Best adjustable dumbbells: Quick menu
The best adjustable dumbbells make a great addition to any home workout space. These customizable weights combine several dumbbell weights, so you don’t need space for a whole rack to still benefit from a muscle-building workout.
However, there are many styles to choose from, and it can be hard to tell which are the right weights for your training. Some come with removable weight plates, while others use twistable dials to change the load and other tech-focused models use digital weight changes.
They may seem expensive, but investing in a durable set of adjustable dumbbells with a wide weight range and small adjustment increments allows you to train with the same dumbbells for many years before an upgrade.
We’ve put many of the best brands to the test to help you find the best adjustable dumbbells for your needs, looking at ease of use, value for money and whether they feel comfortable and safe to use for weightlifting sessions and sweaty workouts.
The quick list
If you’re after a quick run-down of our best adjustable dumbbells, we’ve made a short summary of the models below. However, we’ve got a full breakdown later on as well, with photos, links to our reviews and comparisons.
Best overall
NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Adjustable Dumbbells
Best overall
The NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Adjustable Dumbbells offer weights ranging from 10 to 55 pounds, adjustable in 15 different load increments. They’re also easy to grip and well-made.
Read more below
Best for beginners
Best for beginners
The Bowflex SelectTech 552i have an easy adjustment mechanism, ranging from 5 to 52.5 lbs. You can change the weight in 5 lbs increments and get two months of access to the JRNY app.
Read more below
Best for budget
Amazon Basics Adjustable Dumbbells Set
Best budget
The Amazon Basics Adjustable Dumbbells are a budget-friendly way to get into resistance training. You can manually add or remove weights plates from 3 lbs up to 19 lbs.
Read more below
Best for durability
Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbells
Best for durability
The Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbells are quick to adjust, feel secure in your hand, and don’t rattle around during exercise. Plus, they range from 11 lbs up to an impressive 66 lbs.
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Best value
Flybird Adjustable Dumbbells
Best value
The Flybird Adjustable Dumbbells are a solid option at a great price, so they’re excellent value for money. You can adjust the load in 5 lbs increments up to 25 lbs and keep them in their storage trays.
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Best for grip
Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbells
Best for grip
The Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbells have the best grip of any we’ve tested. If you’re looking for weights to use in sweaty, high-intensity workouts, these are your pick.
Read more below
Best with barbell
Tespon Adjustable Dumbbells Barbell
Best with barbell
The Tespon Adjustable Dumbbells come with two handles that can load weight plates up to 33 lbs. Or you can attach all the plates to the foam-coated bar for a 66 lbs lift instead.
Read more below
The best adjustable dumbbells you can buy today
Best adjustable dumbbells overall
(Image credit: Future)
1. NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Adjustable Dumbbells
Best adjustable dumbbells for most people
Specifications
Weight range (per dumbbell): 10-55 lbs
Size: 19 x 11.4 x 8.5 inches
Reasons to buy
+
Large weight range
+
Comfortable grip
+
Small adjustment increments
Reasons to avoid
–
Weight adjuster pins are temperamental
–
On the pricey side
–
One a three-month warranty
If it’s an easy-to-use, versatile set of adjustable weights you crave, NordicTrack’s Select-a-Weights are the best overall adjustable dumbbells for most people. With 15 total weight loads to choose from, ranging from 10 to 55 pounds, and adjustments possible in both 5 and 2.5-pound increments, this is a weight set you can truly grow with.
Made of steel and hardened plastic, the NordicTrack Selecy-a-Weights feel well-constructed and solid in hand. They come with a plastic storage tray that’s also well-made though unlikely to survive a dropped weight. Still, the weight set doesn’t take up too much floor real estate, making it a solid choice for apartment dwellers.
The handles of these adjustable weights have a decent amount of knurling, making them plenty grippy, even for the sweatiest hands. That said, the addition of rubber grips might make them a bit more comfy.
The weight-adjusting pins can be a tad temperamental to set into place but overall, they work as they should. More importantly, you don’t have to worry about weights falling off, like the NordicTrack iSelect Dumbbells, which we do not recommend.
NordicTrack’s Select-a-Weight Dumbells come with a 30-day free trial of the iFit app which is bursting at the seams with on-demand workout routines and at-home training sessions. However, you only get a three-month warranty, which is a bit measly.
Best adjustable dumbbells for beginners
(Image credit: TJ Fink/Future)
Best adjustable dumbbells for beginners
Specifications
Weight range (per dumbbell): 5-52.5 lbs
Size: 15.8 x 9 x 8 inches
Reasons to buy
+
Comfortable grip
+
Large weight range
+
5 lb adjustment increments
+
Two-month access to JRNY workout app
Reasons to avoid
–
Expensive
–
Bulky when fully loaded
–
Bowflex bankruptcy puts future product support in question
If you’re after a single set of easy-to-use weights that will see you through strength workouts and high-intensity training, while keeping up as you get stronger, look no further than the Bowflex SelectTech 552i adjustable dumbbells.
