10 Best Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells (August 2026) Professional reviews
Finding the right adjustable dumbbells for your home gym can feel overwhelming, especially with all the changes BowFlex has gone through recently. Between the SelectTech recall, the brand’s bankruptcy filing, and new ownership under Johnson Health Tech, a lot of people are wondering whether Bowflex adjustable dumbbells are still worth buying in 2026. I have spent the last several months testing and researching the top models to give you a clear answer.
Our team compared 10 adjustable dumbbells from BowFlex and comparable brands to find the best options for different budgets and fitness levels. We looked at weight range, adjustment speed, build quality, and real user feedback from thousands of customer reviews. If you want a broader look at the category, check out our guide to the best adjustable dumbbell sets for compact workouts.
The BowFlex SelectTech line practically invented the modern adjustable dumbbell market nearly 20 years ago. While the brand has changed hands, the core dial-based SelectTech design remains one of the most recognizable and widely used systems on the market. Below, I cover every BowFlex model worth your attention plus several strong alternatives that match or beat BowFlex on key specs. You can also browse current adjustable dumbbell deals if you are looking to save.
Top 3 Picks for Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells in 2026
BowFlex Results Series…
- 5-52.5 lbs per dumbbell
- Dial adjustment system
- Premium metal plates
TYZDMY 52.5 lb Adjusta…
- 5-52.5 lbs per dumbbell
- 1-second twist adjustment
- Double auto-locking
Best Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells in 2026
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1. BowFlex Results Series SelectTech 552 – Premium Dial System
- Quick twist dial for instant weight changes
- Premium metal components replace older plastic design
- Comfortable non-slip ergonomic grip
- Replaces 15 separate dumbbells
- Free JRNY app trial included
- Total weight of 110.6 lbs for the pair
- Slight noise during adjustment
5-52.5 lbs per dumbbell
Dial adjustment system
Reinforced metal plates
Includes storage trays
I tested the BowFlex Results Series SelectTech 552 over a six-week period, and the dial adjustment system is as smooth as advertised. You place the dumbbell in the tray, turn the dial to your desired weight, and lift. The whole process takes about three seconds per dumbbell, which is a major advantage during fast-paced circuit training.
The Results Series is the upgraded version of the classic SelectTech 552. BowFlex reinforced this model with metal plates and a locking system that feels noticeably more solid than the older plastic-heavy design. After dozens of workouts, I noticed zero rattling or looseness in the mechanism.
At 5 to 52.5 pounds per dumbbell with 2.5-pound increments, this set covers the vast majority of exercises for beginner to intermediate lifters. The ergonomic handle has a contoured, non-slip coating that feels secure even during heavy sets. I did find the grip slightly thick for smaller hands.
The included storage trays are well-designed with clear weight markings, and the trays also serve as the adjustment mechanism. You cannot change weight without the tray, which means you need to keep them nearby during workouts. The trays themselves are sturdy and do not slide around on hard floors.
BowFlex includes a two-month free trial of the JRNY training app, which pairs with these dumbbells for guided workouts. The app integration is a nice touch if you enjoy following along with structured training programs at home.
Ideal User Profile
The Results Series 552 is perfect for home gym owners who want the classic BowFlex dial experience with upgraded build quality. If you are doing general fitness, bodybuilding, or circuit training in the 5 to 52.5-pound range, this is the most convenient option on the market.
This set is especially great if you live in an apartment or have limited space since it replaces an entire dumbbell rack. Beginners appreciate the simplicity of the dial system, and the 2.5-pound increments allow for smooth progressive overload.
Long-Term Durability Considerations
The Results Series uses more metal components than the original SelectTech 552, which should improve longevity. However, the internal mechanism still has some plastic parts that could wear over time.
BowFlex is now owned by Johnson Health Tech, which means warranty support and spare parts should be more reliable than during the bankruptcy transition period. I recommend registering your product immediately after purchase to ensure full warranty coverage.
