One final note worth mentioning, straight from the pros: No matter what type of workout you’re doing, you should make sure the weight is balanced with an equal number of plates on each side (and, if you’re using two dumbbells, that they’re locked in at the same weights too). Otherwise, you run the risk of getting hurt.
How we test dumbbells
It’s hard to know if a product’s promises in its marketing materials are legit, so our experienced testers use the equipment before recommending it. Check out our full fitness-testing methodology for a peek into all the factors we consider, but in the meantime, here are some qualities our testers have in mind when they’re pumping adjustable irons:
Durability
When you invest in fitness equipment, you want it to last, so durability is key. While adjustable dumbbells are generally less durable than fixed weights, the ones we recommend are made from sturdy materials like iron, which will ensure their durability over time.
The ACE Factor
In other words, “adjustability, customizability, and ergonomics.” These factors all come into play to make a product easier (and more enjoyable) to use, and any fitness equipment we recommend must check all those boxes. For adjustable dumbbells, testers scored based on how easy it was to swap out weighted plates (and how customizable the weights were; the more increment options, the better) and how easy and comfortable the bells were to hold during a workout.
Footprint
Nobody wants a massive piece of workout equipment in the middle of their living room, so we pay close attention to the total size of whatever we’re testing. One of the biggest selling points for adjustable dumbbells is that they take up minimal space, so the smaller they store down, the higher our testers rate them.
FAQs
To summarize some of the most important info about picking the best adjustable weights, we’ve shared some of the most frequently asked questions:
How much do adjustable dumbbells cost?
You can find a great set of adjustable dumbbells at any price point—our list ranges from $80 to nearly $800. Generally speaking, the heavier a dumbbell is, the more expensive it will be because it requires more plates. The quality of materials will also play into how much something costs—more durable weights made with steel tend to be pricier than ones made with plastic.
This list has some budget-friendly options, but remember that investing a little more could give you a set with a longer lifespan and the ability to do more varied workouts.
Can you build muscle with dumbbells?
“You can build muscle with adjustable dumbbells just as well, if not better, than standard dumbbells,” confirms Suddell. After all, “weight is weight,” she says.
What do adjustable dumbbells usually weigh?
Most adjustable dumbbells come with a bar that weighs 2.5 to 5 pounds and weighted plates in 2.5-, 5-, and 10-pound increments (you can also find options with heavier and lighter bars and plates, but the best options all generally fit within this range).
You can mix and match these plates however you’d like. The lightest weight option will always be the bar on its own, and the heaviest will be when all the plates are used together. Our list of the best adjustable dumbbells includes a range of maximum weights, from 30 to 90 pounds.
How do adjustable dumbbells work?
Adjustable dumbbells come with a single “bell” and multiple weighted plates that can be added or subtracted depending on your workout. Some weights require you to manually swap out the plates, while others make the process as easy as turning a dial or flicking a switch.
What is the difference between adjustable dumbbells and fixed dumbbells?
A fixed dumbbell is just that: fixed. It’s got a bar at one weight. On the other hand, adjustable dumbbells use plates to allow you to switch between multiple weights on a single bar.
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