability and lifetime warranty can help to justify the pricier cost.

For more, read our in-depth Rogue DB-15 Loadable Dumbbell review.

If you want a more traditional feeling dumbbell that goes heavy, then the Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbell System is what we’d recommend. Ironmasters can go up to a whopping 165 pounds using solid metal weight plates and earning a 4.5 out of 5 for the available weight options.

GGR founder and product expert Coop Mitchell told me, “I call these the Lifter’s Adjustable Dumbbells as they feel most similar to a fixed dumbbell and have the look and feel of an old-school weight room.”

RELATED: Full-Body Dumbbell Workout

Construction: 4.5/5

Handle: 4/5

Adjustment Speed: 3.5/5

Why We Like Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbells

The Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbells are known for their durability, and earned a 4.5 out of 5 in the category during testing. Coop asked the Home Gym Community Group what they thought about Ironmasters, and nearly everyone remarked on how tough they were. It makes sense, as they are made entirely from steel and iron.

The handles are chrome-plated, and each weight plate is machined and precision cast to ensure a tight fit. They look great, feel great, and can be relied on for years of use thanks to their quality construction materials. We rate the construction at 4.5 out of 5.

The design is simple, but effective. With the ends of Ironmaster dumbbells being flat, it’s easy to rest them on your quads before starting a set in order to increase stability. Loadable dumbbells can’t really compete with this because the dumbbell sleeves will dig into your legs. The square weights also make the workout go quicker as they don’t roll around all over the place when set on your home gym flooring.

What We Don’t Like About Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbells

The Quick-Lock adjustment system uses a rod that holds the weights in place and can quickly be removed; this is what separates these from other spin-lock dumbbells. Still, the Ironmasters aren’t as quick to change as other adjustable dumbbells on this list, and they’ll require some mental math (similar to adding up a barbell and weights). That said, this is still a pretty solid design for essentially a loadable dumbbell. They earn a 3.5 out of 5 for weight changes.

The handle is knurled, as are the spin-locks, which Coop was certainly a fan of. However, the handles are a little long, which can be awkward for some movements, so the handle gets a 4-out-of-5 score.

For the quickest weight changes, you won’t go wrong with the aptly-named REP QuickDraws, which use a patented Lock-’N’-Load Switch for quick changes and improved durability.

Testing Breakdown

While the Quick-Lock adjustment mechanism is effective and makes adjustments faster, it pales in comparison to some adjustable dumbbells using a quick-change dial. Still, these dumbbells scored well in our testing.

Vs. The Average

The base Ironmaster adjustable dumbbells are just over the average adjustable dumbbell price, and the base maximum weight is just under the average, as well. However, the dumbbells replace an impressive 24 dumbbell weights.

To read more, check out our in-depth Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbells review.

Unlike many budget adjustable dumbbells on the market, the NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells have a metal handle with passive knurling, much like you’d find on higher-end models. GGR founder Coop Mitchell was impressed enough to give the handle a 4 out of 5, saying, “Most dumbbells with this type of marketing don’t have metal knurled handles […] At this price point, a knurled handle—yeah, it’s nice.”

This knurling gives the dumbbells a better grip, which many lifters may welcome during more taxing workouts. Accordingly, these free weights earn our praise as some of the most ergonomic adjustable dumbbells on the market today.

“These have tremendous value,” Coop continued to say. “I don’t understand why NordicTrack doesn’t market these more. It blows me away that I don’t see these all over the place in many people’s home gyms.”

Value: 5/5

Adjustment Speed: 4/5

Durability: 3/5

Why We Like NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells

If splurging on some $800 adjustable dumbbells for your first home gym essentials isn’t sensible, you can still work on your strength training game at home for less than half that price. Listed for $399.99, the NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells easily earned a 5 out of 5 for value. These dumbbells provide excellent bang for your muscle-building buck.t

While it’s not as fast as other adjustment mechanisms, the NordicTrack adjustable dumbbells use weight pin selectors to adjust from 10 pounds to 55 pounds. “You have to move four selectors—two on each dumbbell head,” adds Coop, “But it’s very intuitive.” He rated the adjustment speed at 4 out of 5.

One of our favorite features is the dumbbell’s flat head, no matter the weight being used. Many adjustable dumbbells can have an awkward shape, making it more oblong or cumbersome at lighter weights. The NordicTrack dumbbells, on the other hand, provide a flat head that comfortably rests on your legs between sets, earning it a 4.5 out of 5 for its design and aesthetics.