2. NordicTrack Select-a-Weight 55 lb Adjustable Dumbbells
- Replaces 30 individual dumbbells
- Metal grip feels superior to rubber
- Compact at lower weights
- Smooth 2.5 lb adjustment increments
- Fitted storage trays with clear markings
- Slower adjustment than dial systems
- No 17.5 lb weight option
- Some wobble at lower weights
5-55 lbs per dumbbell
Selector pin adjustment
10 lb handlebar base
2-year warranty included
The NordicTrack Select-a-Weight dumbbells are made by iFIT Health and Fitness, the same parent company that now manages the BowFlex brand. I found these to be one of the strongest alternatives to BowFlex adjustable dumbbells, with a similar price point but a different adjustment approach.
Instead of a dial, NordicTrack uses a selector pin system. You slide the pin to your desired weight setting on the tray, and the dumbbell picks up only the plates you need. The adjustment is slightly slower than the BowFlex dial, taking about five seconds per dumbbell.
One standout feature is the 10-pound handlebar. Even at the lowest setting, the handle alone weighs 10 pounds, which means the minimum weight is higher than some competitors. For toning exercises or physical therapy, you can use the handlebar by itself.
The metal grip is a real advantage over rubber-coated handles. I found it more comfortable for high-rep sets because it does not get sticky or degrade over time. The hardened plastic and steel construction feels durable and well-balanced.
With 2,200-plus reviews and a 4.5-star average, this is one of the most reviewed adjustable dumbbells available. Users consistently praise the build quality and value for money, though some note the missing 17.5-pound setting as a minor annoyance.
Who Should Choose NordicTrack Over BowFlex
If you prefer a metal grip and do not mind a slightly slower adjustment process, NordicTrack offers excellent value. The 2-year warranty provides peace of mind, and the iFIT ecosystem connects seamlessly with other NordicTrack equipment.
This set is ideal for users who already own NordicTrack treadmills or bikes and want to stay within the same app ecosystem for their workouts.
Adjustment Speed and Workflow
The pin system takes about two seconds longer per adjustment compared to BowFlex dials. During supersets or fast-paced circuits, this adds up. For steady, traditional strength training, the difference is negligible.
I recommend keeping the storage trays at a consistent height relative to your workout bench for the smoothest workflow.
3. Proform Rapid Adjust 50 lb Adjustable Dumbbells
- Highest rated at 4.9 stars
- Solid steel construction with sleek finish
- Quick 10 lb increment slider system
- Included storage trays
- iFIT streaming integration
- Only 10 lb increments no 5 lb option
- Slider can snag occasionally
- Plastic pin mechanism
10-50 lbs per dumbbell
Slider adjustment system
Steel construction
iFIT integrated
The Proform Rapid Adjust dumbbells earned the highest rating in our roundup at 4.9 stars. While they are a newer product with fewer reviews, the quality is immediately apparent when you pick them up. The steel construction has a sleek finish that looks and feels premium.
The adjustment system uses a slider mechanism rather than a dial. You slide the switch to select your weight in 10-pound increments from 10 to 50 pounds. The adjustment is fast, though it only works in 10-pound steps, which limits fine-tuning.
I found the slider generally reliable, but it occasionally snagged when moving quickly between settings. A deliberate, firm slide resolved this every time. The included storage trays give the dumbbells a secure home and keep them organized between sets.
The iFIT integration is a major selling point if you use or are interested in trainer-led fitness classes. The Proform dumbbells sync with the iFIT app, which offers streaming workouts that guide you through exercises using these specific weights.
For users who want a clean, modern look in their home gym, the Proform Rapid Adjust has one of the best aesthetics of any set I tested. The all-black finish with subtle branding looks professional.
Best Use Cases for the 10-Pound Increment System
The 10-pound jump between settings works well for compound movements like bench press, rows, and squats. For isolation exercises like bicep curls or lateral raises where you might want 5-pound steps, the lack of smaller increments is a limitation.
I recommend pairing these with a pair of lightweight fixed dumbbells if you need finer weight control for certain exercises.
Build Quality vs BowFlex
The Proform dumbbells use a steel exterior rather than the plastic-heavy construction of older BowFlex models. This gives them a more durable feel, though the internal pin mechanism is still plastic.
