These are the best adjustable dumbbells of 2026, according to personal trainers and strength coaches
Compact, easy to adjust and versatile — these strength training requisites are the perfect addition to your home gym.
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Walking into a gym and seeing the rows of carefully organized dumbbells all lined up on their racks, gradually increasing in size, is a strangely satisfying visual. It's like the weights are quietly calling out, "Look at all the possibilities." The problem? Those perfectly arranged dumbbells are also a serious commitment when it comes to building a home gym. They take up space, can be awkward to move around and while a single set isn't all that expensive, buying the whole array? That's a serious financial investment.
Adjustable dumbbells are a smart alternative when putting together a home gym. They give you access to a wide range of weights while taking up far less space. And while the upfront cost can still be significant, they're typically a much better value than investing in the same weight increments as individual pairs.
These compact yet powerful tools also make it possible to do scores of different exercises that hit all your major muscle groups without needing to buy additional equipment. From weighted squats to bent-over rows and even farmer's walks, adjustable dumbbells offer you versatility to complete a full workout without requiring the footprint of a full weight rack.
With so many models out there, though, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. To make the decision easier, I pulled from my own experience as a certified personal trainer and tested 15 of the most popular adjustable dumbbells. I also talked to personal trainers, strength coaches and weight-lifting pros to determine which features really matter for different users. We ran each set through a series of exercises — bicep curls, tricep kickbacks, shoulder presses, chest presses, squats, lunges and bridges — to rate them on grip, ease of use, adjustability, overall feel, appearance, price and convenience.
Thinking about upgrading your home workouts? Here's a breakdown of the best adjustable dumbbells worth your attention.
In this story
Best adjustable dumbbell overall
Weight range:5 to 80 lbs. per adjustable dumbbell | Individual or set:Set | Number of dumbbell sets replaced:16 | Adjustment method:Dial
Our top choice for adjustable dumbbells is the Nüobell 580 Adjustable Dumbbells . They offer a smooth weight adjustment range from 5 pounds to 80 pounds, easily controlled by twisting the handles.
"It's better to purchase an adjustable dumbbell with a wide range of weight options because it will last you longer," says Domenic Angelino, CPT, of the International Personal Trainer Academy . As you get stronger, you'll need to increase the resistance level, which means you could outgrow your dumbbells if the weight range isn't wide enough. The Nüobell 580 dumbbells have a wide weight range that fits most people's needs and allows for ongoing progression.
These dumbbells have a knurled aluminum handle that's easy to grip even when your hands are slick with sweat. And unlike some other adjustable sets, the Nüobell dumbbells are shorter at lighter weights, making them easier to wield, just like traditional dumbbells.
Nüobell dumbbells are durable and go up to 80 pounds, which is reflected in their higher price tag. One slight drawback is that the edges of the plates can dig into your hands when holding onto the weighted ends for exercises like goblet squats or pullovers.
- Weight increments of 5 pounds up to 80 pounds
- Storage cradle included
- Knurled, easy-grip handles
- More expensive than other options
- Plates can dig into hands when using a goblet grip
More adjustable dumbbells we like for 2026
Weight range:5 to 30 lbs. per adjustable dumbbell, expandable to 60 lbs. | Individual or set:Set | Number of dumbbell sets replaced:6 (12 with the 60-lb. pair) | Adjustment method:Switch
Of all the sets we tested, the Rep QuickDraw is the sturdiest of the bunch, constructed almost entirely from steel. Even the switches holding the plates together are steel, which is unique in the market compared to the hidden gears most other brands use. Rep stands by this durability as well, with a lifetime warranty (most brands offer 1-2 years). If you frequently drop your weights between sets or you're worried about setting them down too hard, this is an ideal set for you.
We tested the 30-pound pair with curls, kickbacks, shoulder presses, chest presses, squats, lunges and bridges. Changing the weight is super simple with the flick of a switch, which makes them one of the fastest pairs we've used. The plates also stay in place without sticking when you pick them up. These dumbbells have knurled steel handles for great grip, without being so rough that it'll tear up your hands. One bonus we liked is the flat edge rests nicely across your hips for hip thrusts or bridges instead of digging in. Compared to our top pick, the Nüobell, the QuickDraws are easier to get back in the cradle since the cradles have wider openings and the plates stay put.
