The 10 Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Home of 2025, Tested by Fitness Experts, Athletes, and Coaches

At a Glance

• Durable adjustable dumbbells
• Average weight range
• Above-average price
• Below-average warranty period, but drops are covered

Simply put, the Snode AD80 Adjustable Dumbbells are the best overall adjustable dumbbells on the market due to their nearly-all-metal construction, quick adjustment mechanism, and high-quality knurled handle. The durability is top-notch, earning a 5 out of 5 in our testing.

They’re also one of the only adjustable dumbbells that are protected against drops up to 32 inches in height—most other adjustable dumbbells recommend you don’t drop their products at all.

Durability: 5/5

Weight Options: 4/5

Adjustment Speed: 4.5/5

Why We Like Snode AD80 Adjustable Dumbbells

GGR founder Coop Mitchell used the Snode AD80s and conducted some drop tests to assess their durability. They held up incredibly well at their lightest and heaviest settings. “While I don’t recommend you drop any fitness equipment,” Coop told me, “It’s nice to know that nothing will happen to these if they fall out of your hands [from a reasonable height].”

These dumbbells are shaped like traditional dumbbells and felt like pro-style dumbbells during testing. While not completely a metal construction, Snode does use fewer plastic components than most other adjustable dumbbells, earning the AD80s a 4 out of 5 for their construction.

Coop admits the knurling on the metal handle is a bit more passive than he’d like, but it’s still grippy enough for high-rep workouts. He rates the handle a solid 4.5 out of 5 and also calls out the 36-millimeter diameter of the handle, which is thicker than most other adjustable dumbbells. “This gives you a better pump when lifting with them, especially for your forearms,” Coop explained to me.

RELATED: 15 Exercises for the Best Forearm Workouts

Alternatives

At their maximum weight of 80 pounds, the Snode dumbbells are just over 18 inches long, which is a tad longer than your average adjustable dumbbell. Longer dumbbells can start to feel awkward through certain movements, cutting down on your range of motion or being difficult to control. They still feel pretty good in use according to Coop, but it’s something to call out just in case.

The main annoyance with these adjustable dumbbells is that they go up in 10-pound increments. They still earn a 4 out of 5 for weight changes due to their max weight, but 10-pound jumps can make progressive overload a little tough—you’d ideally want some smaller jumps when training with this intent.

You can buy 2.5- or 5-pound magnetic plates that can attach to either end, though we would’ve liked to have seen that on the product due to how pricey it is (to be clear, we do think the AD80s are worth the price due to the heavy-duty construction).

If you need a pair of adjustable dumbbells that use 5-pound increments but still hit similar weights as the Snode AD80, check out the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells, which go from 5 to 80 pounds in 5-pound increments. They’re also similarly priced, although the durability is a bit less.

Testing Breakdown

The warranty on the Snode AD80s is shorter than most dumbbells at two years, but the protection plan covers drops from 32 inches, which is a rarity for adjustable dumbbells. Here’s how they scored across all our testing metrics.

Vs. The Average

While pricier than your average pair of adjustable dumbbells, the durability and quick-changing dial adjustments make the Snodes worth it, in our opinion.

Learn more in our Snode Adjustable Dumbbell review.

At a Glance 

• Durable adjustable dumbbells rated for drops
• More affordable price than the average
• Below-average weight maximum of 60 lbs
• Lifetime warranty is above the industry standard

No matter how hard you’re struggling with a rep, you need to make sure to never drop an adjustable dumbbell—but in the event of an accidental slip or drop, the ultra-durable REP QuickDraw adjustable dumbbells have you covered. These have been dropped more than 100,000 times by REP Fitness from multiple heights (including from a roof) and angles to ensure they don’t shatter if you let go during a heavy shoulder press or biceps curl.

We decided to conduct our own tests, and after several drops at the lightest and heaviest weights, GGR founder Coop Mitchell was comfortable rating them at 5 out of 5 for durability.

Durability: 5/5

Handle: 4/5

Value: 4.5/5

Why We Like REP Fitness QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells

REP Fitness was able to accomplish some of the most durable dumbbells on the market with a mostly metal construction—the only plastic is in places to prevent metal from rubbing against other metal—as well as steel support rods on one side of each handle, earning another 5 out of 5 for the construction. 