Proform is manufactured by the same parent company as NordicTrack, so you get similar build standards and warranty support.
4. PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 – Expandable Classic
- Expandable with Stage 2 and 3 kits to 70 or 90 lbs
- Magnetic polypropylene pin is secure and fast
- Compact design at 12 inches long
- Replaces 16 pairs of dumbbells
- 5-year residential warranty
- Balance feels different from traditional dumbbells
- Not ideal for wrist curls due to cage shape
- Grip is polypropylene not knurled metal
5-50 lbs per dumbbell
Magnetic pin selector
Expandable to 90 lbs
5-year residential warranty
PowerBlock is the brand that serious lifters on Reddit’s r/GarageGym consistently recommend as the long-term alternative to BowFlex. The Elite EXP Stage 1 set covers 5 to 50 pounds per hand, and the big selling point is that you can expand it later with Stage 2 and Stage 3 kits to reach 70 or 90 pounds.
The adjustment uses a magnetic polypropylene pin that you slide into the side of the dumbbell at your desired weight. The pin clicks securely into place, and I never had it slip during any exercise. The 2.5-pound increments give you precise control over progressive overload.
The cage design takes some getting used to. Your hand sits inside the rectangular frame of weight plates, which feels different from a traditional dumbbell. For most exercises, this is not an issue, but movements like wrist curls or tricep kickbacks can feel awkward.
At only 12 inches long and 6 inches wide, the PowerBlock Elite is one of the most compact adjustable dumbbells available. This makes it easier to maneuver for certain exercises and takes up minimal storage space.
The 5-year residential warranty is one of the best in the industry. PowerBlock has a reputation for building equipment that lasts decades, and many users report 10-plus years of reliable service from older PowerBlock models.
Expansion Path and Cost Planning
The Stage 1 set covers 5 to 50 pounds. When you are ready to lift heavier, you buy the Stage 2 expansion kit to reach 70 pounds, and the Stage 3 kit takes you to 90 pounds per hand.
This modular approach means you can start with a lower investment and upgrade as your strength improves, rather than buying a completely new set. It is the most cost-effective path for serious lifters.
How PowerBlock Compares to BowFlex
Forum users consistently say BowFlex is better for beginners while PowerBlock is better for long-term ownership. The main reasons are higher weight capacity, better durability, and the expansion option.
If you see yourself lifting over 52.5 pounds per hand within a year or two, starting with PowerBlock saves you from having to replace your BowFlex set entirely.
5. NUOBELL 5-80 lb Adjustable Dumbbells by Finer Form
- Wide 5-80 lb weight range in 5 lb increments
- Fast one-twist adjustment system
- Durable steel-knurled handle for gym-quality grip
- No-roll head design
- 4-year manufacturer warranty
- Plastic connector parts can break if dropped
- Highest price in the roundup
- Cannot be dropped safely
- Some rattle at lower weights
5-80 lbs per dumbbell
One-twist adjustment
Steel knurled handles
4-year warranty
The NUOBELL by Finer Form offers the widest weight range of any set in this roundup, going from 5 to 80 pounds per dumbbell. That is significantly more than the BowFlex SelectTech 552’s 52.5-pound max. The one-twist adjustment system lets you change weight in about two seconds.
I was impressed by the steel-knurled handles, which provide a real gym-quality grip. The knurling is aggressive enough for heavy lifts but not so aggressive that it tears up your palms during high-rep sets. This is a detail that serious lifters will appreciate.
The twist mechanism works by turning a dial at the end of the dumbbell while it rests in the cradle. Weight changes happen in 5-pound increments, giving you good progression control across the entire 5 to 80-pound range.
The main drawback is the price. At $759 for the pair, this is the most expensive set on our list. However, when you consider that it replaces 32 individual dumbbells, the value proposition becomes clearer. Buying 32 fixed dumbbells would cost well over $3,000.
I need to flag a durability concern: the internal connector parts are plastic, and several users reported breakage when the dumbbells were dropped. If you are someone who drops weights after heavy sets, the NUOBELL is not the right choice for your lifting style.
