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Home » Best Strength Equipment » The 7 Best Dumbbells of 2026

The 7 Best Dumbbells of 2026

Pump up your progress and get to training with the best dumbbells on the market today.

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Written by Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1
Updated by Cory Kessler, NASM-CPT, NASM-CNC on August 24th, 2026
This article has been read and reviewed by the following members of BarBend's Expert Network. Our Expert Network is comprised of trainers, researchers, athletes, and medical professionals who help us review our content for accuracy and quality. Learn more by visiting our Experts portal.Expert Verified
Expert Verified By: Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC
This article has been read and reviewed by the following members of BarBend's Expert Network. Our Expert Network is comprised of trainers, researchers, athletes, and medical professionals who help us review our content for accuracy and quality. Learn more by visiting our Experts portal.Expert Verified
Expert Contributor: Dr. Christopher Mohr, PhD, RD
This article has been read and reviewed by the following members of BarBend's Expert Network. Our Expert Network is comprised of trainers, researchers, athletes, and medical professionals who help us review our content for accuracy and quality. Learn more by visiting our Experts portal.Expert Verified
Expert Contributor: Amanda Capritto, CPT, CSNC, CPS
This article has been read and reviewed by the following members of BarBend's Expert Network. Our Expert Network is comprised of trainers, researchers, athletes, and medical professionals who help us review our content for accuracy and quality. Learn more by visiting our Experts portal.Expert Verified
Expert Contributor: Jake Herod, NASM-CNC
This article has been read and reviewed by the following members of BarBend's Expert Network. Our Expert Network is comprised of trainers, researchers, athletes, and medical professionals who help us review our content for accuracy and quality. Learn more by visiting our Experts portal.Expert Verified
Expert Contributor: Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1

We receive free products and receive commissions through our links. See disclosures page.
  • Top Dumbbells
  • |
  • How We Tested
  • |
  • Benefits
  • |
  • Common Materials
  • |
  • What to Consider
  • |
  • FAQs

While barbells and squat racks are synonymous with at-home training, no list of home gym essentials would be complete without a set of dumbbells on the roster. These versatile tools are great for beginners and veteran athletes alike, thanks to their increased range of motion and ability to focus on unilateral movements. 

“The best dumbbells are a great choice for beginners as they are relatively easy to handle and can be used for a variety of exercises that target different muscle groups,” Dr. Christopher Mohr, PhD, RD, says. “They allow for natural movement patterns and help improve coordination and balance by engaging stabilizing muscles.” The best dumbbells combine that performance with durable constructions, space-saving dimensions, and approachable weight ranges.

You might be thinking that a dumbbell is a dumbbell is a dumbbell, right? Well, despite the common silhouette between units, there are plenty of differences that set a high-quality dumbbell apart from one you’ll likely need to replace in just a few months. Since 2020, we’ve helped over 850,000 curious strength trainers learn more about the ins and outs of the best equipment for your home gym — dumbbells, included. To give your buying experience a lift-off, we’ve tested dozens of top dumbbells from reputable brands, evaluating each set based on our equipment testing methodology as well as the criteria our in-house experts deemed essential in the perfect dumbbell:

  • Durability and construction: Is the dumbbell made of premium, durable materials like steel and urethane, or is it made of flimsier compounds that might not withstand heavy lifts and potential drops?
  • Workout performance: Do the specifications of the dumbbells improve the quality of your workout through aspects like knurling or handle diameter, or is it uncomfortable to the point of impeding your training?
  • Available weight range: Is the dumbbell available in a wide variety of weights, allowing you to achieve progressive overload, or are the weight ranges quite limited?
  • Value and pricing: Is the cost-per-pound on par with other options on the market? Does the price feel appropriate for the included features? 

After hours of testing and consulting with experts like certified personal trainers and competitive weightlifters, these are our favorite dumbbells available today.

After testing dozens of dumbbells in the market, our team chose the REP Fitness Rubber Coated Dumbbells as the best dumbbells overall. Read on to learn more about these high-quality traditional dumbbells, as well as other options — fixed and adjustable — for different needs and uses.

The 7 Best Dumbbells of 2026

  • Best Dumbbells Overall : REP Fitness Rubber Coated Dumbbells
  • Best Adjustable Dumbbells : MX100 Evolution Series Adjustable Dumbbells
  • Most Durable Dumbbells : NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
  • Best Dumbbell Rack : Rogue Universal Storage System 2.0
  • Best Loadable Dumbbells : Titan Loadable Olympic Dumbbell Handles
  • Best Budget Dumbbells : FLYBIRD 55-Pound Adjustable Dumbbells
  • Best Hex Dumbbells : Bells of Steel Rubber Hex Dumbbells

Experts Who Contributed

  • Dr. Christopher Mohr, PhD, RD
  • Amanda Capritto, CPT, CF-L1, CES, CSNC
  • Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1
  • Jake Herod, NASM-CNC
  • Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC
  • Bojana Galic, NASM-CNC
  • Stephen Sheehan, ISSA CPT, CNC, CSCS

