When building a fit physique, having the right equipment makes all the difference. Working out with dumbbells is a great way to strengthen and tone your muscles without sacrificing much space in your home.
However, picking the best dumbbells for your at-home workout isn’t always easy, which is why we did our research and created this article to help you learn what features to look for when selecting the perfect set of dumbbells for your needs.
We also gathered our team to test out and pick our favorite home gym dumbbells to help you fast-track your dumbbell hunt.
Our Top Dumbbells For Home Gym (September 2023)
1 - Rogue Loadable Dumbbells (Editor's Choice)
The Rogue loadable dumbbells work with weight plates you already have in your gym. If you don’t have any weight plates, Rogue’s specialty bumper plates are ideal and built for these dumbbells.
You have two options for these loadable dumbbells: the DB-15 and the DB-10. The DB-15 weighs 15 pounds, while its more compact brother only tips the scales at 10 pounds but features a shorter loading sleeve.
After putting these dumbells to the test, we liked the knurling on them and found the grip comfortable.
We did note that the bronze bushing rotation system will require some maintenance (oiling), which isn’t a big deal, mainly because it is durable and worth the extra effort.
- Great price for heavy-duty equipment
- Available in 15-pound or 10-pound weight
- Medium knurling provides a good grip
- Available in two finishes, stainless steel and black zinc
- Not sold in pairs, only individually
2 - Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbell is an excellent option for anyone looking to build strength and tone their muscles without investing in an entire weight set.
The adjustable feature of these dumbbells allows you to select a weight range of 5–52.5 pounds with the turn of a dial.
We determined through our testing that the dial system made transitioning between exercises fast and easy. Additionally, the rubberized handle makes the SelectTech 552 dumbbells comfortable even during long workouts.
One of the best aspects of the Bowflex SelectTech 552’s adjustable dumbbells is that they save space, replacing 15 sets of weights.
These are some of the best adjustable dumbbells. Though expensive, they are from a reputable brand and come with a two-year warranty, making them worth the investment.
- The dial system automatically adjusts the weight
- It saves a lot of space
- The rubberized grip is comfortable
- The hefty price tag for users on a strict budget
3 - CAP Barbell Solid Hex Dumbbell Set
Starting your fitness journey or establishing a home gym. A maximum weight of 25 pounds is ideal for most people to see results in ten weeks [1].
The CAP hex dumbbells feature a solid cast iron design with a raised number for easy readability and a contoured handle for good grip. With this set, you’ll get ten dumbbells in pairs of 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 pounds and a storage rack.
The product is durable cast iron dumbbells with no bells and whistles; they do what they are supposed to do.
Unfortunately, like many other buyers, we received the same horrible packaging that didn’t stand up to shipping.
- Solid cast iron dumbbells, straightforward and great for beginners
- Five pairs in five-pound increments offer workout versatility
- Includes two-tier stand
- The packaging is horrible and does not stand up to the shipping
4 - PowerBlock EXP Adjustable Dumbbells
Not only are the PowerBlock EXP adjustable, but they are also expandable up to 90 pounds.
Additionally, PowerBlocks are compatible with accessories like a straight bar, making it a good barbell, or a handle, turning it into a great adjustable kettlebell.
We noticed the PowerBlock EXP is noisier than other adjustable dumbbells as the weight stacks clank together a bit when used, which is the nature of the beast with this particular style and isn’t a sign of a lack of durability.
When you outgrow the initial weight increments, you can add weight and accessories to offer even more challenge and versatility.
After putting PowerBlock to the test, we know new users will undoubtedly need time to get used to the noise, bulky feel, and look.
- Expandable to 90 pounds
- It can use with accessories like a straight bar or handle
- It saves a ton of space
- A bit noisy when using
“Strength training provides many benefits, such as a lower risk of chronic disease, better self-esteem, and a reduced risk of injury and falls.”
- Katey Davidson, Certified Personal Trainer
5 - NordicTrack Dumbbells
NordicTrack offers a very compact option in their Select-A-Weight adjustable dumbbells that take up far less room than a traditional dumbbell set.
After trying out these dumbbells, we love that you can choose a weight range of 10-55 pounds in varying increments of two and a half or five pounds, making for a customizable training experience that rivals 30 individual weights.
NordicTrack constructs these adjustable dumbbells from sturdy steel and durable, hardened plastic.
