7 Best Budget Adjustable Dumbbells in 2024

Adjustable dumbbells can vary between the weight selection, ease of use, design, material and quality. So, it’s best to take ‌these things into consideration when deciding which are the best budget adjustable dumbbells that meet your needs.

Our team of certified professionals and pro athletes put 12 budget adjustable dumbbells through a thorough testing process. Only 7 of them met our high standards and ended up being included in this list. They’ve been evaluated on 4 key criteria, with our team spending a more than 30 hours on testing. Additionally, we’ve reviewed hundreds of online user reviews. We continually update this list, so your insights are welcome!

Top 7 Best Cheap Adjustable Dumbbells Reviewed

1. The NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells – Top Pick
2. Core Fitness Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set – Runner Up
3. Flybird Adjustable Dumbbell 25 LBS
4. Cap Barbell Adjustable Dumbbell – Cheapest Pick
5. ProForm Weight Dumbbells
6. Weider Select-A-Weight Adjustable Dumbbells
7. PowerBlock EXP Adjustable Dumbbells

Product	Total	Weight Selection	Ease of Use	Design	Material Quality
NordicTrack	36.5	9.5	9	9	9
Core Fitness	36	9	9.5	8.5	9
Flybird	36	9	9	9	9
CAP Barbell	35.5	8.5	9	9	9
Proform	35.5	8.5	9.5	9	8.5
Weider	35	8.5	9.5	8.5	8.5
PowerBlock EXP	35	9.5	8.5	8.5	8.5

1. The NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells – Top Pick

• Number Of Settings: 30 different weight options
• Weight Range: 10 pounds – 55 pounds
• Weight increments: 2.5 pounds or 5 pounds
• Dimensions: 20.5 x 19.8 x 11.5 inches
• Adjustment system: Dial adjusting technology
• Materials: Mix of neoprene and steel
• Additional features: Comes with a 30-day free trial of their iFit app
• Warranty: 30-day return policy
• Weight: 50 pounds
• Color: Black

NordicTrack is a health and fitness brand, which specializes in treadmills, strength training equipment, ellipticals, exercise bikes, and accessories. NordicTrack adjustable dumbbells are typically considered the best affordable adjustable dumbbells as NordicTrack produces high-quality products.

Weight Selection. The NordicTrack dumbbells come in three different weight selections, which can cover your beginner and intermediate needs. 25 lb select-a-weight dumbbell pair. 25 lb select-a-weight dumbbell single. 55 lb. Select-a-Weight Dumbbell Pair. Perhaps the most popular of the NordicTrack options. The weight increments increase from 10 to 55 Lb in 2.5 or 5 pound increments.

Ease of Use. All you have to do in order to change the weight of the dumbbell is to place the dumbbell back in its tray, and simply move the dial on the inside of the dumbbell, either forward or backward, to your desired weight. Once you pick the weight you’d like, simply pick the dumbbell up from its tray and it will leave the unwanted plates on the tray, so as not to create a mess.

Design. NordicTrack’s come in an octagonal shape with flat edges. The benefit of this unique shape is that it prevents the dumbbells from rolling, so you can additionally use them as equipment for stability exercises as well. The metal handle comes with good knurling, and each dumbbell fits inside its own tray, which takes up minimal space, and can be tucked away in the corner of your home gym or room.

Materials & Quality. The dumbbells are made out of neoprene material. This will allow you to keep a firm grip on the dumbbell even while you’re sweating. Neoprene is softer than steel, and with an additional plastic layer on the top of the neoprene, the dumbbells are unlikely to damage or scratch your floors if you ‌drop them.

2. Core Fitness Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set – Runner-Up

• Number of Settings: 10 different settings
• Weight Range: 5 to 50 pounds
• Weight Increments: 5 pounds
• Dimensions: 14.5" L x 7.9” W x 7.2" H
• Adjustment System: Twist lock technology
• Materials: Composite and Aluminum
• Warranty: 2 year parts warranty
• Weight: 50 pounds
• Color: Black

Core fitness is a company that specializes in home fitness products. They believe ‌you can get a great workout within 5 minutes or 60 minutes and they have the products to prove it. Along with dumbbells, they provide glute drive machines and cardio-kickboxing equipment. The Core Fitness product comes at number two because they are inexpensive adjustable dumbbells. So, you can get a variety of exercises, while staying true to your budget.

Weight Selection. Core Fitness adjustable dumbbells come with 10 different weight options, which vary from 5 pounds to 50 pounds. The weight increases in increments of 5 pounds. The dumbbells are made to be functional, so there aren’t any extra parts to it, so you can get your workout in effectively. With 10 weight options from 5lb to 50lb, the Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbells go toe to toe with most adjustable dumbbells we tested for functionality.