Best Dumbbells Video Review

Check out our full video review of the best dumbbells on the market in 2026. Jake Herod, expert product tester and a certified nutrition coach, takes you through our favorite hex, block, and round models, as well as the best budget, adjustable, and loadable options.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thPmz6CiXfU

Best Dumbbells Overall: REP Fitness Rubber-Coated Dumbbells

REP Fitness Rubber Coated Dumbbells
REP Fitness Rubber Coated Dumbbells
REP Fitness Rubber Coated Dumbbells

Working out in cold climates and hate the feel of chilly steel in your palm? Consider working out with these REP Fitness Rubber Coated Dumbbells that boast a full rubber coating across the handle for a comfortable feel that won’t freeze your progress in your strength-training regimen.

Shop REP Fitness

Specs

  • Price: Starting at $39.99
  • Available Weights: 5-100lbs
  • Handle Diameter: 30mm (5-20lbs) 35mm (25+lbs)
  • Head Material: Ultra-low-odor rubber
  • Knurling Coverage: Partial
  • Shape: Hexagonal
Pros
Full rubber coating can create a more comfortable grip
Hex-style head shape can help prevent errant rolling
Low-odor rubber can eliminate unwanted smells at unboxing
Cons
Full rubber coating can compromise knurling grip
Smaller weight range from 5 to 100 pounds
Thicker handle design given the full rubber coating

Why We Like It

If you’re looking for a more comfortable grip while doing a home dumbbell workout, look no further than the REP Fitness Rubber Coated Hex Dumbbells. Our top overall pick provides an excellent setup for presses, pulls, and everything in between thanks to the versatile design and full-rubber coating. 

Despite the unique overlay, these dumbbells are virtually the same construction to REP’s standard Hex Dumbbells. Accordingly, we rate the construction at 4.5 out of 5. “These are plenty durable to withstand drops, and the hex head can help limit any unwanted rolls,” adds our tester.

These rubber-coated dumbbells do still feature a knurling pattern across the handle design, but it’s less abrasive than that of a regular metal barbell or dumbbell. While this may appeal to some athletes, we cannot deny that grip can be more easily compromised with this design element.

Additionally, we score the handle at 3.5 out of 5 given its larger diameter — the rubber coating pushes the diameter to 30 millimeters for 5-pound to 20-pound weights, and 35 millimeters for 25-pound weights and higher. For reference, most dumbbells feature a 28- or 29-millimeter handle, which may feel more comfortable in your hand. “It is definitely noticeable when switching back to regular dumbbells,” adds our tester, “Almost like mixing in an axle session amidst your normal routine, only not as drastic.”

Speaking of the weight range, REP offers this dumbbell in bundled weight sets or paired sets between 5 and 100 pounds. While this weight range is accommodating enough for most athletes, we score the variety at 4 out of 5 for the category since some dumbbells are offered in higher totals. If you’re in need of heavier dumbbells, it may be best to opt for REP’s standard Hex Dumbbell profile.

Good for: People needing rubber-coated dumbbells for the sake of comfortable training in colder conditions.

Read More

Best Adjustable Dumbbells: MX100 Evolution Series Adjustable Dumbbells

MX100 Evolution Series Adjustable Dumbbells
MX100 Evolution Series Adjustable Dumbbells
MX100 Evolution Series Adjustable Dumbbells

The MX100 Evolution Series from MX Fitness Supply offer an impressively heavy 100-pound max weight and durable metal construction. The upgraded turnstile adjustment mechanism now lists actual weight totals than a 1-10 settings range, making it easier than ever to fine-tune your dumbbells load before a training set.

Shop MX Fitness Supply

Specs

  • Price: Starting at $849
  • Available Weights: 10-100lbs
  • Handle Diameter: 36mm (rubber) or 29mm (knurled)
  • Head Material: Steel weight plates
  • Knurling Coverage: Partial
  • Shape: Square with rounded corners
Pros
Weight range up to 100 pounds
Rubber or knurled grip options available
Sturdy metal build
Cons
One of the more expensive adjustable sets we’ve tested
10-pound weight increments do not allow for micro-adjustments

Why We Like It

The best adjustable dumbbells can be space-saving heroes for your home workouts, fitting multiple weight totals into a single silhouette rather than taking up an entire wall’s worth of space for different weights. The MX100 Evolution Series dumbbells are our pick for the best adjustable dumbbells thanks to a few standout features, such as a 10- to 100-pound weight range per ‘bell, a choice between rubber or knurled handles, and steel plates that give the whole set a solid, built-to-last feel.

On the adjustment side, these move in 10-pound increments by default, though our tester pointed out you can offset one side to get a 5-pound difference if you need a more fine-tuned total. Plus, magnetic micro-plates are sold separately for even smaller jumps. 

The adjustment mechanism on this set is similar to MX Select’s older MX55 model — a button releases the knob, so you can turn it — but instead of a 1-through-10 dial, the knob now just displays the actual weight, which is a small but appreciated upgrade, our tester said. He scored these dumbbells a 4.5 out of 5 for adjustment speed. 