Changing weight is a two-step process that consists of pulling the outer pin, sliding it to the desired weight, and then using the inside slide to add two and a half or five pounds to your total weight.
The use of a plastic pin adjustment system makes us question its longevity.
- Very compact and saves on floor space and storage.
- Offers weight increments of two and a half or five pounds
- Easy-to-use pin system for changing weight
- The round design doesn’t accommodate specific exercises like push-ups like hex dumbbells
6 - Rogue Dumbbells
Rogue rubber hex dumbbells are a great addition to any home gym, and purchasing them won’t break the bank.
You can buy them in pairs to add to your set over time, or if your budget allows, you can buy a set.
These hex dumbbells come in a weight range of 2.5–65 pounds. For a dumbbell weight of 12.5 pounds and over, the diameter of the handle is bigger than with lighter weights.
The Rogue hex dumbbells have a heavy-duty, rubber-encased head that minimizes noise and protects your home gym flooring.
We determined through tests that the ergonomic handle, with medium knurling, offers an excellent grip.
- Durable rubber-coated dumbbells dampen noise and protect floors
- Rubber hex dumbbells allow for more floor exercises like push-ups over round dumbbells
- Sold in pairs or sets
- Shipping is expensive
7 - Papababe Dumbbell Set
Papababe offers rubberized cast-iron construction in their classic dumbbell set for comfort and protection.
The five-tier, A-frame rack is a plus for storage, taking up less space than shelf-style racks.
The set offers a complete solution for beginners and includes pairs of 5-pound, 10-pound, 15-pound, 20-pound, and 25-pound weights.
The weight amount is marked clearly with a raised number, so you don’t waste time searching for the correct weight, keeping your workout moving along.
Like many of the other knurled handles we’ve talked about, we found the grip excellent and comfortable.
Shipping was a bit slow, and we received the entire set over a few days as it shipped in different boxes for obvious weight reasons.
All-in-all, we determined through our tests that Papababe offers some of the best dumbbells for beginners.
- A-frame rack saves space
- Well-constructed set of traditional free weights for beginners
- Rubber coating protects the floor and reduces noise
- Slow shipping and the whole set didn’t arrive at once
“Doing 30 to 45 minutes of strength training two to three times a week is an excellent way of building lean muscle mass, burning calories, and boosting your metabolism.”
- Emily Cronkleton, Certified Yoga Instructor
8 - CAP Barbell Coated Hex Dumbbell
Our findings show that Cap Barbell offers a durable and affordable dumbbell with noticeable quality in its coated hex dumbbell.
With an ergonomic handle and anti-roll hexagonal design, each cast iron dumbbell has a protective rubber coating that reduces noise and offers floor protection.
We tested the 20-pound weights and could comfortably perform an array of lower and upper-body exercises that help body composition, blood glucose, sleep, and cardiovascular benefits [2].
The contoured, knurled handle provides a good grip, even when sweaty.
Many users report a toxic smell that rendered these dumbbells unusable, a common complaint in many of the rubber-encased dumbbells we researched. Other users had no issues at all.
- Feels high quality
- Affordable price point
- Good grip, even for sweaty hands
- Toxic smell making dumbbells unusable
9 - CAP Barbell Black Cast Iron Hex Dumbbell
CAP Barbell gives you an old-school, no-frills dumbbell in their black cast iron hex dumbbell with weight options from five to ninety-five pounds.
These dumbbells, like other hex equipment, offer an anti-roll feature.
Most of these weights sell as a single dumbbell except for the 8-pound, 10-pound, 12-pound, 15-pound, 20-pound, and 25-pound, which are available to buy as a pair.
We ordered multiple sets, and upon receiving our order, we experienced what many other reviewers reported: a couple of dumbbells were banged up and rough around the edges.
Though not pretty, they still functioned as one would expect.
After trying out these dumbbells, do we think they are the best?
No, but are they the worst? Certainly not. Given the price point, cast iron construction, and comfortable medium-knurled grip, they are worth consideration.
- Sold as one, so you can build up your set over time
- Wide-weight range
- Good grip
- Many users receive dumbbells that are in rough shape
10 - Amazon Basics Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbell
After putting Amazon Basics to the test, we found a classic hex dumbbell that is surprisingly durable and comfortable for a brand outside the fitness world.
