The Ultimate Guide to the Best Adjustable Dumbbells of 2024

Adjustable dumbbells are one of the most effective pieces of home gym equipment, combining convenience with versatility.  As we step into 2024, the demand for efficient and space-saving workout equipment continues to rise. In this buyer's guide, we'll explore the top adjustable dumbbells of the year and shed light on the key features you should consider when making a purchase.

As the old adage goes, slow and steady wins the race. If you’re in the early phases of your fitness journey, it’s important to start small and work your way up in small increments. This ensures that you will not get injured, and it will help you see small improvements to motivate you to keep going. If this describes you, then you will want to look for a set of adjustable dumbbells with many increments at lower weights. 

If you’re further along in your fitness journey or are looking for something with a heavier max weight to grow into, you’ll want to consider an adjustable dumbbell that goes up to 70 or even 90 lbs. These dumbbells will ensure you can go heavier when you are ready, but their weight increments will be larger.

Weight increments are crucial when purchasing a set of adjustable dumbbells because they provide the flexibility needed to tailor your workouts to specific fitness levels and goals. With adjustable dumbbells, users can easily increase or decrease the weight in small increments, allowing for gradual progression in strength training. This versatility accommodates a wide range of exercises, from targeted isolation movements to compound exercises. Whether you're a beginner gradually building strength, an intermediate lifter fine-tuning your workouts, or an advanced athlete pushing your limits, having precise weight increments ensures that your adjustable dumbbells can adapt to your evolving fitness needs. This adaptability not only enhances the effectiveness of your workouts but also promotes a safer and more gradual approach to strength development.

For a beginner, it's advisable to start with a set of adjustable dumbbells that offers a relatively light starting weight and small weight increments. This allows beginners to ease into their strength training regimen, focusing on proper form and technique without the risk of overexertion. Look for dumbbell sets that begin with lighter weights, such as 5 or 10 pounds, and provide increments of 2.5 or 5 pounds. This allows for gradual progression as strength improves. Additionally, consider sets with ergonomic designs and easy-to-use adjustment mechanisms to make the learning curve smoother. It's important for beginners to prioritize safety and proper technique over lifting heavy weights initially, and adjustable dumbbells with appropriate weight ranges and increments support this approach. As fitness levels increase, the ability to easily adjust the weight ensures ongoing challenge and progression in the workout routine.

Due to the mechanisms involved, we advise against using adjustable dumbbells with the same intensity you would for a traditional Hex rubber dumbbell in order to avoid damaging the moving parts. That being said, adjustable dumbbells remain a significant investment, so you always want to look for something that is durable and can withstand long-term use. After your purchase, make sure to look into the best practices for maintaining your dumbbells to keep them running smoothly.

There are a few different mechanism designs to look out for when it comes to adjustable dumbbells. The two most common mechanisms that you will find on adjustable dumbbells are dial-based and handle-based. Dial-based adjustment mechanisms work by turning two dials on either side of the dumbbell, whereas handle adjustment mechanisms offer more convenience by allowing the user to simply twist the grip of the dumbbell handle to select a weight.

Dumbbells are already a versatile piece of equipment to begin with, allowing you to work arms, legs, back, chest, and more. However, as any seasoned gym rat will know, there is always room for more. Consider looking for a dumbbell model that is compatible with a kettlebell attachment, or a dumbbell2barbell attachment, so that you can add more versatility to your setup. Some models, such as the Ascend 3-in-1 dumbbell, offer the kettlebell and barbell attachments all in one convenient package.

The final element that you should consider when shopping for adjustable dumbbells is the grip. It is the final connecting point between the weight and your body, so it is important that you get something comfortable yet sturdy. For lighter adjustable dumbbells, a hard rubber grip will suffice. If you are looking for a higher weight option for your adjustable dumbbells, you may want something with a textured metal grip to ensure they never slip while in use. While this may sacrifice a bit of comfort on your hands, the knurling on a metal grip will ensure they don’t slip out of your hands at heavier weights.

If you are looking for the best adjustable dumbbells to kickstart your home gym setup, our 5-52 lb adjustable dumbbells are the solution for you. With 2.5 lb adjustments up to 25 lbs, they will allow you to slowly add weight as you get stronger. They are compatible with both the kettle grip and dumbbell2barbell and can be bundled with a bench & stand as well.

The 5-52 Adjustable dumbbells replaces 15 pairs of dumbbells and the weight range is as follows (lb) 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15, 17.5, 20, 22.5, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, and 52.5.

The big brother of the 5-52 lb dumbbells, these are best adjustable dumbbells for those who are further along in their fitness journey and are looking for something with more max weight. With its 5 lb increments up to 90 lbs and a sturdier metal grip, iit is the most recommended option for seasoned fitness enthusiasts. Just like the 5-52s, they are compatible with both the kettle grip and dumbbell2barbell and can be bundled with a bench & stand as well. We also recommend that you use our Heavy Duty Bench and its attachments with these dumbbells.

The 10-90 Adjustable dumbbells replaces 17 pairs of dumbbells and the weight range is as follows (lb) 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85 and 90

Nuo Style Weights combine beauty and convenience with their Scandinavian adjustment mechanism. Simply twist the handle to select your weight, and you are good to go. With a generous maximum weight of 70 or 90 lbs, they are the recommended option if you are looking for a perfect middle ground between performance and design.

The Nuo Style (5-70 lb or 7.5-90 lb) Adjustable dumbbells replaces 16 pairs of dumbbells. 

The weight range of the 5-70 is as follows (lb) 5, 9, 13, 18, 22, 26, 31, 35, 40, 45, 49, 53, 57, 62, 66 and 70.

The weight range of the 7.5-90 is as follows (lb) 7.5, 13, 18.5, 24, 29.5, 35, 40.5, 46, 51.5, 57, 62.5, 68, 73.5, 79, 84.5 and 90.

The Ascend 3-in-1 dumbbell uses a similar adjustment mechanism to the Nuo Style Weights. Thanks to its ingenious design, you can seamlessly transition between dumbbells, a kettlebell, and a barbell, all in one convenient package. They are the best adjustable dumbbells for those looking to make the jump into home fitness, this is by far the most cost-effective and versatile option available. For the most affordable set we sell here at Montreal Weights, pair them in a bundle with the adjustable bench.

The Ascend 3-in-1 Adjustable Dumbbells replaces 12 pairs of dumbbells and the weight range is as follows (lb) 7, 13 , 18, 20, 24, 28, 33, 37, 39, 42, 46 and 52.5.