Dial vs Spinlock Adjustable Dumbbells: Which Should You Buy?

By the Lift Nest editorial team · Updated 2026 · How we test & score

The biggest choice when buying adjustable dumbbells is the adjustment mechanism: a quick-change dial, or a cheaper screw-collar spinlock. They suit different budgets and training styles.

Dial / selector

Dial (or selector) dumbbells let you set the weight by turning a dial, then lift the handle, leaving the plates you don't need in the base. Changing weight takes seconds, which is ideal for supersets, drop sets and circuits where you don't want to stop. The trade-offs are a higher price, a larger base, and more delicate mechanics, so they shouldn't be dropped.

Spinlock (screw collar)

Spinlock dumbbells use a threaded handle: you slide plates on and tighten a screw collar by hand. They're much cheaper, very durable, and there's little to go wrong, but changing weight is slower because you physically add and remove plates each time. They suit budget-focused lifters and slower-paced workouts.

Which should you buy?

If you value fast weight changes and have the budget, go dial. If you want the lowest price and maximum durability, and don't mind taking a moment to swap plates, go spinlock. Both deliver the same training; the difference is speed, price and longevity.

Our top picks

Frequently asked questions

Is spinlock or dial better value?

Spinlock is cheaper and tougher; dial is faster and more convenient. For tight budgets, spinlock wins on value; for fast workouts, the dial's speed is worth the premium.

Do dial dumbbells break easily?

They're more delicate than spinlock because of the selector mechanism, mainly if dropped. Used and stored sensibly (ideally on their stand), they last well.

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..