15 Best Dumbbells for your Home Workout – Get Those Gains!

Looking for a set of dumbbells to enhance your home workout routine? With a set of dumbbells, you have the power to workout whenever suits you from the convenience of your own home.

Not only this but investing in a set of quality dumbbells means you save money on expensive gym memberships that can go unused as well as transportation time.

If you are already familiar with the dumbbell weights you use then if you are budget restricted you can always begin by purchasing just a couple of weights. As your strength builds you can add to your collection.

In saying that many cheap dumbbells offer great value, you don’t have to spend a small fortune on these things!

Best Dumbbells for Home Gyms

Main Types of Dumbbells

There are two types of dumbbells to choose from and they are fixed dumbbells and adjustable dumbbells.

Fixed Dumbbells

These are the types of dumbbells you will see in the gym. They are an unchangeable weight and are stored on a weight rack. These are a good option if you know exactly what weights you need and only need a few. You can always add to your collection as you grow stronger and buy them one by one.

Not as space-saving as adjustable dumbbells but they are a good option if you only need specific weights or are budget restricted.

Adjustable Dumbbells

In terms of value, these are the most popular dumbbells.

These work by adding or removing weight plates that are included from the bar. To hold them in place there is a metal or plastic screw at the end.

These are the most convenient models and can be used from day one of your workouts all the way through as you can keep adding weight to them.

Saving not only money but also on space which is important if your home workout area is limited.

1. Bowflex SelectTech 552

Bowflex are leaders in home gym equipment and the SelectTech 552’s are a high-quality set.

Available on their own or with a stand this pair of dumbbells that can be adjusted from 5 to 52.5 pounds. Adjustable in increments of 2.5 to the first 25 pounds.

They are easy to adjust which is great for speed of changing weights between exercises and sets. Simply turn the dial on the dumbbells and the weights are adjusted, no need to unscrew, take-off weight plates and re-screw.

The wide range of weights means you can do a wide range of exercises such as curls and raises through to shrugs and lunges. Also, you can download the free Bowflex SelectTech App for a range of trainer lead workouts, to create custom workouts and to journal your workouts.

The durable molding surrounding the metal plates makes for a very smooth lift-off as well as noise-free workouts.

Check out our full review of the Bowflex Adjustable dumbbells here.

Pros

• No need to fumble around with adjusting weight plates
• Compact and convenient
• Look and feel like regular dumbbells
• Covers a wide weight range
• 2-year warranty

Cons

• Price

A two-year warranty is included with the Bowflex SelectTech 552’s on the weight plates and parts.

2. Power Block GF-SPDBLK24

A unique looking design the Power Block GF-SPDBLK24 is designed to be a space-saving set with maximum weight potential. 

This is a 24-pound set that ranges from 3-24 pounds increasing in 3-pound increments. With rubberized handles, the power blocks are comfortable to use and offer a secure, stable grip.

Speed designed, these adjustable dumbbells are changed with a pin, similar to a weight stack at a gym.

A little more expensive than a standard dumbbell system yet cheaper than the premium sets, this is a speed efficient pair that is high quality.

This is designed to last and is backed by a limited 10-year warranty which speaks volumes for the quality you can expect.

Compact and engineered for maximum balance and control all of your strength training goals can be met with this convenient set.

For our full review of the PowerBlock dumbbells click here!

Pros

• Quick and easy to adjust the weight
• Comfortable grip
• Compact
• 24-pound set

Cons

• Price

Although the Power Block GF-SPDBLK24 looks different this is a well-designed set that is made to last. With the ability to adjust the weight quickly, the handles make for easy use. Versatile and suitable for beginners to serious lifters this one is hard to overlook. 

3. Ironmaster Quick-Lock

The Ironmaster Quick Lock is a square design making it impossible for them to roll around on the floor.

These dumbbells can be adjusted from 5 to 45 pounds in 2.5-pound increments.

The handles weigh 5 pounds when empty and each locking screw has a weight of 2.5 pounds so your starting weight is 10 pounds without any dumbbell plates.

Dimensions are 6.5″ x 6.5″ x 11.5″ but you may want to consider purchasing a stand when buying this one.

Heavy-duty construction these dumbbells are steel welded with chrome-plated handles meaning there are no fragile or breakable parts. Throw them around your yard – these dumbbells can withstand just about anything.

The locking system is a nut that is thin yet secure. Simply load the weight plates and secure the nut with a couple of twists. This is significantly faster than with a spinning collar and it remains in place throughout the use.

Pros

• Virtually indestructible
• Solid, welded construction
• Easy lock mechanism
• Square plates
• Compact
• Adjustable in 2.5 increments to 45 pounds

Cons

• Price

The Ironmaster Quick Lock is an indestructible, solid dumbbell set that although expensive will last a lifetime. The unique design of the plates being square makes them ideal for ease of storage and safety during use.

