Adjustable Dumbbells
A practical set of adjustable dumbbells (up to 20kg) that saves space and money for home strength training.
Are Adjustable Dumbbells Worth It? (Honest Answer)
Adjustable dumbbells are popular for home training, but they're not for everyone. Here's an honest look at the pros and cons versus fixed dumbbells, so you can decide.
The case for
One adjustable set replaces a whole rack of fixed dumbbells, which saves a lot of space and, over a full weight range, a lot of money. You get many weights in the footprint of a single pair, and dial sets let you change load in seconds. For most home gyms, where space and budget are limited, that's a compelling combination.
The case against
Adjustable sets cost more up front than a single fixed pair, are bulkier and longer at the lightest settings (which can feel awkward for some exercises), and generally shouldn't be dropped. Spinlock sets are slower to change, and dial sets, while fast, are more delicate. Serious lifters who train very heavy, or who want to drop weights, may prefer fixed or competition dumbbells.
Who should buy them
Adjustable dumbbells make most sense for home trainers who want a full range of weights without a rack, beginners building up over time, and anyone short on space. If you have room for a full set of fixed dumbbells and like dropping heavy weights, fixed may suit you better.
Our top picks
#1
#2 
PROIRON Adjustable Dumbbells
A practical set of adjustable dumbbells (up to 20kg) that saves space and money for home strength training.
#3 
Adjustable Dumbbell Set One-Twist
A practical set of adjustable dumbbells (0.9-2.3kg) that saves space and money for home strength training.
#4 
Adjustable Dumbbell
A practical set of adjustable dumbbells that saves space and money for home strength training.
#5 
Dumbbells Set
A practical set of adjustable dumbbells that saves space and money for home strength training.
#6 
Steel Dumbbells Ultracompact Adjustable
A practical set of adjustable dumbbells (up to 10kg) that saves space and money for home strength training.
Frequently asked questions
Are adjustable dumbbells as good as fixed?
For most home training, yes - the exercises are the same. Fixed dumbbells are simpler and droppable, but take far more space and cost more across a full range.
What are the downsides?
Higher up-front cost, bulkier at light weights, not designed to be dropped, and (on spinlock) slower to change. For most home users the space and money saved outweigh these.
Bottom line
Our top pick is the Adjustable Dumbbells (our score 9.6/10) - A practical set of adjustable dumbbells (up to 20kg) that saves space and money for home strength training..