Women's Health may earn commission from the links on this page, but we only feature products we believe in. Why Trust Us?
The 8 Best Adjustable Dumbbells For Home Workouts, According To Trainers And Reviews
They are oh-so versatile.
Dumbbells continue to be a key fitness staple whether you’re training for a marathon, building strong muscles, or losing weight. They’re effective, efficient, and extremely versatile for achieving many fitness goals. But if you’re looking to maximize your training and level up your home gym, it’s time you get acquainted with adjustable dumbbells.
Adjustable dumbbells are an all-in-one strength-training tool. They are designed so you can change the weight by adjusting the weight plates attached to the handle, says certified personal trainer, Dylan Balicki, CPT. “They are about the size of your average dumbbell, and with the simple flick of a lever or turn of a dial, you can adjust the weight.”
Meet the experts: Dylan Balicki, CPT, is a NASM-certified personal trainer and Orangetheory regional fitness coach based in New York City. Mike Hamlin, CSCS, is a certified strength and conditioning specialist and founder of Everflex Fitness.
In addition to the versatility, adjustable dumbbells save a ton of space in your home. “If you have a tiny apartment, you can still build an amazing workout space with the right set,” says Mike Hamlin, CSCS, a certified strength and conditioning specialist and founder of Everflex Fitness. They’re also cost effective. Instead of buying multiple sets of weights, investing in one pair of adjustable dumbbells gives you a major bang for your buck, he adds.
Speaking of bucks, expect to pay $300 to $500 for a quality set, but budget options closer to $100 are available. Keep in mind, you're getting the equivalent of a full weight rack of dumbbells in a compact package with a warranty.
Not to mention, as you get stronger (because you will!) you can easily increase the weight of your adjustable dumbbells to continue challenging your muscles, says Balicki. “The beauty of having one set of adjustable weights is that you pay for them once and instantly have the option of which weights to use.”
Get a jump start on shopping here:
Best Adjustable Dumbbells For Home
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
What To Look For In Adjustable Dumbbells
- Adjustment tech. “The adjustment mechanism is how you switch between different weights, and we want this process to be as simple as possible to help save time and for ease of use,” says Balicki. It’s best to look for a dial, knob, lever, or manual weight plates that work smoothly and quickly.
- Weight range. Both the weight and the increments of weight are also important, Balicki adds. “Some adjustable dumbbells will increase in 2.5-pound increments or 5-pound increments," he adds. "In my opinion, the more increments the better as this gives you more options.” If you’re a total beginner, he also suggests investing in a set that goes up to at least 50 pounds per dumbbell.
- Comfort. Lastly, Hamlin says to look for dumbbells that are comfortable to hold. His go-to rec is typically rubber or those with a neoprene coating, which can provide a more stable and supportive grip. But it’s also helpful to look for those with an anti-slip texture.
With those pro shopping tips and considerations in mind, here are the eight best adjustable dumbbells based on trainer recommendations and rave reviews.
Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
Pros
- Easily Adjustable
- Storage Tray Included
Cons
- High Price
These adjustable dumbbells offer a weight range of 5 to 52.5 pounds and have a simple dial to adjust the weight, making them one of Hamlin’s go-to’s. “They are durable and easy to use, so they’re a great investment for home gyms,” he says. The dumbbells also come with a storage tray to keep you safe and plates organized, which is an added bonus.
Rave review: “I have been extremely impressed with their versatility and convenience. These dumbbells are perfect for anyone who wants to get an upper-body workout at home without taking up a lot of space.” (Amazon)
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 17 x 8 x 9 Inches |
|---|---|
| Weight Range | 5 - 52.5 pounds |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Total Weight | 105 pounds |
| Adjustment Tech | Dial |
| Grip Material | Steel, nylon, and thermoplastic rubber |
PowerBlock Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbells
PowerBlock Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbells
Pros
- Durable materials
- No assembly required
Cons
- Less traditional shape
If you’re looking for range, these adjustable dumbbells go from 5 to 50 pounds each and have a compact design that saves space. Plus, Hamlin says these dumbbells are extremely versatile and great for changing weights quickly. The design may be a little unfamiliar than your typical dumbbells, but the square shape makes them easily stackable and you’ll be a pro in no time.
Rave review: “I was looking for a set of dumbbells for my home gym and these bring a smile to my face every time I use them. I use them for circuit training and the quick change is ideal for drop sets and quick weight transitions. Not having to place them in a tray or holder to change the weights is also a huge plus.” (Amazon)
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 12 x 6.25 x 6.25 Inches |
|---|---|
| Weight Range | 5 - 50 pounds |
| Total Weight | 100 pounds |
| Warranty | 5 years |
| Adjustment Tech | Magnetic Pin |
| Grip Material | Powder-coat painted steel |
NordicTrack iSelect Adjustable Dumbbells
NordicTrack iSelect Adjustable Dumbbells
Pros
- Storage Tray Included
- Pairs with Amazon Alexa
- Sleek appearance
Cons
- High Price
Looking to change your weights with voice-control technology? Then Hamlin suggests these NordicTrack adjustable dumbbells. This set offers a weight range of up to 55 pounds and has a simple weight selection mechanism allowing for smooth transitions during your sweat sesh. Their circular shape also makes them easy to use and the non-slip handles are key for staying safe.
