Ultimate Dumbbell Buying Guide: All You Need to Know
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Reviewed by:
(21 years of Oly Lifting experience)
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Choosing the best dumbbells is a big step when it comes to how effective your fitness routine is, because it has a direct impact on effectiveness and safety of your workouts. Whether you’re into strength training, functional fitness, or just want to tone up, dumbbells offer versatility that’s difficult to match.
A lot of people think there’s not much to dumbbells because they’re so simple and widely used, so it can seem like they’re all pretty much the same. However, that’s not the case at all: there’s a sea of available options.
From adjustable to fixed-weight, from rubber-coated to cast iron — the number of choices can be overwhelming. Moreover, the wrong set can compromise your form and even lead to accidents!
Don’t worry, there’s no need to spend hours scouring the internet – we’ve done the heavy lifting for you. You’ll find everything you need to know about dumbbells in our expert guide, and we even have a tried-and-true recommendation for you!
Grab your workout clothes, and let’s hit the gym!
3 Main Types of Dumbbells
If you even glanced at dumbbell reviews, you’ve noticed that they come in many shapes and sizes, which is why they’re so versatile and suitable for people of all fitness levels.
They’re proof that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to stay healthy, and you can even combine dumbbells with other equipment, like resistance bands, and you’ll get some great results.
Our performance architect and S&C movement specialist, Jacek Szymanowski, shared this:
“Hex Dumbbells are my favorite. Rubber finish won’t damage flooring, they won’t roll on the floor, which is helpful in many situations.
Knowing the importance of Unilateral and Full Range of Motion work will help you to understand that Dumbbells play a big role in every professional athlete’s regime.“
1. Rubber Hex Dumbbells
Rubber hex dumbbells are very popular for both home and commercial gyms. They have a solid metal core with hexagon-shaped rubber-coated ends. They’re very comfortable to hold and, because of their shape, won’t roll around when they’re not being used. The rubber coating will also protect your floor from any potential damage.
2. Urethane Round Dumbbells
Known for their sleek and modern looks, urethane round dumbbells have a solid metal core that’s coated in urethane – a high-quality, durable material that (typically) has no odor. Urethane dumbbells are very easy to clean and maintain, so if you plan on sharing your equipment with someone else, these are a good choice.
3. Adjustable Dumbbells
A very convenient solution for anyone looking to switch between different weights, adjustable dumbbells will allow you to have a full set of traditional dumbbells without the clutter they would bring.
Here a few examples of adjustable dumbbells that you can find/use.
Loadable Dumbbells
Loadable dumbbells are very versatile. They consist of a handle, collars, and weight plates that you can remove or add to adjust the amount of weight you want to work with.
Dial Adjustable Dumbbells
Dial adjustable dumbbells have a dial mechanism that allows you to adjust the weight quickly and precisely. The mechanism is user-friendly, you just turn the dial to your desired weight and you’re good to go.
Handle-twist Dumbbells
If you want something easy to use, then you’re going to like the handle-twist dumbbells. You change the weight by twisting the handle to the weight you want, which makes the transitions seamless. These are simple yet efficient.
7 Benefits of Using Dumbbells
With so much gym equipment to choose from, why would you go for dumbbells? The answer is very simple: they have a lot of benefits. They’re simple, easy to use, versatile and usually a lot more affordable than most other equipment, and if you use them on a regular basis, they’ll give results just like expensive, bulky machines would. And let’s not forget they can also help you maintain and lose weight!
✅ Versatility
As far as versatile fitness tools go, dumbbells are one of the best choices you can make. You can use them to target a lot of different muscle groups, so whether you want to build strength, define your muscles, or improve your overall fitness level, there’s a pair of dumbbells that can help you with that.
✅ Balance and Stabilization
When using dumbbells you are usually engaged in unilateral exercises (you’re working with one side of your body at a time), as opposed to a barbell which is always bilateral (working with both sides of the body). Unilateral exercises (as opposed to bilateral) often engage stabilizer muscles, which are important for maintaining balance and control.
This means that dumbbells can help you improve your core strength and stability, which can improve your posture. Because of their unilateral nature, dumbbells can also help you with identifying and correcting muscle imbalances.
✅ Customized Resistance
Can you imagine working with the same amount of weight all the time? That would be terrible, right? You don’t have to worry about that with dumbbells because they come in a wide range of weight options, so you can progress at your own pace and adjust the weight to your liking.
✅ Space Efficiency
Dumbbells are compact and need minimal storage space, which makes them ideal for small spaces and home gyms. You can do a complete strength training routine with a pair of dumbbells without the clutter bulky equipment would bring.
✅ Cost-Effective
Compared to some bigger fitness tools, dumbbells are affordable. They provide effective, challenging workouts without breaking the bank.
✅ Increased Bone Density
Weight-bearing exercises improve bone density, reduce the risk of osteoporosis, and promote overall bone health. With dumbbells, you can take these exercises to the next level.
✅ Mental Health Benefits
Dumbbells are simple to use and there’s a ton of workouts you can include them into. Regular exercise is great for your mental health, releases endorphins, and reduces stress.