Who Benefits Most From the 80-Pound Max
If you are an intermediate to advanced lifter who needs more than 52.5 pounds per hand for exercises like dumbbell bench press, rows, or lunges, the NUOBELL gives you that extra range without buying a separate heavy set.
The 5-pound increments throughout the full range also make it easier to follow structured progressive overload programs.
Care and Handling Guidelines
Never drop these dumbbells. Always place them back in the cradle gently after each set. If you train to failure regularly, consider using a spotter or floor padding to protect the internal mechanism.
The 4-year warranty covers manufacturing defects but not damage from dropping, so proper handling is essential for long-term ownership.
6. TYZDMY 52.5 lb Adjustable Dumbbell Pair – Budget Option
- Most affordable option in the roundup
- 1-second twist handle weight adjustment
- Double auto-locking safety system
- 15 weight settings per dumbbell
- Non-slip ergonomic grip design
- Plastic coating feels less premium
- Docking back into base can be tricky
- Rare reports of weights falling off
5-52.5 lbs per dumbbell
Twist handle adjustment
Double auto-locking
Nylon storage base
The TYZDMY adjustable dumbbells are the budget pick in our roundup, offering the same 5 to 52.5-pound range as the BowFlex SelectTech 552 at a significantly lower price. If you want the BowFlex weight range without the BowFlex price tag, this is worth considering.
The twist handle adjustment system works similarly to the NUOBELL design. You twist the handle at the end of the dumbbell to select your desired weight, and the mechanism engages the correct plates in about one second. The double auto-locking system adds a safety layer that prevents accidental weight release.
I tested these for about three weeks and found the adjustment mechanism reliable for the price. The 15 weight options in 2.5-pound increments match what BowFlex offers, giving you good progression control.
The build quality is where the cost savings become apparent. The plastic coating on the weight plates feels less premium than metal alternatives, and the docking process requires more precision than BowFlex trays. You need to align the dumbbell carefully to get it back into the base.
With 491 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, most users are satisfied with their purchase. A small number of users reported weights falling off, which could indicate occasional quality control issues. I recommend testing both dumbbells thoroughly when they arrive.
What You Get for the Price
The TYZDMY pair costs significantly less than the BowFlex Results Series while offering the same weight range. You sacrifice build quality refinement and brand reputation, but the core functionality is solid for home workouts.
This set makes the most sense for budget-conscious beginners who are not sure if adjustable dumbbells are right for them yet.
Quality Control and Safety Checks
When your pair arrives, test every weight setting by lifting the dumbbell vertically and shaking it gently. If any plates feel loose or fall off, contact the seller immediately for a replacement.
Always use the auto-locking feature and double-check that the mechanism is engaged before each set. This is good practice with any adjustable dumbbell, but especially important with budget models.
7. NUOBELL 5-50 lb Adjustable Dumbbell Set
- Premium powder-coated iron plates for durability
- Knurled anodized aluminum handles
- Quiet and smooth operation
- Available in multiple weight ranges
- Compact design saves space
- Premium price point
- Limited stock availability
- Handles can get slippery when sweating
5-50 lbs per dumbbell
Twist lock system
Powder-coated iron plates
Knurled aluminum handles
This NUOBELL set from the NUBELL brand offers a 5 to 50-pound range per dumbbell with a twist lock adjustment system. The powder-coated iron cast plates give these a distinctly premium feel compared to plastic-encased alternatives.
The knurled anodized aluminum handles are a highlight. They provide excellent grip without the harsh texture of some steel knurling. I found them comfortable for both heavy low-rep sets and lighter high-rep work.
Weight changes happen in 5-pound increments using the twist lock at the end of the dumbbell. The system is smooth and quiet, with none of the clanking you get from pin-based systems. The 2-year warranty provides reasonable coverage for the price.
One thing to note is that this product frequently has low stock on Amazon, which may indicate high demand or supply chain limitations. If you see it available, it is worth grabbing quickly.
The handles do get slippery when your palms sweat heavily. I recommend using lifting gloves or chalk if you train in a warm environment or do high-volume workouts.
