What are Adjustable Dumbbells?
‘Adjustable dumbbells are a single set of weights that let you change the load quickly without the need for multiple different sets of dumbbells,’ says Jenni Tardiff, Master Trainer at The Gym Group. ‘They are great if you are short of space or looking to streamline the amount of equipment you have, and are a popular choice for home workouts.’
Most adjustable dumbbells sit on a cradle and have a handle that attaches to weight plates. These plates can be quickly loaded on and off the handle via the selection mechanism, which may be a twist dial, twist handle or digital system.
‘Adjustable dumbbells are easy to use and you can change between loads by turning a dial to select your weight, or some have sliding mechanisms or pins,’ says Tardiff. Or you might opt for a more traditional spinlock pair – scroll to the bottom for a full run-down of the different types.
Benefits of Adjustable Dumbbells
Ergonomic and compact, adjustable dumbbells offer up to 24 different weight options in one, replacing a decadent dumbbell rack with a single, space-saving piece of kit. That leaves more room for full-body dumbbell exercises (think thrusters, lunges and deadlifts) and other fitness gear (that’s your barbell, skipping ropes, kettlebells and squat rack).
Sure, the price of some sets may raise a few eyebrows at first glance, but these dumbbells are cost effective. Hear us out. The cost of gym memberships is rising and may soon surpass the singular fee of an adjustable dumbbell. Plus, with fixed free weights, you’d have to splash out every time you made decent progress and need to challenge yourself with something heavier. No such pain with the adjustable variety; simply push a button/twist a dial/slap a couple more plates on and feel the burn.
What to Consider
Brand
When dealing with heavy weights, it’s important not to skimp and to go for a trusted brand from a reputable retailer. The last thing you want is weight plates crashing on your feet mid-rep.
‘You can buy adjustable dumbbells online or in fitness stores, where you’ll find a range of different brands and models,’ says Tardiff. ‘When comparing models, consider factors like max weight, increment size and ease of use to help you decide on the correct ones based on your training goals, space, and budget.’
Size
While they save space overall, it is worth taking into account that the size of a low-loaded adjustable dumbbell will be a lot larger than one you’d take from a rack. ‘They can be used for strength training in the same way you would use traditional style dumbbells found in gyms, but they are usually bigger and bulkier,’ says Tardiff. ‘You’re also more limited in the range of weight available’ — so make sure to check the range suits your training before shopping.
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How We Test Adjustable Dumbbells
Never ones to shirk a workout, we sent our team on a mission to find the finest adjustable dumbbells on the market. They then set about putting them to the test, working through a session of bodybuilding staples including lateral raises, lunges, bench press and (of course) the humble dumbbell curl.
Top-scoring models provided the natural, sturdy feel of a fixed dumbbell, with minimal rattling or shaking, and had a practical shape that was easy to wield.
When then rounded out our testing by timing how long it took to change the weight of each dumbbell from the lightest load to the heaviest possible, as a quick transition can hold the key to a successful spicy drop set.
12 Best Adjustable Dumbbells to Shop in 2025, Tried and Tested by the MH team
The textured rubber handles on the Bowflex SelectTech 552i dumbbells are more comfortable than their metal counterparts, and with 15 weight options that range between two and 24kg (selected using dials on both ends of the dumbbell), it unlocks plenty of scope for your training.
We found the classic rounded shape of the weight plates easy to manoeuvre, and, as they’re plastic, there was none of the usual metallic clanging when we pressed them overhead — neighbours, you’re welcome.
The only downside? These are sold individually as opposed to as a pair. But they are also available in a higher weight range; 4–41kg (or you can pick up the pair at Argos for £479).
Read our full Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells Review
You might have seen the news that Bowflex has recalled some of its adjustable dumbbells in the US and wondered if the recall applies to the UK — don’t worry, it does not. We reached out to the brand owner, Johnson Fitness & Wellness, and a spokesperson said: ‘We are conducting this program only in the United States. Consumers outside the US can continue to use and enjoy their dumbbells.’
| Type | Dial |
|---|---|
| Sold as a pair | No |
| Maximum weight | 24kg |
| Minimum weight | 2kg |
Pros
- Simple twist handle mechanism
- Sold as a pair, which for the price, is excellent
Cons
- Slotting them back into the cradle requires precision
We trialled these dumbbells as part of our Magic Mirror review and loved them so much we had to include them here. With a wide weight range of 2kg all the way to 32kg, via 2kg increments, they’re among the most versatile adjustable dumbbells out there, and as they’re sold in a pair (winning), you’ve a whopping 64kg to play with.