How to Choose the Best Dumbbell?
With them being so popular and so widely used, there’s an incredible amount of different dumbbells on the market. Making the choice can seem difficult, but if you pay attention to a few key characteristics, you’ll see it’s a piece of cake.
1. Durability
You want something that will last a long time and that you’ll be able to use however you want, without being extremely careful. Look for dumbbells made of high-quality materials, like steel, iron, and rubber coating.
2. Comfort in Use
Comfort is very important, because if the dumbbell isn’t comfortable, it will be distracting and you won’t be able to get the most out of your workout. Your best option is always a dumbbell that has an ergonomically designed handle, since it’s comfortable and reduces some of the strain placed on your hand and wrist.
Tips From the Champ
When selecting dumbbells, prioritize durability with materials like steel, iron, and rubber coating to ensure long-lasting use. Opt for dumbbells with ergonomically designed handles for comfort, reducing strain on your hands and wrists. Additionally, consider the shape of the dumbbells, whether hexagon, round, or square, as it influences stability, storage, and rolling, aligning your choice with your workout space and preferences.
Olympic Weightlifting Champion
3. Shape
Hexagon, round, square… There are all kinds of shapes the dumbbells come in. The shape is an important feature, because it will impact stability, storage, and rolling, so think about what is most important to you and what suits your workout space the best.
4. Grip
You want a secure and comfortable hold on the dumbbell, so the grip quality of the handle is one of the most important things to think about when it comes to choosing your new dumbbells. Your best bet is a knurled or textured handle that has a non-slip grip.
5. Material Quality
High-quality materials, such as cast iron or steel, contribute to longevity and durability because they won’t degrade over time. Don’t cheap out and get dumbbells that are made of low-quality materials because they’ll fall apart soon.
6. Space-Saving Feature
If your workout space isn’t huge (and when it comes to home gyms, it usually isn’t), think about options that will save you space, like adjustable dumbbells or sets with a rack. They can replace multiple sets of traditional dumbbells and they’re ideal for home gyms with limited space.
The Olympic champion, Oleksiy Torokhtiy, noted:
“I like adjustable dumbbells, they take up less space and are great to have even at home.“
7. Weight Options
Check the weight range before deciding on what to buy. You want dumbbells with weight increments that not only suit your current fitness level but also allow you to progress. It’s always best to have dumbbell sets for a home gym because they’ll allow you to progress.
Rogue Rubber Hex Dumbbells
- Dumbbell type: Rubber hex dumbbells
- Shape: Hexagonal
- Handle material: Chrome-plated steel
- Head material: Rubber encased steel
- Handle diameter: 0,98’’ for weights up to 10 lbs, 1.37’’ for weights 12.5 lbs and above
- Weight range: 2.5 lbs to 125 lbs
- Increments: 2.5 lbs and 5 lbs increments
- Knurling (yes/no): Yes
- Price per pound: Approximately $3.13
- Can be dropped: Yes
These dumbbells have a standard hex shape and are sold in pairs, so you get a good bang for your buck. Their construction is good quality and robust (as if we expected anything less from Rogue) – they’re made of steel, the handle is chrome-plated, and the head is rubber-encased.
The steel handles are chrome-plated and ergonomic, so your grip is secure and comfortable.
They start at 2.5 pounds and go all the way up to 125 pounds – a substantial weight range that provides a lot of versatility. There are also a lot of weight increments that allow you to gradually increase the weight as you progress.
These dumbbells have dimensions based on weight, with length, width, and height all adjusted to accommodate the different sizes. The handle diameter is also tailored to the weight of the dumbbell: those up to 10 pounds have a 0.98’’ handle, and those of 12.5 pounds and heavier have a 1.37’’ handle.
These are the best free weights for a home gym, and they have everything you want: they’re durable, have plenty of weight increments, and provide a ton of versatility for your workouts.
Dumbbell vs Barbell vs Kettlebell: Key Differences
All of these are popular, and you may be tempted to use them all. You can, of course – there’s no sense in limiting yourself and focusing on just a few pieces of equipment and never changing your routine. However, it’s good to know what you’re getting yourself into, because each of these weights has its own pros and cons.
Take dumbbells – they’re compact, versatile, and allow you to do a wide range of exercises and target different muscle groups. They’re also excellent for isolation exercises because of their precision and are ideal for beginners. Dumbbells are usually a staple in any home gym, and you’ll have a hard time finding one that doesn’t have at least one pair of dumbbells.
Barbells are longer and heavier than dumbbells and excel in compound movements, like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. They promote overall strength and muscle development, so it’s no wonder they’re so popular with powerlifters and serious bodybuilders.
When you’re using a barbell, you’re using both hands, and that engages more muscle groups, which results in greater gains in less time. The thing about barbells is, they require proper fork and technique to prevent injuries, but in general, barbells will allow you to lift greater weights than dumbbells will.
