Bowflex
Working out from the comfort of your home has never been easier. Just like top-notch gear and online fitness classes, handy innovations like adjustable dumbbells make exercising more convenient and efficient, all while offering a lot more versatility in terms of workout level, space, and storage.
Between work, kids, and the general stuff of life, many of us find it hard-pressed to consistently perform a full-body workout. Weight-lifting tools like dumbbells help you tone and build muscle, all while increasing your strength in as little as 20 minutes a day. This makes it a more accessible workout choice for busier folks ... or for those who want something they can do at home. Adjustable dumbbells are perfect if you're tight on space too, and they cost a lot less than a full rack of weights.
The Best Adjustable Dumbbells
What to Consider
When purchasing a set of adjustable dumbbells, there are a few factors to keep in mind:
- Weight increments: A set that has both the lightest and heaviest weight you need for your workout is key. Low-intensity workouts might require as little as 2.5 pounds to start off. However, if you're a seasoned lifter, something around 5 or 10 pounds might be a good starting point. Also consider the possibility of outgrowing your weights as you get stronger (yay, #gains!), and allow for an extra 10 to 20 pounds at the heavier end.
- Easily adjustable plates: Ease and safety of weight adjustment is crucial, whether your plates need to be manually switched out or just dialed into a specific weight setting. Look for sets with super secure, solid construction in their adjustment mechanisms — perhaps with a washer or fastener in between plates. This minimizes any clanking, pinching, injury, and uneven weight distribution.
- Storage capabilities: One of the best things about adjustable dumbbells is their Russian doll storage friendliness. Take advantage of this with a set that comes with its own storage tray that it can nestle safely in, without rolling about as it's tucked in your living room or basement corner.
- Look and feel: Preferences can vary — are you a metal, vinyl, or neoprene person? Whichever you choose, a dumbbell with a nonslip coating and comfortable, non-eroding grip helps ensure that you look forward to your lifting sessions. One that's durable enough to withstand constant use will also give you the most bang for your buck.
Check out our top picks for the best adjustable dumbbells to stay on track toward your fitness goals, no matter how busy life gets.
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Best Overall
SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbell Set, 52.5 Pounds
These premium, high-quality Bowflex adjustable dumbbells are worth the spend, according to upwards of 14,000 Amazon reviews. They range from 5 to 52.5 pounds and adjust in 2.5-pound increments up to the first 25 pounds, while durable molding makes for quieter and less clanky lifting.
They also come with a free 1-year JRNY membership for professional on-demand fitness workouts, so you have no excuse to not get crackin' on those guns.
More: These Are the Best Gifts for Your Favorite Fitness Junkie
Best Budget
Neoprene Adjustable Dumbbell Set, 11 Pounds
While each of these cute neoprene dumbbells only weighs around 2.2 pounds, you can adjust for them to weigh up to 11 pounds by adding on or removing any of the inner metal parts. It's a pretty nifty concept, especially for those who want an affordable, nonslip, and space-saving design.
Best for Beginners
Adjustable Dumbbell Set, 55 Pounds
Those new to the lifting game will appreciate that this 15-in-1 weight set from NordicTrack replaces 30 dumbbells and has 15 weight increments per dumbbell, starting at 2.5 pounds. Whether you want an arm, leg, or ab workout, your options are limitless with these high-yield weights, which also each come with their own storage tray.
Best for Storage
Adjustable Dumbbell System with Rack, 48 Pounds
Each dumbbell can be adjusted from 3 to 24 pounds, depending on how heavy you want to go. The yellow tabs help you customize your workout by switching among weights seamlessly. The set also comes with a rack to keep them out of your way when you're not lifting (or while you're adjusting them).
Old-School Pick
Barbell Adjustable Dumbbell Set with Case, 40 Pounds
If you can't imagine skipping a day or always need to squeeze in a quick lift when your schedule is too crammed, this 40-pound set will do the trick. For less than $100, you'll get two handles, four 2.5-pound weights, four 5-pound weights, and four collars (totaling 20 pounds per dumbbell).
This set also comes with a storage case, making it easy to hide them in the closet or carry from basement to backyard when the sun is shining. For someone who's newer to lifting, this CAP Barbell set is ideal — start low and add weight as you build muscle!
Easiest to Adjust
Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set, 27.5 Pounds
This is your go-to home adjustable dumbbell if you like to start your workouts out light and gradually lift heavier — and for a solid price, too! All you have to do is push and slide the lever in between the dials to switch seamlessly between 5 pounds and 27.5 pounds. Then, pick up the comfortable knurled handle and get lifting.
Best Single Dumbbell
Adjustable Dumbbell, 25 Pounds
This quality pick from industry fave Flybird (they've been in the game for over 20 years) allows you to adjust weight in sets of 5-weight increments, starting from 5 to 25 pounds. Ideal for small spaces, this safe, nonslip dumbbell also comes with its own high-strength tray for seamless storage.
Pro-Worthy
Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbell Set, 50 Pounds
Replacing 16 pairs of weights and currently with a max of 50 pounds per hand, the Elite EXP (for “expandable”) allows you to add on heavier weights as your muscle needs change and evolve. You can add up to 90 pounds with their expander pack!
With an auto-lock handle and a feature that allows you to micro-load your adjustments in 2.5-pound increments, this is definitely —as the name suggests — more on the elite end of the equipment spectrum. We also like that its unique blocky shape makes it easier to store, as compared to its irregularly shaped counterparts.
Mara Santilli
Mara is a freelance writer and editor specializing in culture, politics, wellness, and the intersection between them, whose print and digital work has appeared in Marie Claire, Women’s Health, Cosmopolitan, Airbnb Mag, Prevention, and more.
Eunice Lucero-Lee
Senior Editor
Eunice Lucero-Lee is the Senior Editor for Best Products, and is a beauty, astrology, and pop culture obsessive whose work has been featured in publications such as Cosmopolitan, Esquire, The Numinous, and woman&home, among many others.
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