Build quality is where this set earns its price tag, earning a 4.5 out of 5 for construction and durability. “There’s a plastic cradle, but they’re mostly metal, and the warranty covers drops up to 30 inches,” our expert tester said.

The head design also got an update from previous versions, dropping the angled shape for a more rounded, square head. Our tester mentioned square heads won’t be for everyone, but added that the plates are narrow enough that it doesn’t feel awkward in use.

Grip-wise, you can choose between a contoured, textured rubber handle or a 29-millimeter knurled one. Our tester docked a point here, saying, “I liked both options except that the knurled handle is a lot thinner … I prefer the knurled texture, so I didn’t like having to switch to the rubber.” Overall, though, he still rated the handle quality at 4 out of 5.

On price, our tester found these currently listed at $849 for the 100-pound pair and called that a strong value against competitors in this weight class — PowerBlocks, for example, tend to cost more, and NÜOBELLs land around the same price but max out at lower totals. MX Select also backs this adjustable dumbbell set with a two-year warranty, along with a 30-day return window and support by phone, email, or online contact form.

Good for: Athletes looking for durable adjustable dumbbells capable of high weight totals.

Read More

Most Durable Dumbbells: NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells

NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells

This Swedish-designed “smart” dumbbell adjusts from 5 pounds up to 80 pounds — all you have to do is twist the handlebar. Its sleek, modern design will make a great addition to any home gym. 

Shop NÜOBELL

Specs

  • Price: Starting at $599
  • Available Weights: 5-80lbs
  • Handle Diameter: 28mm
  • Head Material: Steel, plastic
  • Knurling Coverage: Full
  • Shape: Round
Pros
Weight range up to 80 pounds
Fully-knurled handle
Turnstile adjustment mechanism for quick weight changes
Cons
Has some plastic parts
Included cradles can be finicky at times

Why We Like It

If you’re looking for a seriously sturdy pair of dumbbells to level up your home gym, the conversation starts and stops with the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells. These dumbbells are the best of the bunch thanks to their mostly metal design, quick-adjusting turnstile handle, and impressive weight range that should be suitable for a range of athletes.

Having owned these adjustable dumbbells for multiple years, I do enjoy the metal design that’s kept its integrity, even after some small drops and multiple moves. We score the construction at 4 out of 5, though, since there are some plastic components in between the plates and within the locking mechanism that could be susceptible to damage if dropped excessively.

Our tester also likes the fully knurled handle design of the NÜOBELLs, rating the design at 4.5 out of 5. “Not only does this grip pattern make for excellent control during lifts, but it also makes adjustments that much easier,” they note.

Tester uses SMRTFT Nüobell Adjustable Dumbbell for bicep curls
SMRTFT Nüobell Adjustable Dumbbell close up

Speaking of the adjustments, the NÜOBELLs employ a turnstile locking mechanism that toggles the weights between 5 and 50 or 5 and 80 pounds, depending on your chosen dumbbell pair. “It’s very intuitive,” notes our tester, and we rate the adjustability at 4.75 out of 5 since it can allow for quick changes and easier interval workouts or drop sets when compared to a lock-and-pinion system employed by other adjustable silhouettes.

That said, all adjustments do need to be made while the dumbbell is resting in its included cradle. These bases are constructed of plastic and a thin metal and can be finicky at times. I recommend taking your time when returning your dumbbell to its resting position in order to efficiently get the plates aligned without issues or potential damage.

Good for: Anyone looking for a sturdy pair of adjustable dumbbells with a solid weight capacity.

Read our full NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells Review.

Read More

Best Dumbbell Rack: Rogue Fitness Universal Storage System 2.0

Rogue Universal Storage System
Rogue Universal Storage System
Rogue Universal Storage System

Whether you need a clean space to store a set of dumbbells or have miscellaneous gym equipment you need to organize, this storage system from Rogue can handle it with 11 gauge steel and heavy duty wheels. 

Shop Rogue

Specs

  • Price: Starting at $395
  • Material: 11-gauge steel
  • Shelves: 2-3
  • Shelving Patterns: Medicine balls, kettlebells, dumbbells
  • Product Dimensions: 76.5” L x 23.75” W x 29.25”-45.25” H
Pros
Can house dumbbells, kettlebells, or medicine balls
Wheeled base for easier maneuverability
Compatible with other bolt-on Rogue storage accessories
Cons
Can experience some swaying due to lack of center support beam
Wheels don’t roll efficiently

Why We Like It

Having a dumbbell set for your home gym is one thing, but unless you’re opting for an adjustable pair of weights, you’ll also need to think about how you’ll store your new strength training equipment. The Rogue Universal Storage System is one of our favorites thanks to a modular design that can be customized to fit not just dumbbells, but kettlebells and medicine balls, too.

