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When you’re setting up a home gym, one of the most limiting factors is space. Unless you have a dedicated multi-car garage for your gym, you probably need to prioritize versatile, space-saving equipment. This is why the best adjustable dumbbells are loved among home and garage gym owners, and may be the most popular piece of home gym equipment after a squat rack and barbell.
However, adjustable dumbbells come in all shapes and sizes, and a wide range of budgets. Choosing one that fits your needs, preferences, and budget without losing durability can be challenging. Many of our top picks for dumbbells are very durable but expensive, or may not withstand repeated drops. It can be tough to find a pair that’s both easy to use and strong enough for the toughest workouts.
In this Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell review, I’ll explain everything you need to know about one of the more popular budget-friendly options to hit the market. I’ll explain the adjustment mechanism, pros and cons, and durability, and let you know whether these dumbbells are a great deal or too good to be true.
Tested by Dumbbell Experts
Every product we review here at GGR is based on hands-on testing from our expert testers, including certified personal trainers, fitness coaches, home gym owners, Olympic weightlifters, and more.
For this review, GGR’s founder Cooper “Coop” Mitchell tested these dumbbells in a full video review. He worked out with them, used the adjustment mechanism, and even conducted an in-house drop test to assess the durability.
Using Coop’s extensive dumbbell knowledge and experience with the Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbells, we calculated a final score using our equipment testing methodology. This methodology assigns scores to the most important aspects of any piece of fitness equipment, such as the construction, durability, the warranty, and overall customer satisfaction.
Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell
Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell
Product Highlights
- Available in 50- or 80-pound sizes
- Dumbbells can be upgraded to 160 pounds each
- Very durable, even when dropped
- The square design may feel uncomfortable for some
- Users report the handle feels too long
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Very durable
- Fast adjustment mechanism
- Can be upgraded to 160 pounds per DB
Cons
- Square design
- No stand or plate storage
- Plates aren't labeled
Bottom Line
The Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell is a great choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly, yet durable dumbbell. The adjustment mechanism is very fast and the dumbbells feel very durable, but the plates aren't clearly labeled, and there is no stand available.
A Quick Look at the Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell
The Eisenlink adjustable dumbbell is a budget-friendly, durable alternative to popular options like the Ironmaster Quick-Lock adjustable dumbbell. Many adjustable dumbbells may have durability issues, light maximum weights, or expensive price tags, but Eisenlink has created something heavy, built to last, and should fit most budgets.
Each dumbbell can be upgraded to hold up to 160 pounds per dumbbell, and for the price and weight capacity, these are the most affordable dumbbells we’ve seen yet.
Eisenlink uses a square design, similar to PowerBlock, Ironmaster, and other retailers. This shape may dissuade some from purchasing, but if you don’t mind the shape and simply want a durable, heavy dumbbell that won’t break the bank, the Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell is a fantastic choice.
Before You Buy
- You can purchase the dumbbell in 50 or 80 pounds or upgrade to a 160-pound weight capacity.
- Dumbbells are sold both individually or as a pair, so if you’re truly on a tight budget, you could purchase one dumbbell by itself.
- The plates can be removed entirely and used in any order, which means they aren’t labeled, so it’s not always clear how much weight is on the dumbbell.
Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell Video Review
Is the Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell Worth It?
While this is a very affordable option, it’s not necessarily the best adjustable dumbbell set for all home gym owners. Here’s who we think this is best for.
Great for:
- Those building a home gym on a budget
- Anyone who doesn’t mind a slower adjustment process
- People who want the option to upgrade to heavier weights
Not recommended for:
- Those who don’t like square dumbbells
- People who need fast weight changes
- Anyone who prefers to have labeled plates to indicate the weight used
Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell Specs
| Price | $169-$499 |
| Dumbbell length | 6.9” |
| Weight range | 10-80 lbs, upgradable to 160 lbs |
| Weight increments | 5 lbs |
| Change mechanism | Twisting screw with slide-on removable plates |
| Handle diameter | 1.37” |
| Warranty | 12-month warranty |
Using the Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell
The first thing to mention is the square design, which people tend to either love or hate. With the square shape, the corners prevent the dumbbell from rolling when it’s on a stable surface. If you need to set it on the floor, a table, or a workout bench while making adjustments, it won’t go anywhere.
On the other hand, those corners and square edges can feel unusual for some, and Coop mentioned that the dumbbell can sometimes get in the way. If you’ve tried square dumbbells and don’t mind them, this is a great choice, but if you haven’t, be prepared. They feel quite different than the traditional dumbbells many are used to.
