Dumbbells can be used for everything from competitive powerlifting training to cardio dance classes. They can apply to a nearly unlimited amount of movements and work almost any muscle in your body. But selecting a dumbbell isn’t as simple as picking one up and lifting it. Dumbbells can range in weight from one pound to 150 pounds and beyond.

　　Dumbbells also come in different shapes and sizes. In addition to the traditional round heads, they can be hexagonal or square, as in Rogue’s dumbell line. In addition, there are various coatings, handle shapes, and weights to consider.

　　Dont worry if you’re overwhelmed by the myriad options — we’ve got you covered. Our staff and testers are experienced athletes with decades of experience, so we called in and tested loads of dumbbells to find the best ones for various users.We took dumbbells of various shapes and sizes through strength, conditioning, and bodybuilding workouts, evaluating them on comfort, ease of use, and utility across broad fitness modalities.

　　As a result, weve narrowed down our top dumbbells for all kinds of athletes. Check out our comprehensive Buyer’s Guide and Frequently Asked Questions sections for helpful tips, and have a look at our Comparison Chart to steer your decision-making. Were still testing, so feel free to check back in to see what new dumbbells make it onto this list.

　　Editor’s Note: For our May 8, 2024 update, we updated specifications, removed several dumbbells that are no longer available, and added more test notes and new imagery.

　　The Best Dumbbells of 2024 Best Overall: Rogue Hex Dumbbells Best Budget: Amazon Basics Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbell Hand Weight Best Adjustable Dumbbells: Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbell Best Olympic Dumbbells: Annzoe Olympic Dumbbell Handles Best Premium Dumbbells: Eleiko Evo Rotating Dumbbells Best for Beginners: SPRI Deluxe Vinyl Dumbbells Best Overall Kettlebell Rogue Hex Dumbbells Specs Weight 2.5-125 lbs Adjustable No Handle Diameter 25 mm to 35 mm Head shape Hexagonal

　　

　　Pros Durable Mild knurling Rubber coating for shock absorption Cons On the pricier side Sun exposure over time breaks down rubber coating Billy Brown It’s hard to improve on the durable simplicity Rogue’s Hex Dumbbells ($17-455) offer. Sold in pairs, these weights offer chrome-plated handles with a slight taper to provide comfort no matter how you grip them.

　　The heavy-duty rubber coating on the heads limits wear and tear on both the dumbbells and the floors you work out on, and they minimize noise. 

　　The Hex Dumbbells range in weight from 2.5 pounds to 30 pounds in 2.5-pound increments and from 30 pounds to 125 pounds in 5-pound increments. Weve personally used these dumbbells for over a decade in various CrossFit gyms and have purchased them for gyms weve owned. 

　　They’re extremely durable — testers have dropped them from overhead on a daily basis for years without any visible damage. The subtle knurl on the grip makes them secure even in sweaty hands without digging into your palms or fingers. 

　　The only issues that have popped up are the rubber encasements on the heads. If left out in the sun over the summer, the rubber can stiffen up and eventually crack and peel off.

　　On rare occasions (weve seen this happen on two dumbbells in 10 years), the dumbbell heads can loosen up and wiggle a bit on the handle. 

　　Other than that, the Rogue’s Hex Dumbbells are durable and comfortable, and they fit well within a reasonable price range (as far as dumbbells go). Rogue Fitness is considered the premium in professional and home gym setups, and the Hex Dumbbells are a great example of why.

　　check price at rogue fitness Best Bargain Dumbbells Amazon Basics Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbell Specs Weight 10-45 lbs in 5 lb increments Adjustable No Handle Diameter 25 mm to 35 mm Head shape Hexagonal

　　

　　Pros Excellent price Aggressive yet comfortable knurl Cons Actual weight can vary Sold individually Billy Brown Looking to stock your home gym but don’t have a Planet Fitness budget? It’s no surprise Amazon has you covered with its Basics line. The Amazon Basics Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbells ($16-55) are, at a glance, similar to the Rogue Hex Dumbbells but at a much lower price. 

　　The hexagonal heads are encased in rubber to minimize damage to the dumbbells and your floor if you drop the weight. And the knurled chrome-plated handle is grippy without sacrificing comfort. 

　　Like any bargain, there are sacrifices. First and foremost, they’re sold as singles, so don’t purchase one and expect a pair to come in. It sounds like a no-brainer, but people have reported receiving one when they expected two, so just know that you need to actually order two to get a pair.

　　Also, we’ve seen reports the actual weight of the dumbbells can vary. You may purchase two 50-pound dumbbells and have a 49-pound and 48-pound dumbbell show up. 