4. Yes4All

For the heavy lifters out there the Yes4All can be bought from 40 right up to 200 pounds.

A set of 2 dumbbells the weight plates are made from cast iron and come with a standard 1.15-inch bar. The weight plates are finished with a black pain that prevents rust and corrosion.

Adjusted and locked into place with star lock collars these have rubber trims to prevent them loosening off when in use.

With a 16-inch diamond knurled chrome handle this is a high quality, firm and non-slip grip.

There are a few buying options for this set in terms of weight ranges including:

• 40-pounds – standard bar diameter of 1 inch
• 50-pounds – standard bar diameter of 1 inch
• 60-pounds – standard bar diameter of 1 inch

As well as:

• 52.5 pounds – bar diameter 1.15 inches
• 105 pounds – bar diameter 1.15 inches
• 200 pounds – bar diameter 1.15 inches

These dumbbells are suitable for use from the complete beginner to the monster trainer and everything in between.

Pros

• Huge range of weight
• Easy to use and adjust
• Solid construction
• Textured grip

Cons

• The chrome plates prone to chipping

Easy to store and easy to use, these are compact and convenient. Included with the purchase of the Yes4All’s is a 60-day return and 5-year warranty on plates and parts.

5. CAP Barbell with Case

A very cheap dumbbell that still presents great value is the CAP Barbell with Case. Ideal for beginners that are starting to work out who will want room to adjust as they grow in strength.

The set is two dumbbells with handles weighing 5 pounds, four 2.5 pound plates and four 5 pound plates for ease of adjusting.

Made from cast iron the weight plates are sturdy and durable. Threaded collars are used to lock and secure the weight plates in position.

These are very affordable, cheap dumbbells that are a great way to kick start your lifting and fitness goals.

Included with the purchase is an easy to access carry case made from heavy-duty plastic. This case has a storage spot for each piece and a secure lid to conceal and secure them.

The two barbells offer knurled grips to ensure a stable and secure hold when using. Suitable for bare hands you may still want to use gloves if you haven’t lifted before.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Easy to store
• Convenient storage and travel case included

Cons

• Not a large weight range

Overall the CAP is an excellent entry-level dumbbell set that is affordable yet will do the job.

6. Ringstar

Ringstar are a very popular, quality and affordable adjustable dumbbell set. Available as a 105 pound or 200 pound set these are a gym-quality chrome painted, cast iron set.

Available to adjust the weight in increments of 5 pounds to 52.5/100 pounds for each dumbbell, finding the ideal weight for your workout needs is easy.

When purchasing the Ringstar there is also the option for safety trays which are highly recommended for indoor use. Not only as a safety mechanism but also for protecting the floor of your workout space.

Storing these dumbbells is easy to do and a star collar is used to secure the weight plates to the barbell.

Pros

• 100 or 200-pound dumbbells
• Convenient storage tray option
• Durable and built to last
• Chrome or black polish finish

Cons

• Price

In terms of value for money, it is hard to find dumbbells within this weight range for a better price than the Ringstar’s.

7. CAP Urethane

For single weight dumbbells the CAP Urethane Dumbbell is a good choice. Comfortable to grip the hexagonal design makes for easy storage and safety while in use.

Made from solid cast iron these dumbbells have a protective coating of urethane which means they are designed to last! The barbell has a polyurethane infused gripping surface making it comfortable to grip and use. No need for weight lifting gloves.

Available to buy as a 5, 8, or 10 pounds and in increments of 5 to 50 pounds.

The price is for a single dumbbell so bear in mind you will need to buy 2 if you want to work out muscles simultaneously.

Pros

• Urethane coating for durability
• Comfortable grip on the barbell
• Nonslip design
• Range of weights available

Cons

• Price is for a single dumbbell
• Fixed weight

Highly rated, the CAP Urethane fixed dumbbells present excellent value for money. If you are budget restricted or looking for a cheap dumbbell then these are a great place to start. You can always add to the collection as your strength grows and you need to increase the weight.

8. AmazonBasics with Stand

The Neoprene Amazon Basics is a complete dumbbell set for those wanting light weights to kick start their home workouts.

Incredibly popular and high quality these dumbbells are cheap and effective. The 32-pound set includes the stand, one pair of 3-pound weights, 5-pound weights and 8-pound weights.

Color-coded and marked with their weight number makes for ease of use and speed during your workout.

The hexagonal shape prevents the dumbbells from rolling while working out and is also convenient for storing if you don’t want to use the stand.

Pros

• Color-coded and weight marked for ease and speed of use
• Convenient stand included
• Made from neoprene
• Non-slip and comfortable to grip

Cons

• Fixed weight
• Light weights

Backed by a 1-year warranty for those who just want a little boost to their home workout routine, the Amazon Basics is the best choice.

