Adjustable dumbbells have emerged as a game-changers for home gyms.

They're not just a space-saving alternative to a full rack of weights, but they're also a cost-effective solution for those looking to diversify their strength training routine.

With the ability to adjust the weight on the fly, these versatile pieces of equipment can cater to various fitness levels and workout types, making them an essential addition to your home gym.

Best Adjustable Dumbbells: Quick Rundown

The best adjustable dumbbells for your home gym are the SMRFT Nüobell 80LB Classic and the Ironmaster 75. The SMRFT Nüobell 80LB Classic offers quick weight change and a wide weight range, making it perfect for various workouts. On the other hand, the Ironmaster 75 is known for its durability and compact design, making it a long-lasting investment for your workouts.

Adjustable Dumbbells: A Closer Look

Adjustable dumbbells, as the name suggests, allow you to change the weight you're lifting without needing a whole set of different dumbbells.

This is typically achieved through a dial or pin system that lets you add or remove weight plates as needed.

The main advantage of adjustable dumbbells over traditional ones is their versatility.

You can easily switch between weights for different exercises, making your workouts more efficient and varied. Plus, they take up less space and can be more cost-effective than buying a full set of fixed-weight dumbbells.

Top Adjustable Dumbbells for Weightlifting

The SMRTFT Nüobell 80LB Classic is a premium, quick-change adjustable dumbbell that stands out for its sleek design and high weight capacity.

It's a great-looking, space-saving dumbbell set that's incredibly easy to adjust. The bell design is incredibly helpful for curls and lat raises.

Yes, it's pricier, but its premium build is worth the cost.

The SMRTFT Nüobell 80LB Classic dumbbells are offered in three performance colorways including black, olive green, and white, as well as a super chic matte black option for just $30 more dollars.

Each dumbbell comes in a portable cradle or holder, or you can add on the brand's custom-made stands to keep the weights stored at a bit higher height, which may make them easier to lift initially.

With this one set of adjustable dumbbells, you'll get 16 sets of weights in one.

The weights each range from five to 80 pounds, which is on the higher side for adjustable options, increasing by 5-pound increments at a time.

As you up the load, the plates stack on outwardly, meaning that the weight at 10 pounds will be smaller and less clunky than at 75 pounds.

And even at its heaviest weight (80 pounds), the design with plates stacked seamlessly into one another, the dumbbell doesn't look or feel bulky.

Unlike other adjustable dumbbells, the SMRTFT bells never get thicker as you increase the load—all of the plates are the same silhouette.

When performing exercises, the weights look and feel very similar to a non-adjustable alternative of the same load.

You'll be able to do anything from skull crushers to Romanian deadlifts to chest presses without feeling like the bells are restricting your movement or form.

The handle of the dumbbells is knurled with small ridges, so you can get a good grip before lifting the weight, which is especially helpful when you up the weight ranges or use them for exercises like deadlifts or overhead presses.

Adjusting the bells is incredibly simple: just place the bells into the cradles or holders, twist the handle right or left towards the + or - symbol respectively, and voila, the load changes

. You don't have to remove and replace a pin, nor adjust two sides of each dumbbell. The single twisting motion of the handle adjusts both heads of the dumbbell to the weight displayed.

The IronMaster 75 is a durable adjustable dumbbell set that offers a high weight capacity and a quick-change system.

This set is a space-saving addition to your home gym, allowing you to lift up to 165 pounds.

The IronMaster 75 is an adjustable dumbbell system that allows you to lift light to heavy weights in 2.5-pound increments.

It comes in two starting sets of 45 and 75 pounds, which retail for $519 and $869 respectively.

The IronMaster 75 is made out of chrome-plated steel handles with diamond knurled grips and can withstand heavy lifting and regular weight changes.

To change weights, they use a quick-lock design, going from lighter to heavier weights with a simple turn of the locking screws, which the IronMaster brand says takes 15 seconds or less.

They also come with a lifetime warranty, an added bonus for buyers.

The IronMaster 75 allows for underhand, overhand, or mixed grips, and they work well with a variety of weight benches.

The equipment doesn't include any plastic or fragile parts, which makes it sturdy enough to drop occasionally.

However, some users report that regular dropping can loosen the pin that secures the weights, so it's best to avoid making a habit of it.

With a full set of weights that offers functionality, space-saving properties, and a quick-lock system to keep lifters safe, the IronMaster 75 is a great choice for those looking for a traditional feel in their adjustable dumbbells.

