We Asked a Trainer to Share the 12 Best Dumbbells to Use at Home

A quick look at the best dumbbells

• Best under $100: Amazon Basics Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbells
• Best splurge dumbbells: Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Adjustable Dumbbells
• Best for beginners: Amazon Basics Neoprene Hand Weights
• Best hex dumbbells: Rogue Dumbbells, CAP Barbell Coated Dumbbells
• Best block dumbbells: Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbell System
• Best loadable dumbbells: Yes4All Adjustable Dumbbells
• Best expandable dumbbells: PowerBlock Sport EXP
• Best adjustable dumbbells: Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
• Best dumbbell set with a rack: papababe 150-Pound Dumbbell Set
• Most versatile: YBell Neo Series
• Best cast iron dumbbells: CAP Barbell Black Cast Iron Hex Dumbbells

It may have been your jam to work out at home. Maybe it is a new place for you.

No matter what camp you fall in, making home workouts effective can pose some challenges — one of which can be a lack of equipment.

But with some level of investment, you can create a home “gym” that truly works for you.

The key to this will be purchasing a few integral pieces, like a set of dumbbells, to take your home workouts from drab to fab.

“It becomes clear that there are lots of options when you search dumbbells on Amazon or Google. It can get overwhelming if you don’t know what to look for.”

We sorted through hundreds of options to come up with the best choices for every experience level, type of exercise program, and budget.

How we chose the best dumbbells

We took into account the following when selecting these dumbbells.

• Anecdotal advice from real personal trainers. These dumbbells were selected by certified personal trainers who have experience using different kinds of dumbbells.
• Shape, grip, and ease of use. Some shapes and grip types are more comfortable for beginners, while others are better for more advanced trainees. We’ve suggested which dumbbells might work best for different training levels, but these are only general guidelines.
• Quality and brand reputation. We looked for dumbbells made of sturdy materials and sold by well-established companies.
• Customer reviews. These dumbbells have mostly positive customer feedback.
• Price. We included a range of options to suit a variety of budgets. It’s typical for dumbbells to cost roughly $1.50–$3.00 per pound ($3.33–$6.66 per kg) of weight. We used this range to help gauge the cost-effectiveness of each option.
• Vetting. The dumbbells on our list have been vetted to ensure that they align with Healthline’s brand integrity standards and approach to well-being. You can read more about our vetting process.

The 12 best dumbbells you can use at home in 2022.

Healthline’s picks of the best dumbbells to use at home

Best under $100

Amazon Basics Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbells

• Price: $
• Weight range: 10–50 lbs. (4.5–22.7 kg)
• Format: sold as single dumbbells
• Shape: hex

The rubber dumbbell is a budget friendly basic and you will probably need to purchase two.

The handle is easy to grip and the rubber coating protects floors. Their shape makes it easier to stack them on top of each other for storage.

It is clear that these get the job done with over 30,000 reviews and a 4.5 star rating on Amazon.

The dumbbells have a plastic smell upon unpacking, but the majority of reviewers think it will go away after a few days.

Best splurge dumbbells

Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Adjustable Dumbbells

• Price: $$$
• Weight range: 10–90 lbs. (4.5–40.8 kg)
• Format: adjustable, set of 2
• Shape: hex

The SelectTech 1090 is a great option if you want to save space while still having access to a range of resistance levels. Users can choose from 17 different weight levels, ranging from 10 to 90 pounds.

The dial makes it easy to change resistance levels between exercises.

“The model has a slight shape that prevents them from rolling even when they aren’t in the holder. They work with the Bowflex SelectTech app.”

If you need a dumbbell that weighs less than 10 pounds, you need to purchase them separately.

The price per pound is more expensive than most, but if you take the price per kilo into account, you can get a set for under a dollar.

Best for beginners

Amazon Basics Neoprene Hand Weights

• Price: $
• Weight range: 3–8 lbs. (1.4–3.6 kg)
• Format: sold in pairs with a rack
• Shape: hex

A good option for beginners, these coated dumbbells are easy on the hands and the eyes, given their fun colors.

The wallet-friendly price makes them an accessible option for many people, who may find them easier to grip than a traditional set of dumbbells.

The set comes with three pairs of 3, 5, and 8 pounds. There are two sets that have weights ranging from 2–5 pounds, or 0.9– 2.3 km, and the other set has weights ranging from 5–15 pounds, or 2.3– 6.8 km.

Individual dumbbell sets can be purchased without a rack ranging from 2 to 20 pounds.

Best hex dumbbells

Rogue Dumbbells

• Price: $–$$$, depending on weight
• Weight range: 2.5–125 lbs. (1.1–56.7 kg)
• Format: sold in pairs
• Shape: hex

These rubber-coated, hex-design dumbbells have a textured and ergonomic grip that allows for ease of use in a variety of exercises. Hex dumbbells won’t roll, so you can do exercises like renegade rows that require the dumbbells to rest on the floor.

“They aren’t fixed, so you have to purchase multiple sets if you want to experiment with different weights, but their affordability makes that a little easier to do.”