The rods prevent these dumbbells from feeling completely like traditional hex dumbbells, though I should note it didn’t bother Coop or the other testers much, and there’s no caged handle like you see with PowerBlocks.

The starting weight is 5 pounds and REP has options going up to 30, 40, 50, and 60 pounds, going up by 10 pounds, or 2.5 and 5 pounds with the addition of micro-adjustment plates. They have lock-and-load switches on each plate that give a satisfying click to let you know the weights are loaded and in place. Coop rates the QuickDraw Dumbbells’ design a 4 out of 5, and let me know, “The smaller adder weights can be a bit of a nuisance to add or remove from the dumbbell.”

Alternatives

Our team had mixed reviews on the dumbbell handle; everyone liked the straight, knurled handle, but GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, CPT, rates the design at 4 out of 5 and mentioned to me, “The volcano knurling is more passive than other bars and dumbbells I’ve used or tested.” This shouldn’t be a dealbreaker for most people however, as Coop and other testers liked the handle.

As previously mentioned, the QuickDraw adjustable dumbbells can be expanded up to 60 pounds, which may be a bit low for some athletes and home gym owners. We rate the weight options at 3 out of 5, accordingly.

If 60 pounds as a maximum weight is too light for you, REP has partnered with PÉPIN to create the REP X PÉPIN Fast Series Adjustable Dumbbell, that reaches up to 125 pounds.

Testing Breakdown

Although the REP QuickDraws have a lower maximum weight than other dumbbells, they scored incredibly well for durability and construction. Here’s a look at all performance ratings from our equipment testing.

Vs. The Average

These dumbbells are cheaper than the average adjustable dumbbell, although they don’t quite reach the average maximum weight. Still, their high durability and lifetime warranty will make it worth it to users wanting a smaller weight range.

Our REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbell review has our full thoughts on this equipment.

At a Glance 

• Adjustable dumbbells that replace 16 sets of dumbbells
• Above-average price
• Average weight range and increments
• Near-average warranty at four years

Of all the space-saving dumbbells we’ve tested, NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells are amongst the best, especially with how easy they are to use. In just a matter of seconds, you can change from 5 pounds up to 80 pounds simply by twisting the handle. GGR founder Coop Mitchell told me that they consistently had one of the fastest recorded times for changing weights in our testing, earning one of the few perfect 5-out-of-5 scores for their adjustment speed.

Construction: 4/5

Adjustment Speed: 5/5

Handle: 4.5/5

Why We Like NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells

The quick-change adjustment of NÜOBELLs is one of the best features, but there’s plenty more to like about these adjustable dumbbells. “For one, they’re well-built and look sharp,” Coop said to me, rating the design and aesthetics at 4.5 out of 5. You can choose from four different colors for these dumbbells. Plus, the flat plate design sets these apart, as it makes for a more natural feel than some dumbbells that have awkward head profiles—like Bowflex SelectTech’s.

RELATED: NÜOBELL Vs Bowflex Dumbbells

Due to the use of metal plates and their uncaged handle design, the NÜOBELLs feel just as good as fixed dumbbells. “If you closed your eyes during a bench press, you wouldn’t even know you were using an adjustable dumbbell,” Coop explained to me. 

Unlike many dumbbell sets that use contoured handles with rubber or foam grips, the NÜOBELLs use a barbell-style handle with a surprisingly aggressive knurled finish. This handle makes this dumbbell set really appealing to people who normally do barbell exercises, since you’ll get a feeling and grip similar to what you’re used to. We rate the handle at 4.5 out of 5.

Alternatives

The biggest gripe we have with the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells is that they use quite a bit of plastic in their construction. Durability-wise, these dumbbells won’t hold up as well as an all-metal construction, so they earn a 3.5 out of 5 in the category. “This is not a set of adjustable dumbbells I would suggest dropping from even a couple of inches off the ground,” Coop added.