The Snode AD80 Adjustable Dumbbells are a great choice for those who want a high-quality, durable, and easy-to-use set of adjustable dumbbells.

With a weight range of 5 to 80 lbs, these dumbbells offer a lot of versatility and can accommodate a wide range of fitness levels and workout routines.

The Snode AD80 Adjustable Dumbbells feature a unique dial system that allows you to easily adjust the weight in 5 lb increments.

This makes it easy to switch between different exercises and intensity levels without having to manually add or remove weight plates.

The dumbbells also come with a convenient storage tray, making it easy to keep your workout area tidy and organized.

One of the standout features of the Snode AD80 Adjustable Dumbbells is their durable construction.

Made with high-quality materials, these dumbbells are designed to withstand heavy use and last for years.

However, some users have noted that the adjustment mechanism can be a bit tricky to use at first.

The NordicTrack Select-a-Weight is a slide-pin adjustable dumbbell that offers a weight range from 10 to 55 pounds, replacing 15 individual pairs of dumbbells.

This set is a great option for those who don't have the space for a full set of traditional dumbbells.

The Select-a-Weight design features an adjustable pin that can slide back and forth on each side of the dumbbell.

Simply lift the pin, slide it to the desired weight, then release it to lock it in place.

The NordicTrack Select-a-Weight dumbbells come with a free 30-day iFit membership, which offers thousands of strength training classes.

The steel handles feature a moderate knurling pattern to assist your grip.

These dumbbells range from 10 to 55 pounds and can replace 15 individual pairs of dumbbells. The Select-a-Weight dumbbells are more compact, utilizing just a fraction of the space you would need for the equivalent 15 pairs.

NordicTrack redesigned these dumbbells by ditching the plastic handles for steel handles with a moderate knurling.

These now feature rounded weight plates instead of the multi-sided design the old model used to sport.

While 55 pounds may not be enough for every athlete, this range is pretty common for adjustable dumbbells. If you need more weight than what is offered, you'll have to spend more money on a heavier set.

The Gungnir Dumbler is a premium loadable dumbbell with a unique combination of luxury and functionality.

It's designed with a sleek, all-black aesthetic and is made from high-quality materials, including stainless steel and aluminum.

The Dumbler is compatible with standard Olympic plates, allowing for a customizable weight range.

One of the standout features of the Gungnir Dumbler is its rotating handles, which mimic the feel of a barbell.

This can help improve grip strength and provide a more natural movement during exercises.

The handles are also knurled for a secure grip.

However, the Gungnir Dumbler has a premium price tag, making it a significant investment.

Additionally, like the Rogue DB-15, it does not come with weight plates, which must be purchased separately.

Despite these factors, the Gungnir Dumbler offers a high-end, customizable dumbbell option for those willing to invest in their home gym equipment.

The Rogue DB-15 Loadable Dumbbell is a versatile and durable option for those seeking a customizable workout.

It's designed to be used with standard Olympic plates, allowing you to adjust the weight according to your needs.

The DB-15 is made from solid steel with a bright zinc finish, ensuring its durability and resistance to wear and tear.

The DB-15 stands out for its knurled handle, which provides a secure grip during workouts.

The handle is 28.5mm in diameter, which is the same as a standard Olympic barbell, providing a consistent feel for those used to barbell workouts. The loadable sleeve length is 6.75", providing ample space for weight plates.

However, the Rogue DB-15 Loadable Dumbbell does not come with weight plates, which must be purchased separately.

This could increase the overall cost for those starting from scratch.

Additionally, manually loading and unload weight plates can be time-consuming compared to quick-change adjustable dumbbells.

The Northdeer Ultracompact Adjustable Dumbbells are a versatile and compact option for those seeking to optimize their home gym space

These dumbbells are designed with a sleek and modern aesthetic, making them a visually appealing addition to your workout routine.

The Northdeer Ultracompact Dumbbells are highly praised for their quality.

They are described as beautiful, sleek, and pristine, with excellent build quality.

The set has an instruction booklet and accessories, which users have found very useful.

The grips on these dumbbells are comfortable, providing a secure hold during workouts.

However, some users have reported that the grips have a strong chemical smell, which can be off-putting.

Leaving the grips outside for a few days might help to eliminate this smell.

Despite this minor issue, users have found these dumbbells to be a perfect medium between space-saving design and functionality.

One of the standout features of the Northdeer Ultracompact Dumbbells is their adjustability.

This allows users to customize the weight to their preference, making them suitable for various workouts.