Ease of Use. The adjustment system is ‌old school, as it employs a twisting handle system. Simply twist the handle of the weight that you want to add or subtract, and your dumbbell will be set to a new weight number. The plates are left upright on the storage tray, so it is easy to put them back on.

Design. The design of the product mimics a natural dumbbell, where the plates are spherical‌. The dumbbell kit comes with a storage tray, which takes up minimal area. So, you can get a good workout without making too much of a mess.

Materials & Quality. The adjustable dumbbells are made out of a combination of aluminum and composite. This makes the dumbbell slightly lighter, while allowing you to have a strong firm grip on the handle. Also, the weight is distributed evenly through the dumbbells, so you don’t have to worry about lopsided pressing.

3. Flybird Adjustable Dumbbell 25 LBS

• Number of Settings: 5 different weight options
• Weight Range: 5 to 25 pounds
• Weight Increments: 5 pounds
• Dimensions: 14.6" L x 7.9" W x 6.7" H
• Adjustment System: Dial adjusting technology
• Materials: Coated cast iron weight plate
• Additional Features: Visual weight dial, Safety lock, Fast weight change
• Warranty: 1-year warranty
• Weight: 25 lbs
• Color: Black

Flybird is a fitness brand known for producing cost-effective gym equipment of amicable quality. Here we have their Adjustable Dumbbells (25 lbs).

The adjustable dumbbell offers five weight options (from 5–25 lbs) with 5-pound increments. This range might not be the same as with some of the others on this list, but it is wide enough to cover both beginners and intermediate-level athletes.

It is made to be used easily and swiftly. The only thing that you need to do is place the dumbbell into its weight tray and adjust the visual weight dial to the desired weight, and lift it back out. That’s it!

If you’re limited on space, you’ll be pleased that Flybird had that in mind when designing this product. It is very compact (dimensions: 14.6" L x 7.9" W x 6.7"H) and will not take up almost any space in your gym or home gym.

And not only are you getting this at a great deal, but you’ll also enjoy a coated cast iron built that will last you years, and to give even more confidence, you’ll also get a 1-year long warranty as part of the package.

4. Cap Barbell Adjustable Dumbbell – Cheapest Pick

• Number of Settings: 30 options
• Weight Range: 5 to 52.5 pounds
• Weight Increments: 5 pounds
• Dimensions: 16 x 6.5 x 6.5 inches
• Adjustment System: Collars
• Materials: Metal and Steel
• Warranty: 30 day
• Weight: 25 pounds
• Color: Black

Going strong for 25 years, Cap Barbell provides ‌different fitness equipment from benches, machines, barbells, and free weights. They take pride in making their equipment affordable, which is why they are the best cheap adjustable dumbbells to get. However, just because they are cheap, doesn’t mean they lack quality, as Cap Barbell has created a high-quality product that they can sell at a lower price than their competitors.

Weight Selection. The Cap Barbell adjustable dumbbell comes in a weight range of 5 pounds to 52.5 pounds. The weight increment jump is 5 pounds, which allows you to load your dumbbell heavy and get a good full-body workout. Plus, the variation in weights gives you a lot more options, so you can get all your lifting needs fulfilled.

Ease of Use. The dumbbells are very easy to use, as they mimic a traditional barbell. All you have to do is load on a plate, like you normally would, and then use a star-lock collar with rubber O-rings to clamp the weight on either side. This will prevent the weight from moving or sliding. You don’t have to worry about the weight falling either, as the collars are locked safely. So, if you’re used to lifting with a barbell, you’ll find these dumbbells to be a seamless transition.

Design. The dumbbells come with their own storage trays, so you don’t have to worry about a mess of plates laying around. The plates are spherical, so they don’t get in the way of any exercise as you use the dumbbells. As some adjustable dumbbells can come in awkward shapes, which can interfere with the lift.

Materials & Quality. The plates are made of cast iron, making them sturdy. The plates are also covered with black epoxy finish to prevent rust or corrosion. While the handle has a good knurling on it, allowing you to have a secure grip. However, considering the weights are made of cast iron, make sure not to drop them from a considerable height. The collars are made of rubber, so they are practical and versatile. You can also use them for your barbell workouts, too.