Also, these dumbbells lack upgradability: The max weight is 80 pounds, and there’s no way to go heavier in the future. Still, if you don’t need more than 80 pounds in each hand, these could be a great option.

If you’re looking to go beyond 80 pounds in your dumbbells, check out the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells, which can be expanded from 80 to 100 pounds.

Testing Breakdown

Although the durability isn’t as solid as we’d like to see, NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells performed well in our testing. Here’s how they scored.

Vs. The Average

NÜOBELLs are about as close to the average adjustable dumbbell as you can get, except for the higher price. Many will find the cost suitable, however, for the quick adjustments that the dumbbells can make.

For more, read our full NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells review.

At a Glance 

• Adjusts from 5 to 52.5 lbs per dumbbell 
• Easy and quick to adjust
• No expansion kit
• Comes with storage trays

Many of the best adjustable dumbbells increase in weight up to 80, 90, or 100 pounds. We think that’s a bit of overkill for beginners—and they can be really pricey—so our testers chose the Bowflex SelectTech 552s as the best adjustable dumbbells for beginners. Their weight range of 5 to 52.5 pounds per ‘bell is approachable, and they cost less than $500 (with financing available, to boot). All this makes them an achievable investment for those new to strength training.

The Results Series 552 SelectTech dumbbells replace the previous version, the original SelectTech 552s, which were recalled in early 2025 due to potential impact hazards from the plates dislodging during use. If you own the Bowflex 552 Adjustable Dumbbells, you may be eligible for a refund or replacement. To learn more and start the recall process, read the Consumer Product Safety Commission statement.

Durability: 4/5

Adjustment Speed: 4/5

Handle: 4/5

Why We Like the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells

Our testers love the adjustment mechanism on the SelectTech 552s. Coop Mitchell, GGR founder, rates them a 4 out of 5 for adjustment speed. “Switching from various dumbbell exercises to another is pretty straightforward: all you need to do is turn the dial to make your weight selection,” Coop explains. “This quick weight adjustment allows supersets to happen much quicker than loadable dumbbells or even some other adjustable dumbbells.” 

Our other tester, Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC, also gives them a 4 out of 5 for adjustments, saying, “It’s a very fast adjustment; all you have to do is turn a knob on each side and make sure the numbers match.”

These dumbbells also earn 4 out of 5 points for the handle quality. While Matt himself isn’t a huge fan of the design (he prefers a traditional metal knurling), he appreciates the textured rubber handle for people whose hands may not be used to gripping metal dumbbells. It’s another great feature for novices.

Alternatives

The chief complaint among all of our testers who have used the SelectTech 552 dumbbells is their limitation in weight. They go up to 52.5 pounds each, so the max you can lift with them is 105 pounds. Accordingly, our testers give them 3 out of 5 points for max weight. As we’ve mentioned, this is a fine number for those new to lifting, but advanced and even intermediate lifters may find them lacking. 

If you want to start small but add weight as you get stronger, we recommend the PowerBlock Pro EXP 100 Adjustable Dumbbell Set, which comes with 5 to 40 pounds. Then, you can buy expansion packs for 60, 80, or 100 pounds per dumbbell.

Testing Breakdown

The Bowflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbells exceeded our testing benchmarks in every category except max weight—where they earned a 3 out of 5—but their weight range is precisely what makes them a great choice for beginners.

Vs. The Average

The SelectTech 552 dumbbells are about $150 cheaper than the average pair, but they have a smaller weight range than your typical adjustable dumbbell.

Learn more about these dumbbells and our testers’ thoughts in our Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells review.

At a Glance 

• Premium pair of adjustable dumbbells
• Above-average maximum weight
• 2.5-lb micro-adjustments makes for smaller jumps
• Lifetime warranty is above the standard

Adjustable dumbbells have a habit of limiting your range of motion on moves like chest presses because of their bulky and, at times, awkward design that can get in the way of a full stretch. However, the REP x PÉPIN Fast Series dumbbells never had that issue in our testing. 

These dumbbells manage to pack a lot of weight in a compact design. Additionally, the 34-millimeter handle (bigger than an Olympic barbell) helps with comfort when pressing weights, earning the handle a 4.5-out-of-5 score.

