Here at Garage Gym Reviews, we have years of experience testing strength equipment to help our readers find the best home gym equipment for their needs and goals. With home gyms continuing to grow in popularity, there’s no shortage of equipment to choose from, and selecting the right products can feel overwhelming.
Our in-depth testing process helps us determine an unbiased, honest review score for everything we test, which is especially important when it comes to finding the best dumbbells. While many standard dumbbells look and feel similar, adjustable dumbbells come in a wide variety of styles and materials. Our testing looks at the most important categories of dumbbell performance and quality, assigning an individual score to each category so we can calculate a final overall rating.
Our team has tested dozens of standard and adjustable dumbbells from top fitness brands. In 2024, we helped over 2,300 fitness enthusiasts and home gym owners find their perfect dumbbell, and we’re here to help you find yours, too.
Our Values
Each dumbbell we review is carefully tested by our team of experts, which includes certified personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, gym owners, CrossFit enthusiasts, and even an Olympian. We also consult with experts, like Christopher Mohr, Ph.D, RD, for further insight and to ensure our recommendations align with the best health practices.
For dumbbells, we aren’t just taking them through workouts. We assess the grip, adjustment speed, and durability—particularly when it comes to adjustable dumbbells. Our testers will even drop the dumbbells from various heights to see if any moving parts break or come loose.
Our Process
After testing dozens of dumbbells over the years, we have plenty to choose from when writing our buyer’s guides and recommending products. We only recommend products that have scored well on our testing, paying close attention to aspects like durability, grip, ergonomics, weight range, and more.
We also compare each dumbbell to the average dumbbell we’ve tested, allowing readers to quickly see how each product stacks up against the industry standard. You can see some of the average specs we’ve assembled for dumbbells in the table below:
| Category | Average Dumbbell We Test |
| Weight Range | 5-150 lbs |
| Sold As | Pairs or sets |
| Shape | Round |
| Weight Type | Fixed |
| Handle Material | Knurled steel |
| Handle Dimensions | 4.8″ length, 32 mm diameter for 5-50 lbs and 34 mm diameter for 55-150 lbs |
| Head Material | CPU urethane |
| Storage | Not included |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty for home use, 1-year warranty for commercial use |
We review and update our panels on a monthly basis, as well, to ensure we’re constantly recommending our highest-rated products. We also regularly add or remove products, as needed.
Dumbbell Performance Testing
Now that we’ve covered why testing is important, here are the categories we test for each dumbbell, as well as how we calculate a score for each category.
We use slightly different scoring for standard vs adjustable dumbbells, as not all categories are applicable to both types. So, the exact rating categories used may vary based on the type of dumbbell we’re scoring.
Construction
For construction, we assess the design, shape, and materials used. Many dumbbells are made of metal with rubber weights, but some are entirely rubber-coated, some may use urethane, and some may have knurling. Rubber parts, such as the grips on the handles, tend to wear down faster, and we don’t like to see too many plastic moving parts on adjustable dumbbells.
To earn 3 out of 5 stars for construction, the dumbbells feel well-made and sturdy, but may have a rubber coating on the handle that could degrade over time. To earn a higher score, a dumbbell should have mostly metal parts and feel very durable.
Durability
While most standard dumbbells can take a beating, adjustable dumbbells can vary greatly in their construction. For durability, we examine the materials used, particularly in adjustable dumbbells, which may contain plastic components. We want to know if you need to handle your dumbbell with care or if it can withstand minor drops.
Scores of 3 out of 5 are given to dumbbells that seem like they’d hold up but shouldn’t be dropped regularly. Higher scores are awarded to those with exceptional durability, including the ability to withstand drops.
Adjustment Speed
For adjustable dumbbells, we look at how quickly users can change the weight. Some dumbbells can be adjusted by twisting the handle, some require you to move a couple of pins, and others require you to untwist end caps to add or remove plates.
To earn a 3-out-of-5 score, a dumbbell may require you to move a pin on either side, but it doesn’t take too long in total. Higher scores are given to fast-adjusting dumbbells that only need a twist of the handle.
RELATED: Adjustable Dumbbells vs. Fixed
Weight Options
We consider both the available weight range for a given dumbbell and the available weight increments. Many manufacturers have 5-pound gaps between weights above 20 to 25 pounds, while lighter weights may be available in 2.5-pound increments. Adjustable dumbbells may offer further optionality, such as 2.5-pound increments throughout the entire weight range.
We also consider the weight range when ordering a set of standard dumbbells or the maximum weight of an adjustable dumbbell. Standard dumbbells often come in a set of 5 to 50 pounds, while adjustable dumbbells often max out around 50 to 60 pounds. Some companies, too, will offer significantly higher weight ranges on both standard and adjustable dumbbells.
To earn a 3-out-of-5-star rating for weight options, the dumbbells should range from 5 to 50 pounds with 5-pound weight increments. Higher scores go to dumbbells with higher max weights and/or 2.5-pound increments available across the range.
Knurling
We assess whether the knurling—the textured metal pattern along the grip—is passive, aggressive, or even present, as some dumbbells may use rubber grips, instead.
To get a 3 out of 5, the knurling is good but moderate, at best. Meanwhile, 5-star ratings are given to dumbbells with excellent knurling across the handle.
Aesthetics
Are the dumbbells sleek and modern-looking? Do they have any unique, flashy features, or unusual shapes? These are some of the components we consider when rating the aesthetics.
To earn a 3 out of 5, the dumbbells are fine, but nothing special. Higher scores are given to dumbbells that may have unique features or color options that may appeal to certain athletes.
RELATED: Full-Body Dumbbell Workout
Ergonomics
What is the handle shaped like? Is it straight, like a barbell, or tapered for a more comfortable grip? Do the heads have any sort of unusual shape or design that would make the dumbbells uncomfortable to use or cause them to roll away?
While this is slightly subjective—some users may prefer different grip styles—we make sure to clearly explain and show the handle of each dumbbell we test.
For our scoring, a 3-out-of-5-star rating is given to dumbbells that feel pretty good, but may have a unique feature like tapered handles or an unusual shape that can hinder range of motion or weight control during workouts.
Purchasing and Delivery
When ordering dumbbells, the cost can quickly add up, especially when you factor in shipping fees on multiple dumbbells. We look for things like free shipping and financing options, which can make the purchasing process a bit easier.
To get a 3 out of 5, the company offers adequate shipping rates with some form of available financing. For a 5-star rating, a dumbbell should be available with both free shipping and financing options.
RELATED: Back Workout with Dumbbells
Customer Experience Testing
In addition to our own testing, we include the overall customer experience in our final tally to show buyers what they can expect before, during, and after the purchasing process.
Customer Service
The customer service score evaluates various policies, including warranties, financing, and return policies. We also consider the accessibility of the customer service department for any questions or concerns.
To get a 3 out of 5, there is a warranty of one year or longer for home use, and customer service is easy to reach via phone, chat, email, or contact forms. Higher scores are awarded for better warranties and/or return policies, as well as any other standout features we find in our testing.
Customer Reviews
This score is taken directly from the average customer review score. We review the manufacturer’s product page for customer ratings and check additional third-party retailers, such as Amazon.
Overall Score
After putting a product through our in-depth testing methodology, we calculate a final score based on the categories included for that specific dumbbell, as shown in the example rating chart below.