RELATED: Underrated Dumbbell Exercises
One important point is that the adjustable weights aren’t clearly labeled. The starting weight is 10 pounds, and 5-pound and 2.5-pound weight plates are included, meaning you can adjust the weight in true 5-pound increments.
However, since the plates are removable and can be added in any order, they aren’t labeled. To figure out how much weight you’re using, you’ll need to count the plates on each side after you adjust the weight. This isn’t a deal breaker, but it’s worth noting for those who like to record their workouts with one of the best weightlifting apps.
Also, the 10-pound starting weight may be too heavy for beginners, or those looking to do isolation exercises on smaller muscles.
Weight Adjustments
The weight adjustment mechanism earns a 3-out-of-5-star rating. It’s nothing too fancy, but it gets the job done nicely.
Eisenlink’s adjustment system is faster and easier to use than Ironmasters’ similar adjustable dumbbells. To add or remove the desired number of plates, you just need to loosen the end cap enough to tighten it back up when you’re done.
While it’s not quite as fast as a twisting adjustment mechanism like the one on Nuobells, or even a pin selector, it’s still much faster than having to remove the end entirely to add or remove plates.
Once you’ve secured the desired weight, it’s not going to move. These are durable, and the weight feels safely locked in place while using them.
You can purchase the dumbbells in either 50 pounds or 80 pounds, and you can purchase an add-on kit that increases the maximum weight of each dumbbell to 160 pounds. Each additional 30 pounds of weight is $89 per dumbbell, and the upgrade kit to extend the handle costs $37.90 per dumbbell.
Each dumbbell starts at 10 pounds, which will work for many users. However, beginners or those isolating smaller muscle groups may need lighter weights at times.
Footprint and Dumbbell Length
These dumbbells are meant to save space and do a fine job of doing so. The total length is 6.9 inches, thought it will be longer depending on how much weight you’re adding.
RELATED: What Size Dumbbells Should I Buy?
However, while the dumbbell saves significant space compared to having a full weight set with multiple pairs of standard dumbbells, there’s no storage system for the plates or stand to use.
This means you’ll have to set the plates somewhere when you take them off, as there’s no storage to keep them organized when not in use. You could rig up a DIY stand, or leave them on a table, but they don’t include anything.
Durability and Construction
For durability and construction, the Eisenlink dumbbells earn a 4-out-of-5 star rating.
The body of the dumbbell is made of a durable cast iron, built to withstand normal wear and tear, including drops from varying heights.
Even if you do drop your dumbbells, the plates’ interlocking design keeps things very secure, as they’re designed to attach to each other. As Coop pointed out, this is very similar to the adjustable dumbbells Hoist used to make, and it works quite well.
We don’t love seeing companies copy the designs of others, but regardless of your thoughts on the issue, the resulting product is a dumbbell that functions very well. The Hoist dumbbells that feature a nearly identical design are no longer sold, so as Coop said, it’s better to have this design in the market, even if it was “borrowed.”
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Coop repeatedly dropped the dumbbells on the floor in our testing warehouse to test their durability, even tossing them from shoulder height, which could break many other adjustable dumbbells. The Eisenlinks held up perfectly.
These are high-quality dumbbells. The only thing keeping the Eisenlinks from earning a 5-star rating is the square design, which many users, like myself, simply don’t enjoy using.
Handle
It’s important to consider how a dumbbell feels in your hand, and we give the Eisenlinks a 3-out-of-5 rating for this category.
The handle features knurling but is a bit thicker in diameter than similar options. Coop said it doesn’t feel bad when you’re using it, but the difference is noticeable if you compare it to something with a more premium handle.
Coop also pointed out that the handle feels too long. Several other user reviews mention the same thing, noting that the dumbbell can feel a bit unstable due to its length, even for those with large hands.
Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell vs Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbells
Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbells
Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbells
Product Highlights
- Quickly adjustable in under 15 seconds
- Adjustable from 5 to 75 lbs
- Patented quick-lock design
- Includes a stand
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Shaped like a traditional dumbbell
- Quick-Lock system makes weights are easy and quick to change
- Lock does hold tight
- Comes with a stand
- Change weights in 2.5-lb increments
- Weight range 5 to 75 lbs
- Knurled handles
- Compact design
- Flat ends make for ease in resting weights on legs
- Fits a number of accessories like fat grip adapters and kettlebell handles
- Plates marked in kgs and lbs
Cons
- Not quite as easy to change as other options
- Priced just under $900
- Cast iron plates could crack if dropped
- Not designed for movements like snatches
Bottom Line
The Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbells are some of the best adjustable dumbbells available. I personally prefer Powerblocks due to how quickly the weight can adjust, however, there are many who prefer Ironmasters and for good reasons. They're the most similar adjustable dumbbell to traditional fixed dumbbells, they have a wide weight increment range, and they're priced very affordably. If you own a home gym and want a set of dumbbells that doesn't take up a ton of space, Ironmasters are a great option.