Our test group gave these dumbbells kudos for ease of use and comfort.
The cast iron encased in rubber promotes durability while offering noise reduction and floor protection like the other rubber-encased dumbbells we reviewed.
As mentioned by other users, we noticed a chemical odor but noted that it dissipated rather quickly with a good airing out.
Amazon sells these dumbbells individually, so you’ll have to buy two or more if you want a set.
The price point is good for gradually building up your collection, and most weight options will qualify you for free shipping, which is rare when purchasing many dumbbells.
- Knurled, contoured handle for comfortable non-slip grip
- The hexagonal shape prevents rolling
- Good price point
- Noticeable chemical smell
Buyer’s Guide
Weight training is critical to maintaining overall fitness and health and preventing and rehabilitating orthopedic injuries [3].
When looking to add dumbbells to your stylish home gym setup, there are several questions you should answer for yourself so you can buy the best dumbbells that support your workout needs.
Let’s take a look.
Space
Consider whether your home gym area can handle a storage rack full of dumbbells. The key to an effective home gym is appropriately utilizing your space.
If space is limited, adjustable weights are the best dumbbells because they can provide weights upwards of 100 pounds while taking up minimal room.
But if you have plenty of elbow room in your workout area, why not go for classic fixed dumbbells?
Standard and Adjustable
Adjustable dumbbells are an excellent choice if you want to make the most of your home gym but have limited space.
Not only do they cost just as much or even less than a full rack of standard dumbbells, but their slim profile makes them ideal for confined areas.
Still, an adjustable dumbbell usually lacks the durability and features like knurling typical of fixed dumbbell weights, so besides space, it boils down to personal preference.
Both standard and adjustable dumbbells are suitable for countless resistance training exercises like bicep curls, bench presses, and lower body exercises, so again, personal preference is at play here.
However, if your goal is to bulk up, heavier standard weights are likely the better option [4].
Ease of Use
When choosing a dumbbell, you must feel comfortable lifting the weight.
Consider how natural it feels in your hand and whether or not you can get a full range of motion during dumbbell exercises.
Additionally, consider the steps involved in changing the weight of an adjustable dumbbell and how that affects flow from one exercise to the next versus grabbing from a standard set of dumbbells.
Construction
Most workout equipment takes a beating, which includes dumbbells.
For fitness enthusiasts that push their equipment to the brink, rubber hex dumbbells may be the best dumbbells.
Durability is the goal behind the design of these dumbbells, so rubber-encased dumbbells can withstand harder drops better than cast iron or adjustable dumbbells.
Be sure to realistically evaluate how hard you push yourself and your workout equipment and choose your next dumbbells accordingly.
Budget
When it comes to setting up your home gym, budget is paramount.
With that in mind, consider how much you are willing (and able) to spend and choose one of two paths:
- A single adjustable dumbbell set
- Several sets of traditional dumbbells with different weight increments
Once you make that decision, there are still plenty more factors to consider, from quality to shipping to customer service and warranty, so be sure to look into different brands before taking the plunge.
FAQs
Can You Work Out at Home With Just Dumbbells?
You can work out at home with just dumbbells and effectively work every muscle in your body. A set of dumbbells or an adjustable dumbbell is a must-have for any home gym setup and is one of the more affordable items you can purchase.
How Much KG Dumbbell Is Best for Home Workout?
A dumbbell set ranging from 2.5–22 kg (5–50 lbs) is best for a home workout because it will effectively target every muscle group while allowing you to increase weight over time.
Our Top Pick for The Best Dumbbells for Your Home Gym
Overall, we know you are looking for a reliable set of dumbbells that will stand the test of time and provide plenty of customization options for different weight levels.
In that case, the Rogue Loadable Dumbbells are what you need to get the most out of your home gym setup.
Rogue Loadable are the best dumbbells that offer a variety of benefits that make them a must-have, including substantial durability, innovative design, and a secure locking mechanism. They save a ton of space, which is critical for most home gyms.
Our #1 Recommendation
Rogue Loadable Dumbbells
- Great price for heavy-duty equipment
- Available in 15-pound or 10-pound weight
- Medium knurling provides a good grip
- Available in two finishes, stainless steel and black zinc
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of September
- Not sold in pairs, only individually
About The Author
You May Also Like