Durability: 5/5

Adjustment Speed: 4/5

Handle: 4.5/5

Why We Like REP x PÉPIN Fast Series Adjustable Dumbbells

These dumbbells, that GGR founder Coop Mitchells has affectionately coined the “Reppins,” are a collaboration between REP Fitness and PÉPIN—a Canadian company. The latter has a similar set of adjustable dumbbells at a much steeper price—their collaboration with REP allows them to drop the cost and add in some newer features, earning a 4.5 out of 5 on value. 

RELATED: Pepin Fast Series Adjustable Dumbbells Review

One of the differences is the “Reppins” start at 10 pounds, whereas the original PÉPINs began at 20. That might not seem like a big deal, but as Coop pointed out to me, “This makes the dumbbells more accessible to other people who might use your home gym.” In terms of max weight, you have three options: 85, 105, or 125 pounds. If you start smaller, you can also add more plates without purchasing a new cradle. These get a 5 out of 5 on its weight options.

RELATED: What Size Dumbbells Should I Buy?

Last, but certainly not least, the REP x PÉPIN Fast Series earns a 5 out of 5 on both durability and construction. REP conducted several drop tests on these things—as did we—and they survived each one. A lot of this durability comes from the almost entirely metal construction, leaving little room for weak points in the dumbbells.

Alternatives

Although we like the value on the REP x PÉPIN Fast Series dumbbells, they are a premium product, and the price matches that. The 85-pound set starts at $1,099, and the 125-pound option will cost over $1,500. It’s steep, but worth it…if it can fit into your budget.

Another slight callout is that the “Reppins” have a caged handle, similar to what you’d see on PowerBlocks, so they won’t feel exactly like your standard fixed weight. On the bright side, they come in handy during overhead presses or any other time you want to switch up your grip.

If the price tag is a bit much for now, try out the REP Fitness QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells. While they don’t go as heavy, they cost around $500 for up to 60 pounds, and they’re just as durable as the Fast Series, if not more so.

Testing Breakdown

We liked our time testing out the REP x PÉPIN Fast Series Adjustable Dumbbells, and that’s reflected in our scores.

Vs. The Average

Although a pricier dumbbell, the REP x PÉPIN Fast Series goes much heavier than the average adjustable dumbbells, maxing out to as high as 125 pounds.

Learn more in our full REP x PÉPIN Fast Series Adjustable Dumbbell review.

At a Glance 

• Loadable dumbbell handles
• Sold individually, unlike most adjustable dumbbells
• Lower cost, but requires weight plates
• Heavier max weight than average dumbbells

The Rogue Loadable Dumbbells are some of the best loadable dumbbell handles we’ve ever tested. Available in 10- or 15-pound options, you can load whatever weight plates you have available in your gym, meaning you can go as heavy as you need for virtually any exercise. 

The DB-15 model—named so because it weighs 15 pounds—has 6.75 inches of loadable sleeve length, so the sky’s the limit with getting these dumbbells heavy. It gets a 4 out of 5 for weight options, only because it’ll depend on the weight plates you have in your garage gym.

Construction: 4.5/5

Adjustment Speed: 3/5

Handle: 4.5/5

Why We Like Rogue Loadable Dumbbells

“With a 28.5-millimeter knurled handle, these dumbbells are basically a miniature Rogue Ohio Bar,” Coop told me, rating them at 4.5 out of 5 for both durability and construction. They’re great for rows, bench press, and goblet squats, but the handles also rotate with bronze bushings, making them excellent for dynamic movements, too—dumbbell snatches, clean and jerks, and more.

With the handle knurled just like a Rogue barbell, the Rogue Loadable Dumbbells earn a 4.5 out of 5 for their handles, making it easy to grip for static and dynamic movements alike. You can comfortably bench, row, or deadlift with dumbbells like these—really whatever dumbbell exercise you can think of, making them one of the most versatile adjustable dumbbell options available to home gym users.

Alternatives

Even though these dumbbell handles are versatile, weight changes will be slower than other adjustable dumbbells since you’ll have to load weight plates and secure them with a barbell collar. As such, these get a 3 out of 5 for adjustment speed, but they will still work fine for most exercises and workouts.

