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The 10 Best Adjustable Dumbbells to Level Up Your Workout, According to Trainers

Upgrade your fitness routine with the one piece of equipment that does it all.

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We updated this article in April 2023 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive research done by our team.


If you strength train at home and you’re looking to turn your workout routine up a notch, you might be looking for some top of the line home gym equipment. Enter: the best adjustable dumbbells, a.k.a the most efficient and space-saving option on the market. Say goodbye to your traditional hand weights, and say hello to these state-of-the-art dumbbells that can replace an entire set.

While adjustable dumbbells are often expensive, experts say they’re well worth the price tag. “Adjustable dumbbells are often a bit of an investment, but they really give you a lot of bang for your buck,” says Lauren Del Turco, C.P.T. “Whether you don’t have the room for—or just don’t feel like collecting—a whole slew of weights, an adjustable set is a really space-efficient way to have access to basically an entire rack of dumbbells in one.”

Meet the Experts: Lauren Del Turco, C.P.T. is a certified personal trainer and health and wellness journalist; Marisa Golan, NASM C.P.T. is a certified personal trainer and owner of E(M)powered.

And while adjustable dumbbells can take a little getting used to in terms of switching from one resistance level to another, the actual function of the equipment remains the same. Any exercise you can do with a standard dumbbell, you can generally do with an adjustable one. Just pay attention to the details when making your purchase—if you like to have two equally-weighted dumbbells to perform bilateral exercises like overhead shoulder presses or walking lunges, it’s important to purchase a set of adjustable dumbbells. Some adjustable dumbbells only come as a single adjustable weight, so you would need to purchase two in order to have a set.

Our top picks

Ready to get strong? Read on for the best adjustable dumbbells to lift with right now—and don’t forget your motivational water bottle to stay hydrated and your favorite massage gun for recovery.

1
Best Adjustable Dumbbells Overall

NordicTrack 55 lb Select-a-Weight Dumbbell Pair

Amazon’s Choice
55 lb Select-a-Weight Dumbbell Pair
1
Best Adjustable Dumbbells Overall

NordicTrack 55 lb Select-a-Weight Dumbbell Pair

$399 at Amazon
Credit: NordicTrack
Pros
  • Adjusts up to 55 lbs
  • Voice control option
  • More than 1,000 5-star reviews on Amazon
Cons
  • Pricey

These adjustable dumbbells come with 15 weight increments per dumbbell. Plus, this space-saving adjustable dumbbell set delivers the same value as 30 individual dumbbells in a fraction of the space.

“I have the NordicTrack Select-A-Weight 55-lb Dumbbell Set and love them,” says Del Turco. “Each can be adjusted to anything from 10 to 55 lbs, offering enough options that both my husband and I can really get in a great workout using them. I find them to be quick and easy to adjust—and I also like that I can take out the two 2.5 lb weight inserts in each dumbbell to use when I want to work with super lightweight, like during my warm-up and muscle activations.”

Weight range10-55 lbs; 15 weight increment options
Single or setSet
Special featuresFitted storage trays included; includes 30 day iFit membership
2
Best adjustable dumbbell set

PINROYAL 4-in-1 Adjustable Dumbbell Set

4-in-1 Adjustable Dumbbell Set
2
Best adjustable dumbbell set

PINROYAL 4-in-1 Adjustable Dumbbell Set

Now 15% Off
Credit: PINROYAL
Pros
  • Adjustable bar
  • Non-slip handle
  • Comes with nuts to keep weights in place
Cons
  • Bar not wide enough for some

Golan recommends this set for its versatility. She says it’s an “extremely versatile set that can be transformed into dumbbells, [a] push-up stand, barbell, and kettlebell.” Also important: a nonslip comfortable handle design that makes for a safer workout. This set comes in a 5.5-44-lb range, but it’s important to keep in mind that that’s 44 lbs total, not per dumbbell. Each individual dumbbell adjusts up to 22 lbs.

Weight rangeBetween 5.5-44 lbs total for the set (up to 22 lbs per dumbbell); 3 weight increment options
Single or setSet
Special featuresCan be used as dumbbells, kettlebells, or a barbell
3
Best Adjustable Dumbbells With Weight Variety

Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (pair)

Best Seller
SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (pair)
3
Best Adjustable Dumbbells With Weight Variety

Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (pair)

Now 22% Off
Credit: Bowflex
Pros
  • Includes virtual membership
  • Space saver
  • More than 17,000 5-star reviews on Amazon
Cons
  • Some reviewers dislike plastic design

Golan loves these adjustable dumbbells because they have a wide range of weight options (5-52.5 lbs), making it a great choice for a variety of fitness levels. “The wide range of weight options allow you to use these dumbbells with heavier exercises like lunges, goblet squats, and deadlifts as well as lighter exercises like shoulder raises, curls, etc,” Golan explains. Plus, these dumbbells come in 2.5 lb increments up to the first 25 lbs.

