Transform your home workouts with the best adjustable dumbbells on the market right now.
A pair of the best adjustable dumbbells can help you in more ways than one this year. If you’re looking to set up a small gym at home, you’ll need a selection of dumbbells that cover a useful range and enable you to do a large number of exercises.
However, trying to cover this range with individual weights will not only take up a significant amount of floorspace, but it’ll burn a hole in your wallet too.
So investing in a set of adjustable dumbbells makes a lot of sense if you want a relatively small and inexpensive set-up. The initial outlay may seem expensive, but as long as you choose the right set, it should cover all your lifting needs.
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What are the best adjustable dumbbells?
The Nuobell Adjustable Dumbbells are the best we tested. A seamless adjustment mechanism, slick aesthetic and rattle-free design makes Nuobell the standout adjustable dumbbell set. You have the option to buy a stand on which to store the weights, too, which – if you have the room – means you can pick them up and set them down from waist height.
Other adjustable dumbbell recommendations
| Best adjustable dumbbell weight range | The DMoose 2-in-1 Adjustable Dumbbell & Barbell (buy now) offers the biggest weight range of any adjustable dumbbells we tested. Topping out at 90lb (40kg), that’s more than enough weight for most home workout needs. Of course, there’s also the added benefit of being able to switch from dumbbell to barbell exercises – though doing so is a bit fiddly. |
| Best-value adjustable dumbbells | At $399 for a pair, the NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells (buy now) represent an excellent entry into the weights world from a brand more commonly associated with cardio equipment. The 55lb (25kg) top weight of each dumbbell is decent enough, too. |
| Best adjustable dumbbells for small spaces | At 42cm long per dumbbell, the MuscleSquad 5kg – 32.5kg Quick Select Adjustable Dumbbell (buy now) offers the most compact unit we tested. The max weight of 32.5kg is the second heaviest on test, too, so this is a very good option if space is at a premium but you still want to lift heavy. |
| Best adjustable dumbbell workout app | Far and away the best companion workout app belongs to the JAXJOX DumbbellConnect (buy now). The weights carry a maximum of 22.6kg, which will likely leave more experienced gym-goers wanting more, but the JAXJOX app offers a wealth of follow-along workout options, as well as some useful metrics based on your training. |
The best adjustable dumbbells you can buy today
1. Nuobell Adjustable Dumbbells
Men’s Fitness verdict
With a seamless adjustment mechanism and stylish design, Nuobell’s Adjustable Dumbbells are easy on the eye as well as the hands. A handsome addition to any home gym and the best we tested.- Wide weight range
- Slick aesthetic
- Smooth adjustments
- Option to add a hip-high stand
- Handles could be a bit grippier
| Weight range | 4.4-70.5lb (2-32kg) |
| Increments | 16 |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 48.5 x 18 x 18.5cm |
| Sold as a pair or individually | Pair |
There’s no other way to say it: the Nuobell is simply the best adjustable dumbbell system we’ve had the pleasure of testing.
A seamless twist of the handles allow you to cycle between the different weights in an instant, and there’s no rattling around of weight plates when you’re lifting. The handles have a decent amount of grip (though if there’s one small gripe it’s that it could be slightly better during high-intensity exercises).
All in all, this is a stylish and minimalist set of weights that marries good looks with unparalleled practicality.
- Read more: Nuobell Adjustable Dumbbells review
2. Primal Strength Personal Series Adjustable Dumbbell Pair
Men’s Fitness verdict
This beastly set of bells is straightforward to set up and offers a massive 21 different weights to work with. They are on the more expensive side, but it’s worth remembering these come as a pair.- Best weight range we tested
- Wide, comfortable grip
- Easy to adjust
- Take up a fair amount of space
| Weight range | 11-75lb (5-34kg) |
| Increments | 21 |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 50.4 x 18.2 x 17.8cm |
| Sold as a pair or individually | Pair |
A high-quality, versatile set of dumbbells for any home gym user – with a best-in-test 34kg max weight per dumbbell. Over a nearly 30kg range, you get a substantial 21 different weights to work with. That should satisfy even the most experienced weight trainer.
They’re longer than most adjustable dumbbells, but the slider selection system is a breeze to use and the handles stay comfortable throughout long workouts.
- Read more: Primal Strength Personal Series 34kg review
3. NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells
Men’s Fitness verdict
A really good-value set of adjustable weights, with max loads of 55lb (25kg) per dumbbell. They’re easy to adjust, too, but there could be more companion app content.- Excellent value
- Easy operation
- Neat, compact design
- 55lb per bar won’t be enough weight for some
- Not much iFit companion content
| Weight range | 10-55lb (4.5-25kg) |
| Increments | 15 |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 49.2 x 28.9 x 21.5cm |
| Sold as a pair or individually | Pair |
For a brand better known for its cardio equipment, NordicTrack has made an impressive step into the world of weights with its Select-A-Weight Dumbbells. We found them to be a breeze to use and pleasantly compact – 49.2cm long is the second smallest unit in this list.
The content available on the partner iFit app could be better, and the 55lb max weight won’t be enough for some, but ultimately $399 for a pair of high-quality adjustable dumbbells is very good value.
- Read more: NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells review
4. MuscleSquad 5kg – 32.5kg Quick Select Adjustable Dumbbell
Men’s Fitness verdict
The most space-efficient adjustable dumbbell on test, with an impressive 32.5kg max weight to boot. A dream to use, but a pair will set you back £550.- Wide resistance range
- Small footprint for easy storage
- Relatively expensive
| Weight range | 11-71.5lb (5-32.5kg) |
| Increments | 12 |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 42 x 20 x 21cm |
| Sold as a pair or individually | Both options available |
With 12 adjustment settings over a 60.6lb / 27.5kg range, this MuscleSquad adjustable dumbbell set gives you plenty of options to fine-tune your workouts. To adjust, simply place the dumbbell on the included dock, turn the dial to your desired weight and start lifting.