　　And while the Rogue Dumbbells seem to last forever, we’ve noticed that Amazon Basics Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbells do have some substantial durability issues. After a few months of use, the dumbbell heads have started to loosen up from the handle (none have fallen off yet, but still). Also, the rubber casing on some of them has been chipping and peeling off, exposing the weight underneath. 

　　But if you’re not a stickler for precise weights, are willing to treat the dumbbells gingerly, and are looking to save a few bucks, you could do a lot worse than these bad boys.

　　$27 at Amazon Best Adjustable Dumbbell Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbell Specs Weight 11-66 lbs Adjustable Yes Handle Diameter 35 mm Head shape Round

　　

　　Pros Takes up minimal space Simple weight adjustment Cons Awkward weight placement at lighter settings Billy Brown While it would be great to have a huge space for your workout equipment, most of us can’t fit an entire rack of dumbbells in our spare bedroom or garage. This is where adjustable dumbbells are extremely useful.

　　Ativafit’s Adjustable Dumbbells ($420) can go from 11 to 66 pounds per dumbbell with the turn of a dial. To adjust the weight, users simply have to press the red button on one end of each dumbbell and twist the dial to the desired weight. 

　　As far as manually adjusting dumbbells go, it’s hard to get simpler than this. Each dumbbell has a button and dial so that you can swap out the weights quickly. The iron plates are durable and tough, and the rubber-coated handle enables a slip-free grip. 

　　One caveat with the Ativafit’s Adjustable Dumbbells is the lighter weights are at the farthest end of the dumbbell head. This means the weight will be farther away from the grip if youre at the lightest setting. This creates a longer pivot arm and can cause instability during dynamic movements.

　　$330 at AmazonCheck price at Ativafit Best Olympic Dumbbells Annzoe Olympic Dumbbell Handles Specs Weight 8 lbs Adjustable Yes Handle Diameter 50 mm Head shape N/A

　　

　　Pros Cost-effective Holds a shocking amount of weight Take up minimal space Cons Thick handle makes gripping difficult Weight plates not included Billy Brown If you’ve got a traditional Olympic lifting setup, you may not even need a full set of dumbbells. For people with Olympic weights, a set of Olympic dumbbell handles is a great option. And Annzoe’s Olympic Dumbbell Handle ($120 for two) is one of the best of the bunch. 

　　These heavy-duty chromed stainless steel handles are fitted with Olympic heads that fit weight plates with the traditional 2-inch holes. This allows you to load up to 300 pounds per pair, which is ideal if you want to perform heavy deadlifts, lunges, or shoulder shrugs. 

　　The collars are ribbed to minimize slippage, and each handle comes with two screw-down clamps to secure the plates. There have been user reports of the clamps creating small divots in the collar ridges, but there should be little effect on performance. 

　　Keep in mind, these are only dumbbell handles. If you don’t already have weight plates, you’re going to be stuck with two 8-pound weights. But if you’re already kitted out, Annzoe’s Olympic Dumbbell Handle will add a lot of versatility to your home gym at minimal monetary and spatial cost.

　　$60 at Amazon Best Premium Dumbbells Eleiko Evo Rotating Dumbbells Specs Weight 12.5-150 lbs in 2.5-5 lb increments Adjustable No Handle Diameter 38 mm Head shape Hexagonal

　　

　　Pros Spinning heads are ideal for explosive overhead movement Aggressive yet comfortable knurl Extremely durable Cons Rolling heads are unstable when putting weight on the dumbbells during floor exercises Very pricey Sold individually Thicker handle adds difficulty to lifts Billy Brown Eleiko is one of the most well-respected names in Olympic weightlifting. So it makes sense they’ve created a dumbbell that will appeal to Olympic lifting purists. The Eleiko Evo Rotating Dumbbells ($225-$1,025) are extremely pricey, but they’re a rare dumbbell with heads that rotate independently of the handle. 

　　For the uninitiated, proper barbells have spinning collars. This allows the weights to spin without rotating the rest of the barbell in overhead lifts. This creates a more stable lift by preventing the bar from spinning in your hands during explosive movements that require rotation like clean and jerks and snatches. 

　　The Evo Rotating Dumbbells serve the same function. While they’re just as effective during stationary movements like strict presses and curls, the rotating heads reduce twisting and instability during workouts that require movements like dumbbell snatches. This reduced fatigue during workouts and felt extremely stable during overhead movements. Plus, it will save your grip during long, intense workouts. 

　　What doesn’t save your grip, however, is the uniform 38 mm handle diameter. Even though it’s only 3 mm thicker than the more common 35 mm handles, working out with these non-tapered grips felt like training on a fatbar. It was more difficult to hold, but our grip felt bulletproof after a few weeks of training. 