The biggest problem is the weight numbers which are hard to see since they're printed in black on a black cradle and can be obscured in shadow, so it's tough to see what resistance you're grabbing. Lots of reviewers say they solve this by using a white paint pen, which seems like a simple and straightforward solution. The two, 2.5-lb. micro plates can also be a bit of a pain. They're intended to be used together for a 5-lb. jump (rather than the standard 10 lbs.), but you have to physically unlatch and remove both, which slows you down if you're doing drop sets or supersets.
This set is also pretty bulky, especially compared with the Nüobells which reach a higher top weight while taking up a lot less space. The Nüobells are also less cumbersome to lift, which is a big reason why they maintain the top spot. The QuickDraws rattle a little when you use them, though it never bothered us. These are worth every penny if you want your dumbbells to stand the test of time (especially if you're accident prone or like to drop weights between sets).
- Almost all-steel build with steel locking switches
- Lifetime warranty and verified drop testing
- Very fast switch adjustment
- Grippy knurled handle
- Expandable from 30 to 60 pounds
- Black-on-black weight markings are hard to read
- Micro plates slow you down on drop sets and supersets
- Tops out at 60 pounds
Weight range:5 to 52.5 lbs. per adjustable dumbbell | Individual or set:Set | Number of dumbbell sets replaced:15 | Adjustment method:Dial
This version of the BowFlex 552s replaces the previously recalled set that had an issue with the handle coming loose mid-lift. The brand has rebuilt the product with reinforced metal parts and a new locking system to fix the problem. Otherwise, they're still the same, convenient 552s fans know and love, with the dial weight change system from 5 to 52.5 lbs. and 15 different weight settings.
We've put these back on our list because they have small weight jumps, which are ideal for smaller muscle group exercises (like lat raises and triceps extensions), or for people who have a tougher time increasing weight in full 5-lb. increments. We also like their rubberized grip and the fact they have no sharp edges to dig into your hands or legs.
They are pretty bulky, though, and close to 17 inches long, which can interfere with some positions. For instance, if you like to bring the weights in front of you for lat raises or you like to curl with a narrower grip (or even a normal grip if you're a smaller individual), then you might not be able to get the position you'd like due to the sheer size of the dumbbells. Sitting up and resting them on your knees between sets is clunky too, and they can shift and rattle a bit with heavy shoulder presses and bench presses.
Getting them back in the base can also be tricky, and they occasionally catch on the way out, which is something to be mindful of so you don't drop one by mistake. That said, if you tend to target accessory muscles or do a lot of isolation work, the 2.5-pound increments provide you with more usable weight options than any other set at this price point. It's also worth noting Bowflex also offers the 90 SelectTech Dumbbells with weights ranging from 10 to 90 pounds in 5-pound increments, so if you need a wider range of weights and you're comfortable with weight jumps of five pounds, shelling out for the additional weight (a total price between $700-$800, depending on sales), may be worth the investment.
- 2.5-pound increments from 5 to 25 pounds
- Comfortable rubber grip with no sharp plate edges
- Fast dial adjustment between sets
- Redesigned locking system addresses the 2025 recall
- Bulky enough to get in the way on curls and raises
- Can be tricky to get back in the base
- Some plates rattle and shift
Weight range:10 to 55 lbs. per adjustable dumbbell | Individual or set:Set | Number of dumbbell sets replaced:15 | Adjustment method:Pin
The NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Dumbbells scored high for the weight selection system, which was our favorite usability feature. The pin adjustment is safe and easy to use, allowing you to adjust the weight in 2.5- or 5-pound increments ... although the 2.5-pound adjustments aren't available between every 5-pound marker, which makes for a somewhat odd assortment of weight selections.There are 15 total options including 10, 12.5, 15, 20, 22.5, 25, 30, 32.5, 35, 40, 42.5, 45, 50, 52.5 and 55 pound dumbbells.