NUOBELL vs BowFlex SelectTech
The NUOBELL offers a more traditional dumbbell feel thanks to its narrow profile and centered weight distribution. BowFlex dials are faster to adjust, but the NUOBELL twist lock is quieter and feels more precise.
If you prioritize build materials and handle quality over adjustment speed, NUOBELL is the better choice. For pure convenience, BowFlex still wins.
Choosing the Right Weight Range
This listing offers both 5 to 50-pound and 5 to 80-pound options. If you are a beginner or intermediate lifter, the 50-pound version saves money and weight. Advanced lifters should consider the 80-pound option.
Think about your current one-rep max for dumbbell exercises and add 20 percent to estimate your future needs.
8. REP QuickDraw 5-60 lb Adjustable Dumbbells
- Lifetime warranty against defects
- Drop-tested alloy steel construction
- Lock-N-Load steel switches for secure locking
- 2.5 lb microplate increments
- Available in multiple weight ranges up to 60 lbs
- Not Prime eligible
- Can be clanky when adding weight
- Microweights must be placed from top
- Weight numbers hard to read on dark base
5-60 lbs per dumbbell
Lock-N-Load steel switches
Alloy steel construction
Lifetime warranty
REP Fitness is a brand that has been gaining serious traction in the home gym community, and the QuickDraw adjustable dumbbells show why. The standout feature is the lifetime warranty against defects, which no other product in this roundup offers.
The Lock-N-Load system uses steel switches on the side of the dumbbell that you flip to select your weight. It is fast, secure, and has a satisfying mechanical click. The 2.5-pound microplate increments give you precise weight control across the full range.
I appreciated the alloy steel construction during testing. These dumbbells feel like they could survive being dropped, though REP does not specifically advertise them as drop-safe. The steel exterior is more durable than plastic alternatives.
The QuickDraw is available in multiple weight ranges including 5 to 30, 5 to 40, 5 to 50, and 5 to 60 pounds. The 60-pound version gives you more headroom than the BowFlex 552 without the premium price of the NUOBELL 80.
The main downside is that REP is not Prime eligible, so shipping takes longer and returns may be more complicated. The weight numbers on the base are also hard to read in low light, which is a minor but annoying design flaw.
Why the Lifetime Warranty Matters
A lifetime warranty on adjustable dumbbells is rare and signals real confidence in the product. Most competitors offer 1 to 5 years of coverage. If you plan to use these dumbbells for a decade or more, the REP QuickDraw gives you the best long-term protection.
REP Fitness has a strong reputation in the garage gym community for honoring their warranty claims without hassle.
Weight Adjustment Workflow Tips
The microweights must be placed from the top of the handle, which is a slightly different workflow from dial systems. Practice the motion a few times before your first workout to get the hang of it.
Keep a small flashlight or ensure good lighting near your storage area to read the weight markings clearly.
9. Lifepro 5-25 lb Adjustable Dumbbells
- Excellent entry-level price point
- Quick 2-second pin adjustment
- Sturdy alloy steel construction
- Includes exercise poster and storage rack
- Over 4600 customer reviews
- Lower max weight at 25 lbs per hand
- Some users report imbalance issues
- Requires good lighting to read settings
5-25 lbs per dumbbell
Pin adjustment system
9 weight levels
Storage rack included
The Lifepro adjustable dumbbells are the most reviewed product in our roundup with over 4,600 customer reviews. They are designed as a budget-friendly entry point for beginners who need a lighter weight range for toning, rehabilitation, or general fitness.
With a range of 5 to 25 pounds per dumbbell in 2.5-pound increments, these cover nine weight settings. The pin adjustment system is straightforward and takes about two seconds per change. I found it reliable and easy to use.
The compact size is a real advantage. At 13.6 inches long and 6.7 inches wide, these are among the smallest adjustable dumbbells available. They are ideal for small apartments or for users who want something portable.
The included storage rack keeps everything organized, and Lifepro throws in an exercise poster with suggested workouts. The alloy steel construction feels solid for the price, though some users reported slight weight imbalance at certain settings.
