Best Dumbbells for Your Home Gym 2025: Expert-Tested Picks

At a Glance 

• Fixed dumbbells with straight and ergonomic handle options
• Slightly larger weight range than the average dumbbell set
• Backed by a lifetime warranty for home use
• Less expensive cost per pound than the average dumbbell

For our best overall spot, we couldn’t go with anything other than the classic hex design of Giant Lifting Rubber Hex Dumbbells. We tested both versions available—ergonomic- or straight-knurled handles—and both tested astoundingly well with our experts, earning a 5 out of 5 on ergonomics. “They have a great grip and feel, and the knurling isn’t too rough,” adds Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC.

Along with a solid handle and in-hand feel, these dumbbells have broad optionality ranging from 2.5 to 100 pounds, are rubber-coated to protect your home gym flooring, and are backed by a lifetime warranty for residential use.

Construction: 4/5

Ergonomics: 5/5

Value: 4/5

Why We Like Giant Lifting Rubber Hex Dumbbells

While we can never fully endorse dropping your dumbbells from any height, we know it happens from time to time. With the Giant Lifting dumbbells, you don’t have to worry as much because the weights come with a rubber-coated head that can help protect your weights, equipment, and flooring.

The hexagonal shape of the Giant dumbbells also help keep the weights from rolling around if (and when) they’re dropped or set on the floor.  The chrome-plated handle can also better protect against corrosion and rust, scoring a 4 out of 5 for its construction. Giant Lifting even adds an extra layer of durability by friction welding the dumbbell head to the handle, which helps prevent the head from falling off when dropped.

RELATED: Does Dumbbell Shape Actually Matter?

Giant Lifting Rubber Hex Dumbbells are sold in pairs or sets and come with free shipping. The knurled straight handle variation of these dumbbells ranges between 5 and 100 pounds in increments of 5 pounds, but the ergonomic handle also offers a 2.5-pound dumbbell profile, as well. Because of all the available weights, we rated them at 5 out of 5 for optionality.

Alternatives

There’s not much to dislike about the Giant Lifting Rubber Hex Dumbbells, but if we were to split hairs, the knurling may not be for everyone. Matt gave the knurling a 4-out-of-5 rating, and told me, “It has better knurling than any other dumbbells I’ve used, but it’s not too aggressive or rough on the hands.” Still, some lifters (like myself) may prefer a more aggressive knurling pattern, so it may not be your cup of tea.

While building a dumbbell set will always be more expensive than buying a pair of adjustable dumbbells, Giant Lifting’s prices are some of the best for a product that doesn’t sacrifice quality. The brand’s weights start at around $2.20 per pound and come with free shipping, but if you’re looking for the lowest price, you’ll find a few of the best hex dumbbells come in closer to $1 per pound. That said, you can save even more money by using our Giant Lifting discount code.

For a heavier set of hex dumbbells, try out REP Fitness Hex Dumbbells, which also have a straight knurled handle and go as heavy as 125-pound pairs.

Testing Breakdown

Matt and our other testers thoroughly enjoyed the Giant Lifting Rubber Hex Dumbbells for a lot of reasons. Here’s a look at how it scored, overall.

Vs. The Average

Starting at about $2 per pound, Giant Lifting Rubber Hex Dumbbells are below the average cost per pound of fixed dumbbells, with a lifetime warranty—much higher than the average of 5 years.

At a Glance 

• Adjustable dumbbells with a classic, round dumbbell shape
• Smaller weight range than your average fixed dumbbell set
• Pricier than your average adjustable dumbbells
• Below-average 2-year warranty, but does cover small drops

The Snode AD80 adjustable dumbbells are our pick for the best adjustable dumbbells. Coop Mitchell, GGR’s founder, has used these multiple times, and admits, “I’m far more impressed with these than I thought I would be.” 

If you’re looking for a traditional dumbbell design, these Snode dumbbells can be a great option thanks to their classic, round shape and straight knurled handle. Even more impressive is the durability, which we rate at 5 out of 5. Plus, the two-year warranty covers drops from 32 inches—a rare protection when looking at adjustable silhouettes.