Another callout is the price. Sold individually, one 15-pound loadable dumbbell costs $150, which is pricey compared to other similar options. This is still cheaper than most adjustable dumbbells, but it’s certainly a splurge for a loadable dumbbell handle.

There are good options on the market for far less money than these, like the Titan Loadable Olympic Dumbbell Handles—a pair costs less than a single DB-15.

Testing Breakdown

Plate-loaded dumbbells will generally be slower to make weight adjustments with than other adjustable dumbbells. Here’s how that consideration affected the Rogue Loadable Dumbbells’ scores.

Vs. The Average

Unlike most adjustable dumbbells, the Rogue Loadable Dumbbells are sold individually, meaning you’re paying double for a pair of handles. Still, the durability and lifetime warranty can help to justify the pricier cost.

For more, read our in-depth Rogue DB-15 Loadable Dumbbell review.

At a Glance 

• Adjustable dumbbells able to reach 100 lbs
• Start below the average price, but can add up with expansion kits
• Replaces an above-average number of dumbbells
• Five-year warranty is average

It’s hard to call a pair of dumbbells a “set,” but I can see it with the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells. You can start with a 40-pound set, but with expander kits up to 100 pounds, the Pro EXP replaces up to 30 pairs of dumbbells, giving the adjustable dumbbells a 4 out of 5 for weight options (only because the expander kits cost extra).

Durability: 5/5

Aesthetics: 4.5/5

Handle: 3/5

Why We Like PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells

Expert product tester and founder of Garage Gym Reviews Coop Mitchell has been a fan of PowerBlock adjustable dumbbells since they first came out (including the PowerBlock Elite and Sports Series), and the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP are a solid upgrade from previous iterations. Steel weight plates are molded over with a urethane coating, making for a solid 4-out-of-5 score for the construction. The brand also has a reputation for durable equipment, earning them a 5 out of 5 score for durability.

These dumbbells feel great in use, according to Coop. “They aren’t overly large at their top weights, and they feel pretty good in training,” he told me. However, people new to PowerBlocks will probably have to get used to the box shape and caged handle, so he rated the design and aesthetics at 4.5 out of 5.

Another big plus of the Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells is that you now have an option for a knurled handle—a callout that Coop had for previous models. You can still go with a rubber grip (it was fine in our tests), but if you prefer a knurled handle, go with it; it doesn’t affect your cost. The 38-millimeter thickness of the handle may take some getting used to, though, so we rate the handle a 3 out of 5.

Alternatives

“The reason I love PowerBlocks is because of how durable they are,” Coop said to me. “They’re some of the most proven dumbbells on the market.” Still, the box design and caged handle may be enough to detract buyers from these adjustable dumbbells. With many adjustable dumbbells trying to mimic traditional fixed dumbbells, some folks may opt for those instead of the PowerBlocks.

The other major callout we have is that these dumbbells can get pricey, especially at the heavier weights. The maximum weight of 100 pounds will cost nearly $1,200, which can be outside of some people’s budgets. You can buy the starting 40-pound set and add on kits as needed, if  you don’t want to spend all of your money at once, though.

For a dumbbell that can go heavy but still feels like a traditional dumbbell, try out the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells, which have a round shape and traditional knurled handle while capable of weights up to 80 pounds.

Testing Breakdown

Here’s a look at how the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells scored in our testing. With middle-of-the-road scores in the handle and value, it still performed well in other aspects.

Vs. The Average

These dumbbells can go far heavier than the average max weight of 80 pounds, although the dumbbells will be considerably larger than your common adjustable dumbbell, being 2 inches longer than the average.

You can check out our Powerblock Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells review for more on Powerblock’s latest dumbbell set.

At a Glance 

• Adjustable dumbbells using a spin-lock dial
• Can reach well above the average max weight
• Above-average number of dumbbells replaced
• Lifetime warranty is above the standard

If you want a more traditional feeling dumbbell that goes heavy, then the Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbell System is what we’d recommend. Ironmasters can go up to a whopping 165 pounds using solid metal weight plates and earning a 4.5 out of 5 for the available weight options.