Golan isn’t the only one who appreciates these dumbbells. In fact, they’ve amassed more than 17,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. “Excellent design, adjustment mechanism is smooth and perfect for fast effortless operation,” shares one satisfied Amazon customer.

Weight range5-52.5 lbs; 15 weight increment options
Single or setSet
Special featuresIncludes 1 year JRNY membership; easy twist-dial weight selection
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4
Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Beginners

Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbell for Workout Strength Training

Adjustable Dumbbell for Workout Strength Training
4
Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Beginners

Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbell for Workout Strength Training

Credit: Ativafit
Pros
  • Safety lock
  • Non-slip grip
  • Simple weight adjusting knob
Cons
  • Not a large range of weights

For those new to weight training, or simply wanting lighter weights, Golan says this is the set for you. “[It’s a] great option for beginners with the lower weight range of 2.5-12.5 lbs.” She also says the dumbbells have a nice textured rubber grip to prevent slipping.

Weight range5.5-27.5 lbs; 5 weight increment options
Single or setSingle
Special featuresFitted storage tray included
5
Best compact Adjustable Dumbbells

LifePro 15-lb Adjustable Dumbbell Set

15-lb Adjustable Dumbbell Set
5
Best compact Adjustable Dumbbells

LifePro 15-lb Adjustable Dumbbell Set

Credit: LifePro
Pros
  • Small weight range
  • Space saver
  • Weight indicator
Cons
  • Pricier than other options on this list

This adjustable set includes six weight increments in each dumbbell, so you get the equivalent of 12 dumbbells in one, ranging from 2.5 to 15 lbs each. Easy to store and move around, this lightweight set is great for beginners—and boasts a 4.6-star Amazon rating.

“I was skeptical because the price range from other similar items was so far apart, but when it came in, I was surprised, great build quality and it was as described!” said one satisfied Amazon customer. “I love it, the quality is so good, and it was an affordable one. Looking forward to a heavier set, but this is great overall 10/10.”

Weight range2.5-15 lb per dumbbell; 6 weight increment options
Single or setSet
Special featuresStorage tray included
6
Best Adjustable Dumbbells With 5-lb Increments

Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbell Set

Adjustable Dumbbell Set
6
Best Adjustable Dumbbells With 5-lb Increments

Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbell Set

Now 10% Off
Credit: Core Home Fitness
Pros
  • Quickly change out weights
  • Compact design
  • Great weight range
Cons
  • Some reviewers say the weights get stuck on occasion
  • No 2.5-lb increment options

With rave reviews on the brand’s site, these weights are a great space-saving option. They let you change weights in 5-lb increments with the simple twist of a handle—no knobs to turn or levers to slide. With adjustable weights ranging from 5-50 lbs, you can enjoy an entire 10-piece set in a single dumbbell.

Weight range5-50 lbs; 10 weight increment options
Single or setSet
Special featuresEasy twist function to change weight increments; Stands included
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7
Best 2-in-1 Adjustable Dumbbells

Nice C Adjustable Dumbbell Barbell Weight Pair

On Sale
Adjustable Dumbbell Barbell Weight Pair
7
Best 2-in-1 Adjustable Dumbbells

Nice C Adjustable Dumbbell Barbell Weight Pair

Now 20% Off
Credit: Nice C
Pros
  • Great price
  • Can adjust into barbells
  • More than 2,400 5-star reviews on Amazon
Cons
  • Small weight range

Though not as extensive as the other options on this list, these adjustable dumbbell barbells are perfect for those looking to get a two-for-one benefit with their weights. These feature a non-slip neoprene handle. The basic set includes two dumbbells that can be adjusted between .6-11 lbs each, but with the added barbell handle, the set can be used for exercises like back squats or chest press with resistance up to 22 lbs. There are also heavier sets available, if the 22-lb max doesn’t meet your needs.

With over 2,400 five-star Amazon reviews, these are an affordable and popular choice. “I love this set! The weights and bar are well made. It’s perfect for a great workout at home. I live in an apartment, and it is perfect for my small space,” shares one happy reviewer.