Adjustment Speed: 4.5/5

Durability: 5/5

Weight Options: 4/5

Why We Like Snode AD80 Adjustable Dumbbells

We love the insanely easy, quick-change design of the Snode AD80s, giving it a 4.5 out of 5—one of the highest scores of any adjustable dumbbell we have tested. There is a simple knob that rotates. The window clearly displays the weight on each adjustment, too. 

Also, it’s great that these have a more traditional dumbbell shape. Unlike many other adjustable dumbbells, your hand won’t be surrounded by a cage when using these—you can use them exactly like you’d use a regular ol’ cast iron dumbbell. The pancake-like stack of plates is super aesthetically pleasing, too, and allows them to lie flat on your thighs during moves like shoulder presses. “If you close your eyes, it feels just like a normal pro-style dumbbell,” Coop tells me.

One of our favorite features about the Snode Dumbbells is the knurled handle. The knurling really helps with grip, though Snode’s is a bit more on the passive side, earning a 4.5 out of 5 in the category. 

The plates are made entirely of cast iron and offer the same level of protection at 10 pounds as they do at 80. Coop rates the construction a 4 out of 5, since there are some plastic parts, but they’re housed within the adjustment gears. Still, though, even with the warranty covering drops, we wouldn’t recommend making a habit out of dropping these.

Alternatives

The one annoying thing about the AD80 dumbbells is that they jump in 10-pound weight increments, rather than 5 pounds—the standard jump of most other adjustable (and fixed) dumbbells. They still earn a 4 out of 5 for their high weight range (in comparison to other adjustable dumbbells), but the 10-pound jumps can make progressive overload difficult, as you may need smaller weight jumps to utilize this training principle effectively.

Additionally, they’re a bit pricier, too, though the durable construction and warranty against drops push these past competitors like NÜOBELL, in our humble opinion. Accordingly, we give these dumbbells a 4 out of 5 for value.

We love Snode, but would also like to see a longer warranty from them. For a pair of adjustable dumbbells with a lifetime warranty, consider the REP QuickDraw Dumbbells. These adjustable dumbbells also cover drops, even having survived a drop test from REP headquarters’ rooftop.

Testing Breakdown

The Snode AD80 adjustable dumbbells thoroughly impressed us, although we would like to see stronger policies like a longer warranty or free return shipping. Here’s a look at how it performed in our testing.

Vs. The Average

Comparatively, the AD80’s weight range of 10 to 80 pounds is a little lackluster to the average of 5 to 100 pounds in a fixed dumbbell set. However, it’s important to note that an 80-pound max weight is actually on the higher end for adjustable dumbbells.

For more information, check out our Snode Adjustable Dumbbells review.

At a Glance

• Adjustable dumbbells backed by an above-average lifetime warranty
• Less expensive than the average adjustable dumbbells
• Lower weight range than the standard fixed dumbbell set
• Handle diameter matches the standard

While fixed dumbbells certainly have their fans, we usually recommend adjustable dumbbells as the best dumbbells for home workouts—particularly the QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells from REP Fitness. Adjustable dumbbells, in general, can save you money and space, but the REP QuickDraws also have high value, which we rate at 4.5 out of 5. “For the price point, I think they’re fantastic,” GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, tells me. “Plus, I like the locking method and the ‘click’ you hear when adjusting weights.”

Value: 4.5/5

Durability: 5/5

Weight Options: 3/5

Why We Like REP Fitness QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells

One reason we love the QuickDraws is their incredible durability. Adjustable dumbbells can be quite fragile when compared to traditional dumbbells, but that’s not the case with these dumbbells because of their almost entirely metal construction. The only plastic used is some nylon to prevent metal parts from clanging into each other, earning the weights a 5 out of 5 in both construction and durability.

The REP QuickDraws also mostly feel like traditional dumbbells, aside from the use of two rods connecting the dumbbell heads together for added support. These won’t leave you with a boxed-in or cagey feeling on the handle like PowerBlocks might, though. Plus, the rods can be gripped for better control on exercises like front-rack lunges or goblet squats (if you don’t have any of the best kettlebells).

