I found the Nuobell 2-32kg Adjustable Dumbbells offered an excellent weight range, a simple and effective adjustment mechanism, and stylish design.
If you’re looking for the best adjustable dumbbells, this smart-looking bit of kit could be just the ticket, with a slick adjustment mechanism for all your lifting needs. But how does it perform on test?
Men’s Fitness verdict
With a seamless weight-switching mechanism, effective grip and stylish design, these Nuobells are easy on the eye as well as the hands. All in all, a handsome addition to any home gym.- Wide weight range
- Smart-looking bit of kit
- Slick adjustment mechanism
- Option to add a hip-heigh stand
- Handles could be grippier
Why you can trust Men’s Fitness
We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Our team of reviewers includes experienced product testers, PTs and fitness writers – as well as the core MF team – who know exactly what sets the best products apart from the rest. These Nuobell 2-32kg Adjustable Dumbbells were tested and reviewed by ex-MF editor Isaac Williams. Find out more about how we test.
Nuobell 2-32kg Adjustable Dumbbells features
Intuitive design, slick looks and a competitive weight range make the Nuobell 2-32kg (5-80lb) – the brainchild of Swedish brand NUO Athletics – one of the best adjustable dumbbell systems I’ve had the pleasure of testing.
The one thing adjustable dumbbells need to get right is the mechanism for switching between weights – whether it’s a dial, button or some other device. In my experience, Nuobell has got it spot on, with a seamless twist of the handle while the dumbbells are in their cradles. That allowed me to seamlessly cycle between the different weights in an instant – perfect for switching from heavier dumbbell back exercises to lighter dumbbell triceps exercises. Simply turn right to decrease; left to increase.
For anyone confused by how adjustable dumbbells actually work, once you’ve selected your weight (indicated by a number on the handles), you then simply lift the handle out of the stand and the required plates will stay attached.
Nuobell 2-32kg Adjustable Dumbbells performance
Those plates avoid the common problem with adjustable dumbbells of rattling around when you’re lifting. The handles are knurled (criss-crossed with grooves) for added grip too. That grip is effective most of the time, but I did find high-intensity dumbbell workouts – and consequent sweaty palms – made them slightly slippery. For regular strength training, though, you won’t have any issues. And chalk or gloves can always be used for a stronger grip.
The word ‘stylish’ features heavily in the brand’s mission statement, and it shines through with these. Although the weights (sold in pairs) total a hefty 32kg (80lb) each, there’s an elegance to their construction. So they’re easy on the eye as well as the hands. All in all, a handsome addition to any home gym.
Nuobell 2-32kg Adjustable Dumbbells technical specs
| Weight range | 2-32kg (5-80lb) |
| Increments | 16 |
| Dimensions | 48.3 x 19 x 19cm (19 x 7.5 x 7.5in) |
How I tested the best adjustable dumbbells
I tested the Nuobell 2-32kg Adjustable Dumbbells at various weights and through a range of exercises at high rep ranges to see how they handle, assessing it in terms of grip, comfort and weight range. I then provided an overall score, taking build quality, performance and price into consideration.