The frame of this storage rack is composed of sturdy, 11-gauge steel, and the 70-inch shelves are laser-cut to match the common dimensions of your intended gear. Additionally, we rated the customizations at 4 out of 5 thanks to Rogue’s offering of a two-tier or three-tier setup. This can be great for athletes who have a bevy of dumbbells that need a new home, or those who want to house all of their gear in one complete area.

This Universal Storage System is also compatible with Rogue’s bolt-on storage accessories, so you can even house your barbells across this unit with just a few turns of a wrench.

While we admired the durability of each component across this storage rack, we do want to note that the two-post style can lead to some lateral movement and swaying, which we attribute to the lack of a center support beam. 

We rated the stability at 3.5 out of 5 for such reasons, and other customers have also commented on this potential issue. “The three-tier system does have some lateral movement to it,” says one customer. “I suspect the three tiers when coupled with the wheels raises the center of gravity enough to introduce a slight wobble.”

Additionally, we appreciated how Rogue included wheels along the base, giving this best weight rack a unique sense of portability. This can be a great perk for athletes training in smaller home gyms, but we score the portability at 3.5 out of 5 and recommend unloading some weights before getting this unit into motion. “The weights can quickly weigh down the entire silhouette, making it tough to push around,” adds our tester. So, unless you want to integrate a sled push into your training routine, we suggest removing some weight before transport.

For a vertical dumbbell rack that takes up less floor space, try the Deltech Fitness 6 Pair Vertical Dumbbell Rack.

Good for: Athletes needing a storage area for equipment such as dumbbells, kettlebells, and medicine balls.

Read More

Best Loadable Dumbbells: Titan Fitness Loadable Dumbbell Pair

Up To 50% Off
Titan Fitness Loadable Dumbbell Pair
Titan Fitness Loadable Dumbbell Pair
Titan Fitness Loadable Dumbbell Pair

If you already own a plethora of weight plates, these Titan Fitness Loadable Dumbbells can be an excellent choice for your setup. The 6.5-inch loadable sleeves can house multiple plates at once up to 400 pounds, and the full knurling across the 28-millimeter handle provides a sturdy, controllable grip that’s ideal for those heavy presses and pulls. Up to 50% off early holiday deals.

Shop Titan Fitness

Specs

  • Price: $124.99
  • Available Weights: Supports up to 400lbs
  • Handle Diameter: 28mm
  • Head Material: Stainless steel sleeve
  • Knurling Coverage: Full
  • Shape: Loadable
Pros
6.5-inch sleeves can support weights up to 400 pounds
28-millimeter handle diameter similar to a standard barbell
Portable 12-pound profile
Cons
Change plates and barbell collars required
Knurling may be too aggressive
Sleeve length may be too short for some weight totals

Why We Like It

Does your home gym already contain some of the best weight plates? Looking to make the most of your weight options without sacrificing floor space? Loadable dumbbells use your own free weights to create quasi-dumbbell setups that essentially look like a miniature Olympic barbell. Of this dumbbell subcategory, we’re big fans of the Titan Fitness Loadable Dumbbell Pair.

Kate Meier, certified personal trainer and former BarBend editorial team member, has owned these Titan loadable dumbbells for years and routinely uses them in her training. “I like the optionality at play, and the knurling is aggressive yet not too toothy that it destroys my hands,” she notes in reference to her 4-out-of-5 workout experience score. Of course, though, we understand that knurling patterns can be subjective — what we feel is comfortable may not be aligned with your personal preferences.

Knurling on Titan loadable dumbbell
The Titan Fitness Loadable Dumbbells fixed with change plates and barbell collars

A benefit to loadable dumbbells is that they’re able to achieve weights rarely seen in standalone dumbbell profiles. The Titan Fitness Loadable Dumbbell Pair, for example can support weights up to 400 pounds, provided you’re OK with some compromised range of motion. We score the adjustability at 4.5 out of 5, too, since tacking on or removing weight is as simple as adding a plate to your bench press setup — slide the plate onto the sleeve and clamp down with a barbell collar.

We do note, though, that you’ll need separate barbell collars to properly lock the plates into position, which may call for additional purchases. If you’d prefer a more all-in-one design, check out the Kensui AdaptaBELL profile that uses an exterior spin lock that also eliminates excess sleeving that may alter your range of motion during presses.

Lastly, Meier rates the aesthetics at 4 out of 5, stating the sleeves and knurling have held up well over time and do stand out in her home gym space. “These are, per the brand, supposed to be rust-resistant, but I’ve noticed some build-up over the years. That said, I am impressed with the integrity, and they’ve weathered better than some rubber hex dumbbells I’ve had in my garage gym.”

Good for: Lifters with available weight plates and collars that want to perform dumbbell movements.

Read More

Best Budget Dumbbell: FLYBIRD Fitness 55-Pound Adjustable Dumbbell 

FLYBIRD Adjustable Dumbbells
FLYBIRD Fitness 55 LB Adjustable Dumbbell
FLYBIRD Adjustable Dumbbells

These budget-friendly adjustable dumbbells use 10-pound weight increments to replace five pairs of dumbbells. The rotating dial allows quick adjustment between 15 and 55 pounds.