The straight, knurled handle makes for a comfortable grip according to our testers, although GGR founder Coop Mitchell mentioned to me that the handle is a bit longer than he personally prefers. “But for people with larger hands, it’ll be perfect,” he adds, rating the handle at 4 out of 5. Even after adding the 2.5-pound adder weights—allowing for 2.5- or 5-pound increments—you’ll still have plenty of room to grip your dumbbell.

Alternatives

Although we like the adjustable weight increments of 2.5 or 5 pounds, the maximum weight of 60 pounds may leave some lifters wanting more. The QuickDraws can be purchased at 30 pounds and then expanded to 40, 50, or 60 pounds, so it’s a nice set of adjustable dumbbells to grow into if you’re a beginner. However, heavy lifters may need a heavier set of adjustable dumbbells to make it worth their while. As such, we rate the weight options at 3 out of 5.

Coop also notes that the plastic cradle isn’t as high-quality as the dumbbells themselves. “I’d love to see the cradles with the same metal construction as the QuickDraws,” Coop adds.

Need a heavy pair of adjustable dumbbells, instead? Try out the REP x PÉPIN Fast Series Adjustable Dumbbells, which go as heavy as 125 pounds and also have a solid, durable construction.

Testing Breakdown

Although the maximum weight for the REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells is only 60 pounds, it scored highly in most of our testing categories, making it a great find if you’re looking for that particular weight range.

Vs. The Average

Depending on the starting weight you purchase, the QuickDraw dumbbells range from just over $300 to just under $600, ending up below the average cost of adjustable dumbbells. The lifetime warranty is also a big bonus, although the weight range is less than what we typically see from more traditional dumbbell sets.

Check out our REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells review for an in-depth look at these adjustable dumbbells.

At a Glance 

• Durable dumbbells with polyurethane heads and rotating handles
• Higher cost per pound than the average
• Higher weight range than the average
• Standard warranty of 5 years

There aren’t many rotating dumbbells out there on the market, but they can be a boon to your training if you’re often doing dumbbell snatches and cleans. The rotating handle will help keep the weights balanced during swinging motions, making for a smooth experience, which gets these Eleiko Evo Dumbbells a 5 out of 5 for ergonomics.

“Let me say that, for most people, rotating dumbbells aren’t a necessary purchase,” says expert product tester and GGR founder Coop Mitchell, “But if you’re in the market for premium free weights with a comfortable grip, the Eleiko Evo Dumbbells are the way to go.”

Ergonomics: 5/5

Construction: 5/5

Value: 3/5

Why We Like Eleiko Evo Dumbbells

You pay a premium price for the Eleiko Evo Dumbbells, but what you’re paying for is a patented rotating handle design that mimics the spin of one of the best Olympic barbells. Along with this, the dumbbells are built with high-quality materials. The 38-millimeter knurled handle is finished with stainless steel, and the dumbbell heads are coated with a clean, quality urethane coating, a much more durable material than rubber.

Lifters will love the premium build of these free weights—from the fully knurled dumbbell handle to the sloped head shape and multi-sided design. All these features add up to a 5-out-of-5 rating for the Evo’s construction.

“I’m usually a fan of stainless steel for premium dumbbells, but for the price you’re paying for these dumbbells, the urethane coating makes sense,” adds Coop. Eleiko claims they’ve tested these Evo Dumbbells by dropping them thousands of times from heights ranging from just 4 inches to 16.5 feet. With specs like that, there’s a good chance these dumbbells will last longer than their five-year warranty.

RELATED: Eleiko Discount Code

The Evos range from 12.5 to 150 pounds and can be bought individually or in sets. That’s quite a wide range, resulting in an optionality score of 5 out of 5. 

Alternatives

Like many products from this company, the Eleiko Evo Dumbbells are easily one of the highest quality dumbbell options out there, but because of the pricing and niche design, we can’t recommend them as the best overall pick. If everyone could afford a single $300 dumbbell, sure, but alas, that’s not the case. The dumbbell prices start at $7 per pound, which is well above the average cost of around $3. As a result, we can only rate the value at 3 out of 5.

