The 5 Best Adjustable Dumbbell Sets in 2024, Tested by Certified Trainers

Best Adjustable Dumbbells Overall

SMRTFT Nüobell 80lb Dumbbells

Best Adjustable Dumbbells Overall

SMRTFT Nüobell 80lb Dumbbells

Credit: Monica DzikConsExpensive

“The Nüobell is the best blend of reliability and authentic dumbbell feel I’ve used,” says Samuel, who has been using these for over three years. “The shape and design of these bells make them ideal for accessory motions, like skullcrushers and biceps curls, and they’re easy to hold for goblet squats too.” Aside from a few scratches, they’ve held up great to three years of heavy use.

With up to 80 pounds of weight per dumbbell and a feel that’s nearly indistinguishable from traditional ‘bells, users can utilize the same set of weights for a complete full-body workout. Users can quickly drop down to lower weights for exercises like bent-over flies, for example, or pile on the plates for more intense squats. “It features a ‘turn-and-click’ design rather than just a built-in selector,” notes Williams. Users simply turn the handle until they reach their desired weight.

During testing, Howell noted that the Nüobell arrived assembled and was easy to plug and play once unboxed. Of all the adjustable dumbbells he tried, these felt the most like actual dumbbells. “These feel like the next evolution of the traditional dumbbells we have become used to in gyms,” Howell said.

The major defining features include: metal plates and handles, top-tier construction that’s built to handle more volume than we can, the easy click-and-go weight adjustment ability, and the way the weight selected is displayed on the dumbbell itself.

However, Howell expressed some concerns about the rack it came with, feeling it might have been an afterthought. He questioned whether the tempered plastic rack would hold up to constant re-racking of the metal plates over time. Nevertheless, he emphasized that the actual dumbbells are well-crafted and feel solid as hell.

In Howell’s opinion, these dumbbells are best for someone who has invested in a home gym and is serious about fitness. They are tailored for the hardcore client who likely has a squat rack and barbell in their garage as well, but wants to add an elite set of adjustable dumbbells to their training arsenal.

If you’re building the mother of all home gyms and money is no object, this comprehensive premium set of dumbbells from SMRTFT might just be your best pick.

Living.Fit Adjustable Dumbbell

Best Value Adjustable Dumbbells

Living.Fit Adjustable Dumbbell

Now 50% Off

Credit: Living.FitConsA little noisy

The Living.Fit adjustable dumbbells are solid and well-made, and coming in at less than $3.00 per pound on sale, their value is hard to beat. Not only do they come at an entry level price point, but they’re also incredibly durable. Steel weight plates and a tough ABS plastic handle hold up well to wear and tear from regular use (think rust and scratches).

The plates can be adjusted in 10-pound increments, spanning from 15 to 55 pounds. Yes, this option features less adjustability than others on this list, but some people may actually prefer that. Unfortunately, Living.Fit doesn’t currently offer a heavier option, but we’re hoping that changes.

The adjustment process is straightforward and requires just one tweak per ‘bell. Select your desired weight by turning the handle into place and until you hit the weight you want to use.

These dumbbells arrive in two boxes and require no assembly upon arrival, which makes them an ultra-accessible choice for delivery and use at home.

One potential drawback of this set is that the individual plates can generate some noise during use. By no means is the noise level a dealbreaker, but it may pose a challenge in your space.