9. Unipack Neoprene

Unipack Neoprene are hexagonal dumbbells, which won’t roll around on your floor. They’re coated with a tacky neoprene finish, and won’t slip no matter how much of a sweat you’re working up.

These weights are very comfortable use, and are also easy to tell apart; they’re both color-coded and marked with large, white numbers, so you won’t ever get confused between weights if you buy a set with multiple weights.

Speaking of which, Unipack offers an impressive selection. There are over 24 different combinations of weights available. Whether you’re looking for 2-pound weights for running or a 10, 8 and 6-pound combo set for toning, there are plenty of options to find exactly what you need.

The only thing we didn’t like about this Unipack Neoprene’s was the fact that there’s nothing available heavier than 10 pounds. If you’re looking for strength training weights, look for a beefier set.

Pros

• Comfortable, neoprene-coated grip
• Color-coded with clear weight markings
• Great for toning, light workouts, and jogging
• 24 different packages available

Cons

• Not heavy enough for strength training

These non-slip dumbbells are a perfect choice if you’re using weights during other exercises, like jogging, yoga, or aerobic workouts.

10. Body-Solid Rubber Round

Body-Solid Rubber Round Singles are exactly what they sound like: single barbells, made out of rubber. On the one hand, the rubber design is very nice. It won’t scratch your floor, which is an excellent feature if you have hardwood floors, or any floor that’s easy to scratch. On the other hand, high-density rubber is expensive. Expect to pay a premium for each weight.

Another advantage of the rubber design is their durability. Since there’s no finish to speak of, there’s nothing to chip, scratch, or rust. These dumbbells will last you for the rest of your life, provided you don’t take a chainsaw to them.

These dumbbells are a good choice for just about any exercise, whether you’re looking for low-intensity toning weights or heavy, 100-pound dumbbells for intense strength training. The stainless steel handles are textured along the full length of the grip, which provides plenty of traction while doing curls, aerobics, or other movements.

Pros

• Won’t scratch your floor
• Rugged design
• Textured handle for a secure grip
• Heavy enough for intense workouts
• Available from 5 to 100 pounds, in 5-pound increments

Cons

• Price is for a single dumbbell

These rubber dumbbells are an ideal choice if you’re working out on a hardwood floor.

11. DA VINCI Neoprene

The Da Vinci Neoprene Dumbbells are designed primarily for light workouts, such as yoga or toning. They’re also a good choice if you’re looking to carry a dumbbell during aerobic exercises, such as jogging or walking.

Either way, you’re getting very reasonably-priced weights, far more affordable than most you’ll see on the market. On the other hand, you get what you pay for. While the neoprene coating protects your floor and provides a secure grip, it isn’t very thick, and it wears down and cuts easily. When this happens, your weights are vulnerable to rust.

That said, Da Vinci makes a nice product very affordable. These dumbbells are sold in pairs, which is convenient for almost all dumbbell exercises. They’re also color-coded, with high-visibility white numbers to indicate the exact weight of each dumbbell.

Because these weights are designed primarily for toning, they’re sized for small hands. Depending on your size, this can be a good thing or a bad thing.

Pros

• Textured neoprene grip
• Color-coded with clear weight markings
• Sold in pairs for convenience
• Affordable

Cons

• Neoprene coating isn’t very thick

These dumbbells are a solid, affordable choice for toning, yoga, and other light workouts that don’t require a large amount of weight.

12. CAP Barbell Hex

CAP Barbell Coated Hex are rugged dumbbells that are available either individually or as a pair. While most people will prefer to buy a pair, it’s nice to have the option of buying just a single weight. After all, why pay for a second weight you’re not going to use?

These dumbbells have a tough, rubberized coating that protects them from corrosion and provides a minimal amount of scratch protection from your floors. However, this rubber comes with a downside; it outgasses while it’s curing. This means that if you get weights that were recently manufactured, they’re going to stink for up to a month or two.

These CAP barbells are useful for just about any exercise. You can buy 5, 8, 10 or 12-pound weights for lighter workouts. Alternatively, they’re also available in 5-pound increments from 15 to 50 pounds, which means they’re also suitable for strength training and more intense exercise.

Pros

• Available in 12 sizes, from 5 to 50 pounds
• Textured stainless steel grips
• Durable rubber coating
• Available individually or as a pair

Cons

• Smelly

These dumbbells are tough, rough, and ready to rumble. Expect them to last you for many years to come.

13. TELK

TELK is much more than just a set of dumbbells. They also include a 10-inch adapter that can be used to screw both dumbbells together and convert them into a barbell. Essentially, you’re looking at a complete workout kit that can be broken down and stored easily without taking up a lot of space.