The set comes with custom-molded storage trays featuring clear weight labels that are easy to read, even for aging eyes like mine. This set is also priced in the midrange — less than the Bowflex version, but more than some of our other options (which feature smaller weight ranges), providing excellent functionality without the higher cost.
Jason Kozma , CPT, says that NordicTrack makes a good choice, especially if you're interested in trying the trainer-led strength workouts that the brand makes available through their iFit app.
Just keep in mind that while the weight adjustments are smooth, you may need to change multiple settings to select your desired weight. This might not be an issue if you typically take a few minutes to rest between sets, but if you prefer circuit workouts with little to no rest between exercises or sets, the process could slow you down. It's also important to store the dumbbells in their trays immediately after use as the dumbbell heads are round (not hexagonal with flat edges) and could roll around or move.
- Smooth pin weight selection system
- Storage tray included
- Trainer workouts are available for an additional cost, with a free trial
- More expensive
- Slow to adjust weight
- Could roll away when not on trays
Weight range:5 to 50 lbs. (expandable up to 70 or 90 lbs.) per adjustable dumbbell | Individual or set:Set | Number of dumbbell sets replaced:15 | Adjustment method:Pin
Yes, the PowerBlock Elite USA 90 Adjustable Dumbbells cost a pretty penny; you would need to consider these to be an investment in a home gym. However, with the 2.5-pound weight increments (5, 7.5, 10, 15, 17.5, 20, 25, 27.5, 30, 35, 37.5, 40, 45, 47.5, 50), purchasing the "stage 1" 50-pound set enables you to effectively replace the equivalent of 825 pounds of free weights. Plus, you can buy expansion kits to increase the weight range of each dumbbell up to 70 or 90 pounds ("stage 2" or "stage 3"), and with the purchase of additional accessories, they can be transformed into a straight barbell or curl bar too.
Hooking the dumbbells onto the straight bar (which costs an extra $149) was relatively easy. The bar itself is 15 pounds, so with the 50-pound set we were able to perform exercises like chest press and deadlift in a range of 25 to 115 pounds — not too shabby. Had we had the 90-pound expansion set, it would have allowed us to lift up to 195 pounds total. For anyone looking for one piece of equipment to do it all, this saves a ton of home space, as purchasing separate Olympic barbells and plate weights isn't necessary.
We like the fact that the weights are color-coded, but until we had used the dumbbells multiple times and memorized the colors of the weights we used most frequently, it was a little tricky to switch between the options.
Finally, the block shape is good for balance and preventing the weights from rolling away on a concrete floor. However, the shape itself and the unique plate-weight system look quite intimidating. They may not be the right fit for a beginner or light strength trainer looking for an option that mimics the look of traditional dumbbells. But for lifters looking for versatility, top quality and space-saving, they could be an appealing choice.
- Can convert into a barbell and curl bar with added accessories
- Replaces 825 pounds of free weights
- Durable, high-quality plates
- Expensive
- May appear intimidating
Weight range:5 to 50 lbs. per adjustable dumbbell | Individual or set:Set | Number of dumbbell sets replaced:10 | Adjustment method:Dial
What we really like about the Ethos 50-lb. selectable dumbbell is that it seems to fill in a weight/price gap that's missing with some of the other adjustable dumbbells we tested. It offers a wide range of weights — from 5 to 50 pounds — at a price point that's more reasonable than some of the other options that offer the same range.
While most of the higher-priced models offer smaller incremental increases in weight of 2.5 pounds, providing extra versatility in strength training programs, many of the budget models have a much larger increment range of 10 pounds. Ethos found the middle ground with a solid 5-pound increment increase all the way through. This means that while it doesn't replace 15 sets of dumbbells like some of our other, more expensive choices, it does replace 10 sets, which doubles the 5 sets provided by some of the budget picks. Plus, for most people and situations, a 5-pound increment is a reasonable choice.