The twist handle mechanism gives off a satisfying click when you lock in your desired weight and couldn’t be easier to use, with the weight displayed via a dial on each side of the handle. This system also means that the weight plates on both sides of the handle adjust in tandem, rather than having to select your weight on each side of your dumbbell independently, as with some models.
Sold in pairs, these are excellent value when you take quality and weight range into account — plus they don’t take up much room either. Because of their compact nature we did find you have to slot the dumbbell back into the cradle with precision, but this is a minor quibble. An excellent home gym staple.
| Type | Twist handle |
|---|---|
| Sold as a pair | Yes |
| Maximum weight | 32kg |
| Minimum weight | 2kg |
Pros
- Small footprint
- Seamless weight transition
Cons
- Set up was a little confusing
These rotating handle adjustable dumbbells from NÜO Athletics are seriously slick. With a quick twist of the textured aluminium handle you can switch your weight (ranging from 2kg to 32kg in 2kg increments, so plenty of options), with both sides of plates switching in tandem for fast weight changeovers.
Performance is smooth and quiet; the weight plates switch seamlessly and don’t hit each other during transition, plus it’s easy to slide them back into place without any ungodly clanking.
These have a small footprint too — just 18.5 x 48 cm — and with their sleek good looks they’re easy to just tuck away in any room without standing out. The pair we tested were all black, which we preferred on the aesthetics front, but at the moment only the silver/black combo is available to shop in the UK.
The handle, while comfortable to grip, could be comfier — it’s just a basic pipe style and not ergonomically shaped, but this is a minor quibble.
The dumbbell cradle is simple, with a sturdy metal base and plastic handles at the side, so you can lift the whole thing easily if needs be. On first use you do have to set up the plates on the cradles yourself, and because they have to slot in a specific way this took us a little while to work out, but once over that hurdle you’re good to go and the performance can’t be faulted.
| Type | Twist handle |
|---|---|
| Sold as a pair | Yes |
| Maximum weight | 32kg |
| Minimum weight | 2kg |
Pros
- Take up very little space
- We’re big fans of the twist handle
Cons
- Replacing the handle can be a little awkward
Maybe you’re just starting out with weights, want to perfect your form with a lower kg, recovering from injury or are simply chasing endurance or lean muscle over mass. Allow us to introduce you to these nifty dumbbells from Half Human.
Sold as a pair (score), they have a weight range from 2kg to 10kg via 2kg increments, selected via the twist handle, which selects the weight on each side in tandem. The mechanism is smooth and clicks into place in a satisfying way, with clear weight markers on the sides. Replacing the handle onto the cradle (unless you’re working with 10kg) can be a little tricky as you have to line the plates up with precision, but we got the hang of it fairly quickly.
The grippy handle is comfortable and easy to use even when things get sweaty, and the cradle, while plastic, feels sturdy enough for the job.
The weights take up even less space than your average adjustable set (the footprint of one is just 31 x 15cm) and we love that they don’t roll away thanks to the straight edges on the decagon design — but they’re still comfortable enough for hip thrusts, unlike some straight-edged weights.
Also available in 5kg, 25kg or pick up the 25kg weights with a stand.
| Type | Twist handle |
|---|---|
| Sold as a pair | Yes |
| Maximum weight | 10kg |
| Minimum weight | 2kg |
Pros
- Wide weight range
- Fast adjustments
Cons
- Plates rattle a little
We’d like to extend a hearty congratulations to anyone who can max this dumbbell out on bench. It has 24 weight options stretching all the way up to 40kg, which should be enough to satisfy most lifters.
You can change the weight in no time by twisting a single dial on each dumbbell, making these a top drop set companion. The metal plates wobble and rattle slightly during some movements, but that’s our only gripe.