　　Also, for movements like devil’s presses or pushups on the dumbbells, there’s a chance the dumbbells will roll away from you while you put your weight on them. The hex-shaped heads will minimize this, but the possibility is still there. 

　　But if you’re a lifting purist and want the best overhead experience possible, the Eleiko Evo Rotating Dumbbells are the way to go.

　　Check price at eleiko Best for Beginners SPRI Deluxe Vinyl Dumbbells Specs Weight 1-18 lbs in varying increments Adjustable No Handle Diameter Not listed Head shape Hexagonal

　　

　　Pros Several optional colorways Comfortable vinyl coating Beginner-friendly weight Cons Sweat can make vinyl coating slippery Users can outgrow the top weight quickly Billy Brown If you’re new to working with weights, you’re going to want to keep things light and comfortable. SPRI’s Deluxe Vinyl Dumbbells ($7-66) are perfect for nervous newcomers with beginner-friendly weight options, smooth vinyl covering, and fun, bright colors. 

　　With weights starting at one pound and capping out at 20 pounds, these are ideal for calisthenics, rehabilitation, and introductory weightlifting classes. And instead of the knurled handles (which some people find abrasive against the skin), the vinyl coating on the dumbbells provides a smooth, soft touch. 

　　That vinyl can get slick, however, so if your hands get sweaty, be sure to minimize any flailing or explosive movements to prevent accidentally hucking one of your dumbbells through a window. And if you plan on eventually using heavier weights, you may find the SPRI’s Deluxe Vinyl Dumbbells’ 20-pound top weight insufficient before long.

　　$81 at Amazon Dumbbell Comparison Chart

Dumbbell	Weight	Adjustable?	Handle Style	Head Shape
Rogue Hex Dumbbells	2.5-125 lbs	No	Tapered	Hexagonal
Amazon Basics Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbells	10-45 lbs in 5 lb increments	No	Tapered	Hexagonal
Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbells	11-66 lbs in varying increments	Yes	Tapered	Round
Annzoe Olympic Dumbbell Handle	8 lbs	Yes	Straight	Hexagonal
Eleiko Evo Rotating Dumbbells	12.5-150 lbs in 2.5-5 lb. increments	No	Straight	Hexagonal
SPRI Deluxe Vinyl Dumbbells	1-18 lbs in varying increments	No	Tapered	Hexagonal

Why You Should Trust Us Affiliate Managing Editor Billy Brown has spent the majority of his life lifting weights. He’s competed in CrossFit and powerlifting competitions, claiming three California state records and qualifying for nationals in the 198-pound weight class in 2019.

　　He knows the value of a good, sturdy dumbbell in accessory and compound movements. He’s a Level 2 certified CrossFit trainer and holds a powerlifting coaching certification from the U.S. Powerlifting Association.

　　

　　Affiliate Managing Editor Billy Brown testing the Eleiko Evo dumbbell; (photo/Korban Alderman) His experience with dumbbells started out with a rusty set of backyard weights. And over the decades, he’s worked with dumbbells of varying weights, makes, and sizes.

　　Billy combined decades of experience not only using but also recommending dumbbells. He’s provided deep dives into user reviews and weeks of testing to narrow down the best dumbbells for a variety of needs and uses.

　　How We Tested Testing involved everything from full CrossFit workouts with 50-70 pound Rogue dumbbells that included dropping them from overhead (a practice frowned upon in gyms but necessary for testing).

　　It also included single-muscle accessory work with 20-35-pound Amazon Basics Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbells, and complex movements with varying momentum, like single-arm dumbbell snatches with Eleiko’s rotating-head dumbbells.

　　The result was not only a good amount of blood, sweat, and chalk shed but also a definitive guide to the best dumbbells for a wide range of uses, users, and price ranges.

　　

　　Rotating heads can provide stability during overhead movements; (photo/Korban Alderman) Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Best Dumbbells for Your Gym Dumbbells come in so many shapes and sizes that it’s hard to decide where to begin shopping for one. While the dumbbells basic tenets have changed little since its inception, recent innovations have made specific makes and models stand out from the crowd.

　　From space-saving, adjustable-weight dumbbells to protective vinyl coating, there’s undoubtedly a dumbbell perfect for any lifter’s needs. And that’s before you even start considering what weight you’ll need.

　　Don’t worry — we did the legwork. If you’re looking for a dumbbell (or a set of dumbbells) for your home workouts, here are a few things you should consider.

　　Space The first thing to consider is how much space you have for your dumbbells. If you’ve got plenty of room in your lifting room or garage, you have plenty of options.