What We Don’t Like About NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells

Like most budget adjustable dumbbells, the maximum weight of the NordicTrack Select-A-Weights isn’t as high as some lifters may wish to reach. With a max weight of 55 pounds, we still rate the dumbbells at 3.5 out of 5 for weight options, mostly because the weight increments vary between 2.5 and 5 pounds. The smaller weight increments allow for these dumbbells to replace up to 15 pairs of dumbbells—a solid number for budget profiles.

Another callout we have is the durability of the adjustable dumbbells. There are quite a few moving parts, and some plastic is used, as well, so these are definitely a pair of dumbbells you don’t want to drop. Really, you shouldn’t drop any dumbbells, but these, in particular, may not hold up very well to a bad drop. As such, we rate the durability at a 3 out of 5.

If you want to stay around the same weight range but have a longer warranty, check out the Bowflex Results Series 552 SelectTechs, which max out at 52.5 pounds but have a warranty that covers parts for two years.

Testing Breakdown

The flat design and inexpensive price of the NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells make for an ergonomic, budget-friendly dumbbell in our testing, although the use of plastic parts lowered its construction and durability scores.

Vs. The Average

These dumbbells from NordicTrack come in much cheaper than your average adjustable dumbbells, although the weight range is smaller than the standard.

Read more in our full NordicTrack Dumbbell review.

Before testing adjustable dumbbells, we researched countless products from Amazon and popular brands. After narrowing our search, we tested each chosen model, rating them on how well they performed during training. 

This means that, among many other movements, we performed lunges, alternating curls, hammer curls, overhead triceps extensions, lateral raises, single-leg deadlifts, and even bench presses on a weight bench. To help you choose the best adjustable dumbbells for your home training needs, our testers spent time lifting each dumbbell.

Everyone trains differently and has different fitness levels, so it’s important to note how each dumbbell feels during each movement and how it differs from others, and what they’re trying to mimic: fixed dumbbells. Personally, when I was testing the equipment, I asked myself if the shape of the dumbbell limited range of motion, if they felt unbalanced or uncomfortable, or if we closed our eyes, would we know we were using a dumbbell substitute?

Our rating system assigns a score to each dumbbell on a scale of 1 to 5 in categories that include the following:

• Construction: Top scores go to steel construction with minimal plastic used.
• Durability: Even though you shouldn’t drop adjustable dumbbells, we wanted to make sure they’d hold up to a little bit of abuse. Scores of 4 or more mean that they’ll last with maybe some minor wear and tear over time.
• Adjustment Speed: We timed how long it took to adjust the weight on these adjustable dumbbells. A score above 3 out of 5 means that the dumbbells were adjusted usually in under a minute, with top scores taking just seconds.
• Weight Options: We factored in the weight range, as well as the weight increments, with top scores going to profiles with weight capacities of 80 pounds or more, as well as those having small increments (5 pounds or less) to that maximum weight.
• Aesthetics: This is fairly subjective, but it’s a score on both how the dumbbells look and feel while in use. Top scores go to dumbbells that feel identical to a traditional dumbbell.
• Handle: How does the grip feel? Top marks went to handles with knurling or texture to provide a secure but comfortable grip.
• Value: Is the product worth the cost? A 3 out of 5 means that the dumbbell is priced fairly for its quality, but higher scores go to dumbbells offering a ton of features, durability, or weight options while still being competitively priced.
• Warranty, Financing, Returns: We checked that each company had financing options, a decent return policy, and a substantial warranty. Lifetime warranties earned top scores here.
• Customer Service: How easy was it to work with customer service? We took a look at how easy it was to contact a representative, as well as their helpfulness, giving top marks to companies that are quick to respond and knowledgeable about their product.

Along with online customer reviews, we average out scores to determine our best-of list seen before you now.

Adjustable dumbbells allow you to select from multiple weights or weight ranges on a dumbbell, essentially replacing many sets of fixed dumbbells in one silhouette. Most adjustable dumbbells use an adjustment mechanism to add or subtract weight plates from the dumbbell handle.

RELATED: Best Kettlebells / Best Adjustable Kettlebells

The weight limits can vary depending on the design of the dumbbells; more budget-friendly designs max out at around 50 pounds, while heavier pairs can go up to 90 or 100 pounds, or even heavier. Loadable dumbbell handles, on the other hand, use Olympic weight plates or bumper plates to load possibly hundreds of pounds on each dumbbell.