GGR founder and product expert Coop Mitchell told me, “I call these the Lifter’s Adjustable Dumbbells as they feel most similar to a fixed dumbbell and have the look and feel of an old-school weight room.”

RELATED: Full-Body Dumbbell Workout

Construction: 4.5/5

Handle: 4/5

Adjustment Speed: 3.5/5

Why We Like Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbells

The Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbells are known for their durability, and earned a 4.5 out of 5 in the category during testing. Coop asked the Home Gym Community Group what they thought about Ironmasters, and nearly everyone remarked on how tough they were. It makes sense, as they are made entirely from steel and iron.

The handles are chrome-plated, and each weight plate is machined and precision cast to ensure a tight fit. They look great, feel great, and can be relied on for years of use thanks to their quality construction materials. We rate the construction at 4.5 out of 5.

The design is simple, but effective. With the ends of Ironmaster dumbbells being flat, it’s easy to rest them on your quads before starting a set in order to increase stability. Loadable dumbbells can’t really compete with this because the dumbbell sleeves will dig into your legs. The square weights also make the workout go quicker as they don’t roll around all over the place when set on your home gym flooring.

Alternatives

The Quick-Lock adjustment system uses a rod that holds the weights in place and can quickly be removed; this is what separates these from other spin-lock dumbbells. Still, the Ironmasters aren’t as quick to change as other adjustable dumbbells on this list, and they’ll require some mental math (similar to adding up a barbell and weights). That said, this is still a pretty solid design for essentially a loadable dumbbell. They earn a 3.5 out of 5 for weight changes.

The handle is knurled, as are the spin-locks, which Coop was certainly a fan of. However, the handles are a little long, which can be awkward for some movements, so the handle gets a 4-out-of-5 score.

For the quickest weight changes, you won’t go wrong with the aptly-named REP QuickDraws, which use a patented Lock-’N’-Load Switch for quick changes and improved durability.

Testing Breakdown

While the Quick-Lock adjustment mechanism is effective and makes adjustments faster, it pales in comparison to some adjustable dumbbells using a quick-change dial. Still, these dumbbells scored well in our testing.

Vs. The Average

The base Ironmaster adjustable dumbbells are just over the average adjustable dumbbell price, and the base maximum weight is just under the average, as well. However, the dumbbells replace an impressive 24 dumbbell weights.

To read more, check out our in-depth Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbells review.

At a Glance 

• Budget-friendly loadable dumbbell handles
• Sold as a pair like most adjustable dumbbells
• Heavier max weight than average dumbbells
• Below-average warranty

Adjustable weights aren’t limited to proprietary designs. Loadable dumbbells use the Olympic plates you already own and use regularly on your barbells and can go as heavy as you could ever lift. These Titan handles have killer value and take this pick due to the great pricing and free shipping Titan offers. The handles’ $125 price tag earn them a 5 out of 5 for value.

Handle: 4/5

Weight Options: 4.5/5

Durability: 4.5/5

Why We Like Titan Loadable Olympic Dumbbell Handles

GGR senior director of content Kate Meier, a certified personal trainer and weightlifting coach, has had the Titan Olympic Dumbbell Handles in her garage gym for a few years. I asked Kate what made these handles stand out, and she replied, “They fit my existing change plates, they are easy to load and unload, and they get the job done, above all else.”

A loadable dumbbell often mimics one of the best Olympic barbells. The Titan loadable dumbbells feature a diamond knurling on the handle that Kate rates a 4 out of 5. “They’re fairly passive, but the handles still give a good grip,” she said.

Also, because they work with existing weight plates, they are typically much cheaper to get started with than other adjustable dumbbells on our list thanks to a lower upfront cost for the majority of home gym owners. They can also go as heavy as your available change plates, provided they can all fit across the sleeve length. They get a 4.5 out of 5 for weight options.

Available in different lengths, Kate bought the 15-inch handles on sale a few years ago. “I recommend the 20-inch handles, especially if you have thicker plates and thick barbell collars,” Kate mentioned to me. “I have Rogue change plates, and you can only get two 5-kilogram plates on the handles with a standard collar.”