Coop loves the knurling and grip, too, rating it at 5 out of 5, but the 38-millimeter handles for the Eleiko Evo Dumbbells are a bit thicker than the average of about 32 millimeters. While some folks may prefer this wider diameter, others may feel the thickness takes away from perceived comfort or control.

For a budget dumbbell option, check out the CAP Barbell 150-Pound Rubber Hex Dumbbell Set with Rack. These dumbbells cost around $1.10 per pound and come with a dumbbell rack for easier storage.

Testing Breakdown

The Eleiko Evo Dumbbells scored extremely well in our testing, aside from the overall value, as most people will find these a bit overpriced for their budget. We also knocked down its score for purchasing and delivery, since there’s no option to buy pairs of dumbbells—only individual weights or bundled sets.

Vs. The Average

As stated before, these are pricey dumbbells that cost well over the average of $3.23 per pound. Still, the dumbbells range up to 150 pounds, which is higher than the typical max weight of 100 pounds.

Check out our in-depth Eleiko Evo 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

PowerBlock dumbbells have been one of GGR founder Coop Mitchell’s favorite adjustable profiles since he built his first garage gym over a decade ago, largely because the PowerBlocks consistently offer the best price-to-performance ratio of any adjustable dumbbell he has tested. 

He considers the latest iteration—the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells—to be the best value dumbbells for three main reasons: They utilize an easy quick-change system, they have a wide weight range with available expansion kits, and they’re as durable as many fixed dumbbells we’ve tested. Accordingly, he rates the value at 4 out of 5 (only taking a point off because they’re slightly pricier than other less-durable dumbbells).

Durability: 5/5

Adjustment Speed: 4/5

Handle: 3/5

Why We Like PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells

One aspect we like about the Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells is that you can change weights in both 2.5- and 5-pound increments, and with added expansion kits, you can reach 100 pounds of total working weight per dumbbell. The dumbbells start at 40 pounds, but you can purchase 20-pound kits to build up to 60, 80, or 100 pounds, respectively. This is a dumbbell that can literally grow with your strength gains, earning a 4 out of 5 for its weight options.

These dumbbells work via a magnetic selector pin, which quickly changes the weight in 10-pound jumps. For smaller 2.5- or 5-pound jumps, the adjustment works a little differently (and takes a little longer). You pull out the selector pin, pull out the handle, and slide in one of the included metal cylinders in the accommodating slot. 

We rate the adjustment speed at 4 out of 5, accordingly. It’s not the fastest, but it is fairly quick and easy to do, especially for larger 10-pound jumps.

The full 100-pound dumbbell pair costs nearly $1,200, which is on the pricier side compared to other adjustable dumbbells in that weight range. Still, these dumbbells are some of the more durable adjustable dumbbells on the market, which, I’d say, justifies the price.

RELATED: PowerBlock Coupon

“I’ve never had a PowerBlock handle separate from the weight stack, and I’ve never experienced any issues with the pin or magnets, either—even during movements like dumbbell snatches,” Coop adds.

Alternatives

As much as we like these PowerBlocks, the rectangular shape can be tough to get used to. This is the biggest issue for most people—because the handles are caged, there will inevitably be some contact between your hand and the posts on the ‘bell. Still, Coop is a fan of the looks of the dumbbell, rating the aesthetics at 4.5 out of 5, although he knows it won’t be everyone’s cup of tea.

Along with that, the shape and bulkiness of the EXP dumbbells can make certain exercises a little awkward during movement. “If you’re coming from a commercial gym and you’re used to a traditional fixed-weight dumbbell, you probably won’t love the feel of PowerBlocks,” Coop cautions. “Or, it’ll be a long learning curve to get used to the feeling.”

If you’re looking for a more traditionally shaped adjustable dumbbell, our pick would be the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells, which can go up to 80 pounds.

Testing Breakdown

Although we weren’t fans of the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells’ handles, they tested quite well in our other categories. Here’s a look at how it scored.

Vs. The Average

Although the Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells start below the average price of adjustable dumbbells, the addition of expansion kits can start to add up. That said, you can hit the weight range of most fixed dumbbell sets—a rare feat for adjustable dumbbells..

For more information, read our PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells review.