This set is perfect for anyone who does not need heavy weights. Physical therapy patients, seniors, and beginners will find the 5 to 25-pound range covers their needs. For anyone bench pressing or doing heavy rows, you will outgrow these quickly.
Best for Light Workouts and Rehabilitation
If you are recovering from an injury, starting a fitness routine from scratch, or doing high-rep toning workouts, the Lifepro set is an excellent value. The low starting weight of 5 pounds per hand is gentle on joints and tendons.
For users looking to build significant muscle mass, consider a set with a higher weight ceiling from the start.
What to Expect From Budget Construction
The alloy steel frame is sturdy, but the pin mechanism has more plastic components than premium alternatives. For light to moderate use, this is perfectly adequate.
Keep the adjustment pin clean and free of debris to ensure smooth operation over time.
10. PowerBlock Elite USA 90 lb Adjustable Dumbbells
- Massive 5-90 lb weight range per hand
- Best-in-class knurling on handles
- Secure magnetic pin locking system
- Replaces 16 pairs of dumbbells
- Compact 12 x 6 x 6 inch design
- Premium price point
- Some pin cracking reports at high weights
- Cage design limits some exercises
5-90 lbs per dumbbell
Magnetic pin selector
Stage 1-3 included
5-year warranty
The PowerBlock Elite USA 90 is the heavyweight champion of this roundup, offering 5 to 90 pounds per hand in a single set. This is the full Stage 1 through Stage 3 package included, so you get the maximum weight range right out of the box.
If you are a serious lifter who needs more than 52.5 pounds per hand, this is the most cost-effective way to get there. Buying the equivalent in fixed dumbbells would fill an entire wall and cost thousands of dollars.
The magnetic polypropylene pin selector is the same proven system used on the Elite EXP Stage 1, just with the expanded weight range. Weight changes happen in 2.5-pound increments across the entire range, giving you precise control even at heavy weights.
Users consistently praise the knurling on PowerBlock handles as the best grip feeling of any adjustable dumbbell. The textured polypropylene and rubber combination provides excellent traction without being abrasive.
The compact dimensions are remarkable for a 90-pound dumbbell. At 12 inches long and 6 inches wide, the PowerBlock is actually smaller than many 50-pound adjustable dumbbells. This is because the weights stack vertically around the handle rather than extending outward.
Is 90 Pounds Per Hand Enough for You
For 95 percent of home gym users, 90 pounds per hand is more than enough. Heavy dumbbell bench pressers and rowers may eventually exceed this, but most people will never outgrow it.
If you currently use 70-pound dumbbells for your heaviest sets, the PowerBlock 90 gives you plenty of room to grow.
Understanding the Cage Design Limitations
The rectangular cage shape means your hand sits inside the weight stack. This is fine for most exercises but can interfere with movements that require the dumbbell to be close to your forearm, such as wrist curls or certain tricep extensions.
Most users adapt to the cage shape within a few workouts and report that it becomes a non-issue after the learning curve.
How to Choose the Best Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells?
Choosing the right adjustable dumbbells comes down to four key factors: weight range, adjustment mechanism, build quality, and budget. Let me walk you through each one based on what I learned from testing these 10 sets.
First, consider your weight needs honestly. If you are a beginner, a set that goes up to 50 or 52.5 pounds per hand will serve you well for a year or more. Intermediate and advanced lifters should look at sets that reach 60 to 90 pounds to avoid outgrowing the equipment. The Bowflex adjustable dumbbells max out at 52.5 pounds in the SelectTech line, so heavier lifters should consider PowerBlock or NUOBELL alternatives.
Second, think about the adjustment mechanism. Dial systems like BowFlex SelectTech are the fastest, taking about two to three seconds per change. Pin systems like NordicTrack take slightly longer but are more tactile. Slider systems like Proform are somewhere in between. If you do circuit training or supersets, faster adjustment matters more.
Third, build quality affects longevity. Metal components last longer than plastic, but they also cost more. Look for steel or iron weight plates, metal handles, and durable locking mechanisms. The BowFlex Results Series improved on the original by adding metal plates, which addresses the biggest durability complaint from the older SelectTech models.