Shop FLYBIRD

Specs

  • Price: $398
  • Available Weights: 15-55lbs
  • Handle Diameter: 25.4mm
  • Head Material: Carbon steel-coated nylon
  • Knurling Coverage: N/A
  • Shape: Hexagonal
Pros
Well below the average price point of other dumbbells we’ve tested
Quick and easy adjustment mechanism 
Comes with storage tray 
Cons
Plastic build is less durable (and potentially less eco-friendly) than cast iron or steel options
Lower weight range than other models 
No handle knurling — just small ridges for grip

Why We Like It

Stocking your home gym without breaking the bank can be tricky, but looking for a budget deal doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice equipment quality. That’s why we’ve picked the FLYBIRD Fitness 55-Pound Adjustable Dumbbells as the best budget dumbbells. With a high-quality build and the fact that it basically replaces five pairs of clunky fixed-weight dumbbells, this product is made for space-efficient training at a lower price point than others on our list. 

The FLYBIRD adjustable dumbbells offer a weight range of 15 to 55 pounds (adjustable in 10-pound increments), providing plenty of options for home workouts. They are also ideal for circuit training, thanks to the dials that allow you to adjust weights on the fly. 

“These are so simple to change up. You can hear the weight click into place. I do think the [storage] tray feels a little flimsy, though, as it’s just plastic,” according to our tester, who rated these dumbbells at 4 out of 5 for ease of use.

a person using the FLYBIRD Adjustable Dumbbells
a person gripping the FLYBIRD Adjustable Dumbbells

While these dumbbells are perfectly suited for curls, lateral raises, and Bulgarian split squats, more advanced lifters might find the weight limiting for moves like the dumbbell bench press or Romanian deadlifts. That’s why our team gave these dumbbells a 2.5 out of 5 for optionality. For a heavier option, we recommend trying the Snode Sport AD80 Adjustable Dumbbells, which go up to 80 pounds.

One other thing to note about the FLYBIRD adjustable dumbbells is that they’re made from carbon steel-coated nylon. Though our tester didn’t find them necessarily flimsy or fragile, they weren’t a fan of the plastic handles.

“The handle is made of plastic with a few ridges to help with grip,” notes former BarBend editorial member Randall Colburn, who rated the handles at 3 out of 5. “I prefer a bit of knurling with my dumbbells, but these just have little plastic ridges.”

Where the FLYBIRD adjustable dumbbells really shine, though, is in the price. Coming in at $389, this product is designed for beginners or those who aren’t looking for the heaviest dumbbells on the market.

Good for: Anyone looking for a solid value for the money.

Read our full FLYBIRD Adjustable Dumbbells Review.

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Best Hex Dumbbells: Bells of Steel Rubber Hex Dumbbells

Bells of Steel Rubber Hex Dumbbells
Bells of Steel Rubber Hex Dumbbells
Bells of Steel Rubber Hex Dumbbells

These hexagonal dumbbells from Bells of Steel can be excellent for home gym enthusiasts thanks to a squared-off shape that eliminates excessive rolling when these weights are dropped or placed on the floor. 

Shop Bells of Steel

Specs

  • Price: Starting at $39.99
  • Available Weights: 5-100lbs
  • Handle Diameter: 28mm (5-10lbs) 34mm (15+lbs)
  • Head Material: 50% virgin rubber, 50% recycled rubber
  • Knurling Coverage: Partial
  • Shape: Hexagonal
Pros
Hex head helps eliminate rolling
Lower starting cost at $39.99
Ergonomic handle design for improved in-hand comfort
Cons
May have “old tire” smell
Only features knurling at the center of handle
Max weight only reaches 100 pounds

Why We Like It

OK, so the shape of your dumbbell head doesn’t necessarily dictate your potential when tackling the best arm exercises (apart, maybe, from your range of motion in certain movements), but it can influence your overall workout experience. Given their flat sides, hex dumbbells are less prone to rolling along the floor when dropped, and can even serve as elevated handles for exercises like push-ups or planks. If you’re interested in this dumbbell silhouette, we recommend the Bells of Steel Rubber Hex Dumbbells.

I’ve used these dumbbells in previous workouts and do believe the construction can be appealing to home gym enthusiasts. “The rubber head is sturdy enough to withstand drops, and I definitely appreciate the lack of rolling that these weights perform in-between sets — no diving under weight benches or racks to retrieve my workout equipment before a set,” adds our tester. I also score the durability at 4 out of 5 since they’re pretty resilient to wear and tear.

I do note, though, that the rubberized heads are made with 50% recycled rubber, which can give off this “old tire” smell similar to some of the best bumper plates. If you’d rather avoid this stench, I suggest opting for a metal pair of adjustable dumbbells like the NÜOBELLs, or a urethane dumbbell set like REP Fitness Urethane Dumbbells.

