What to Look for When Shopping for Adjustable Dumbbells

With so many options on the market, shopping for adjustable dumbbells can feel overwhelming. However, educating yourself on the key factors to consider can help to take the guesswork out of the investment and get you on your way to a sweat-inducing, muscle-building strength workout. Arm yourself with the knowledge you need to select the appropriate adjustable dumbbell for your current strength abilities and your future fitness goals. Read on to learn everything you need to take into consideration to buy the right adjustable dumbbells for your needs.

Weight Range

Any time you're shopping for weightlifting equipment, the actual weight should be a key factor. Consider your experience as a lifter and find a set that suits your needs and skill level, also remembering that you'll want to increase the weight over time. Remember that sets can range from light (2 to 11 pounds per dumbbell) to heavy (11 to 70 pounds per dumbbell) to wide-ranging (4 to 100 pounds per dumbbell).

Decide which weight range you will need to achieve your fitness goals. Consider your current strength ability and the exercises that you plan to do, then select a set with the appropriate weight range. If you need help, consult with a certified personal trainer.

Weight Increments

In addition to the weight range, you'll also want to keep in mind increment jumps. "Especially for weight under 25 pounds, you may want the weight to go up in small increments," Marita Martina Gumbs, CPT, Fight 2B Fit DC Lead Trainer, says. "Going from 10 pounds to 20 pounds—or even 10 pounds to 15 pounds—can be tough to handle." If you want more control over your workouts, look for a set that increases in smaller, more nuanced increments.

Some adjustable dumbbells offer increments of 2.5 pounds or 5 pounds, which allow for more precise and gradual strength progression.

Efficiency

How many dumbbell sets are you trying to replace? Depending on weight range and increment size, adjustable dumbbell sets can replace between 4 to 15 dumbbell sets (and sometimes, even more).

Unit Size, Space, and Storage

Some adjustable dumbbells are sold as singles, and others are sold as pairs. This is key to keep in mind as you compare prices, consider weights, and ultimately buy a set of dumbbells. You should also check whether the weight in the product description describes a single dumbbell or a full set. (You'll be disappointed if you get a 20-pound set, thinking you ordered two 20-pound dumbbells. And you'll also be disappointed if you receive one dumbbell, thinking you ordered a full set.)

When thinking about size, be sure to consider the size and storage requirements for your dumbbells, especially if you have limited space. Some options come with a storage rack or stand, while others are super compact.

Price

One thing that our testers noted after testing adjustable dumbbells in The Verywell Testing Lab is that you'll probably have to shell out a minimum of $300 for a high-quality adjustable dumbbell. Cheaper options do exist, but keep in mind that you'll likely end up compromising in some areas—like weight range, increment increase, ease of adjustment, portability, and durability—if you opt for a budget-friendlier option. Adjustable dumbbell sets can range in price from $200 up to $800 or more depending on the weight range and other included features.

Adjustability Mechanism

Depending on the model, adjustable dumbbells can be tricky to adjust. Before you make a purchase, look at the mechanism that is used to adjust the weights, such as a dial, pin, or plate. Is it digital or manual? Will it slow you down between sets? Be sure to consider how easy it is to make the adjustment, the speed of the adjustment, and how safe and secure your weights feel once they're locked into place. We recommend doing a little shake test to make sure that the weight doesn't rattle or shift during your workout.

Durability

Choose adjustable dumbbells that are made of sturdy and durable materials. You don't want to use dumbbells that you feel will break easily or are unable to withstand intense workouts. Be sure to take a look at user reviews on quality, as well as the actual materials used to construct the dumbbells.

Handle Grip

There's nothing more frustrating than a slippery, sweaty dumbbell. When purchasing dumbbell sets for your home, consider the comfort of the grip, the ergonomics, and the slip resistance. You'll want a handle with padding that promotes a secure grip that also feels comfortable in your hands.

Warranty and Customer Support

Adjustable dumbbells can be very pricey. If you're investing in a high-quality, expensive product, be sure that the manufacturer provides a solid warranty in case anything happens. Additionally, take a look at the brand's customer support in case you have any issues with the product.