These dumbbells are available in three different packages: a lightweight 65-pound, 105-pound, and a heavy-duty 200-pound set for serious strength training. The individual weight plates come in 2.5-pound, 5-pound, and 10-pound sizes, so you can mix and match them to provide exactly the weight you need for your workout.

The weights also feature a baked enamel finish. This finish won’t chip as easily as a painted finish and provides better corrosion resistance. The entire set comes with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty, which tells us that TELK is very confident in their product.

Pros

• Available in 65-pound, 105-pound, and 200-pound sets
• Can be converted into a barbell
• An excellent choice for strength training
• Baked enamel finish resists corrosion
• Takes up very little space
• 5-year manufacturer’s warranty on weights and parts

Cons

• Lock collars come loose easily

These weights can be used as dumbbells or converted into a barbell.

14. Rep Fitness Rubber Hex

The Rep Fitness Rubber Hex with Racks is a complete dumbbell kit that’s available in several configurations. Most of these configurations include a stand, and we heartily recommend this option.

The weights are already expensive, and the stands don’t add much to the price, while they add a lot of value. Also, when you buy a set with a stand, you get a rubber floor mat, which can either be placed under the rack or used to cushion the floor while you work out.

The dumbbells themselves are well-engineered, with a tough, rubberized finish that can take a lot of abuse. If you’re trying to outfit a gym, it’s hard to do better than this weight set.

Be aware of your location, though. These dumbbells are shipped by freight, and your home or gym needs to be accessible by a 40-foot freight truck. That said, they’re well worth the money and the headache if the quality is your primary concern.

Pros

• Complete kit, including rack
• Multiple selections available
• Rugged enough for gym use
• Tough, rubberized finish
• Includes a rubber floor mat

Cons

• Delivered by freight
• Expensive

If money is no object and you’re looking for a complete barbell kit, this is an excellent choice.

15. BalanceFrom GoFit

BalanceFrom GoFit are neoprene-coated dumbbells that are available in 13 different sizes. All of these sizes are 18 pounds or lighter, so don’t expect to use them for any kind of intense strength training.

That said, they’re good quality for what they are. The neoprene coating provides plenty of grip and prevents them from scratching tile, wood, and concrete. Not only that, but there are 15 different packages available. Not only can you buy a pair of dumbbells in any size, but there’s a 20-pound six-pack and a 3-pound six-pack available.

These six-packs come with a plastic stand. In theory, this would be a nice add-on, especially at a low price. Unfortunately, the stands are fairly flimsy, and they don’t come with instructions.

That said, if you’re looking for a good budget pair of dumbbells, BalanceFrom’s GoFit is a solid choice.

Pros

• Neoprene coated for extra grip
• Ideal for toning and other light workouts
• Color-coded with bold white numbering
• Comes with a stand
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Flimsy stand
• No stand assembly instructions

As long as you’re not looking for a top-quality stand, these dumbbells are fantastic value.

Key Features to Look For When Buying Dumbbells

There is a huge variety of dumbbells available from cheap dumbbells to premium dumbbells. Before making your decision on the best dumbbells for you it pays to research and inform yourself on the key things to look for. So let’s take a deeper look into the world of dumbbells.

Shape of Dumbbells

Generally speaking, dumbbells come either rounded or hexagonal, hexagonal are preferred as once you place them down they can’t roll anywhere. This is a pretty clever yet simple safety feature.

Weight of Dumbbells

The weighting of dumbbells is important as this is the foundation of your strength exercise. Fixed dumbbells are exactly that – you can’t adjust the weight of them but you can buy these singularly. A cheaper option if you are looking for cheap dumbbells without sacrificing your home workout ability.

Adjustable dumbbells are the better choice as you can change the weights and workout out all the muscles in your body. Better for muscle progression this is the ideal choice.

Material Composition

Although often overlooked this is an important consideration in my opinion. Metal weight discs are very noisy if dropped and over time will wear at wooden floorboards. If you live anywhere near the ocean they are prone to rusting too.

Rubber coated weights are less noisy and will create significantly less mess. If you live near the ocean then these are the only realistic type as they cannot rust.

Different Types of Material Available

Urethane – High quality, very durable, this is commonly used with commercial gym dumbbells.

SBX – A synthetic, odorless and hard-wearing rubber that is a combination of urethane and rubber.

Rubber – Durable, very tough and thick, the easiest to grip.

Steel – Solid, masculine dumbbells. It can be damaging to wooden floors.

Bottom Line

With a good set of dumbbells, your workout options are virtually endless. From muscle-building to fat-shredding dumbbells have got you covered. A must-have for any home workout, the best dumbbells will have you achieving your fitness goals and sculpting your body within no time.

If you’re looking to ramp up your strength training, check out our blog post on drop sets. Don’t forget, if you haven’t lifted before, it might be wise to invest in a quality pair of weight lifting gloves – the team have completed detailed reviews of the best brands.