The rubber coating makes it less likely that you will damage your floors.

Lighter weights cost less than heavier weights, as prices reflect the total poundage being purchased.

CAP Barbell Coated Dumbbells

• Price: $–$$, depending on weight
• Weight range: 3–120 lbs. (1.4–54.4 kg)
• Format: sold as single dumbbells
• Shape: hex

The CAP Barbell coated dumbbell are rubber coated and come in a wide range of weights.

The textured handle is designed to help improve grip, which is important when lifting heavier weights.

If you want to buy pairs of resistance, you will have to purchase two of each resistance, since each dumbbell is sold individually.

Best block dumbbells

Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbell System

• Price: $$$
• Weight range: 5–45 lbs. (2.3–20.4 kg)
• Format: adjustable, set of 2
• Shape: square/block

The Ironmaster set looks and feels like a traditional set of dumbbells, which is appealing to some.

The weights are made from solid material and can be adjusted from 5 to 45 pounds. Another plus is that there is no plastic here.

This is a great set for someone who’s experienced with resistance training.

“You have to add and remove plates to adjust the dumbbells. If you change weights frequently, this may be an extra step you don’t appreciate.”

The dumbbell set has a lifetime warranty. The price per pound is higher than other options. Similar weights range from $1.50–$3.00 per pound.

Best loadable dumbbells

Yes4All Adjustable Dumbbells

• Price: $$
• Weight range: 10–95 lbs. (4.5–43.1 kg)
• Format: adjustable, set of 2
• Shape: round

The set is available to purchase from 40 to 200 pounds total, with the 190-pound set providing enough resistance for most people.

The weight is adjusted using plates that you add or remove from each side of the bar, and each bar has a threaded end with a collar to hold the plates in place.

The smallest weight plates weigh less than 2.5 lbs. You have to increase the dumbbell weight in 10-pound ( 4.5- kilogram) increments, which may not be ideal if you are doing a lot of exercise.

The version also has a bar that you can use to connect the two dumbbells.

If you do frequent weight changes, it may become frustrating to stop to adjust the weight on each end.

They are a great option for advanced lifters. A different set may be easier to maneuver for beginners.

Best expandable dumbbells

PowerBlock Sport EXP

• Price: $$$
• Weight range: 2.5–50 lbs. (1.1–22.7kg), expansion packs up to 90 lbs. (40.8 kg) available
• Format: adjustable, set of 2
• Shape: square/block

PowerBlock dumbbells are popular. The base model adjusts from 2.5 to 50 pounds in 2.5 pound increments. You can add a second expansion pack for resistance up to 90 pounds per dumbbell.

The weight can be adjusted pretty quickly with the auto-lock pin in this set.

The dumbbell set provides a bit of value compared to the weight it offers. The expansion packs allow you to get even more bang for your buck.

Best adjustable dumbbells

Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells

• Price: $$$
• Weight range: 5–52.5 lbs. (2.3–23.8 kg)
• Format: adjustable, set of 2
• Shape: round

The SelectTech 552 is a set of 30 dumbbell that can be used in place of 30 individual dumbbell.

They adjust from 5 to 52.5 pounds (2. 3.8 kilograms) in 2.5 pound (one kilo) increments up to the first 25 pounds (11.3 kilogram) and then in 5 pound (2.3 kilogram) increments after that.

“The set is rated nearly 5-star by shoppers, who say it’s easy to use.”

The SelectTech training app has free workouts and technique tips.

The dumbbells may roll when not racked in the provided holder, because they are round.

Best dumbbell set with a rack

papababe Dumbbell 150-Pound Set

• Price: $$
• Weight range: 5–25 lbs. (2.3–11.3 kg) in 5-lb. (2.3-kg) increments
• Format: sold in pairs with a rack
• Shape: hex

The range of weight in the set of 5 pairs of dumbbells is good for most beginner and intermediate-level exercises. There are five, 10-, 15-, 20-, and 25-pound pairs of dumbbell.

The provided rack helps you save space, and having dumbbell sets makes it easy to switch weights.

If you enjoy exercising in a group with friends or family, separate dumbbell sets also make it a lot easier for more than one person to work out with free weights at the same time (as long as you’re using different resistance levels).

Hex-shaped heads prevent the dumbbells from rolling, and the The rubber coating protects the floors. and other surfaces.

“There are different sets and weight ranges available. Some include the storage rack, while others don’t.”

Most versatile

YBell Neo Series

• Price: $
• Weight range: 10–27 lbs. (4.5–12.2 kg)
• Format: sold as single YBells
• Shape: triangular

“The YBells have a triangular design that allows them to be used in many ways. It’s easier to switch up your workouts if you have limited equipment.”

The triangular shape is easy to maintain and it has a strong base for pushups.

The weight range of 10– 27 pounds is enough for most exercisers and programs, but it may not be enough for heavier weights.

You can stack the YBell on wall racks for easy storage.