The adjustment mechanism can vary from dumbbell to dumbbell, as well, but here are some of the more common mechanisms:

• Dial: One of the more common types of adjustment mechanisms is a dial, in which the user rotates a knob (or the dumbbell handle itself) to select the desired weight. The rotation shifts a bar forward or back, securing the desired weights for your selected total.
• Selector pins: Another common method of weight selection is through selector pins. How the pins operate can vary; some will have sliding pop-pins that can be pulled out and moved to the desired weights. Others, like PowerBlock dumbbells, allow the pin to be completely removed and inserted to a different setting.
• Lock switches: Switches like those on the REP QuickDraws can be flipped up or down, locking each weight plate into place along the dumbbell.
• Plate-loaded: Plate-loaded dumbbells are basically handles with a loadable sleeve, allowing you to use your own weight plates or, in some cases, specially-designed plates for the dumbbells. Weights are then secured with a collar or a spin-lock mechanism.

Resistance training, in general, has tons of benefits in muscle growth, improved strength, and more. When I talked to Chris Mohr, Ph D., RD, about the benefits, he added, “Resistance training can even improve bone density by stimulating bone formation. When muscles pull against bones while lifting weights, it encourages bone cells to produce more bone tissue, which in time increases bone density and reduces your risk of osteoporosis.”

Dumbbells are great too, but the initial sticker price of adjustable dumbbells might shock you. That said, if you pick the right pair, you might discover that adjustable dumbbells are some of the most worthwhile workout equipment you can own.

Adjustable Dumbbell Training Benefits

Dumbbell training, in general, is extremely effective, whether you’re looking to build muscle mass, do a HIIT cardio workout or burn fat. “Dumbbells are a great choice for beginners, too, since they’re easy to handle and can be used for a variety of exercises that target different muscle groups,” adds Chris. “They also allow for natural, functional movement patterns and help improve coordination and balance by engaging stabilizing muscles.”

People use dumbbells for a number of reasons. Chris explains the major benefit, though: “Dumbbells help in building muscle and strength by providing resistance during exercises. Resistance challenges the muscles and forces them to adapt, leading to muscle growth and strength gains through a process called hypertrophy.” 

Here’s some other benefits of dumbbell training:

• Unilateral work identifies and eliminates bilateral deficits and imbalances¹
• Increased muscle stabilization
• Improved trunk strengthening² with free weights and unilateral exercises
• Countless exercises for the upper body, lower body, and core muscle groups
• Greater range of movement and variability in the exercise

Unique Benefits to Adjustable Dumbbells

Here’s a few unique benefits that adjustable dumbbells can bring to the table.

Durability: Although it can’t be said for every adjustable dumbbell, quite a few adjustable dumbbells are built to withstand a lot of wear and tear. Quality ones use iron and steel to form a solid, nearly indestructible piece of equipment. While typical rubber hex dumbbells can be more durable, that’s becoming the case less often.

Space-savers: The most obvious plus to an adjustable dumbbell is that it saves an enormous amount of space. A traditional dumbbell set easily takes up a substantial amount of flooring or takes up an entire dumbbell rack. With adjustable dumbbells, you can get between six and 30 dumbbells in the footprint of just one pair.

Cost-effective: Depending on which adjustable dumbbell set you pick, you can save a significant amount of money by essentially buying multiple pairs at once.

Although adjustable dumbbells can save money and space, there are pros and cons to each type of dumbbell. Here’s a quick breakdown of the good and the bad for adjustable dumbbells vs fixed dumbbells.

Traditional Dumbbells

Anyone who has spent time in a commercial gym is probably familiar with traditional dumbbells. Also called fixed dumbbells, these dumbbells are simply two weighted ends, or “heads,” connected by a dumbbell handle. The heads on a traditional dumbbell are typically hex- or round-shaped, although there’s no real right or wrong design.

Because traditional dumbbells don’t have the internal workings of many adjustable dumbbells, they can be more durable—although I’d never recommend dropping your dumbbells, both for your floor and dumbbells’ sakes. Because they’re built at fixed weights, you’ll need some serious space in your garage gym to have multiple pairs of dumbbells.

Adjustable Dumbbells

Unlike traditional dumbbells, an adjustable dumbbell can incrementally adjust the weight in the pair of dumbbells. Instead of needing a full set of dumbbells, a single pair of adjustable dumbbells will replace multiple pairs of dumbbells. Since they replace several weights, adjustable dumbbells can save space in your home gym—plus they’re often the less expensive alternative, too, costing less than an entire set of fixed dumbbells at similar weights.

I love lifting heavy, but you still have to be safe about it. Here are some tips and precautions you can take during your adjustable dumbbell workout to minimize your risk of injury or damage to your home gym equipment.

Perform regular cleaning: It’s important to clean your dumbbells with a damp cloth and soap to help prevent the spread of germs. A regular cleaning can also help limit sweat build-up, which can lead to corrosion. While cleaning your dumbbells once a week is a good start, you should try to do it after every training session. Once you’re done, dry the weights thoroughly and keep them out of rooms with high levels of humidity.