At a Glance

• Fixed hex-shaped dumbbells
• Lower price per pound than the average cost
• Standard weight range from 5 to 100 pounds
• Available in pairs and sets

We’re big fans of the affordable, budget-friendly home gym equipment that Iron Bull has made in recent years. These rubber hex dumbbells are no different, featuring a  rubber coating for protection and a classic hexagonal shape which can prevent your dumbbells from rolling around on any slanted gym floor.

Iron Bull doesn’t do much to separate these hex dumbbells from other models, but if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, rates their construction at 4 out of 5, saying, “We’ve drop-tested these dumbbells multiple times from as high as 8 feet, and the dumbbells didn’t crack or show any signs of wear.”

Construction: 4/5

Optionality: 4.5/5

Knurling & Grip: 3/5

Why We Like Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells

Depending on the pair or set you purchase, you can get these fixed dumbbells for as low as roughly $2.20 per pound, although shipping is only free for bulk orders over $5,000. Still, this is a great choice if you’re looking to purchase an entire set of hex dumbbells, since the weights range from 5 to 100 pounds. We rate both the overall value and optionality at 4.5 out of 5.

Though simply designed, these dumbbells feel great in use, according to our testers, earning a 5 out of 5 for their ergonomics. These hex dumbbells have a straight, fully knurled handle, contrasting with some dumbbells showcasing a tapered, ergonomic design. Whether you prefer a straight or ergonomic handle for dumbbells is entirely on preference, but we’re fans of the included knurling, nonetheless. 

RELATED: What Is Barbell Knurling?

Additionally, the hex design can prevent these rubber dumbbells from rolling around your gym floor between sets. Iron Bull Hex Dumbbells are coated with a natural rubber that they claim is scent-free—and we found that to be true. The rubber-coated heads can help protect your gym floors if you drop them, although I’d never recommend dropping any dumbbell intentionally.

Alternatives

Although we found the straight handle comfortable, I have to be honest: Lindsay wasn’t the biggest fan of the knurling, finding it to be more passive than similar hex dumbbells. “These hold chalk well and I didn’t feel like they were slipping during any movements I tried, but the knurl is far less aggressive than your typical handle,” Lindsay tells me. She rates the knurling and grip at 3 out of 5, since not everyone will be a fan of the passive pattern.

Another small gripe we have with Iron Bull is that the warranty isn’t disclosed on the brand’s website. They claim that it’s reliable, but I couldn’t find any information on its length. You can reach customer service in many ways, though—phone, email, contact form, or live chat—if you have any questions before purchasing.

For more aggressive knurling, take a look at Giant Lifting Rubber Hex Dumbbells. Very similar to Iron Bull’s options, these dumbbells have a better knurling pattern, according to our testers, and are also available in an ergonomic handle design.

Testing Breakdown

Although the knurling wasn’t our favorite, the Iron Bull Strength Rubber Hex Dumbbells tested well, proving to be reliable and affordable fixed dumbbell options.

Vs. The Average

With a starting price of roughly $2.20 per pound, Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells are cheaper than your average dumbbell. Plus, their optionality meets the standard benchmark—they’re available in pairs and sets from 5 to 100 pounds.

At a Glance

• Fixed urethane dumbbells available in pairs and sets
• More expensive price per pound than the average
• Higher weight range than the standard
• Handle diameter ranges from 31 to 34 millimeters

Even though we often recommend adjustable dumbbells for home gym owners, some people still love the idea of having an entire dumbbell set in their garage gym. If you fall into that category, you might want to check out Rogue Urethane Dumbbells.

This respected and reputable brand offers five different dumbbell sets with dumbbells ranging from 5 to 150 pounds. You can also buy these dumbbells in pairs…but the sets net you free shipping, earning a 4 out of 5 for purchasing and delivery. 

Knurling & Grip: 4/5

Construction: 5/5

Ergonomics: 4.5/5

Why We Like Rogue Urethane Dumbbells

Rogue Fitness is known for overbuilt, heavy-duty fitness equipment, whether we’re talking about strength equipment or cardio machines. The brand’s urethane dumbbells are no different with the round dumbbell heads covered in heavy-duty urethane to protect both your floors and the weights themselves. 