Our expert, Sergiy Putsov, confidently stated:
“In my experience, dumbbells excel in exercises that require a greater range of motion and individual arm work, such as unilateral movements, incline bench presses, flyes, lateral raises or single-leg exercises, where they provide improved stabilization, muscle symmetry, and targeted muscle engagement.“
The most unique when it comes to design are kettlebells. A kettlebell is basically a handle with a weighted ball and it’s perfect for dynamic movements that improve strength and cardiovascular fitness at the same time.
Kettlebell swings, Turkish get-ups, and snatches engage multiple muscle groups and can do wonders for your endurance, mobility and balance. Kettlebells are known for their functional training benefits, and, if you want a whole-body workout, you can’t go wrong with them.
| Attribute | Dumbbells | Barbells | Kettlebells |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size and versatility | Compact, versatile, suitable for a wide range of exercises | Longer and heavier, best for compound movements | Unique design – a handle with a weighted ball, versatile |
| Exercise focus | Ideal for isolation exercises, unilateral exercises | Promote overall strength and muscle development | Perfect for dynamic movements that engage the whole body |
| User level | Great for all levels of experience | Great for all levels of experience | Great for all levels of experience |
| Muscle engagement | Focused on specific muscle groups with precision, Unilateral movements, greater ROM | Engages multiple muscle groups at the same time | Engages multiple muscle groups, Unilateral movements |
| Safety considerations | Beginner-friendly, lower risk of injuries | Needs proper form and technique to prevent injuries | Proper technique is important to avoid injuries |
FAQ
Which Brand of Dumbbells Is the Best?
Everyone has a different opinion on what the best dumbbell brands are because it depends on people’s preferences. Some brands that are known for their high-quality dumbbells are NordicTrack, Rogue Fitness, Titan Fitness and REP Fitness.
Are Home Dumbbells Worth It?
Yes, home gym dumbbells are great because they’re convenient, versatile, and cost-effective, especially compared to gym memberships. You can work out whenever you want, and, if you use them consistently, dumbbells can help you achieve your fitness goals.
Should I Buy a Dumbbell, Barbell, or Kettlebell for My Home Gym?
That really depends on you, what your fitness goals are, and what exercises you want to do. Dumbbells are good for a lot of different workouts, barbells are excellent for compound movements and strength training, and kettlebells are great for “dynamic” movements and are good choice for strength and conditioning training. It all comes down to your priorities.
Conclusion
If you decide to include high-quality dumbbells into your workout routine, you can expect to break through plateaus, and improve your strength. You’ll also see benefits in muscle development and your overall well-being (all these things are desirable and good if you care about improving your fitness).
It doesn’t matter what type of dumbbells you choose; if you use them consistently, you’ll see results and they’ll allow you to progress. And think of the best part – the versatility and convenience. They can be easily used for a variety of exercises, and can be conveniently stored in your home without taking too much space.
Also, keep in mind that by using dumbbells (if used correctly), you can get the same results as you would by using huge/heavy machines, racks, or similar – the convenience dumbbells provide truly is impressive and on point.
If you want the best dumbbells for a home gym, then go for our recommendation: Rogue Dumbbells.
Do you use dumbbells in your fitness routine? What results have you seen? Which exercises do you use them for the most?
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this. Be sure to share your experience with dumbbells, which ones you’d recommend and why, and ask any questions that might dwell in your mind regarding dumbbells. I’d be more than happy to answer them! 😀
Dummbell out!
Experts Who Contributed To This Article
M.Sc.Eng. Biotechnology, Sports Nutritionist
Olympian with 21 years of Oly Lifting experience
20 years of Oly Lifting & Training experience
Also read:
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- Nordictrack Vs Bowflex Dumbbells
- Metal Dumbbells Vs Rubber
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- Photos are made by Torokhtiy Media Team, Betterbodyequipped.com, Bowflex.com, Bullrockfitness.com and Roguefitness.com
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Author: Ihor Shymechko
Pro Olympic Weightlifter, Coach
Best Results: Snatch – 208 kg,
C&J – 240 kg
Ihor has been a professional weightlifter since 1996, boasting over two decades of competition experience. His notable achievements include clinching the European Championship in 2009 and securing a silver medal in the 105kg division at the Senior World Championships in 2011. Ihor represented his country in the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Summer Olympics. After retiring from competitive weightlifting, he transitioned to coaching, leveraging his vast experience to guide athletes who now compete on both national and international stages.
Reviewed by: Oleksiy Torokhtiy
Olympic Weightlifting Champion
Best Results: Snatch – 200 kg,
C&J – 240 kg
Oleksiy Torokhtiy is a professional athlete boasting 20 years of experience in Olympic weightlifting. With multiple European and World titles under his belt, he has showcased his prowess in two Olympic Games (Beijing 2008 and London 2012). Upon concluding his illustrious career, Oleksiy dedicated himself to coaching. By 2022, he had conducted over 200 weightlifting seminars worldwide. He is the visionary behind an international sportswear and accessories brand known for its motto, “Warm Body Cold Mind.” Additionally, he is an esteemed author and the creator of a series of training programs and eBooks.
Still have questions after reading our article? Unlock your full potential by engaging with our experts and community! Don’t hesitate — leave a comment below and Ihor Shymechko will provide a personalized answer and insights to help you reach your goals.