Have a proper warm-up: The best warm-up exercises help lower your chance of a pulled muscle or similar injury. Warming up properly also helps improve your performance³. “A simple 5- or 10-minute warm-up of light exercise followed by dynamic stretches works well for most people,” adds exercise physiologist Chris Mohr.

Use correct technique: If your form is wrong, you might be increasing your chance of injury. Make sure to prioritize good and proper form to avoid unnecessary stress on the wrong muscles and joints. Also, keep your form in check when picking up your dumbbells for your next set; lift with the legs! “Beginners should avoid jerky movements and not hold their breath during dumbbell exercises,” suggests Chris.

Find the right weight: Don’t start off by maxing out. Slowly add weight as you get more comfortable with the exercise you’re performing.

Store your dumbbells: Don’t just leave your equipment lying around. Having a proper storage rack or shelving for your dumbbells can help avoid accidents, like a trip or fall.

Don’t drop dumbbells: Even if you have durable dumbbells, avoid dropping them. Because dumbbells are oddly shaped, the weights can bounce just about anywhere, which can cause damage to you, the dumbbells, or your gym flooring.

Keep your pins safe: You won’t be able to change the weight on certain adjustable dumbbell models if the pin is damaged or bent, so be extra careful—never drop weights on their pins and make sure you don’t lose these small yet vital pieces of equipment.

Since 2014, GGR has researched, tested, and reviewed it all: weight benches, squat racks, all-in-one home gyms, and more. We’ve also tested nearly every adjustable dumbbell with some semblance of quality that’s available. This includes the most budget-friendly, low weight capacity, imported models all the way to stainless steel, made-in-the-USA dumbbells with a 175-pound weight capacity.

RELATED: Best Back Exercises

In addition to my own training and testing, I’ve leaned on the collective opinions of the most die-hard home gym equipment owners in the known universe, our Facebook Home Gym Community.

In all this lifting of metal and plastic, I’ve found the things that are important and those which are not. There are certain features marketed by companies to sell their products that, in all honesty, provide little (if any) benefit to the user. In all this testing, I’ve found the following criteria to be the most important to look for when buying dumbbells:

Weight

Fixed dumbbells range in weight from 2 pounds all the way to 300 pounds or more. Few trainees need above 100 pounds for dumbbell movements, and if they do use more, they’re often using them for only a couple of movements. For this reason, an adjustable dumbbell’s ability to get as close to 100 pounds without being grossly oversized is important.

Dumbbells that can have a higher amount of weight added are even better, although not useful for most. Our favorite adjustable dumbbells allow you to grow the size and weight of your dumbbell over time.

RELATED: Barbells Vs Dumbbells

Material

More durable materials like metal and nylon are superior to cheap and thin plastics for the longevity and safety of the trainee. Although it’s usually not wise to drop dumbbells, if you do, you better hope it’s made with a lot of heavy-duty metal as opposed to plastic. Metal weight sets are more preferred for their greater durability.

Warranty

Gym equipment breaks. Barbells end up bending, bumper plates fold, kettlebell handles separate from the bell, and adjustable dumbbells can (and do) break. The longer the warranty period and the more generous the use cases of a warranty, the better.

However, a warranty is only as good as the company servicing it. If a company isn’t going to be around for long, then a lifetime warranty will do you no good, so we factor in the lifecycle of the company making the dumbbells.

RELATED: Kettlebells Vs Dumbbells

Price

Home gym exercise equipment is not an income-producing asset like the equipment bought by a commercial gym. For this reason and others, the price and, more importantly, the value of the adjustable dumbbells are extremely important.

The holy grail for adjustable dumbbells lies in the $500 to $800 range for expandable adjustable dumbbells with a high weight capacity. Cheaper adjustable weight dumbbells will prove to be more likely to get damaged because they likely sacrifice the kind of materials used.

Weight Indicator Readout

Is it easy to tell what weight you’re using? Does it require you to do mental math that can slow down your workout? Check out the labeling on the product. Some dials are simply in “sizes” of 1 to 10, and you have to do the math to figure out how much is on the bell. Other weight changes are clearly marked with weight totals, making it much easier to know what you’re actually lifting.

Balance in Hand

Trainees who come from a commercial gym with access to a full fixed dumbbell setup often remark on how awkward certain dumbbells that adjust can feel. This is true, but only for certain dumbbells, and this often goes away after a few workouts. Balance in the hand is important, so the user can focus on the lift rather than maintaining control of the weight.