　　If you’re planning on using dumbbells as your primary lifting tool, take a look at some of the dumbbell sets in this list. They offer a wide range of weights, and racks can keep them organized.

　　If space is a concern, a full rack of dumbbells won’t be feasible. Consider one of the adjustable dumbbell sets above. If those are out of your price range, think about what weights you plan on using the most and buy two to three pairs.

　　

　　Hexagonal heads prevent rolling during deficit pushups; (photo/Billy Brown) Weight Considering what weights to buy really depends on your needs and abilities. Most people tend to work with two to three weights across the board.

　　If you do CrossFit or HIIT-style workouts, you can often get by with 35-pound and 50-pound dumbbells, generally the standard for female and male lifters. For other applications, however, only having a few weights can limit your ability to improve if you outgrow your weights.

　　If you can afford the cost and have the space, a full set of dumbbells would be the most versatile option. Adjustable dumbbells are a more cost- and space-effective option as well.

　　Not sure what weights to buy? Not a problem. Head to your local gym and run through a few workouts over the course of a week or so. Take note of the weights you use most and base your decision on that.

　　Durability For general bodybuilding and controlled movements, durability shouldn’t be an issue. Careful and deliberate movements should keep your dumbbells in good shape for years.

　　High-intensity interval training and CrossFit workouts entail dynamic movement, often to exhaustion. This means the repeated setting of a dumbbell on the floor, often from an overhead position.

　　I can say from personal experience that the end of many high-intensity workouts results in an exhausted user dropping the weights from overhead, and then staggering a few steps away and collapsing in a sweaty heap. This is much harder on dumbbells.

　　If you’re planning on putting your dumbbells through the wringer, look for a set with stainless steel handles, as vinyl and rubber coating can tear off after heavy use.

　　

　　Stainless steel handles are more durable than rubber-coated ones; (photo/Billy Brown) Also, while all-metal dumbbell heads look tough as hell, opt for a pair with a durable rubber coating. The rubber will absorb repeated impact, helping to preserve the dumbbell over time.

　　Shape While the traditional shape of a dumbbell’s head is round, that shape has fallen out of favor in recent years, particularly for lack of stability.

　　If stability is your primary concern or you want a more versatile dumbbell, square heads all but eliminate rolling. The flat sides also allow users to hold the edges and swing the dumbbells like a kettlebell without losing their grip.

　　Hexagonal dumbbell heads are an excellent compromise between the two, which is why they’re often found in conventional gyms. The flat sides provide more stability than round heads, but the six short sides allow for rolling when necessary.

　　This allows the dumbbells to be steady when performing a devil’s press and lets lifters roll them from one side of the bench to the other to switch arms between dumbbell rows.

　　FAQ What weight dumbbells should I buy? How heavy a person’s dumbbells should be can vary wildly based on the user’s specific strength and goals. If you want one pair, it may help to know that CrossFit’s most commonly prescribed dumbbell weights for women are 35 pounds and 50 pounds for men.

　　That said, it may be useful to head to a conventional gym and go through a few workout sessions to figure out what weight will serve you best in your home.

　　How much should I spend on dumbbells? For the average lifter, you can get by with a less expensive set from Amazon. If you’re a stickler for quality and precise weights, you may want to pony up for a pricier set from a premium brand. For a solid single pair of dumbbells, expect to spend somewhere between $50 and $100.

　　Which brand of dumbbell is best? Because they’re composed of two weighted heads connected by a handle, dumbbells are fairly simple. But that doesn’t mean all dumbbells are the same.Precise weight measurements, durability, and ergonomic handles are what mark a good dumbbell. If you’re shopping for dumbbells, consider one made by well-known and reputable brands like Rogue Fitness and Eleiko.

　　Which dumbbells are best for home gyms? When it comes to building out a home gym, keeping yourself and your house safe is paramount. For this reason, we recommend avoiding dumbbells without a protective coating like rubber or vinyl. We like Rogue Fitness dumbbells for their durable rubber-coated heads, but plenty of brands offer this feature.

　　

　　A good set of dumbbells is the foundation of a home gym; (photo/Billy Brown) Adjustable dumbbells are also a great way to save space. Most offer weight adjustments from 5 to 50+ pounds without taking up the space of an entire rack.

　　What dumbbells are best for beginners? You may want to be ambitious and go heavy, but going lighter is better if you’re new to working out with weights. It’s important to get used to working with dumbbells at a lighter weight to learn how to control the weight and move within a proper range of motion.

　　Consider a dumbbell with rubber- or vinyl-coated heads, as you’re more likely to drop the dumbbells while you get used to moving with them.

　　

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