The cost of these dumbbells is higher than many other ones. You will need to buy two of each weight for the YBell to be sold individually.

Best cast iron dumbbells

CAP Barbell Black Cast Iron Hex Dumbbells

• Price: $–$$, depending on weight
• Weight range: 5–115 lbs. (2.3–52.2 kg)
• Format: sold as singles or pairs, depending on weight
• Shape: hex

The CAP Barbell Black Cast Iron Dumbbells are a popular option. They are a little cheaper and smaller than rubber-coated dumbbells, since they are made entirely of cast iron.

They come in a wide variety of weights, from 5 to 115 pounds, which makes them a good option for a wide variety of exercises.

The type of dumbbell you can use for years is cast iron, which lasts forever.

The lack of rubber coating can be hard on flooring. It is best to use these on mats.

It is important to pay attention to what you order because some dumbbells are sold as singles while others are sold as sets.

The cost per pound comes out to less than $2 (price per kg would be around $4), with many falling between $1.50–$1.75 per pound ($3.33–$3.89 per kg), making them a more budget friendly option than many other dumbbells.

Product comparison

Here is a quick look at how the two items compare.

How to choose the best dumbbells

There are a few things to think about when choosing a set of dumbbells.

Budget

How much do you want to spend? A set of lighter dumbbells will cost less than $50, but the heavier the weight, the more you will need to pay.

The cost-effectiveness of any given product can be assessed using this benchmark, as the average price per pound is $1.50–$3.00.

A good set of dumbbells, which can be adjusted to any weight, can be had for $300, although some might cost much more.

Goals

Will you use the dumbbell for cardiovascular training or for muscular endurance-oriented workouts? Is your goal to build strength and size?

If it is the latter, you will need to consider an set that is different in size.

Space

How much space do you have? If space is a concern, the option of a set of dumbbells with an adjustment may be better.

Preferred shape and grip

Dumbbells are available in a variety of shapes, as well as different grips, like textured and rubber.

“When you place the dumbbells on the floor, they don’t roll around, which may make them safer.”

The hands of the neoprene coated dumbbells are easier to grasp than those with a textured grip. The rubber-coated dumbbell heads are easier to use on the floor. The handles of a heavier dumbbell will usually be textured to improve grip.

How can you use dumbbells to build strength?

Dumbbells are held in one or both hands and are used for resistance training.

For instance, you can hold a set of dumbbells at your sides while performing walking lunges, or you can hold a single dumbbell overhead to perform overhead triceps dumbbell extensions.

Dumbbells can be used for resistance during workouts or for other strength training equipment.

For lower body exercises, you want to use a heavier dumbbell to challenge the larger muscles in your legs.

Most of the muscles in the upper body are smaller than the lighter dumbbells you may be using. The level of resistance depends on your goals and strength.

The set and rep scheme you might use when performing dumbbell exercises depends on the exercises you’re doing and your strength goals (1, 2, 3).

Muscle endurance

If you want to build muscular endurance, you’ll perform more reps and sets while using a lower level of resistance. For instance, you might do 2–3 sets of 12–20 reps per set.

“Your muscles will get used to working for longer periods and won’t tire quickly.”

Building muscle mass

To focus on gaining muscle mass, otherwise known as hypertrophy training, you would perform a mid-range of sets and reps, likely 2–5 sets of 8–12 repetitions using a challenging but not overly taxing resistance level.

This type of training is good for your muscles because it challenges them enough to help them grow without tiring them out.

Building strength

For strength building, you would perform more sets of fewer reps at a very challenging resistance level. So, you’d probably do 3–5 sets of 3–8 reps per set.

“If you don’t complete a high number of reps, your muscles may need more time to recover, which is a good thing.”

Frequently asked questions about dumbbells

What do dumbbells do to your body?

Dumbbells provide added resistance to movements, which can help you build muscular endurance, mass, and strength. They’re a great way to make bodyweight exercises like squats and pushups more challenging, plus they make it easier to work on specific muscles individually.

One other benefit of using dumbbells is that they allow you to work each side of your body independently. This helps improve functional strength and correct muscular imbalances, which naturally develop from being right- or left-hand dominant, playing sports, and more.

Which dumbbells are best for home use?

The best set of dumbbells for home workouts will be determined by your preferences, workout needs, and budget.

While some people need a wider range of dumbbell weights for a more varied free weight routine, you can also get a great workout in with a few sets of lighter, less expensive dumbbells.

Also, consider whether you prefer dumbbells that are round or round-shaped. This will help you decide what style is best for you.

Are dumbbells enough to build muscle?

Dumbbells are enough to build muscle. If you use a weight that is challenging enough for you, progress your workouts regularly, and train consistently, you may not need any other equipment.

The key to building muscle is progressive overload, which means you’re regularly giving your muscles a new stimulus (by increasing weight, trying a new exercise, or changing the set and rep scheme performed).

The bottom line

Purchasing a set of dumbbells can help you reach your goals.

No matter what your budget or fitness level is, there is an option for you.