The Eisenlink dumbbell is slightly larger than the Ironmaster, as the plates are thicker and the handle is longer, which Coop said makes it feel a bit unwieldy.
However, the adjustment system is much faster, and the Eisenlinks are significantly cheaper.
Overall, the Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell is very similar to the Ironmaster Quick-Lock, but it is probably the better fit for anyone on a budget.
However, Coop had one important callout: Ironmaster has a reputation and history among home gym enthusiasts, and can service dumbbells and provide parts as needed. Eisenlink doesn’t have much company information, many products are out of stock on the website, and we just don’t know how long they’ll be around.
Check out our full Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbell review to read more.
| Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell | Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbells | |
| Price | $169-$499 | $698 |
| Dumbbell length | 6.9” | 9”-14.5” |
| Weight range | 10-80 lbs, upgradable to 160 lbs | 5-75 lbs, upgradable to 165 lbs |
| Weight increments | 5 lbs | 2.5 lbs |
| Change mechanism | Twisting screw with slide-on removable plates | Twisting screw with removable plates |
| Handle diameter | 1.37” | 1.25” |
| Warranty | 12-month warranty | Lifetime |
Customer Experience
If you need to reach Eisenlink, you can do so via email or a contact form on the website. There’s no phone number listed, and we didn’t contact customer service to test their response time.
Returns are accepted within 30 days, but your purchase must be unused, and you’ll need to cover your own return shipping.
This is pretty standard for fitness companies, and we give the customer experience a 3-out-of-5 rating.
Ordering and Assembling the Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell
When you order from Eisenlink, you’ll receive free shipping, and you can complete your order with a credit card or PayPal at checkout. The dumbbells are also sold on Amazon and include free shipping, though the 80-pound dumbbells are out of stock on both websites at the time of writing.
Customer Reviews
Eisenlink doesn’t publish customer reviews on its website, so we turned to Amazon, where the dumbbells have a 4.4-out-of-5 star rating based on 21 reviews.
Most users love the durability and affordability, though a few mention that the handles feel a bit too long, similar to what Coop pointed out.
Final Verdict of Our Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell Review
If you’re looking for durable, heavy dumbbells on a budget to upgrade your home fitness routine, the Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell is a good set of dumbbells to consider.
You can purchase one dumbbell or a pair, order in 50- or 80-pound weight options, and upgrade them to 160 pounds each down the road if needed. The square design may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you’re okay with the design, these are a good option, especially for the price point.
- The adjustment mechanism is very fast, but there is no storage for the plates, and they aren’t labeled.
- The dumbbells are extremely durable, and didn’t fall apart even after repeated drops onto a hard floor.
- Some users found the handle to be a bit awkward due to its length, but it does have knurling and is still usable once you get used to it.
- The start weight is 10 pounds, which may be too heavy for beginners.
Full Rating
Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell
The Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell is a great choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly, yet durable dumbbell. The adjustment mechanism is very fast and the dumbbells feel very durable, but the plates aren't clearly labeled, and there is no stand available.
Product Brand: Eisenlink
Product Currency: $
Product Price: 169.00
Product In-Stock: InStock
3.63
The Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell is a great choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly, yet durable dumbbell. The adjustment mechanism is very fast and the dumbbells feel very durable, but the plates aren’t clearly labeled, and there is no stand available.
Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell: FAQs
Are adjustable dumbbells worth it?
This depends on your goals and budget. If you regularly use dumbbells in your training and enjoy working out with free weights, adjustable dumbbells save a significant amount of space compared to owning multiple pairs of standard dumbbells. The space-efficient design makes them a versatile choice for home gym owners.
How heavy can adjustable dumbbells be?
Adjustable dumbbells often range from 5to 80 pounds, though some can go even heavier, reaching as high as 165 pounds per dumbbell.
Can adjustable dumbbells be dropped?
Many manufacturers warn not to drop the dumbbells, as pieces of the adjustment mechanism can break. However, some adjustable dumbbells from companies like REP Fitness, Eisenlink, Pepin, and Snode are built with extra durability and won’t have any issues with regular drops (from reasonable heights).
Can you build muscle with adjustable dumbbells?
Yes. Any tool that provides an appropriate amount of resistance to a target muscle can help you build muscle, including adjustable dumbbells, kettlebells, or standard dumbbell weights. A good strength training program can work very well with adjustable dumbbells, like this 30-minute full-body workout with dumbbells.
Further reading
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