Unit Size

Typically, the more compact a dumbbell is, the more it costs. Take Watson Dumbbells, for instance—the gold standard in the fixed dumbbell world. They’re as compact as humanly possible while relying on stainless steel instead of cast iron. The reason this is so nice is that it prevents the dumbbell from interfering with the movements.

Also, when it comes to home fitness, minimizing the space your equipment uses is often a priority. You can still find adjustable dumbbells with a maximum weight capacity that save you space because they literally put multiple pairs of weights into just one set.

RELATED: Best Compact Exercise Equipment

Durability

By and large, adjustable dumbbells shouldn’t be dropped. However, when hitting the end of your rep range or maxing out, it might be hard to set your dumbbell down carefully. The ability to be dropped without breaking is something we consider when testing, and something you should be aware of before purchasing.

Adjustment Mechanism

You’ll want to make sure the adjustment mechanism on your dumbbells works for your particular training style. Here are the different mechanism types and the training they may work best with:

• Dial: These dumbbells just require a quick turn of the dial or handle to change the load total. It’s arguably the quickest method on this list and can be great for people performing circuit training or supersets.
• Selector pins: These pins are similar to those used on weight-stack machines at commercial gyms; simply pop the pin into your desired weight slot and get to lifting. Pin-style dumbbells can be perfect for anyone following bodybuilding workouts that need dumbbells for a range of different exercises yet don’t want the hassle of loading and unloading plates. 
• Lock switches: This mechanism is found on the REP QuickDraw adjustable dumbbells and involves the user flipping a switch to lock their weight in place. This method isn’t really found anywhere else on the market, but it’s lightning-fast. The big drawback, though, is that the REP QuickDraws have a 60-pound weight limit, so they might not be ideal for anyone looking to bust out heavy dumbbell bench presses or squats.
• Plate-loaded: These are pretty much dumbbells with a loadable sleeve for weight plates; no quick adjustments or fancy mechanisms here. That said, they can have a far higher weight limit than the other profiles, with some even capable of holding 400 pounds. This could be perfect for experienced powerlifters who blow past the weight limits found with other adjustable models. That said, the big drawback is that you’ll need your own plates, and range of motion may be compromised depending on your plate size. 

Single Adjustable Dumbbells Vs Pairs

Beware, some adjustable dumbbells are sold as individual dumbbells rather than a paired set. Some manufacturers hide this fact in fine print, while others make it well known. Some people may like just having one adjustable dumbbell because it works for their training purposes, but most people should look for an adjustable dumbbell set with the traditional pair of free weights.

Safety Considerations

We already covered some safety tips for using your adjustable dumbbells, but always do your research when it comes to the individual brands and products. Does the brand have any safety guidelines listed on its website? Are the dumbbells made with durable materials that won’t put you in danger during a workout? Is the customer support equipped to answer any questions you may have pertaining to the safety of the product? 

Some brands will go so far as to list safety considerations online, complete with maintenance and cleaning guides as well as video resources. These are all signs that a company takes its product safety seriously.

You can probably tell that we’re big fans of adjustable dumbbells here at GGR, but they’re not the right tool for everyone’s fitness needs. Here’s who should and shouldn’t purchase a pair of adjustable dumbbells for their at-home training routines:

Who Should Buy an Adjustable Dumbbell

• People who already use dumbbells but want to consolidate their equipment. Not only can you replace up to 30 pairs of standard dumbbells, depending on the model you buy, but you’re (likely) not going to sacrifice much in the way of quality, either.
• Beginners. You don’t even need to be a longtime lifter to reap the benefits. Adjustable dumbbells can be perfect for beginners and intermediate gym-goers because you don’t need to invest thousands of dollars into a collection of dumbbells you may never use. 
• Anyone who works out in small spaces. Adjustable dumbbells are a perfect addition to your home gym setup if you have limited space. We recommend them for apartment owners, garage gym owners, and anyone who wants a big bang for their buck when it comes to space.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Adjustable Dumbbells 

• People who don’t use dumbbells. This should sound obvious, but if dumbbells don’t play a huge role in your fitness routine, then don’t bother with these.
• Powerlifters. If heavy lifting is your style, you may not find much use for adjustable dumbbells due to their typical weight range. While some models might top out at 100 or 125 pounds, many peak at 80 pounds or less.
• Anyone who is rough on equipment. If you’re accustomed to playing rough with more durable, rubber-coated dumbbells, note that many adjustable models shouldn’t be dropped due to the plastic components of the adjustment mechanisms. These models aren’t fragile per se, but they probably can’t take the same beating as standard free weights.