Best Adjustable Dumbbells as Tested by a Fitness Expert

What we like about it: These dumbbells are the updated version of the former 552 set that was recalled in June. Fresh out of the box, I noticed the upgrades — from the new metal parts to how durable each dumbbell felt in my hand. Each dumbbell goes up to 55.2 pounds and replaces 15 individual dumbbells. To adjust the weight on these dumbbells, you need to turn the dial on each side. BowFlex didn’t change this feature, but it seems even smoother and more secure this time around. 

One of the issues I’ve noticed with some adjustable dumbbells is that as the weight increases, they tend to get caught in the storage tray. The BowFlex dumbbells were smooth and slid in and out of the slots without any issues. I was able to do a variety of upper-body and lower-body exercises with these dumbbells, and was relieved that BowFlex kept the rubber non-slip grips on the handles. This feature keeps the dumbbells from digging into your palms, especially as you increase the weight.  

Who it’s best for: These weights are best for someone who plans on working out at home, but doesn’t have a lot of room to spare to keep individual dumbbells around. All 52.5 pounds of the BowFlex dumbbells can be neatly tucked away to the side of your workout space without taking up much room. If you’re already well-versed in lifting weights and are looking to continue challenging the weights you currently lift, there’s plenty of room to grow with these weights. Another plus is that they passed the roll test, which involves placing the weights down and observing whether they stay in place or roll, as this can be a safety hazard.

Who should avoid it: If you’re recovering from an injury or are new to weightlifting, these weights may be intimidating. In that case, I’d recommend starting with the lightest adjustable dumbbells on this list or even consider starting with individual weights to get a feel for the different exercises you’ll be doing. Even though adjustable dumbbells function the same way, they look and feel different and take some getting use to.

One other thing I didn’t like about the BowFlex adjustable dumbbells is that they feel awkward pressing overhead. However, this is something I’ve noticed is common with most adjustable dumbbells, due to their design. 

What we like about it: The Core adjustable dumbbells are one of my favorites because of their design and shape. I also liked that the weight plates are magnetic and can be easily separated before the dumbbell is placed on the rack. These were the only ones that came with a loose handle that latched onto the base and then the weight plates. 

Core’s dumbbells range from 5 to 50 pounds, and you can change the weight in 5-pound increments. They’re easy to use because you can change the weight with just a twist of the handle, and they have the fastest weight transition for an adjustable dumbbell with a manual design. I liked the sleek design and found them to be the least bulky of all the adjustable dumbbells I tried. The soft grip handle is designed to sit comfortably in your hand.

Who it’s best for: This adjustable dumbbell is best for someone who wants dumbbells that don’t roll easily. This could be a good pick if you live in an apartment and want to keep noise to a minimum when you work out. If you like doing a lot of exercises that require holding the dumbbells in front of your chest, these dumbbells are less restrictive than some others on the list.

Who should avoid it: One thing I didn’t like about these dumbbells was that I would have to hold the rack down when I changed it to a heavier weight. This was because the weights felt stiff and would get stuck as you pulled them out of the rack. Core also offers an optional stand for purchase. Based on customer reviews, the stand is sturdy and eliminates the issues I experienced compared to just having the rack alone. Another solution I figured out was to place the rack on a rubber mat; it provided a better grip and made it easier to slide out the dumbbell. However, this flaw is one thing to consider if you prefer dumbbells that don’t give you this issue.

What we like about it: The dial on the Flybird adjustable dumbbells was easy to use and just required a single twist to lock in the weight. These dumbbells are made up of cast-iron weight plates and a black plastic-coated handle. They range from 11 to 55 pounds and go up or down in 11-pound increments. The round design is similar to other adjustable dumbbells and passed the roll test when I placed them on the ground. In other words, it stayed put and didn’t seem at risk of rolling around. The dumbbells were the right challenge for me when I was doing heavier lifts such as squats and deadlifts.

Who it’s best for: I’d recommend these if you’re an experienced lifter and know you can handle double the weight each time. The handle design is made up of plastic, which can be tough on the hands, so if you don’t mind this factor, you’ll like these weights. However, I wouldn’t recommend these to inexperienced or beginner lifters.

Who should avoid it: Beginners and newbies to strength training may prefer dumbbells that have more of a comfortable and rubber-coated handle. I also found that its lightest weight at 11 pounds was still on the heavier side, especially for newer lifters. The 11-pound increments are also not ideal if you’re just figuring out the right weights for you. Most adjustable dumbbells go by 5-pound increments instead, so if you purchase these, you have to mentally prepare for the sudden jump in weight.

What we like about it: The Ativafit 71.5 adjustable dumbbells were the most foolproof to use. The dumbbells range from 5 to 71.5 pounds and replace 12 sets of dumbbells. The plastic rack has grooves that latch onto the dumbbells, keeping them secure when not in use. By looking at these, you can tell they are high-quality dumbbells because of the sturdy iron plates that make up the weights. It also has a nonslip handle with rubber, which helped with my grip when upping the weight. My favorite part about these dumbbells is how easy it is to change the weights with just a press of the red button on top of the dumbbell and a twist of the dial.

Who it’s best for: These dumbbells are best for advanced lifters who can handle dumbbells that max at over 70 pounds each. If you care about having the most foolproof method of changing the weight on an adjustable dumbbell, then the Ativafit will be the right design for you.

Who should avoid it: If you’re looking for lighter-weight options, there are other adjustable dumbbells on this list that are a better fit for your needs.

Editor’s note: The Ativafit 71.5 Adjustable Dumbbell set we tested is no longer available. Instead, Ativafit released an updated version, the 66-pound Adjustable Dumbbell set. Although we have yet to test these ourselves, according to Ativa, it has a smoother adjustment mechanism and is being sold for the same price as its predecessor on its site.

What we like about it: The Lifepro PowerFlow Plus is the lightest of all the adjustable dumbbells on this list. They max out at 25 pounds and go down by 5-pound increments. The weight adjustment mechanism makes it easy to change your weights as you go through your workout. These dumbbells are round and sturdy, so you don’t have to worry about them rolling around when placed down. I was easily able to do leg and upper body exercises with these dumbbells without them feeling bulky or in the way.

Who it’s best for: These dumbbells are best for someone who is resuming working out or isn’t ready to upgrade to the heavier set just yet. I’m always an advocate for focusing on form first before graduating to heavier weights.

Who should avoid it: If you’re already strength training regularly and are looking to challenge yourself, depending on your fitness level, these may feel light. In that case, I would upgrade to a pair of 50-pound adjustable dumbbells instead. Additionally, one of the things I didn’t love about this set, and it may not matter to some exercisers, is that the base and the mechanism where you change the weight are made of plastic. This cheapens the feel and look of the dumbbells to me. Particularly, the lever that changes the weight feels a little flimsy and like it could eventually break off after lots of use.