Weight range.6-11 lbs per dumbbell; 2 weight increment options
Single or setSet
Special featuresCan be used as dumbbells or a barbell
8
Best Value Adjustable Dumbbells

Nice C Adjustable Dumbbell Weights

Adjustable Dumbbell Weights
8
Best Value Adjustable Dumbbells

Nice C Adjustable Dumbbell Weights

Credit: Nice C
Pros
  • Compact
  • Budget-friendly
  • Available in 4 colors
Cons
  • Small weight range

If you’re looking for a set of light weights for cardio or barre workouts, then these compact adjustable dumbbells are for you. The weight ranges from 2.3 to 4.5 lbs. With over 4,100 five-star ratings on Amazon, shoppers love how lightweight and easy these dumbbells are to use for their at-home workouts.

“These are the perfect weights for at-home workouts...I can get my cardio and strength training in with these and a yoga mat. It’s easy to put on and remove weights and also steady to grip on,” one shopper said.

Weight range2.3-4.5 lbs; 4 weight increment options
Single or setSet
Special featuresHighly compact
9
Best Heavy Weight Adjustable Dumbbells

Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Dumbbells

SelectTech 1090 Dumbbells
9
Best Heavy Weight Adjustable Dumbbells

Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Dumbbells

Credit: Bowflex
Pros
  • Weight up to 90 lbs per dumbbell
  • Includes virtual gym membership
  • Storage tray
Cons
  • Bulky

These adjustable weights are no joke—just like their price tag. That said, they do replace 17 sets of dumbbells in an impressive range of weights—between 10-90 lbs—making them a great option for serious weightlifters who want to be able to crank out shoulder presses with 75-lb dumbbells (or more). Also, customers say they are incredibly easy to use. With over 1900 four- and five-star reviews on the brand’s website, they just might be worth the investment (especially when you consider how much you would end up paying for individual sets of dumbbells with the same weight increments).

“I love using these dumbbells they are simple and everything I need for my weightlifting goals. My husband lifts way heavier than I do so it’s nice to be able to just dial in what we want and pick it up, without having tons of floor space used up to hold a whole weight rack,” wrote one satisfied customer.

Weight range10-90 lbs per dumbbell; 17 weight increment options
Single or setSet
Special featuresIncludes 1 year JRNY membership; Storage trays included
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10
Best Adjustable Dumbbell for Travel

Sunny Health & Fitness 33 lb Chrome Dumbbell Set

On Sale
33 lb Chrome Dumbbell Set
10
Best Adjustable Dumbbell for Travel

Sunny Health & Fitness 33 lb Chrome Dumbbell Set

Now 13% Off
Credit: Sunny Health & Fitness
Pros
  • Comes with a travel case
  • Great price
  • Comes with nuts to keep weights in place
Cons
  • Weights must be manually screwed on

This easy-to-use, basic adjustable dumbbell set is great for small spaces. Super affordable, this set includes two 2.75-lb handles, eight 2.5-lb plates, and four 1.25-lb plates. It also includes cogs to secure the weight plates. Each dumbbell can adjust from 2.75-16.5 lb, offering a good range for someone just starting a strength training routine.

While the system is basic, it’s also highly functional and well-reviewed, with more than 1,300 five-star reviews on Amazon. “I’m a personal trainer so I’m at the gym almost every day and have access to just about every kind of professional equipment I could want to use. For this reason, I want practical, space-saving, economical equipment for my home gym,” says one satisfied customer. “These are solidly made, and fit any plates made for a 1-inch bar. The case is nice enough to keep them in, and they do look great too. Great space-saver, and a very economical way to have a whole range of weights in lighter dumbbells.”

Weight range2.75-16.5 lbs per dumbbell; 2 weight increment options
Single or setSet
Special featuresTravel case provided; includes a 28-year structural warranty
11
Best advanced adjustable dumbbells

Yes4All Adjustable Cast Iron Dumbbell Set

On Sale
Adjustable Cast Iron Dumbbell Set
11
Best advanced adjustable dumbbells

Yes4All Adjustable Cast Iron Dumbbell Set

Now 13% Off
Credit: Yes4All
Pros
  • Weight up to 52.5 lbs per dumbbell
  • Multipurpose plates fit all standard barbells
  • Non-slip grip
Cons
  • Some report the handles are too narrow

This easy-to-use pair of adjustable dumbbells feature a non-slip, textured handle and offer 1.25, 2.5, and 5.0 lb plates. They also come with star-lock collars with rubber trim to keep plates in place. And for those who have a more extensive home gym setup, these plates also fit all standard 1.15 in barbells.

“I’m quite pleased with these,” wrote one of over 2,000 five-star reviewers on Amazon. “I love that there’s so much flexibility in weight with these. Rather than having to pay an arm and a leg and sacrifice a ton of room real estate for a massive set of individual dumbbells, this set allows you to choose whatever weight you want in a compact fashion. The weights ARE interchangeable with barbell weights, which is an added bonus I never expected, allowing even more versatility and more reason to purchase these over traditional dumbbells. The feel of these is sturdy and hardy. No weight wobbles, no imbalances, just a solid pair of dumbbells.”