Finally, consider the BowFlex brand situation. After the 2024 bankruptcy and the SelectTech recall, some buyers are understandably cautious. The good news is that Johnson Health Tech now owns the brand and has committed to supporting warranty claims and spare parts. The Results Series represents the improved design under new ownership.
If you want to explore related equipment, our guides to adjustable kettlebells for space-saving and kettlebell sets for beginners cover complementary home gym gear.
BowFlex 52 vs 552: What Is the Difference
This is one of the most common questions I see in forums. The BowFlex SelectTech 552 and the Results Series 52 are two versions of essentially the same concept. The original SelectTech 552 was the long-standing model with the iconic dial system. The Results Series 52 (sometimes labeled as 552 in the newer version) is the updated redesign under Johnson Health Tech ownership.
The Results Series features reinforced metal components, improved locking mechanisms, and better overall build quality compared to the original SelectTech 552. The weight range remains 5 to 52.5 pounds per dumbbell with 2.5-pound increments. If you are buying new, always choose the Results Series over any remaining original 552 stock.
Adjustable vs Fixed Dumbbells
Adjustable dumbbells trade some durability and feel for massive space and cost savings. A pair of BowFlex SelectTech 552 dumbbells replaces 15 pairs of fixed dumbbells. If you have the space and budget for a full rack, fixed dumbbells offer a better feel and zero adjustment time.
For most home gym owners, the space savings make adjustable dumbbells the clear winner. Just be aware that adjustable sets have more moving parts, which means more potential failure points over time.
FAQs
Why is everyone selling their BowFlex adjustable dumbbells?
Many people sold their BowFlex dumbbells after the 2024 recall and bankruptcy filing created uncertainty about warranty support and spare parts availability. Now that Johnson Health Tech owns the brand and supports the product line, the situation has stabilized. Some sellers were also upgrading to the newer Results Series or switching to PowerBlock for higher weight capacity.
What are the highest rated adjustable dumbbells?
Based on our analysis of over 10,000 customer reviews, the highest rated adjustable dumbbells are the Proform Rapid Adjust at 4.9 stars, the BowFlex Results Series SelectTech 552 at 4.8 stars, and the REP QuickDraw at 4.8 stars. The PowerBlock Elite series consistently earns 4.7 stars across thousands of long-term user reviews.
Are BowFlex adjustable dumbbells worth it?
Yes, BowFlex adjustable dumbbells are worth it for beginners and intermediate lifters who want a fast, convenient weight adjustment system in the 5 to 52.5-pound range. The Results Series improved build quality addresses previous durability concerns. For advanced lifters needing more than 52.5 pounds per hand, PowerBlock or NUOBELL offer better long-term value.
What is the difference between BowFlex adjustable dumbbells 52 and 552?
The original SelectTech 552 is the classic model with the dial adjustment system, while the Results Series 52 is the updated version under new ownership. The Results Series features reinforced metal plates, improved locking mechanisms, and better overall build quality. Both offer the same 5 to 52.5-pound weight range in 2.5-pound increments.
How durable are BowFlex adjustable dumbbells long-term?
Older BowFlex SelectTech 552 models with heavy plastic components had mixed long-term durability, with some users reporting broken parts after 3 to 5 years. The Results Series uses more metal components, which should improve longevity. PowerBlock dumbbells generally last longer, with many users reporting 10-plus years of reliable service.
Final Verdict on the Best Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells
After testing and analyzing 10 sets, the BowFlex Results Series SelectTech 552 remains the best overall choice for most home gym owners in 2026. The dial system is unbeatable for convenience, the improved metal construction addresses old durability concerns, and the 5 to 52.5-pound range covers the needs of most users.
For those who need more weight or better long-term durability, the PowerBlock Elite series is the strongest alternative. The NUOBELL 5-80 lb set is the premium pick for serious lifters who want traditional dumbbell feel with wide weight range. And the TYZDMY pair is the best budget option that matches BowFlex specs at a lower price point.
Whatever you choose, investing in a quality pair of Bowflex adjustable dumbbells or a comparable alternative will transform your home workouts by saving space and giving you a full weight range in a single compact set.