The weight itself is also easy to change with a quick twist of the dial. We did find that it can be a little hard to fit the dumbbells back on the tray in the correct position after use. This isn't too much of an issue at lower weights, as it's easy enough to hold the weight while working to wiggle it back within its "holster," but at heavier weights it can be a bit tricky to keep holding the weight while trying to settle it back in.
- More budget friendly with a range of weight options
- Clear and simple weight selection
- Doesn't always fit easily into the provided trays
Weight range:5 to 25 lbs. per adjustable dumbbell | Individual or set:Set | Number of dumbbell sets replaced:5 | Adjustment method:Dial
The compact, non-intimidating shape of the Lifepro PowerFlow Plus Adjustable Dumbbell Set got top points for price, design and beginner-friendly usability during testing.
We found the adjustment dial to be one of our favorites. It was intuitive and quick, making changing weights easier than several other brands. For those who don't lift above 25 pounds or who are beginning strength training, this set felt very comfortable as an entry point to adjustable dumbbells.
Because of their small shape and compact design, they can easily be stored in a closet or next to the television to entice you to work out — at just 14 inches long and 8 inches wide, they're the most compact option (other than the super-lightweight Stakt Weights) on this list. The blue color and shiny black alloy steel make for an aesthetically pleasing set too — we wouldn't find them an eye-sore to have sitting out in a room.
That said, they are smaller than most of the sets we tested. If you have larger hands, they might not feel comfortable. The weights also are limited to 25 pounds (increasing from 5 to 25 in 5-pound increments). If you think you'll need a heavier challenge as your strength improves, the LifePro set might not be the best investment.
- Quality, alloy steel material
- Compact shape
- Easy-to-use dial
- Limited to 25 pounds
- Not ideal for big hands
Weight range:2 to 6 lbs. per adjustable dumbbell | Individual or set:Set | Number of dumbbell sets replaced:3 | Adjustment method:Screw
You won't break any weight-lifting records with the Stakt Weights, but if you're looking for a lightweight set of adjustable dumbbells to use during barre, Pilates or power yoga classes, these will do the trick. Each dumbbell (which is shaped just like a bar with two screw-off ends) maxes out at 6 pounds but drops to 2 pounds when you take the ends off.
They're ideal for workouts that focus on light resistance, but also come in handy if you're a true beginner who's just starting to dabble in strength training and don't want to mess with anything larger or heavier. I actually found they were easy to throw in the bottom of my kids' jogging stroller so I could take them with me to the park. At just 12 pounds total (for both weights), they weren't overly cumbersome to lug around and made it possible for me to do some weighted core work while my kids played.
They're extra compact, which is great for storage, but I did find that the ends could come loose on their own. I never had an end fall off while I was lifting, but it's definitely worth checking between exercises or sets — you wouldn't want to take a 2-pound weight to the foot if one fell while doing biceps curls.
The price itself is also a bit steep — it's typical to pay anywhere from $2 to $4 per pound of weight when purchasing free weights. If you were buying three sets of dumbbells at 2, 4 and 6 pounds, that would be a total of 24 pounds. The expected cost would range from about $48 to $96. This adjustable set costs $108, placing it just outside of the upper end of the range. Where most adjustable dumbbells offer a cost savings over purchasing the equivalent in individual weights, these come out a bit high ... though not so high that it seems unreasonable.
- Very compact
- Easy to throw in a bag or travel with
- Good for barre, Pilates and yoga workouts
- Good for true beginners who want lighter weights
- Expensive for the total weight
- Ends can come loose
Types of adjustable dumbbells
To help your dumbbell selection process, here's an overview of the various adjustment mechanism options:
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Spin-lock or plate-loaded dumbbellshave a rotating collar that locks separate plate weights in place. These are typically "lower tech" and require more manual adjustments when switching between weight increments.
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Dial-tech dumbbellsuse a dial mechanism to change the weight with a simple twist.
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Selector pin dumbbellsuse a pin system to select different weight increments.