Each dumbbell ranges between 5 and 52.5 lbs in 5-pound increments, so it has a great range and small enough increments that you can gradually increase the load as you get stronger (in line with progressive overload training).
It’s easy to switch the load as well — all it takes is a twist on the dial on each side to set your desired weight. The mechanism is secure as well. We were initially wary of dropping plates on our head during presses, but they stayed firmly in place (thankfully!).
We felt they were also more ergonomic than any other weights we’ve tested, but that didn’t stop the handle from becoming a bit slippery when you’ve got sweaty hands. And the handle isn’t quite long enough to grip with two hands either.
However, you also get two-month access to JRNY workout app, which comes with hundreds of on-demand classes and sessions for you to use while training at home or the gym. The app also has some features specifically for these weights, like dedicated classes and motion tracking to help improve your form.
We originally reviewed the first-generation Bowflex SelectTech 552, but the company has since released the 552i, which are almost unchanged except for an improved rubber grip.
Note: Bowflex recently filed for bankruptcy, which may make it difficult to replace or repair defective dumbbells under warranty. Similarly, the future of Bowflex’s companion JRNY app is in question. Keep this in mind when considering the Bowflex SelectTech 552i.
Best budget adjustable dumbbells
(Image credit: TJ Fink/Future)
Best budget adjustable dumbbells
Specifications
Weight range (per dumbbell): 3-19 lbs
: 13.7 x 5.7 x 5.7 inches
Reasons to buy
+
Budget-friendly
+
No plastic
+
Comes with a carrying case
Reasons to avoid
–
Switching loads is a time-consuming process
The Amazon Basics adjustable dumbbells are a solid, entry-level set of weights at a good price. The retailer’s Basics range is usually good value for money, and that applies here as well, as you get a durable set of weights that are great for the price.
The weight plates fit together well, so you don’t get a lot of banging metal as you exercise, and there’s a textured handle to improve your grip. It’s not as comfortable as the contoured grip on the Bowflex SelectTech 552i, but it does help.
And, unlike pricier models, you can remove all the plates and store the set away in the included carry case for when you want to take them out with you. However, the downside is that it’s a fairly manual process, and not that quick.
So, if you want to change loads between exercises, you’ll have to spend longer with the Amazon Basics adjustable dumbbells. And if these are your first weights, you might prefer the security of a dial, rather than using the clips to keep the plates in place.
Best adjustable dumbbells for durability
(Image credit: Jeff Parsons/Tom’s Guide)
Best adjustable dumbbells for durability
Specifications
Weight range (per dumbbell): 11-66 lbs
Size: 16.3 x 7.9 x 8.3 inches
Reasons to buy
+
Load up to 66 lbs
+
Weight plates feel secure during exercise
+
Tray holds spare weights plates
Reasons to avoid
–
Flimsy storage tray
–
On the expensive side
Like many of the best adjustable dumbbells, the Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbells have a circular, rather than hexagonal design, and come with a quick adjustment mechanism so you can switch between 11 and 66 lbs with ease.
To keep the weights secure, there’s a red button you need to press to unlock the mechanism. From there, it only takes a few twists to select your chosen load. It’s important to do this before lifting them out of the storage tray, though.
The tray is designed to hold the additional plates while they’re not in use, and you risk accidentally dropping a plate if you change the load while out of the tray. We did find it a little strange that the tray feels so flimsy on a premium set, but it did the job.
But once in use, we had no reservations, as the plates fit together snugly and didn’t clash together or make a lot of noise while exercising. Although, we did make sure to place them back in the tray between sets to stop them rolling away.
However, they’re also expensive. You’ll often find the Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbells on sale as individual weights, rather than as a pair, so keep that in mind if you spot a price that seems on the low side. Expect to pay around $600 for a set.
Best value adjustable dumbbells
(Image credit: TJ Fink/Future)
Best value adjustable dumbbells
Specifications
Weight range (per dumbbell): 5-25 lbs
Size: 15.7 x 7.6 x 6.3 inches
Reasons to buy
+
Increase the load in 5 lbs increments
+
Comfortable handle
+
Adjustment safety features
If you’re looking for a sturdy set of adjustable dumbbells with an easy adjustment mechanism without breaking the bank, the Flybird Adjustable Dumbbells might be exactly what you need.
These excellent value dumbbells are easy to adjust, as all you need to do is place the dumbbell in its storage tray, rotate the handle to the load you want, and then lift the dumbbell out of the tray. Plus, you can adjust in 5 lbs increments.
This makes them a good option if you want to gradually increase the load as you get stronger. And, to prevent accidents, you can’t remove the plates once the dumbbell is lifted out of its storage tray.
The plates fit together well, so there’s not a lot of noise while you’re working out, and the contoured handle helps you keep a firm grip, even when you’ve got sweaty hands.
You don’t get an app (like you do with the Bowflex SelectTech 552i), but the Flybird Adjustable Dumbbells are a solid option at a reasonable price and are some of the best value adjustable dumbbells available right now.