Its handle is soft and textured for a comfortable grip, and the gripping mechanism works smoothly and securely. At 42cm long per adjustable dumbbell, these are the most compact weights we tested, so if space is at a premium these will be your best option.
5. BowFlex SelectTech 552i Dumbbells
Men’s Fitness verdict
BowFlex has established itself as a big name in the adjustable dumbbell space, and the 552i’s show why: with quick adjustments and ergonomic design. Not the most durable construction, however.- Easy adjustments
- Relatively affordable
- Quite bulky
- Heavy use of plastic means they don’t feel the most durable (don’t drop them!)
| Weight range | 4.4-52.5lb (2-24kg) |
| Increments | 15 |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 43 x 21.2 x 22.8cm |
| Sold as a pair or individually | Both options available |
BowFlex’s rubber and steel grip is well designed for more explosive exercises and fast-paced HIIT-style workouts. You can move from 4.4lb to 52.5lb with the simple twist of a dial, and there’s a tray to store the weights and drop them back when you need to add or lose some plates.
BowFlex also offers on-demand strength classes via its JRNY app, so you can put the dumbbells to work with prescribed workouts.
The construction is heavy on the plastic, though, so if you like to chuck your weights around (though generally not advisable for any adjustable dumbbell), you’ll want something a bit more robust.
6. JAXJOX DumbbellConnect
Men’s Fitness verdict
These are some high-tech dumbbells, but they also do the basics well. Set-up is quick and easy, thanks to clear instructions, then simply choose your weight digitally and start lifting.- Quick and easy to change weight
- Smart features with app connectivity
- Good workout variety on the JAXJOX app
- Dumbbells have to be charged before use
- Dock’s screen can be difficult to see clearly
| Weight range | 7.9-49.8lb (3.6-22.6kg) |
| Increments | 8 |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 49.5 x 19.1 x 17.8cm |
| Sold as a pair or individually | Pair |
With a digital docking station, the JAXJOX DumbbellConnect is an impressive bit of kit, utilising a USB-powered digital dock for weight selection and a companion app to suggest exercises and track progress. Just sync the app for real-time data such as reps, weight, sets, time, average power and total volume.
These dumbbells do the basics well, too – including a robust design, comfortable grooved handles and secure locking plates.
Just remember to keep the dock charged, or you won’t be able to change weights.
- Read more: JAXJOX DumbbellConnect review
7. DMoose 2-in-1 Adjustable Dumbbell/Barbell
Men’s Fitness verdict
Topping out at a large 90lb (40.8kg), this 2-in-1 from DMoose packs the heaviest weight we tested. You only get one dumbbell, however (which can be turned into the barbell), which isn’t ideal.- Big weight range
- One hand weight adjustment with handle
- Space-saving design
- Stand included
- Longer dumbbell than traditional versions
- Single dumbbell only
| Weight range | 4-90lb (2-40.8kg) |
| Increments | 16 |
| Dimensions (dumbbell) | 46.5 x 24.9 x 23.1cm |
| Dimensions (barbell) | 117.1 x 24.9 x 23.1cm |
DMoose’s reputation for quality shines through in this innovative adjustable dumbbell and barbell combo. Featuring 16 weights across a 4-90lb / 2-40kg range, it’s suitable for beginners and more experienced users looking to kit out their home gyms.
90lb is a usefully heavy weight for moves like goblet squats and rows, which tend to require bigger loads. And of course the option to change to a barbell mid-workout comes in handy, but the major downside is that you only get one dumbbell. That will inevitably limit your workout options.
Adjustable dumbbells vs fixed dumbbells
Once you’ve chosen your adjustable dumbbells, just select your weight and you’re good to go. To begin with, you can use them as you would a standard set of dumbbells. But by using their entire range you can quickly tap into a wealth of exercises in one workout.
It goes without saying that adjustable dumbbells offer more flexibility and versatility than fixed dumbbells. There are various types of adjustable dumbbells available, including the classic plate dumbbells that use a removable collar to add and take off weights.
These can be time consuming to adjust, though, which can interrupt your workout. So we’ve concentrated on the best proper adjustable dumbbells – ones that allow you to change weights on the fly.
This lets you get on with the serious business of nailing your reps and getting the right amount of rest between sets and exercises. It also allows you to decrease or increase the resistance in manageable increments to finesse your workout.
What makes a good adjustable dumbbell?
Before choosing adjustable dumbbells, consider the kind of best dumbbell exercises you intend to use them for. Are you going for heavy-weight strength gains, or looking to get leaner with some high-rep conditioning?
If you’re just starting out with full-body dumbbell workouts, you’ll probably be tempted to go lighter. Bear in mind that you will get stronger and be able to lift heavier weights as you progress, though. So before long a maximum weight of 20kg, say, may not be enough to continue seeing improvements.
Look for adjustable dumbbells with a simple, intuitive selection mechanism, and a wide weight range to give room for progression. Ideally you want a large number of adjustments between the highest and lowest weights, giving you a wide range of options and smaller jumps between weights.
Handle design plays a big part in comfort so look for adjustable dumbbells with wide handles with soft, knurled or patterned grips. The dumbbell’s footprint is worth considering if storage is an issue, and waist-level stands can make changing weights more comfortable too.
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