Urethane can be a little pricey compared to your typical rubber hex dumbbells, but the material is also much more durable. It’s actually the same material used on skateboard wheels, which can last for a long time. Along with a hardened chrome handle, we rate the construction at 5 out of 5. “These are great,” GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, explains. “I wouldn’t drop a dumbbell, but if I did drop these, I wouldn’t worry about causing damage to the dumbbell or gym floor.” 

The Rogue Urethane Dumbbells have a straight handle with a medium knurling. Lindsay adds that the dumbbell handle has a great grip and holds lifting chalk well, too. Accordingly, we rate the handle at 4 out of 5.

RELATED: Best Weightlifting Gloves

Alternatives

With Rogue’s quality construction comes a higher price than most other brands. This is the same case with their urethane dumbbells, which can be bought for as low as $4 per pound. They’re not the most expensive option on our list, but are still pricier than the average profile. Still, these dumbbells can last through years of use, so they still earn a 4 out of 5 for their value.

Compared to hex dumbbells, these round dumbbells also have a wider head. Lindsay mentions, “I think I prefer the hex shape instead of the wide, round head on these.” This will ultimately depend on your preference, but it’s still something to consider.

For a more budget-friendly option, try out CAP Cast Iron Hex Dumbbells, which reach 120 pounds and come in at a price as low as $1.10 per pound.

Testing Breakdown

Rogue is a dependable, albeit pricey brand for strength equipment, and it shows in our testing and overall score for the Rogue Urethane Dumbbells.

Vs. The Average

Although these urethane dumbbells are pricier than the average fixed dumbbell, they do span a wider range of weights.

At a Glance 

• Loadable dumbbell handles
• Heavier max weight than most dumbbells
• Budget-friendly price is less expensive than the average
• Below average warranty

Loadable dumbbells were once the best thing since sliced bread. Now, there are tons of quick-change adjustable dumbbells on the market, but if you still prefer these budget-friendly profiles, you can’t go wrong with these dumbbell handles from Titan Fitness.

GGR Senior Director of Content Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, owns these dumbbells and tells me, “I love these chrome-plated steel dumbbell handles because of their versatility and solid durability. After a few years, there’s some slight corrosion, but I keep them in my garage gym, which isn’t climate-controlled in the very hot southern United States.” She rates the construction at 4.5 out of 5.

Value: 5/5

Construction: 4.5/5

Adjustment Speed: 3/5

Why We Like Titan Loadable Olympic Dumbbell Handles

When it comes to loadable dumbbells, there’s no shortage of these on the market, but I think the Titan ones are the best value—we give them a 5 out of 5 in that category. For about $125, plus free shipping, you can get two of the 20-inch loadable handles. (There are 15-inch handles, too, but the 20-inch version is a better value.) For comparison’s sake, the loadable dumbbell handles from Rogue are $175 for a single handle, and Fringe Sport has pairs for $154. 

RELATED: Titan Fitness Coupon Code

These loadable dumbbells meet some of the same IWF specifications as Olympic barbells: The sleeves are 50 millimeters in diameter and the shaft is 28 millimeters in diameter, just like a 20-kilogram barbell. “In all honesty, I’d say these are pretty much tiny barbells, and I love that,” adds Kate.

You can load these with regular 2-inch Olympic weight plates, although that might not be the most comfortable or efficient option. I’d like to see some people try doing biceps curls with standard-sized bumper plates on a dumbbell handle! The better option for most exercises is to load them up with change plates or cylindrical plates. 

The Titan Fitness loadable dumbbells have a weight capacity of 500 pounds, yet the handles themselves only weigh 12 pounds each—if you get the 20-inch pair—scoring a 4.5 out of 5 for weight options. That speaks to the quality construction of the handles. These are also fully knurled and have a bushing rotation system, which adds to the barbell-like feel.

Alternatives

Loadable dumbbells are, essentially, adjustable dumbbells, but they won’t have a quick-change system like the vast majority in today’s market. Instead, you’ll have to loosen your barbell collar, remove or add weight plates, and then add your collar back on. Because of the slower multi-step process, the adjustment speed earns a 3 out of 5.

