Wellness Origin HubThe best adjustable dumbbells for a small home gym
The best adjustable dumbbells for a small home gym: three sets that replace a full rack of weights, and what to look for before you spend the money.
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Our picks at a glance
- Best overall: Bowflex SelectTech 552 Around $430 Check price
- Best for growing into: PowerBlock Elite EXP Around $400 Check price
- Best value: NordicTrack Select-a-Weight 55 lb Around $300 Check price
A pair of adjustable dumbbells replaces a whole rack of fixed weights in the floor space of a small suitcase. For most people training at home, a dial-style set going up to around 50 pounds per hand covers years of progress. Below are three sets worth considering and what separates them.
What to look for
We looked at weight range, how quickly and securely each set changes weight, the shape of the handle and plates, and how much floor space the set and its cradles take up. Prices move often, so check the current price before you buy.
- Weight range. Beginners often start with 5–25 pounds for upper-body moves, but legs and back soon need more. A set reaching around 50 pounds gives room to grow. Sets that go much heavier are larger and cost more.
- Increments. Small jumps (2.5 pounds at the light end) make progress smoother on moves such as shoulder presses, where a 5-pound jump can be too much.
- Changing mechanism. Dials and selector pins are quick. Screw-collar sets are cheap but slow, and slow changes tend to mean you do not bother.
- Shape. Long, boxy dumbbells can bump your thighs or shoulders on curls and presses. Try the movements you plan to do in your head before choosing.
- Durability. Adjustable sets have moving parts. Do not drop them, and set them back in the cradle carefully.
- Space. Measure where the set will live. Many people also want a flat bench, which takes more room than the dumbbells.
Best overall: Bowflex SelectTech 552
Around $430
The best-known dial set, and for good reason: you set the dials, lift the handle from the cradle and the chosen plates come with it. It is the simplest choice for someone who wants to switch weights quickly between exercises without thinking about it.
What we like
- Turn a dial at each end to change weight
- Small 2.5 lb steps at the light end
- Covers roughly 5 to 52.5 lb per hand
Keep in mind
- Long shape can feel bulky on some moves
- Plastic parts need careful handling
- Should not be dropped
Best for growing into: PowerBlock Elite EXP
Around $400
The PowerBlock's block shape is shorter than most dial sets, which some people find steadier for presses and rows. The main appeal is that the starting set can be expanded with add-on kits, so you do not have to buy the heaviest version on day one.
What we like
- Compact, square shape that sits close to the body
- Selector pin is quick to move
- Expansion kits can add heavier weights later
Keep in mind
- Boxy look and feel takes getting used to
- Expansion kits add to the cost
- Pin needs to be fully seated each time
Best value: NordicTrack Select-a-Weight 55 lb
Around $300
A sensible pick if you want the convenience of a quick-change set but not the price of the market leaders. Check that the weight steps suit the moves you plan to do, as bigger jumps are harder on smaller muscles.
What we like
- Lower price than most dial-style sets
- Simple twist handle selection
- Comes with a storage tray
Keep in mind
- Larger increments than some rivals
- Less widely used, so fewer owner tips to go on
- Long shape like most dial sets
At a glance
| Dumbbells | Best for | Change system | Shape |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bowflex SelectTech 552 | Quick changes, all-round use | Dials at each end | Long |
| PowerBlock Elite EXP | Room to expand later | Selector pin | Compact, square |
| NordicTrack Select-a-Weight | Lower budget | Twist handle | Long |
Getting started with dumbbells
A handful of moves covers most of the body. Two or three sessions a week of the following is a good base:
- Goblet squat: hold one dumbbell upright at your chest, 3 sets of 8–12.
- Romanian deadlift: dumbbells in front of the thighs, push the hips back with a long spine, 3 sets of 8–10.
- One-arm row: one hand and knee on a bench or chair, pull the dumbbell to your hip, 3 sets of 8–12 each side.
- Floor or bench press: 3 sets of 8–12.
- Overhead press: standing or seated, 2–3 sets of 8–10.
Easier option: start with the bodyweight versions from our bodyweight workout at home and use light dumbbells for rows and presses only. Harder option: add a set, or move up one increment once you can do the top of the rep range with good form in every set.
A good mat or a rubber floor tile under the set protects the floor and quietens things down if you live in a flat.
Questions people ask
What weight should a beginner start with?
Many beginners start around 5–15 pounds for presses and rows, and more for squats and deadlifts. Start lighter than you think, learn the movement, and go up gradually.
Are adjustable dumbbells worth it over fixed ones?
For a small space, usually yes. A full rack of fixed dumbbells covering the same range would fill a wall. Fixed dumbbells are tougher and quicker to grab, though, which matters in busy shared gyms.
Can I drop adjustable dumbbells?
Most makers advise against it. The mechanisms can be damaged, so lower them to the floor or back into the cradle with control.
Photograph: AI-generated image
