You would think that a dumbbell is a dumbbell and that used to be the case, but these days there are some interesting new choices. Instead of having individual dumbbells for every weight, you can now get dumbells that adjust to multiple weights really quickly.
Here are a few things you may want to consider when shopping for dumbbells:
- If you are using them in an area with hardwood floors you may want to choose rubber coated dumbbells
- If you have limited space then an adjustable set may be best for you, or maybe a set with a vertical rack
- If you change between weights frequently then individual weights or adjustable weights may be best
- If your ultimate goal is body building choose a set with high weight capacity or just use them along with barbells
There are a lot of similar dumbbells to choose from so I decided there was no point in doing a top ten list because there would just be a lot of repetition. Below are what I consider to be a good summary of some of the best alternatives available.
 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |  | |
Product | Bowflex | Yes4All | CAP Barbell 2 | CAP Barbell Rack | Core Fitness |
Max Weight | 52.5 | 105 | 50 | 25 | 50 |
Adjustable |  | |  | | |
Rack Included | | N/A | | | |
Free app | | | | | |
Quick change | | | N/A | | |
Rubber Coated | | | | | |
Roll Proof | | | | | |
Rating | |||||
 | | | | |
1. Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
Contents
These Bowfex dumbbells are a very the innovative solution compared to when dumbbells were first invented. They have dials on the side and you simply set the dial on each side to the weight you want and then pick it up. For anything less than full weight it will leave weight discs in the handy storage tray. If you want more or less weight, just set the dumbbell back in the tray and change the dial again.
If you don't want a lot of exercise equipment cluttering your house these are a great option since everything is contained in the handy storage trays.
The main downside to this type of system is that it is mechanical so there could be things that go wrong with it, unlike standard dumbbells which are just cast iron and a handle. Check out the video below to see the mechanics behind the Bowflex SelectTech 552.
PROS
CONS
2. Yes4All Adjustable Dumbbells
These dumbbells are the more traditional type of adjustment where you spin off the end knob and slide the weight plates on or off.
This set is for people who are seriously into body building since it can handle up to 105 pounds of weight on each dumbbell. The plates are cast iron with no rubber coating so it would be best if your workout area is carpeted or has rubber flooring as seen in most commercial gyms.
You can purchase smaller kits than the 105 pound, or you can just purchase the handle alone so if you already have a set of barbells, you can use the weight plates from it as long as the plates aren't too thick.
PROS
CONS
3. CAP Barbell Set of 2 Hex Rubber-Coated Dumbbell
Perhaps you've decided you don't need to purchase an entire set of dumbbells and you just want to purchase one or two sets of certain weights. With these you can grow your set as your muscles grow (or your budget grows).
These are a very good solid cast iron, rubber-coated design. The hexagonal design keeps them from rolling across the floor so you have to go and retrieve them.
You can't go wrong in choosing these basic dumbbells.
PROS
CONS
4. CAP Barbell 150-lb Rubber Hex Dumbbell Weight Set
These are the same dumbbells as above except they come with a nice storage rack. The good part is this won't take up much floor or shelf space. The downside is the largest weights are 25 pounds so you won't get bulky muscles with this kit but you can get fit and lose weight.
PROS
CONS
5. Core Fitness Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set
What's really nice about the way these adjust is that there is only one adjustment. You simply twist the handle while the dumbbell is sitting in the rack. Unlike the Bowflex design where you have to set the dial on each side, this one only has one adjustment.
These are also a little smaller than the Bowflex so they may feel a little more like using traditional dumbbells.
The only thing we are unsure of is the company behind them and their history of support.
PROS
CONS
If you haven't considered the benefits of kettlebells, check out this article: Should I Buy Kettlebells or Dumbbells?