Happy with a lower weight range? The 32.5kg version are also excellent.
| Type | Dial |
|---|---|
| Sold as a pair | No |
| Maximum weight | 40kg |
| Minimum weight | 5kg |
Pros
- Non-slip twist handles
- Sold as a pair
Cons
- Lower weight range won’t suit all
If you’re focussing more on lean muscle than bulking up, this sleek set of adjustable dumbbells might be the pick for you. Ranging from 2-12kg in 2.5kg increments, they still offer a wide range of training options but for a cut price and more compact footprint. Plus they’re sold in a pair — score.
Twist handles make for seamless weight changes, while the sturdy base stops your dumbbells rolling off in-between sets. For the price, the build quality is excellent too.
| Type | Twist handle |
|---|---|
| Sold as a pair | Yes |
| Maximum weight | 2kg |
| Minimum weight | 12kg |
Pros
- Excellent quality and look the part
- Simple screw system is easy to use
Cons
- Just 4 weight settings
These Northdeer dumbbells were different to anything else we tested, with the weight plates themselves having built-in screws and screw holes. These are used to attach them together, with the weight maxing out at 25kg.
There are only four different weight settings, starting at 12kg (a bit heavy for isolation moves like lateral raises). But the weights fix soundly into place, making these dumbbells suitable for more dynamic movements such as snatches.
| Type | Screw/unscrew |
|---|---|
| Sold as a pair | Depends on weight |
| Maximum weight | 25kg |
| Minimum weight | 12kg |
Pros
- Square shape means they won’t roll
- Double as push-up stands
Cons
- Pin selection not as satisfying as dial or digital
If it’s flat-bottomed dumbbells you’re after, look no further. The flat, stable base of these makes them ideal for exercises like renegade rows, while also allowing them to moonlight as push-up stands if you fancy giving some bodyweight exercises a go. They have nine stacked weight options (between 4.5kg and 22.7kg per hand) which you can switch between using a resistance machine-esque pin.
The PowerBlocks’ solid base, along with the fact the weights slot neatly into one another, makes them compact and easy to store. They feel robust too, and we like the option to buy additional blocks to increase their max weight. The shape, with the handle placed within the weights blocks, took a bit of getting used to and made them less manoeuvrable for some movements, but that was our only complaint.
| Type | Selector pin |
|---|---|
| Sold as a pair | Yes |
| Maximum weight | 22.7kg |
| Minimum weight | 4.5kg |
Cons
- May not go heavy enough for some
- A serious investment
Before you balk at the price — you can pick the Technogym Connected Dumbbells up for £1410 (that’s £1120 less) by sacrificing the stand. And there’s the option to pay monthly, which works out at around the cost of a gym membership.
So, why are these worth (admittedly a lot of) your hard-earned cash? It’s hard to describe these as anything other than the Peloton of adjustable dumbbells; they come with a two-month Technogym Plus membership, which is loaded with classes; they monitor your progress, giving live feedback and and tailoring the load accordingly; and use a clever AI algorithm to track your movements — only counting reps when you’ve completed them properly.
The dumbbells themselves feel high-quality (as you’d hope), with a super smooth twist handle mechanism, handy grooves that help you align them properly as you dock them back in their cradles and a flattened section that allows you to use them as push-up stands. Just don’t be tempted to drop them, as you don’t want to damage that AI chip.
If you do opt for the pricier stand included option, it comes equipped with a training mat, foam roller and loop bands, which all store neatly in a drawer under the dumbbells, and there’s a device mount for your phone/tablet so you can easily follow workouts and track your metrics. Otherwise they come with easy-slot cradles.
| Type | Smart, twist-handle adjustable dumbbells |
|---|---|
| Sold as a pair | Yes |
| Maximum weight | 24kg |
| Minimum weight | 2kg |
Pros
- Smooth adjustments
- Plates don’t rattle
Cons
- Spinlock system is more time consuming than others
There’s something nostalgic about spinlock dumbbells, whether they remind you of your first free weight set or a spit and sawdust gym you used to frequent. This 20kg kit was no different, with 12 cast iron plates combining to provide a range of weight options.