Best adjustable dumbbells for grip
(Image credit: TJ Fink/Future)
Best adjustable dumbbells for grip
Specifications
Weight range (per dumbbell): 5-50 lbs
Size: 14.5 x 7.9 x 7.2 inches
Reasons to buy
+
Easy weight adjustments
+
Optional storage stand
+
Comfortable handle and grip
Reasons to avoid
–
Weights can rattle during exercise
The grip on the Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbells is the best we’ve ever tested. We felt fully in control of the weights, and it felt secure even with sweaty hands in the middle of a workout.
You get a 5-50 lbs range, which is large enough for small changes between exercises and to train into as you get stronger. Plus, you can increase the load in 5 lbs increments if you use progressive overload training.
There’s a quick adjustment mechanism that’s easy to use, so it should leave you plenty of time to catch your breath and change the load between exercises. All you need to do is place the dumbbell in its cradle, and turn the dial, just like with the Flybird weights.
There’s not a lot of difference between those two models, but if you’re looking for a comfortable, durable grip for during sweaty high-intensity sessions, then the Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbells are a great choice.
Best adjustable dumbbells with barbell
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide/Future)
Best adjustable dumbbells with barbell
Specifications
Weight range (per dumbbell): 5.6 to 33 pounds
Size: 15.6 x 8.4 x 8.4 inches
Reasons to buy
+
Two comfortable dumbbell handles
+
Foam-coated bar for barbell workouts
+
33 lbs per dumbbell or 66 lbs on the bar
Reasons to avoid
–
Plastic outer design
–
Have to manually add or remove weights
The best adjustable dumbbells make great home workout companions, but if you’ve trained at the gym and miss deadlifting with a bar, this Tespon Adjustable Dumbbells and Barbell is just what you need.
You get two dumbbell handles with enough weight plates (coated in plastic, filled with an iron and cement powder) to load each up to 33 lbs. The bars are foam coated to make the lift more comfortable too.
To adjust the load, you’ll need to manually remove or add plates, so it can be time consuming and not the most practical solution if you want to change weights between exercises in the middle of a workout.
However, it does come with a larger foam-coated bar for when you want to train with a barbell instead. The weight plates all fit onto this longer bar, and you can add the full amount up to 66 lbs.
How to choose the best adjustable dumbbells for you
When it comes time to decide between the best adjustable dumbbells, it’ll depend on how you like to exercise, your budget, and the weight range. If you’re new to resistance training, you’ll want a set on the lower end, starting at around 20 lbs. For experienced lifters, you may prefer a maximum weight around 50 lbs.
The minimum and maximum load are important, but so is the range and adjustment increments, as that’s the main purpose of adjustable dumbbells.
If you want something that’ll see you through the years as you get stronger, opt for a wider range. If you need weights to complement bodyweight or cardio workouts, then a narrower range might suit your needs, and that’s often a more budget-friendly option too.
You’ll want to also look at the adjustment mechanism on offer. Premium sets usually come with easy to use dials, and don’t require you to take weight plates off manually, but they also cost more and tend to come with extra features like storage trays or access to virtual workout apps.
If you’re working on a budget, you may prefer manual weights plates and a narrower range or lower maximum weight. Generally, the heavier you go, the more you’ll need to spend. If you’re buying online, check your retailer’s shipping policy too, as they may charge extra to deliver heavy items.
How we tested the best adjustable dumbbells
To help you find the best adjustable dumbbells for your home workouts, we spent time lifting them! For each of the sets of dumbbells, we considered the design, ergonomics, and how easy they were to adjust.
Firstly, we looked at the general design and how durable the materials felt. This didn’t just include the weights themselves, which are often metal or plastic, but we also assessed the weight holders and trays too.
Once you’ve picked them up and you’re ready to work out, you want to be sure they’re comfortable to hold, even during longer sessions. So, we put them to the test across a variety of controlled and high-intensity exercises.
This would all also be true of standard dumbbells, but the best adjustable dumbbells come with adjustment mechanisms, allowing you to switch between weights. So, we looked at how easy the system was to use, and the type of mechanism in use; dials, manual plates, or handle twists.
FAQs
What are the cons of adjustable dumbbells?
Although adjustable dumbbells are a space-saving option compared to buying a range of fixed-load weights, they are still quite bulky. They combine several weights into a single unit, and tend to be circular rather than hexagonal, so may be harder to keep in place during floor exercises.
Because of the extra weight compared to a set of fixed dumbbells, they’re also not as easy to carry with you to the gym, workout space, or local park. But you can get around this by investing in a set with removeable weights plates, like the Amazon Basics set.
Should you buy one adjustable dumbbell or a pair?
You can do many exercises with a single dumbbell, just be sure to train the same on both side of your body (like doing lunges with the weight in your right and then left hand) to ensure you keep your muscle development balanced.
However, it’s definitely easier to do some staple moves like chest presses or deadlifts with two dumbbells, so it depends on the style of training and how often you’ll use them whether you need to buy a pair or a single dumbbell.
It’s important to check the product listing before you buy your weights, as adjustable dumbbells can be sold as individual weights or as a pair. The price often gives an indication, but it’s worth looking over if you’re after two.
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