5. ProForm Weight Dumbbells

• Number of Settings: 20 different weight options
• Weight Range: 10 to 50 pounds
• Weight Increments: 10 pound
• Dimensions: 20"L x 17"W
• Adjustment System: Rapid strike weight selector
• Materials: Alloy Steel
• Additional Features: iFit app
• Warranty: 30 day
• Weight: 50 pounds
• Color: Black

Three pillars of ProForm are time, strength and relationships. So, they try to provide time efficient exercise equipment that helps you get strong, while their iFit app helps you create positive relationships with their instructors. The time efficient aspect of the company had led them to create innovative adjustment systems, which can ‌switch between several weight ranges.

Weight Selection. The ProForm Weight Dumbbells come in two options. Either a 25lb pair or 50lb pair. Although these are cheap adjustable dumbbell set, the downside is that the weight moves up in increments of 10 pounds, which can be an issue while making progress. It's difficult to make that jump with certain exercises. But, you can perform the exercises with a trainer through the iFit app, so that’s a bonus. That way, you’ll be able to keep the right technique and make good progress.

Ease of Use. The rapid strike selector and slider makes it easier to switch the weight. All you have to do is slide the selector to your desired weight, and the dumbbell will change. The quick and easy design allows you to perform exercise techniques like drop sets.

Design. ProForm dumbbells are known for their space saving criteria. The dumbbells come with a storage space, which limits mess. The design of the dumbbell itself won’t interfere with any of your lifts, as the spherical shape of the product aligns with your body’s mechanics, avoiding any needless bulkiness that some other dumbbells can have.

Materials & Quality. The plates are incased with plastic, so they will prevent any damage or scratches to your floor. But, plastic breaks faster than other material, so that’s one thing to keep in mind. The dumbbells only come with a 30 day warranty, so you want to be careful about dropping them. Most adjustable dumbbells don’t cover drop damage, anyway.

6. Weider Select-A-Weight Adjustable Dumbbells

• Number of Settings: 5 settings
• Weight Range: 10 to 50 pounds
• Weight Increments: 10 pound
• Dimensions: 23.6 x 19.3 x 0.04 inches
• Adjustment System: Selector switch
• Materials: Metal
• Additional Features: iFit app
• Warranty: No Warranty
• Weight: 111.2 pounds
• Color: Black

The Weider strength company aims to provide the entire home fitness experience as they sell everything from treadmills to machines that target the entire body and free weights like their dumbbell sets. They also come equipped with the iFit app in case you prefer trainer-led exercises. So, you can pick from several workout programs and get fit in the comfort of your home.

Weight Selection. The Weider Select-A-Weight 50-lb. adjustable dumbbell set ranges from 10 pounds to 50 and it jumps up in weight with 10 pound increments. So, it’s able to replace five pairs of dumbbells, however the weight jumps can be difficult to bridge with certain exercises. This is another adjustable dumbbell set that comes with iFit technology, so you can follow trainer-led programs and exercises.

Ease of Use. These dumbbells use a simple selector switch, which allows you to toggle between different weight options, before settling on the one you need. All you have to do is decide what weight you’d like and slide the selector pin over. It is both fast and efficient, which is great for many lifting techniques. So, you can make progress with your muscle building and strength training routines.

Design. The Weider adjustable dumbbells come with their own storage rack, which makes it easy to save space. While, the design of the dumbbell allows you to perform most exercises with no interference. The design of the plates also allows the dumbbells to be used for stability exercises such as pushups, planks, and renegade rows.

Materials & Quality. The Weider set is made of a combination of metal and plastic, where the plastic is coated around the metal plates. This protects your floors, while also providing strength to the dumbbells, making them long lasting. So, you wouldn’t have to worry about warranties as much.

7. PowerBlock EXP Adjustable Dumbbells

• Number of Settings: 15 different settings
• Weight Range: 5 to 50 pounds
• Weight Increments: 2.5 pounds
• Dimensions: 12"L x 6.5"W
• Adjustment System: Secure magnetic polypropylene pin
• Materials: Steel
• Warranty: Limited 5 year
• Weight: 5 pounds
• Color: Black and Red

PowerBlock specializes mainly in dumbbells as their aim is to provide their customers with an efficient, mess free product that allows the user to exercise effectively. The dumbbells are meant to have their own special adjustment system, which allows for easy workouts. Along with providing a variety of lifting options through their weight range.

Weight Selection. The PowerBlock adjustable dumbbells come in 15 different weight settings as their weight range varies from 5 pounds to 50 pounds. The weight increment jump is 2.5 pounds, which allows for several different options when lifting. Also, they can replace several dumbbells, so the one time purchase can be seen as cost efficient.

Ease of Use. PowerBlock uses a magnet pin technology, which is simple to work as all you have to do is remove the pin, add or subtract your desired weight, and reinsert the pin in the proper place. It’s unlikely that the pin will fall out while performing any exercise. The quick adjustment can allow you to perform different workout techniques, such as drop sets.