What to look for when purchasing adjustable dumbbells
For the uninitiated, Angelino offers these purchasing recommendations for beginner weight lifters and those looking to switch from traditional dumbbells:
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Adjustment increments.Opt for dumbbells that allow you to increase in small amounts, such as 2.5 to 5 pounds.
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Buy two dumbbells, not one.While some brands offer single adjustable dumbbells, it's best to purchase a pair. This gives you more flexibility in incorporating the equipment into your training, particularly for bilateral exercises like chest presses or dead lifts where it's ideal to use two dumbbells at the same time.
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Low minimum weight. You want dumbbells that you can use for as many exercises as possible, even ones that involve small muscles. Having a dumbbell with a low minimum weight (about 5 to 10 pounds) can make more exercises accessible.
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High maximum weight.A common mistake is to base your purchase on your current level of strength. Your strength will increase if you plan to resistance train frequently. While you might be tempted to purchase dumbbells that top out at 25 pounds, you'll have more flexibility to increase resistance if you opt for dumbbells that adjust up to 50 pounds (or more).
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Size.When storage space is limited, it's easy to underestimate how much room dumbbells (even the adjustable kind) can take up. Be sure to consider the size of the adjustable dumbbells themselves and the storage tray or rack that holds them.
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Weight selection mechanism.How you adjust the weight on dumbbells varies across brands, with dial mechanisms typically being the most straightforward and intuitive. Testing different options can help you determine which is the most convenient for your workout routine.
How we tested
As a certified personal trainer who tests and reviews fitness products for a living, I found reviewing these adjustable dumbbells right up my alley. I started by interviewing four different personal trainers, strength coaches and weight-lifting coaches to get their input on which features are most important for a variety of populations, combining their expert advice with my own. I then researched a range of the most popular products, selecting 15 sets of dumbbells to test. (I decided not to test individual adjustable dumbbells as I believe purchasing a pair is the best option.) I put each dumbbell set through a range of exercises, including bicep curls, tricep kickbacks, shoulder presses, chest presses, squats, lunges and bridges. Each brand was rated on grip, ease of use, adjustability, look, feel, size, weight (range and increments), price and convenience.
FAQs
Do you have any buying recommendations for beginners?
According to Gregor Parella, CPT, CSCS and fitness consultant for Ringside 24 , beginners should choose dumbbells with smaller increment adjustments, such as 2.5 or 5 pounds, for easy progression.
How should I test the grip of adjustable dumbbells?
Before you purchase a set, Sergii Putsov , CPT, PhD, and head of Sport Science at Torokhtiy Weightlifting, suggests testing for grip. "Nothing is more frustrating than a slippery, sweaty dumbbell," he says. He suggests considering the comfort of the grip, ergonomics and slip-resistance. The handle should have enough padding for a secure, comfortable grip.
Do I need a dumbbell stand for adjustable dumbbells?
Jason Kozma , CPT, recommends a dumbbell stand because they're at the ideal height. "You don't want to use an overly high table or workbench," he says. If you leave the dumbbells on the floor they may still be easy to access but may be harder to manage when you're performing exercises at higher resistance levels.
If you'd like to purchase a stand, they're available on Amazon and where adjustable dumbbells are sold. If you buy a stand that matches your dumbbells (i.e., a Bowflex stand for Bowflex dumbbells), expect to spend between $150-$200.
I'm afraid to try them. How can I prevent injury when starting with adjustable dumbbells?
Angelino recommends using a quality routine to warm up before using adjustable dumbbells. He provides this example:
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Start with a general cardio-based warm-up of 5 to 10 minutes to increase your body temperature. Anything from a light walk to light stationary cycling will work.
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Perform dynamic stretches to prepare your muscles for work. Movements like walking lunges or a sun salutation — exercises that move and don't involve holding a fixed position.
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Finally, do a practice warm-up set for the dumbbell exercise you'd like to do using about 50% of your planned weight. If you want to do dumbbell chest presses, for example, do a set, but at a light weight before you start your actual workout.