Another low point with the Titan Fitness Olympic Loadable Dumbbell Handles is that they come with a below-average one-year warranty. We’d like to see a multi-year warranty for dumbbells, so we rate the warranty and policies at 3 out of 5.

For a longer warranty—maybe the longest on our list—check out the REP Fitness QuickDraws. Although the weight caps at 60 pounds, these are extremely durable for adjustable dumbbells and are backed by a lifetime warranty.

Testing Breakdown

The Titan Fitness Olympic Loadable Dumbbell Handles have great construction, durability, and value, although they adjust slower than other adjustable dumbbells on the market.

Vs. The Average

At $125 for a pair of handles, these Titan dumbbells are a budget-friendly option—so long as you have proper weight plates to use with them.

Check out our Titan Olympic Loadable Dumbbell Handles review.

At a Glance 

• Cast iron hex dumbbells available individually or in pairs
• Less expensive price per pound than the average
• Above-average range of weights from 1 to 120 pounds
• Below-average 30-day warranty

If you’re hunting for dumbbells on a budget, check out the CAP Barbell Cast Iron Hex Dumbbells. While I wouldn’t normally recommend CAP over other gym equipment brands, you really can’t beat the value you get in these cast-iron dumbbells. 

The price can fluctuate depending on when and where you buy them, but for the most part, these come out to be around $1.10 or so per pound—far less expensive than dumbbells from Rogue, REP Fitness, Titan Fitness, or other popular brands. We rate the value a perfect 5 out of 5, especially since you can get free shipping if you’re an Amazon Prime member.

Purchasing & Delivery: 5/5

Value: 5/5

Construction: 3.5/5

Why We Like CAP Cast Iron Hex Dumbbells

“These are a value buy probably best for beginners, or those who won’t be slinging any serious weight,” GGR Director of Content Nicole Davis, CPT, PN1-NC, tells me. We also appreciate that you can find CAP Barbell dumbbells at most major retailers online—Walmart, Amazon, and others—often with free shipping tacked on to them. As such, they earn a 5 out of 5 for purchasing and delivery.

You can get these CAP dumbbells in weight options from just 1 pound all the way up to 120 pounds. They’re available in increments of 2 or 3 pounds up to the 15-pound dumbbell, at which point they jump to 5-pound increments. “A lot of weights are constantly out of stock or hard to find online,” Nicole notes, however. She had trouble finding anything above 50 pounds when looking to purchase a pair. As a result, we only give CAP an optionality rating of 3 out of 5.

For the price, though, these are solid fixed dumbbells that can get the job done for budget shoppers and beginners alike.

Alternatives

As the old adage goes, “You get what you pay for.” CAP Iron Cast Hex Dumbbells are a prime example of this. Even though they’re high value and some of the least expensive dumbbells on the market, don’t expect them to be as high-quality as some of our other picks.

Nicole rates the construction at a 3.5 out of 5, starting with the positives: “These are cast iron, so they feel very durable. There are welds connecting the heads to the handle and they seem secure now, but I wouldn’t risk dropping them.” She also tells me some customer reviews warn of bad welds causing the dumbbells to break. In her testing, the baked enamel coating was already beginning to flake off, too.

The knurling on the CAP dumbbells’ handles is also very inconsistent, earning just a 2 out of 5 for grip. “On one handle, it can range from nonexistent, to passive, to actually aggressive and rough in certain areas,” explains Nicole. If you’re not looking for the best quality dumbbells, these are still a good budget option, but be prepared for inconsistent construction.

Need a budget dumbbell that saves space? The NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells are a fantastic choice for a budget-friendly adjustable dumbbell that goes up to 55 pounds.

Testing Breakdown

The CAP Barbell’s construction was inconsistent, to say the least, but these dumbbells worked well enough in testing and have such a low price point that we’re still confident in recommending them to people on a budget.

Vs. The Average

With prices starting at just above $1 per pound, CAP Cast Iron Hex Dumbbells are some of the least expensive dumbbells on the market. They also have a broader range of weights—going all the way to 120 pounds—although certain weight options can frequently be out of stock.