Now, with 90 years in the weightlifting game, we expected big things from York, and the brand didn’t disappoint. These well-built dumbbells oozed quality, with the spinlock collars moving smoothly to secure the weight’s plates. They aren’t particularly heavy, even when maxed out, but work well if you want to supplement your weekly gym routine with some at-home sessions.
| Type | Spinlock |
|---|---|
| Sold as a pair? | Yes |
| Maximum weight | 20kg |
| Minimum weight | 1.3kg |
Pros
- Intuitive twisting handle mechanism
- More compact than some options
Cons
- Some might want a higher max weight
With weight settings ranging from 2kg up to 20kg, Stairmaster’s adjustable dumbbells are hard to beat. When you twist the handle, the adjustment mechanism helps you switch between weights with ease – and the handy cradles keep everything locked into place. An investment for life.
| Type | Twist handle |
|---|---|
| Sold as a pair | Yes |
| Maximum weight | 20kg |
| Minimum weight | 2kg |
Pros
- Comes in a carry case
- Excellent value
Cons
- Not compatible with other plates
Featuring iron plates and threaded steel bars for safety, Domyos’ adjustable dumbbells come with a two-year warranty. Grab these and you’ll receive two 2kg threaded weight bars, four chrome-plated collars, eight 1kg plates and four 2kg plates. Ideal for less than £50.
| Type | Spinlock |
|---|---|
| Sold as a pair | Yes |
| Maximum weight | 32kg |
| Minimum weight | 2kg |
Types of Adjustable Dumbbells
Though there are some obvious exceptions (namely, these Northdeer and Powerblock pairs), most adjustable dumbbells fit into one of three categories: digital, dial and spinlock.
Digital
The latest evolution of the humble dumbbell, these innovative bits of kit allow you to change the resistance of your weights with minimal effort (just what you want between energy-sapping sets).
They come with clever holding docks that have a small screen and buttons on the side. When the dumbbell is racked, you can use the buttons to select your chosen weight (displayed on the screen). Then, the relevant plates will attach to the bar, while any unused plates remain in the rack.
The docks have to be plugged in to work, and the dumbbells tend to max out at about 20kg, but those are the only real downsides.
Dial
Looking like the lovechild of a free weight, a high-security safe and a Transformer, these nifty training aids can help you look your (Optimus) prime — sorry.
They have the traditional dumbbell design — plates attached to a central handle — but each end is capped with a rotating dial that can be used to select how much weight you want on the bar. You’ll need to re-rack it into its holding dock before changing the resistance. Then, similar to digital dumbbells, any excess weight plates will be left behind while the necessary load will remain attached to the bar.
Some will have a dial on each end, while others save time by only requiring you to turn one dial to switch the resistance. We also like the addition of security locks to a few models, making sure the plates stay in place.
They can rattle a bit in use, but we tested one pair that can load up to 41kg on a single dumbbell, making these a good option for at-home heavy lifters.
Spinlock
Commonplace in teenage bedrooms the world over, these classic bits of kit will no doubt be familiar to you. Usually comprising two bars, a selection of smaller weight plates, and four spinlock collars that twist into place on the grooved ends of each dumbbell to secure the load, these old school lifting implements offer everything you’d want from a pair of weights.
Yes, it can take a while to change the weight as you have to spin each individual collar on and off each time, and the plates can clang when you press them overhead. But their no-frills build makes them a darn sight cheaper than their tech-heavy counterparts.
Hattie Parish is the Senior Health and Wellness Ecommerce Editor for Women’s Health, Men’s Health and Runner’s World, covering the best gym wear, latest fitness tech and wellness launches worth investing in, plus the best deals during Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day.
As well as clocking up the miles in myriad running socks, pummelling her muscles with massage guns, testing out fitness mirrors and donning dry robes every other weekend, Hattie consults leading experts in the health and fitness industry to help readers make informed decisions when shopping online.
Brought up by two medics, Hattie worked in health clinics before completing a BA in English at King’s College London. She qualified as a journalist in 2015 and has since written for titles such as Healthy magazine, Cosmopolitan, Harper’s Bazaar and Red, as well as worked commercially with health and wellness clients such as Holland & Barrett, Lloyds Pharmacy and Superdrug.
Hattie is passionate about arming readers with honest, unbiased product reviews and has a particular interest in the role of technology in our wellbeing, as well as gender-based inequalities in healthcare. When she’s not putting gym wear through its paces on the Pilates reformer or kitting out her home gym (garage) with the latest equipment, she’s attempting to make progress on her teetering pile of bedside books, cycling round South East London or sampling wellness retreats for the Women’s Health travel pages.
Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more. Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London’s best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills.
Yanar was our former health and wellness tester.