In terms of available weight, you can purchase these hex dumbbells in pairs between 5 and 100 pounds, or bundled weight sets for more convenient shopping. I score the weight range at 4 out of 5, though, since some dumbbell offerings do contain weights above 100 pounds. “I’m not working with 100-plus-pound weights for every exercise, but they can be nice to have for heavy rows every once in a while,” notes our tester.

Lastly, it’s worth noting that the knurling is only contained at the center of the ergonomic handle. I rate the grip at 4 out of 5, but do caution that this compact knurling patch is less tacky than a fully knurled profile. If grip is a concern, opt for a dumbbell featuring full knurling along the handle.

Good for: People wanting a dumbbell that won’t roll away when placed on the floor.

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Other Dumbbells We Tested

Naturally, the dumbbells included in this guide aren’t the only weights available in the category. Below are some other examples that just missed the cut, but can still be worthwhile considerations for your personal training space.

Nike Dumbbells

Nike has recently entered the fitness equipment category with a range of bumper plates, barbells, and (of course) dumbbells. We admire the hexagonal shape of these weights that help keep everything in place after drops, and the 5- to 100-pound weight range is on par with other dumbbell sets. Jake Herod, expert tester and a certified nutrition coach, does note, though, that these weights are only available in paired sets — no bundled packages are listed at this time.

Ativafit 66-Pound Adjustable Dumbbells

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly set of adjustable dumbbells, these Ativafit profiles can be a great pick. We like the inclusion of a safety button and quick-dial locking mechanism, which helps ensure the plates don’t jostle during exercises. However, making any adjustments requires two hands, which is a little more involved than other turnstile systems found in adjustable dumbbells from brands like NÜOBELL or Snode.

Read our full Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbells Review.

NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells

At just under $400, these NordicTrack dumbbells can also be a wallet-friendly solution for at-home dumbbell training. We like the unique pinion-style adjustment system that allows you to jump between 2.5- and 5-pound weight changes for a 15-in-1 silhouette across the 10- to 55-pound weight range. Unfortunately, though, there is a lot of plastic across this design, making these less durable than other dumbbells utilizing a metal-based structure.

Read our full NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells Review.

Rogue Hex Dumbbells

When it comes to these rubber hex dumbbells from Rogue, they are a heavy competitor to REP’s rubber hex offering. The heavy-duty rubber can be great for saving your floors, and the ergonomic handle fits comfortably in your grip with an added touch of partial knurling. These ‘bells aren’t available in bundled sets, though, so you’ll have to settle for multiple paired weights as you build out your kit, which can get expensive in the long run.

Read our full Rogue Hex Dumbbell Review.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Dumbbells

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To determine the best dumbbells available today, we got hands-on with 31 different profiles from top brands, using our multi-point equipment testing methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) to determine our top picks. Below are some of the categories and components we looked at to come up with our findings.

  • Durability and Construction: We considered the material of the dumbbell heads themselves (all of our included picks feature steel handles). Your dumbbell’s head material can influence its durability over time, especially if you’re putting your equipment through drops. Plus, the last construction-based component we examined for this guide was the dumbbell head shape. This feature doesn’t take away from the performance, per se, but we did find that hex-style dumbbells tended to be more convenient in training given their resistance to rolling away.
  • Workout Performance: For this roundup, we focused on the handle portion of each tested profile, noting how appealing and ergonomic the grip was across each silhouette. We examined the diameter of each dumbbell, as well as its knurling patch (if available) to determine whether the control and comfort was on par with our comparable experiences with the best barbells.
  • Available Weight Range: How many different weights you need across your dumbbell set can vary, especially when it comes to different fitness disciplines. All of the included dumbbells in this guide feature robust weight ranges with max available weights of at least 50 pounds.
  • Value and Pricing: The cost of a full dumbbell set can vary across brands, so to determine how much value was at play with each pick, we compared the prices of each profile’s starting weight pair (typically either 2.5 pounds or 5 pounds). This proved to be our favored metric for the category, as it can be difficult to compare dumbbells overall since each brand will alter the price of dumbbells depending on weight, and the increments can vary across the lineup.

Benefits of Dumbbells

According to Amanda Capritto, a certified personal trainer, “Dumbbells offer a great introduction to weight training, especially for the apprehensive, and it is often better for people to learn foundational movement patterns with dumbbells versus other tools.” With this in mind, it’s easy to see why dumbbells are common pieces in both commercial and home gym layouts. In addition to their beginner-friendly aesthetic, here are some other benefits that come with these handheld training staples:

  • Training Versatility: “Dumbbells are very versatile, which allows for a wide range of exercises targeting all major muscle groups,” says Dr. Christopher Mohr, PhD, RD. When it comes to supporting a wide range of strength exercises, it’s tough to beat the versatility of a good pair of dumbbells. You can perform just about any exercise — from bicep curls to deadlifts, lunges, flyes, and more — with these weights, allowing you to curate a workout plan with just a handful of dumbbells and achieve progressive overload. (1)
  • Unilateral Exercises: Unilateral exercises refer to movements performed using only one leg or arm. Unilateral exercises are also commonly used in rehabilitation from injury to target a specific limb. Dumbbells are excellent for this purpose since they can be used easily to place the load on only one limb.
  • Safety and Range of Motion: Dumbbells may be safer to use (especially when you’re by yourself) than a barbell. If you are unable to lift a bar off of your chest in a bench press, you may have to perform some uncomfortable shimmying or dump the weights to one side. Performing a dumbbell shoulder press and failing is still not ideal, but it may carry less risk since you can simply drop the weights to the side with nothing pinning your chest down.