Rave review: “I started a new workout routine for the first time in a few years and it requires a lot of dumbbell work. I picked these up and have been nothing but impressed. No issues, changing weight is quick, and they are sturdy.” (Amazon)
| Weight Range | 10 - 55 pounds |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 110 pounds |
| Adjustable Tech | Digital knob |
| Grip Material | Alloy steel |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Yes4All Adjustable Cast Iron Dumbbell
Yes4All Adjustable Cast Iron Dumbbell
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Non-slip grip
Cons
- Manual adjustment
If you’re trying to control costs, Hamlin says the Yes4All adjustable cast iron dumbbells will do the trick. The dumbbells come in a weight range of up to 200 pounds, and the chrome-plated handle provides an extra comfortable grip. Just be mindful that you have to manually change the weighted plates, so if you’re looking to speed through a workout, these may not be your best bet.
Rave review: “This is the best investment you can make. To be able to lift weights at home is life changing. I had this exact set (60 lb set), lost it in a move, and just replaced it.” (Amazon)
| Total Weight | 200 pounds |
|---|---|
| Weight Range | 6 - 50 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 14 x 12 x 12 inches |
| Adjustment Tech | Manual plates |
| Grip Material | Cast iron |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Pros
- Easily adjustable
- Comfortable handle
Cons
- No light weight options
While this weight range might not be the best for beginners since it starts at 15 pounds, it’s an excellent option for intermediate or advanced lifters, says Balicki. The safety locking mechanism also helps to secure the weight selection, but the real star in this show is the textured grip, he adds. The pair also comes with a storage bin for added safety and protection.
Rave review: “This is one of the few times I feel compelled to write a review. I love these dumbbells. The adjustable dial allows me to vary the weight accordingly and the handle grip is superb. The quality of Merax Dumbbells are excellent.” (Amazon)
| Total Weight | 110 pounds |
|---|---|
| Weight Range | 15 - 55 pounds |
| Adjustment Tech | Dial |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Grip Material | ABS plastic |
Flybird Adjustable Dumbbell
Flybird Adjustable Dumbbell
Pros
- No Metallic Scent
- Easily Adjustable
Cons
- Limited weight
If you’re only looking for a single dumbbell, Flybird is a great option that will meet your needs without taking up extra space. The non-slip, aluminum handle is comfortable and the eight-lock structure design makes sure the weight always remains in place. Users also love that they are super easy to adjust, no experience required. Oh, and if you hate the metallic smell of typical dumbbells, these are covered with frosted powder coating to eliminate any scent.
Rave review: “I love this set. I have needed new dumbbells for a while now but could not decide what kind to get and these work so well and take up so little space!” (Amazon)
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 5.75 x 3 x 3 Inches |
|---|---|
| Weight Range | 5 - 25 pounds |
| Total Weight | 25 pounds |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Adjustment Tech | Dial |
| Grip Material | Aluminum |
LifePro Adjustable Dumbbell Set
LifePro Adjustable Dumbbell Set
Pros
- Compact design
- Easily Adjustable
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Rough texture on handle
These dumbbells are exactly what you need if you’re looking to torch calories in a cardio workout. The weight is easily adjustable and the textured handle is anti-slip to keep you safe during any movement. Plus, the compact design saves space and they can easily be moved around the house, wherever you like to sweat.
Rave review: “Very affordable and easy to use when you don’t have time or membership to go to an actual gym and want to get a quick workout at home.” (Amazon)
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 14 x 8 x 8 Inches |
|---|---|
| Weight Range | 5 - 25 Pounds |
| Adjustment Tech | Slider |
| Total Weight | 50 pounds |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Grip Material | Alloy steel |
Pros
- Compact
- Anti-slip handle
Cons
- High price
Five dumbbells in one? Say less. These Keppi dumbbells adjust in seconds with a rapid, easy-to-use dial so you can level-up without the hassle. The comfortable grip is also a fan-favorite on Amazon and the safety system is high-end so you can lift without worry. Plus, these dumbbells are made to last and will serve you for life (they have a lifetime warranty).
Rave review: “I have been looking for a set of adjustable weights and these are great. The weight selection is easy, great handle grip and all of the weights are neatly contained within the holder.” (Amazon)
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 14 x 6 x 6 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight Range | 5 - 25 pounds |
| Total Weight | 50 pounds |
| Adjustment Tech | Dial |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Grip material | Metal alloy |
Andi Breitowich is a Chicago-based writer and graduate student at Northwestern Medill. She’s a mass consumer of social media and cares about women’s rights, holistic wellness, and non-stigmatizing reproductive care. As a former collegiate pole vaulter, she has a love for all things fitness and is currently obsessed with Peloton Tread workouts and hot yoga.
Watch Next
What You Need To Know About Muscular Endurance
Amazon Dropped 60% Off Nike Sports Bras
Sharon Stone Rocks Shorts, And Her Legs Are Killer
Rihanna Shares Epic Topless Pregnancy Pics On IG