Design. The design of the PowerBlocks is good for saving space as it’s only a foot long and six inches high and wide. However, the box shape of the weights can be awkward to use at first and might take some time to get used to it. Not to mention that it may interfere with some lifts. So, that’s a major drawback.

Materials & Quality. PowerBlock are typically made of steel, so you don’t have to worry too much about damaging the dumbbell’s themselves. However, there is a concern that the dumbbell could damage your floors if dropped from considerable height. You do have a 5 year warranty, but drop coverage is most of the time not covered.

What Are Adjustable Dumbbells?

A typical dumbbell comes in a fixed weight. So, a non-adjustable dumbbell will either be 10 pounds or 20 or 30. While, an adjustable dumbbell can switch between weights through ‌different weight adjustable technologies. An example of one being a dial slider, where you place the dumbbell in the storage tray and then use the dial on the dumbbell to change the amount of weight you like.

Also, unlike a typical dumbbell where the weight is fixed, an adjustable dumbbell can vary between 10 to 30 to 50 pounds and even beyond that. So, a singular dumbbell can make up for multiple fixed weight dumbbells.

Adjustable dumbbells also only require you to buy two pieces of equipment. The dumbbell itself and the storage tray it comes with. Compare that to a fixed dumbbell, which requires many dumbbell purchases and then racks to place them on. Otherwise you’d have a mess of dumbbells laying around.

3 Key Differences within Adjustable Dumbbells

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Feature	Adjustable Dumbbells	Non-Adjustable Dumbbells
Weight Range	Variable; can be adjusted	Fixed weight
Size	Usually more compact	Generally bulkier; you need 2 kettlebells for every weight range
Cost	Generally more expensive upfront	Usually cheaper per weight
Convenience	Easier to store; space-saving	Require more storage space
Weight Change	Quick adjustment possible	Must switch to different set
Durability	May have more weak points	Usually more durable
Complexity	Mechanism for weight change	Simple; no moving parts
Weight Increments	Small increments possible	Fixed; can’t be adjusted
Learning Curve	Slight learning for adjustment	None; Pick Up and Go
Dropping	Usually can’t be dropped	Dropping the weight won’t damage it

Adjustable Dumbbell Benefits

✅ Adjustable Dumbbells Are Cost-Effective

Perhaps the best advantage of an adjustable dumbbell is that it’s cost efficient. Traditionally, if you were to buy a set of fixed dumbbell pairs from, let's say, 10 pounds to 50 pounds, you’re likely to see a bill well over a thousand dollars.

But, compare that to different adjustable dumbbells that are far under that $1,000 dollar mark, and give you the same number of dumbbell sets.

Also, it’s likely that adjustable dumbbells give you more options for your money and often an adjustable dumbbell moves up in increments of 2.5lbs so you have more intermediate weights too to choose from.

✅ Adjustable Dumbbells Are More Convenient

Adjustable dumbbells are easier to transport and carry around as well. If you have to travel for work, you might find it difficult to workout. But, with the help of an adjustable dumbbell, you have your own mini-gym where you go.

You can even do outdoor workouts with the weight. Compared to fixed dumbbells, there is no way to transport them readily and if you ‌wish to work outdoors, you can only take a couple with you.

✅ Adjustable Dumbbells Allow for More Variety

As mentioned earlier, many adjustable dumbbells increase in smaller weight increments of 2.5lbs or 5lbs. This is a big advantage as it gives you more options with your workout.

Small increases in weight increments are also considered to be a great way to optimize long-term muscle building and strength gain. This principle is referred to as progressive overload and an adjustable dumbbell makes it easier to follow this principle.

✅ Adjustable Dumbbells Are Space-Saving

One of the best benefits of purchasing adjustable dumbbells is the space saving attribute of the product. Typically, an adjustable dumbbell will come with its own storage tray, which can be put away in the corner of a room, or can slide it underneath a cabinet or bed to save space and keep a clean environment around you.

While fixed weight dumbbells require a much larger area to stow away and can cause a mess if you leave them laying around.

What To Look For In An Adjustable Dumbbells?

1. Weight Range

Not all adjustable dumbbells come with the same weight range. So, determine what kind of workouts you’d like to do and what weight range you find challenging. The weight range should cover weights that are easy for you to handle but also weights that are moderate to difficult, and a couple that are just beyond your current strength. So, you have something to work towards. Once that is determined, pick the adjustable dumbbells that meet your requirements.