However, some users have reported difficulty in changing the weights, which could be a potential drawback for some.

Despite this, the Northdeer Ultracompact Dumbbells are highly recommended by users.

They are particularly praised for their delivery time and packaging, indicating the manufacturer's high level of customer service.

The return process has also been described as super easy, which adds to the overall positive user experience.

The Power Block USA Elite Series is a set of adjustable dumbbells that offer a unique and compact solution for home gyms.

They are designed with a block-like structure that allows you to adjust the weight in increments of 5 pounds, up to a maximum of 50 pounds per dumbbell.

This design makes them highly space-efficient, as you can have a range of weights in just one pair of dumbbells.

The Power Block USA Elite Series is known for its durability and robust construction.

The weights are made of welded solid steel and are coated with a powder coat finish to prevent rust and enhance longevity.

The handles are padded for comfort and grip, and the weight selection process is quick and easy, using a selector pin similar to weight machines at the gym.

However, the block-like design of the Power Block USA Elite Series may not appeal to everyone.

Some users find the design awkward to handle, especially for exercises that require the dumbbell to be held in a certain way, such as goblet squats or tricep extensions.

Despite this, the Power Block USA Elite Series is a versatile and space-saving option for those looking to add adjustable dumbbells to their home gym.

The Bowflex SelectTech 552 is a budget-friendly adjustable dumbbell set that offers a weight range from 5 to 52.5 pounds.

This set is a great option for those who want a versatile weight range without breaking the bank.

The SelectTech 552 dumbbells are fully adjustable between 5 and 52.5 pounds in 5-pound increments.

Swapping out those mini-weight plates is as simple as twisting the knobs on either end of the dumbbell to the desired weight, and you're good to go.

The Bowflex SelectTech 552 dumbbells come with a free Bowflex SelectTech app, which includes individual workouts and longer training plans.

The dumbbells' rubber-and-steel grip feels substantially more ergonomic than plastic ones, which can get a little slippery if your hands are too sweaty.

You could use wrist wraps as an additional safety measure for some exercises, though the grip style isn't really meant for two hands.

The Bowflex SelectTech 552 dumbbells are not designed for powerlifters, especially since dropping them on the floor is a big no-no.

However, they are a great addition to HIIT and CrossFit-style workouts.

The storage trays do their job, and the whole package is pretty attractive in a rock-solid sort of way.

The Bowflex SelectTech app is fairly basic in a good way.

It includes dozens of dynamic exercises you can perform with your new dumbbells, along with six targeted workouts, a six-week weight-training program, and a digital journal.

The Flybird Adjustable Dumbbell is a versatile and compact fitness tool that is perfect for those who want to maximize their home workouts.

This adjustable dumbbell offers a weight range of 5 to 25 lbs, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned lifters.

The quick-change weight adjustments with push-pull design make it easy to switch between different weights, allowing you to focus more on your workout and less on equipment setup.

The Flybird Adjustable Dumbbell is designed with a unique dial system and plates in different sizes, making it easy to adjust the weight to your desired setting.

This feature allows you to perform a wide range of exercises with a single piece of equipment, saving you space and money.

The dumbbell is also designed with a comfortable grip handle to ensure a secure hold during your workouts.

One of the main advantages of the Flybird Adjustable Dumbbell is its sturdy construction.

Made with heavy-duty steel, this dumbbell is designed to withstand intense workouts and last for years. However, some users have noted that the weight plates can rattle during use, which can be a minor distraction.

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Adjustable Dumbbells for Your Home Gym

Adjustable dumbbells are a versatile piece of fitness equipment that allows you to adjust the weight you're lifting without needing a whole rack of weights.

They are designed to be space-efficient and cost-effective, replacing multiple sets of traditional dumbbells.

With adjustable dumbbells, you can easily switch between different weights, making them perfect for various types of workouts, including strength training, bodybuilding, and even cardio fitness routines.

Weight Range

The weight range of adjustable dumbbells is one of the most critical factors to consider when shopping.

The weight range you choose should align with your fitness level and goals. Adjustable dumbbells come in various ranges, from light (2 to 11 pounds per dumbbell) to heavy (11 to 70 pounds per dumbbell) to wide-ranging (4 to 100 pounds per dumbbell).

If you're a beginner, you might want to start with a lighter range and gradually work your way up. On the other hand, if you're an experienced lifter, a wider range might be more suitable.

Weight Increments

The weight increments of your adjustable dumbbells are also important.