Common Dumbbell Materials

There are a variety of materials you’re going to see across the different types of dumbbells. Below are some of the most common components used across builds, along with some pros and cons to be mindful of when making your purchasing decision.

Rubber

This is generally the most common covering for dumbbells. Virgin rubber is cheap. Recycled rubber is even cheaper, but can smell odd. It is a decently durable material and will survive an average trainee’s workout, so long as they don’t chuck the dumbbells on the floor every time they finish a set (and even then, they might still be fine). Relatively soft, rubber will help cushion a dumbbell’s fall and can prevent some of the excess damage to your floor if you drop them regularly.

Urethane

This is the premium option for covering dumbbells. Hard-wearing and great for customization, it is very resistant to damage. The obvious downside, however, is the price. Urethane dumbbells are going to be significantly more expensive than their rubber counterparts, but if you’re on the hunt for a good-looking, premium dumbbell, then urethane is probably what you’re after.

Steel

Alongside iron, steel is a very common base material. It is more expensive than iron, but will not oxidize quite so easily, or almost at all depending on the type of steel used. It can, however, be more brittle due to the added carbon.

The loading plates of the REP Fitness REP x Pepin Adjustable Dumbbell
The loading plates of the REP Fitness REP x PÉPIN Adjustable Dumbbell

This means if you weaken the dumbbell over time, it may snap. We make this sound like a simple task, but trust us, you’ll have to put in quite a bit of time and effort to have this happen.

Cast Iron

Cheaper than steel, this will commonly be used in lower-cost dumbbells, with a lot of the hex models being prime examples. It’s great so long as it remains covered by rubber, urethane, or chrome plating. Once exposed, it is easily oxidized and will rust, which isn’t the end of the world in the short run, but long-term can result in structural weakness.

Plastic

Plastic is rarely used with fixed dumbbells, though it is almost always used to manufacture the adjustment mechanisms for adjustable dumbbells. It is almost impossible to create a lightweight mechanism out of anything else, but the trade-off is the fragility of the plastic. This is why you have to be careful not to drop or smash a pair of adjustable dumbbells. The weights themselves will survive, but the mechanisms can be easily damaged.

How to Choose the Best Dumbbells

Dumbbells are pieces you’ll absolutely want to have in your training toolkit at some point. Here are the major factors you’ll want to think about before you buy a pair or a set of dumbbells.

Dumbbell Type

Like with the best kettlebells, one of the major decisions you’ll need to make when purchasing dumbbells is which style you want for your home gym. If you’re tight on space or want a more budget-friendly way to gather multiple working weights in one fell swoop, adjustable or loadable dumbbells can be a great solution. These units can be ideal for athletes wanting a single profile for training, but given the moving parts at play across the adjustment systems, they’re not as durable as other options.

For athletes wanting a more sturdy, traditional piece of equipment, fixed dumbbells should be your target of choice. These weights often come with rubber or urethane heads that can better resist the occasional drop or tumble. Be mindful, though, that a full set will take up more space, so you’ll need to account for storage needs before buying a range of dumbbells to suit your training style.

Durability

The durability of your dumbbells can also influence how you choose to work out. According to Amanda Capritto, a certified personal trainer, “If you plan to use your dumbbells for activities like CrossFit, your best option is to get fixed dumbbells, specifically rubber hex dumbbells. Dropping any dumbbells comes with the risk of eventually (or, in some cases, immediately) breaking them, but rubber hex ‘bells are most likely to survive such activities.”

When looking for durable weights to support your high-intensity training, it’s best to focus on rubber or urethane dumbbells as opposed to steel or cast iron dumbbells. These compounds can be more resilient against drops and also help preserve your flooring. Urethane can be the hardest of the two materials, but be mindful that the extra sturdiness can often come with a higher price tag.

Our tester performing an overhead press with the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Adjustable Dumbbells
Our tester performing an overhead press with the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Adjustable Dumbbells

If you’re less enthused about high-intensity CrossFit workouts or don’t plan to drop your dumbbells a ton during training, you can likely get away with any dumbbell you find appealing, including adjustable profiles. In general, though, we still recommend looking for a dumbbell with a steel handle, preferably with some added chrome or other coating. This component can be helpful in ensuring your dumbbells last throughout your fitness journey, and the exterior coating can be great for preventing rust build-up over extended use.

Available Space

While our personal testing garage has ample space for weights, we recognize your personal gym may not be as spacious. Before you buy a huge set of dumbbells, consider how much space you can dedicate to your new weights. If you only have a small corner of the room available, a smaller set or adjustable dumbbell is probably ideal.