Alternatives

If you don’t have Olympic weight plates in your garage gym already, loadable dumbbells are going to get expensive quickly, since you’ll need to also purchase plates to use. These can still be of great value, but keep that in mind.

Plate-loaded dumbbells won’t be the fastest to adjust, either, so they may not be ideal for CrossFit workouts requiring quick weight changes. And while loadable dumbbell handles can be a great budget option, the fixed sleeve length can make for uncomfortable positions when the dumbbell ends rest on your quads.

Try the Kensui AdaptaBELL PROs if you’re concerned about discomfort, as their unique design maintains a flat dumbbell head at any weight or load.

Testing Breakdown

With a slower adjustment speed and lackluster warranty, the Titan Loadable Dumbbells still have tons of value, as seen in our scoring below.

Vs. The Average

These budget-friendly adjustable dumbbells are well below the average price, but also come with a short one-year warranty—well under the average of five years.

You can see more in our Titan Olympic Loadable Dumbbell Handles review.

At a Glance

• Budget-friendly adjustable dumbbells
• Below-average maximum weight
• Replaces 15 pairs of dumbbells, meeting the average
• 10-year frame warranty is above the standard

If splurging on some $800 adjustable dumbbells for your first home gym essentials isn’t sensible, you can still work on your strength training game at home for less than half that price. Listed under $400, the NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells set easily earned our nomination for the best budget adjustable dumbbells. Earning a 5 out of 5 for value, these dumbbells provide excellent bang for your muscle-building buck.

“These have tremendous value,” GGR founder Coop Mitchell told me. “I don’t understand why NordicTrack doesn’t market these more. It blows me away that I don’t see these all over the place in many people’s home gyms.”

Value: 5/5

Adjustment Speed: 4/5

Durability: 3/5

Why We Like NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells

While it’s not as fast as other adjustment mechanisms, the NordicTrack adjustable dumbbells use weight pin selectors to adjust from 10 pounds to 55 pounds. “You have to move four selectors—two on each dumbbell head,” added Coop, “but it’s very intuitive.” He rated the adjustment speed at 4 out of 5.

Most budget dumbbells use an ergonomic handle, too, but the NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells have a knurled metal handle. Albeit a passive knurling, it’s still a nice feature from what Coop has told me. He gave the handle a 4 out of 5 and states, “At this price point, a knurled handle…yeah, it’s nice.”

One of our favorite features is the dumbbell’s flat head, no matter the weight being used. Many adjustable dumbbells can have an awkward shape, making it more oblong or cumbersome at lighter weights. The NordicTrack dumbbells, on the other hand, provide a flat head that comfortably rests on your legs between sets, earning it a 4.5 out of 5 for its design and aesthetics.

Alternatives

Like most budget adjustable dumbbells, the maximum weight of the NordicTrack Select-A-Weights isn’t as high as some lifters may wish to reach. With a max weight of 55 pounds, we still rate the dumbbells at 3.5 out of 5 for weight options, mostly because the weight increments vary between 2.5 and 5 pounds. The smaller weight increments allow for these dumbbells to replace up to 15 pairs of dumbbells—a solid number for budget profiles.

Another callout we have is the durability of the adjustable dumbbells. There are quite a few moving parts, and some plastic is used, as well, so these are definitely a pair of dumbbells you don’t want to drop. Really, you shouldn’t drop any dumbbells, but these, in particular, may not hold up very well to a bad drop. As such, we rate the durability at a 3 out of 5.

If you want to stay around the same weight range but have a longer warranty, check out the Bowflex Results Series 552 SelectTechs, which max out at 52.5 pounds but have a warranty that covers parts for two years.

Testing Breakdown

The flat design and inexpensive price of the NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells make for a great budget dumbbell in our testing, although the use of plastic parts lowered its construction and durability scores.

Vs. The Average

These dumbbells from NordicTrack come in much cheaper than your average adjustable dumbbells, although the weight range is smaller than the standard.

Read more in our full NordicTrack Dumbbell review.