Especially for weights under 25 pounds, you may want the weight to go up in small increments. Some adjustable dumbbells offer increments of 2.5 pounds or 5 pounds, which allow for more precise and gradual strength progression. This is particularly beneficial for beginners or those looking to increase their strength steadily.

Efficiency

Efficiency is another key factor to consider when choosing adjustable dumbbells.

Depending on the weight range and increment size, adjustable dumbbell sets can replace between 4 to 15 dumbbell sets, and sometimes even more.

This makes them a highly efficient choice for those with limited space or those who want to minimize their fitness equipment.

Unit Size, Space, and Storage

Some adjustable dumbbells are sold as singles, and others are sold as pairs.

This is key to keep in mind as you compare prices, consider weights, and ultimately buy a set of dumbbells.

You should also check whether the weight in the product description describes a single dumbbell or a full set.

In terms of size and storage, some options come with a storage rack or stand, while others are super compact, making them ideal for home gyms with limited space.

Price

Price is a significant factor to consider when buying adjustable dumbbells. High-quality adjustable dumbbells typically cost a minimum of $300.

Cheaper options do exist, but you might end up compromising in areas like weight range, increment increase, ease of adjustment, portability, and durability.

Adjustability Mechanism

The mechanism used to adjust the weights is another important consideration.

Some adjustable dumbbells use a dial, pin, or plate for adjustment. It's crucial to consider how easy it is to make the adjustment, the speed of the adjustment, and how safe and secure your weights feel once they're locked into place.

Durability

Choose adjustable dumbbells that are made of sturdy and durable materials.

You don't want to use dumbbells that you feel will break easily or are unable to withstand intense workouts.

Handle Grip

The comfort of the grip and the ergonomics, as well as the slip resistance, are also important.

You'll want a handle with padding that promotes a secure grip that also feels comfortable in your hands.

Warranty and Customer Support

Lastly, consider the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer.

Adjustable dumbbells can be a significant investment, so it's reassuring to know that the manufacturer stands behind their product and offers support if needed.

The Benefits of Adjustable Dumbbells

Adjustable dumbbells offer a multitude of benefits that make them an excellent choice for any fitness enthusiast or anyone looking to start their fitness journey. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Space Efficiency: Adjustable dumbbells are a compact solution that replaces multiple sets of traditional dumbbells. This makes them ideal for home gyms where space may be limited.

2. Cost-Effective: While the upfront cost of adjustable dumbbells may seem high, they are actually more cost-effective in the long run. Buying multiple sets of fixed-weight dumbbells can quickly add up, making adjustable dumbbells a more economical choice.

3. Versatility: With adjustable dumbbells, you can quickly change the weight you're lifting. This makes them perfect for performing a variety of exercises and targeting different muscle groups.

4. Progressive Overload: Adjustable dumbbells allow for progressive overload, a key principle in strength training. As you get stronger, you can easily increase the weight you're lifting to continue challenging your muscles and promoting growth.

5. Time Efficiency: According to a study, adjustable dumbbells can be used in 'exercise snacking' programs, which involve shorter and more frequent exercise bouts. This can be a time-efficient way to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior.

FAQs

1. Are adjustable dumbbells worth it? Yes, adjustable dumbbells are worth it due to their space efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and versatility. They allow you to perform a wide range of exercises with just one piece of equipment.

2. Can adjustable dumbbells replace a gym? While adjustable dumbbells can't completely replace a gym, they can certainly provide a comprehensive strength training workout at home. They are especially useful for those who prefer to workout at home or can't regularly go to a gym.

3. Are adjustable dumbbells safe? Yes, adjustable dumbbells are safe to use as long as you use them correctly and follow proper lifting techniques. It's also important to ensure that the weight plates are securely fastened before lifting.

4. How do I choose adjustable dumbbells? When choosing adjustable dumbbells, consider factors such as the weight range, adjustment mechanism, durability, and price. It's also helpful to read reviews and consider the reputation of the brand.

5. Can beginners use adjustable dumbbells? Yes, adjustable dumbbells are suitable for both beginners and experienced lifters. Beginners can start with lighter weights and gradually increase as their strength improves.

Bottom Line

Adjustable dumbbells are a versatile and space-efficient piece of fitness equipment that can greatly enhance your strength training workouts.

Whether you're a seasoned lifter or a beginner, adjustable dumbbells like the SMRFT Nüobell 80LB Classic and Ironmaster 75 offer a range of weights that can accommodate your fitness level and goals.

They allow you to perform a variety of exercises, making them a valuable addition to any home gym.