Weight range2.5-52.5 lbs per dumbbell; 12 weight increment options
Single or setSet
Special featuresStar-lock collars included; weights fit on standard barbells

How to choose the best adjustable dumbbells

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✔️ Find a good grip. Being able to comfortably hold your weights is essential for good form and overall safety, so look at the dumbbells you currently use and love and look for an adjustable version that offers a similar grip.

✔️ Check out the weight increments. “Look to see what the weight range is for the adjustable dumbbells (ie: 5-25-lbs) as well as the increments they go up in (ie: going up in 3-lb increments). This is important so you make sure the dumbbells you are using work with your current fitness level, as well as give you room to challenge yourself,” says Golan.

✔️ Think of the type of exercises you’ll use them for. “Certain adjustable dumbbells are very bulky and may make it awkward and uncomfortable to perform certain exercises correctly that require more movement or placing body weight support on the dumbbell,” explains Golan. When possible, it’s a good idea to choose adjustable dumbbells that are similar in shape to a standard dumbbell, which will make it easier to manipulate through a wide range of exercises.

✔️ Consider any extra features you might want. Some weights come with fancy bells and whistles like virtual gym memberships or features like storage trays to maximize organization. When looking at the price of an option you’re eyeing, consider if you’ll use those add-ons, or if there’s anything the product might be lacking.

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Are adjustable dumbbells worth it?

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Whether a piece of fitness equipment is “worth it” typically depends on what you hope to use it for. Adjustable dumbbells are an excellent choice for those who want a space-saving solution for a home gym. They also tend to be more cost-effective overall than purchasing a wide range of individual dumbbells (particularly when comparing the cost of adjustable dumbbells that provide a wide range of adjustable increments and resistances).

That said, for those who don’t want the hassle of making between-exercise or between-set weight adjustments, or those who don’t need or want a wide range of dumbbell resistances, it may make more sense to purchase one or two pairs of dumbbells for your home gym.

Is it cheaper to buy adjustable dumbbells?

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When comparing the pound-to-pound cost of adjustable dumbbells versus individual dumbbells, adjustable dumbbells tend to be more cost-effective. This is because dumbbells cost based on their weight, and typically range between $1-3 per lb of weight (although this varies by brand and style of dumbbell). So, a single set of 15-lb dumbbells (30 lbs of weight) typically costs between $30-90. That’s just for a single set. So buying a range of individual dumbbells can add up quickly. For someone who wants to purchase five sets of dumbbells in weight increments of 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 lbs (a total of 200 lbs of weight), an expected price tag would range from $200-600.

When you look at adjustable dumbbell sets, like the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells, you may end up spending up to $500 for the set, but you’re also getting the equivalent of 15 different dumbbell increments ranging from 5-52.5 lbs. Purchasing 15 sets of dumbbells at the same weight levels would cost substantially more.

The caveat? If you’ll never use the wide range of adjustments available in an adjustable dumbbell set, it may not be worth the pricier cost. For instance, if all you want and need are two sets of 10- and 15-lb dumbbells, it’s more cost-effective to purchase just what you need. So, think carefully about your personal budget, needs, and space before making any home gym equipment purchases.

How we chose the best adjustable dumbbells

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We consulted Lauren Del Turco, C.P.T., certified personal trainer and health and wellness journalist and Marisa Golan, NASM C.P.T., certified personal trainer and owner of E(M)powered to find the best adjustable dumbbells for at-home workouts. We also combed through countless ratings, reviews, and product specs to find the only adjustable dumbbells that you should use to level up your fitness routine.

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Why trust us

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For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.

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Emily Goldman
Deputy Editor

Emily Goldman is the deputy editor at Prevention. She’s spent her career editing and writing about health, wellness, beauty, fashion, and food for Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, Bridal Guide, Good Housekeeping, and more. She’s loved all things health and wellness since starting her bi-weekly podcast Pancreas Pals—a series all about the highs and lows of living life with type 1 diabetes. When not podcasting, she spends most of her time curled up with a good book or watching a period piece on BBC.

Headshot of Shannen Zitz
Shannen Zitz
Assistant Editor

Shannen Zitz is an Assistant Editor at Prevention, where she covers all things lifestyle, wellness, beauty, and relationships. Previously the Editorial Assistant at Prevention, she graduated from the State University of New York at Cortland with a bachelor's degree in English. If she’s not reading or writing, you can probably find her frequenting the skincare and makeup forums on Reddit or hogging the squat rack at the gym.

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