Get the Nüobell. The twist-dial mechanism is genuinely the best in the category, faster and smoother than competitors, and it replaces 32 dumbbells without feeling clunky. Worth the premium price.
What holds up
Incredibly easy twist-dial adjustment mechanism, fastest weight changes of any adjustable dumbbell tested
5-80 lb range per dumbbell with 5 lb increments, suitable for beginners through serious bodybuilders
Mimics traditional dumbbell feel and weight distribution better than most adjustable options
Comes with storage cradle and sleek, non-clunky design
Personal trainers specifically cite the easy adjustment and sleek design as standout features
What to know
Expensive at premium price point
Handle can be damaged if dumbbells are slammed down like at a commercial gym
Not ideal for very dynamic movements like snatches and cleans due to adjustable design
Expert verdict
These are super easy to adjust and not clunky at all. Simply twist the steel-knurled handle and you'll transition easily to the next weight. I also like that the dumbbell changes in 5 pound increments, which is great for supporting gradual strength gains.
Good Housekeeping (personal trainer Amy Schlinger)View sourceExpert verdict
These are another favorite for Schlinger as well, who cites the easy adjustment capabilities and sleek design.
Good Housekeeping (personal trainer Amy Schlinger on design)View source
The NordicTrack is the smart buy for most people. It covers 10-55 lbs, costs half what premium options do, and the flat-head design is genuinely useful for loaded bench presses. Skip the fancy features and get this.
What holds up
Replaces 30 different dumbbells at a fraction of premium prices
Weight range of 10-55 lbs per dumbbell with 2.5 or 5 lb increments covers most users
Flat-head design is great for loading on thighs during bench press and seated lifts
Solid weight distribution mimics traditional dumbbell feel
Includes 30-day family membership to iFit app with trainer-led exercises
What to know
Adjustment mechanism has multiple touch-points, making it slightly less seamless than dial-only systems
Plastic components may not be as durable with heavy use or during shipment
Not suited for very heavy lifting (maxes at 55 lbs per dumbbell)
Short 90-day warranty and poor customer service reviews reported
Expert verdict
Exercise physiologist Sydnee Mostek, MS, RDN, ACSM-EP is a fan of this adjustable dumbbell set that comes in at a fairly affordable price considering that it replaces 30 dumbbells.
Good Housekeeping (exercise physiologist Sydnee Mostek)View sourceExpert verdict
The weight range is 10 to 55 pounds per dumbbell which is appropriate for most people, but not for those engaging in very heavy lifts.
Start with the Bowflex 552 if you're new to adjustable dumbbells. The dial is intuitive, the app coaching is genuinely helpful for form, and it's been the community's go-to beginner pick for years.
What holds up
Available as single or pair, letting beginners start with one dumbbell
Easy dial mechanism for simple weight changes between exercises
Connects to JRNY app with motion tracking, real-time voice coaching, and rep counting
Comfortable grip with premium molding around plates to reduce noise
5-52.5 lb range with 2.5 lb increments supports gradual strength progression
Includes 1-year JRNY app membership
What to know
Bulky shape and length make certain exercises awkward (e.g., shoulder presses with standard form)
Maximum weight of 52.5 lbs may not be enough for advanced lifters
Reports of issues with locking mechanism and durability of plastic components
Must line up in base to change weight, which takes extra time
Plastic trays may crack over time with heavy use
Expert verdict
My first pair of adjustable dumbbells, Bowflex is a great choice for beginners. The popular pick boasts a durable design and uses a dial for easy transitioning between weights.
Schlinger is a fan of the Bowflex SelectTech's too, citing the wide range of 5 to 52.5 pounds per dumbbell to accommodate most workouts and gradual 2.5 pounds increments.
Good Housekeeping (personal trainer Amy Schlinger)View source
From the community
The grips on the 552s are slightly cushioned, which is a nice change from the ridged steel of my regular dumbbells. The 552s are pretty quiet, with none of the clanging sounds that come from reracking steel dumbbells.
If you have the budget, Core Home Fitness wins on usability. The one-hand twist is genuinely faster than competitors, the weight window is easy to read, and the V-grooves make re-racking effortless.
What holds up
One-hand twist adjustment allows simultaneous weight changes on both dumbbells in seconds
5-50 lb range per dumbbell with 5 lb increments covers most users
Weight display visible in small window on dumbbell head for easy mid-workout verification
V-shaped grooves on plate ends guide dumbbells into stand for easy re-racking
Excellent price per pound compared to buying equivalent individual dumbbell sets
Space-saving design with interlocking plates delivers benefits of 10 pairs in one
What to know
Expensive at $400 list price
Plastic handle can become slippery when drenched in sweat
Moveable and plastic pieces make them vulnerable to shifting during dynamic lifts
Round shape prone to rolling on uneven floors
Not ideal for drop training or very dynamic movements like snatches
Expert verdict
The Core Home Fitness Adjustable Set earned a place among our favorite dumbbell options and proved to be one of the most user-friendly adjustable hand weights in our lineup. These adjustable dumbbells are comfortable, simple to change weight, and easy to use for a variety of exercises.
Each Core Adjustable dumbbell can be set to a new weight with just a twist of the handle while it is racked in its stand. Since selecting the weight only takes one hand, we were free to adjust both dumbbells simultaneously in only a few seconds.
TELK delivers genuine value, 20 weight options, 5-year warranty, and quick adjustments for under $200. The trade-off is bulkier design and occasional durability issues, but for budget-conscious buyers, it's the real deal.
What holds up
5.5-52.5 lb range with 2.5 lb increments provides 20 weight options
Excellent 5-year warranty on weight plates and parts
Quick, easy weight adjustments between sets
Easy-to-grip design with comfortable handles
Replaces 20 individual dumbbell sets, saving significant space
Several customers specifically mention excellent value for the cost
What to know
Bulky design limits range of motion for some exercises
Bars reported to not be heavy enough to withstand heavier loads
Material of bar and weights reported to fall apart or appear damaged
Some users report receiving defective products
Incompatible with standard barbells and weight plates
Expert verdict
This dumbbell set ranges in weight from 5.5 to 52.5 pounds in 2.5-pound increments. The set includes 24 cast-iron plates designed to prevent rust and corrosion. The company offers a 5-year warranty on weight plates and parts. Several customers mention the set provides excellent value for the cost.
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