Other adjustable dumbbells we tested
We tried four other brands that were not included in our list. But just because they weren't included, that doesn't mean they may not be a good fit for you.
Bowflex 552 SelectTech Dumbbells (original version):These were previously our pick for the best overall adjustable dumbbells thanks to their smooth adjustment system, wide weight range and smaller adjustment increments at lower weights. However, Bowflex has recently issued a voluntary recall due to safety concerns involving the weight plates dislodging and causing injuries. While the brand is offering a refund or replacement for previously purchased sets, out of an abundance of caution we're removing them from our top picks for the time being. Weight Range: 5 to 52.5 lbs., 2.5- to 5-pound weight increments
Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbells :The Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbells have a solid construction, a wide weight range and small increments of 2.5 pounds. They also cost almost $700 — more than many of the products on this list (although the weight range is also higher). We didn't include them because of their high price and the fact that we prefer the expandable PowerBlock set for those who want heavier dumbbell options. Weight Range: 5 to 75 lbs. (expandable to 120 lbs.), 2.5-pound weight increments
Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbells :Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbells have a weight range and increment level similar to the Ethos option we featured above, and they function just as well. Even the price is similar ($380 when not on sale), making them a good option. That said, we didn't like the grip quite as much, and the slightly higher MSRP had Ethos win out. Weight Range: 10 to 50 lbs., 2.5-pound weight increments
Matrix DB50 Adjustable Dumbbells :Although these scored high in quality ratings and were explicitly recommended by one of our personal trainers, we chose not to include them because their regular list price is $849 and, even when on sale, typically cost more than $700. They also max out at 50 pounds with 5-pound weight increments, replacing only 10 total pairs of dumbbells instead of the 12-17 pairs typical of brands like of Bowflex, NordicTrack and PowerBlock. But their form, function and adjustability all ranked well, so if budget isn't an issue, they may be a good choice. Weight:5 to 50 lbs., 5-pound weight increments
Yes4All Adjustable Dumbbells :This set of dumbbells is currently out of stock, which is why it's no longer on our list of favorites. Previously, it was a top pick for budget-friendly pricing. While the set only replaces five pairs of dumbbells, with weight increments changing in 10-pound jumps between 15-55 pounds, it's a solid choice at a budget-friendly price for individuals who don't need smaller incremental changes. Weight:15 to 55 lbs., 10-pound weight increments
Flybird Adjustable Dumbbells, 25-lb set:This set was also a previous favorite for individuals looking for adjustable dumbbells with a lower overall weight limit. The buckle structure on the weight plates that straps the weights down was particularly helpful for beginners who might be nervous about the security features of adjustable weights. However, this set is no longer available. Flybird does offer a 55-lb adjustable dumbbell for roughly $400, but the weight increases at 10-pound increments (15, 25, 35, 45 and 55 pounds), which may not offer the versatility you need. Weight:5 to 25 lbs., 5-pound weight increments
Nuobell S 560 :This set from Nuobell was a close contender for knocking of the brand's 580s that currently sit in the top spot for "best overall." With weight increments ranging from 5 to 60 pounds, a super-simple weight selection mechanism that adjusts with a turn of the knurled-aluminum handle and a "feel" of standard dumbbells, it was really hard to find much to complain about. That said, the price is premium — at $800 for the equivalent of 12 sets of dumbbells, it's considerably more expensive than the brand's 580s, which cost $769 for the equivalent of 16 sets of dumbbells and a wider range of weight increments (up to 80 lbs.). While the updated design is certainly more comfortable and functional than the original, it's not enough of an upgrade to justify the higher price and lower weight range.
Meet our experts
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Domenic Angelino , CPT, International Personal Trainer Academy
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Jason Kozma , CPT and former Mr. America, based in Los Angeles
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Gregor Parella , CPT, CSCS, fitness consultant for Ringside 24
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Sergii Putsov , CPT, PhD, head of sport science at Torokhtiy Weightlifting
Update, August 4, 2026: We checked all product prices and availability. We've tested three new products and added them to the list. Our top pick remains unchanged.
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