Fitness Goals

Whether trying to build a powerlifting home gym or just a set of weights for some resistance training intervals, your dumbbells should match your intended training goals and interests. This, essentially, comes down to what you want to use your dumbbells for. If you want to throw your weights around and need a durable set of dumbbells for CrossFit movements, we recommend opting for a fixed set of rubber or urethane weights. If you’re more focused on general strength training exercises like rows, curls, and presses, you can get by with pretty much any dumbbell variety.

REP Fitness Hex Dumbbells Build
REP Fitness Hex Dumbbells on a rack in the our tester’s home gym

“Bodybuilders, for instance, are likely going to want a wide range of weights in order to do drop sets and frequently isolate muscles,” adds Capritto. “CrossFitters, on the other hand, might only want a pair of 35s or 55s, since those are the usually prescribed weights for CrossFit WODs.” 

Budget

The price of dumbbells can vary greatly from brand to brand, but on average, we’ve found that most fixed dumbbells feature starting prices between $40 and $45 for their lightest available weights. The costs begin to increase directly with the weight, so be sure to choose a total you’re likely to use often if you’re focused on keeping costs low.

Adjustable dumbbells are also an option, and while the initial costs are typically higher than fixed dumbbells — often between $400 and $700 per pair — they make up for the price hike with added versatility and storage conveniences. After all, you’re essentially gaining multiple dumbbells in one silhouette.

Lastly, some brands offer bundled weight sets that can help keep costs lower than, say, ordering individual pairs of dumbbells one at a time. In the end, be sure to think through your budget (and available space) and opt for a dumbbell profile that won’t stretch your wallet too thin. Remember, too, that you can always purchase additional weights down the road.

How Much Do the Best Dumbbells Cost?

Dumbbells — like the best weight benches, barbells, and free weights — can vary greatly in price. On average, though, you can expect to pay more for adjustable dumbbell sets rather than standard fixed weight dumbbells given the amount of moving parts and mechanisms required to facilitate the on-unit weight changes. According to our calculations, the median price of adjustable dumbbells is roughly $450 while standard weights can be picked up for an average of roughly $32 per pair. Below, we’ve curated all the starting prices for the dumbbells featured in this guide.

Best Dumbbells OverallREP Fitness Rubber Coated Hex DumbbellsStarting at $39.99
Best Adjustable DumbbellsMX100 Evolution Series Adjustable DumbbellsStarting at $849
Most Durable DumbbellsNÜOBELL Adjustable DumbbellsStarting at $599
Best Dumbbell RackRogue Fitness Universal Storage System 2.0Starting at $395
Best Loadable DumbbellsTitan Fitness Loadable Dumbbell Pair$124.99
Best Budget DumbbellsFLYBIRD 55-Pound Adjustable DumbbellsStarting at $16.99
Best Hex Dumbbells SetBells of Steel Rubber Hex DumbbellsStarting at $39.99

Best Dumbbells FAQs

Are adjustable dumbbells or fixed dumbbells better?

This all comes down to your goals. Adjustable dumbbells have great versatility, but are more fragile and cannot be dropped. Fixed dumbbells are durable but take up much more space with all the different pairs of weights. Think about your own training and choose accordingly.

What are the best dumbbells?

The best dumbbell for each fitness need can vary. In our opinion, though, the REP Fitness Rubber Coated Hex Dumbbells are the best available today given their knurled, ergonomic handle, hexagonal head shape that prevents rolling, full rubber coating, and overall build quality.

What range of weights should I get in dumbbells?

The weight range you need in your dumbbell setup is dependent on your strength and intended training discipline. For example, CrossFit athletes may only need a few working weights that are typically called for in a given WOD, while bodybuilders may need more available options to support supersets, heavy one-rep maxes, and other workout styles.

What is the best material for dumbbells?

Dumbbell materials can be subjective depending on your available budget and needs. Metal (cast iron) and rubber are the two most common materials, with rubber being ideal for home use given its resiliency to drops and lesser impact on hard floors. Urethane dumbbells can be even more durable, but do come at a higher cost. Be sure to look at a few different dumbbell profiles and see which one suits your preferences prior to purchase.

References

  1. Chaves, T. S., Scarpelli, M. C., Bergamasco, J. G., Silva, D. G., Medalha Junior, R. A., Dias, N. F., Bittencourt, D., Carello Filho, P. C., Angleri, V., Nóbrega, S. R., Roberts, M. D., Ugrinowitsch, C., & Libardi, C. A. (2024). Effects of resistance training overload progression protocols on strength and muscle mass. International Journal of Sports Medicine, 45(07), 504–510. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38286426/
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About Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1

Kate Meier is a seasoned fitness professional, having worked in the industry for nearly two decades. She is a certified personal trainer, USA Weightlifting L1 coach, CrossFit L1 coach, and gym owner. She played soccer through college, has run several marathons and countless other races, and currently is a competitive weightlifter. 

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