2. Budget

There are many materials, plate sizes, and adjustable technology that go into making an adjustable dumbbell. This is the reason ‌the price range varies from one product to the next. So, it will be to your benefit to have a budget in mind before looking for what adjustable dumbbell you wish to get. But the good thing is that no matter what your budget is, there will be an adjustable dumbbell to meet your needs.

For the cheapest adjustable dumbbells, we recommend the Cap Barbell Adjustable Dumbbells.

3. Storage Space

As mentioned above, each adjustable dumbbell does come in a different shape and size. So, even though storing them is easy, you ‌want to make sure you have the space that meets the dumbbell’s dimensions and size.

4. Ease of Use

Some dumbbells use a dial system, while others use the more common pin or clamp mechanism. If you’re looking for ease of use, then opting for the dial system is the way to go. You will possibly compromise on space as you’ll have a tray with the weight plates lying around the gym, but then again, you’ll also have to store the extra plates in the manual switching system as well. So you’re not sacrificing much and are gaining swift and hassle-free weight adjustments for your dumbbells.

5. Design

Look for dumbbells with ergonomic handles with a secure and non-slip grip. Keep an eye out for knurling that is not too aggressive, but still provides enough friction. Having a good grip and well-designed handles ensure safety and reduce wrist fatigue. Furthermore, scout for dumbbells that have a compact design, as they will be easier to handle without compromising form.

6. Material Quality

Dumbbells can be created from all kinds of materials. Usually, it is a cast iron core, but other metals can be used as well. If the core is made from iron, consider that a good quality coating must be used to prevent rusting. The coating can be rubber, neoprene, powder, vinyl, or chrome plating. Look for high-quality coatings because if they are easily damaged or degrade over time, they will significantly decrease the longevity of the dumbbell.

How to Maximize Your Workouts with Budget-Adjustable Dumbbells?

If you want to maximize workouts with budget-adjustable dumbbells, you’ll need to focus on selecting a weight range that suits your fitness level. But also consider the fact that with training and time, your body will adjust to that weight and grow stronger, so try getting more than your current fitness level can handle in order to prepare for the future.

Also, it is important to keep in mind weight increments. Optimally, you want increments of 5 lbs because you can up the weight without making the exercise too difficult. For example, an increment of 10 lbs or more could hinder you from continuing the set because the added weight would be too much for your muscles. Of course, if you want the 10-pound increase, it’s always readily available.

Look for durable materials to ensure the longevity of your investment, as well as ease of use. You don’t want impractical or flimsy mechanisms to take away from your focus and determination while training.

FAQ

Why Do Adjustable Dumbbells Cost So Much?

It’s true you’re unlikely to find adjustable dumbbells under $100 and there are many factors that play a role in this. From the plates themselves and the shape and design of them, to the weight adjustability technology, to the different ‌materials used to make the product, and finally, the storage tray itself.

For the most affordable adjustable dumbbells, we recommend the NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells.

Are Adjustable Dumbbells Worth It?

Yes, adjustable dumbbells are worth the price, especially when you take into consideration the amount of money you’d have to spend to get an equivalent number of fixed dumbbells. A one time payment for adjustable dumbbells can get you up to 30 pairs of dumbbells. These will satisfy most of your muscle building and strength needs.

What Weight Adjustable Dumbbells Should I Buy?

Figure out the weight that is easy, moderate, and challenging for you. Pick a weight variation that covers all these categories, and has a weight option beyond it ‌you can work towards as a goal.

Conclusion

The variation in adjustable dumbbells is quite a lot, so you want to make sure you have a budget in mind, along with the type of exercises you wish to perform, so you can purchase a dumbbell set that fits your needs the best. We recommend choosing NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells, but you can write your personal choice in the comments below.

Also read:

• Heaviest Adjustable Dumbbells
• How Do Adjustable Dumbbells Work
• Nordictrack vs Bowflex Dumbbells
• Powerblock vs Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells
• Adjustable Dumbbells vs Fixed
• Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbell Review
• Dumbbell Types
• Are Adjustable Dumbbells Worth It
• Best Heavy Adjustable Dumbbells

References:

1. "28 Best Dumbbell Exercises for Building Muscle" Men's Health
2. "5 Best Dumbbell Exercises for Muscle Gain" Colossus Fitness https://youtu.be/aD9-YEmDmQY
3. Jing-jing Wan, Zhen Qin, Peng-yuan Wang, Yang Sun, and Xia Liu "Muscle fatigue: general understanding and treatment" Exp Mol Med. 2017 Oct
4. "Cast Iron" Encyclopedia Britannica Jul 12, 2023
5. Alicia Ramella "What to Know About Adjustable Dumbbells" WebMD, August 10, 2022