If you haven’t yet noticed, dumbbells are kind of our thing, here at DumbbellsReview, and with good reason. Dumbbells introduce versatility and variety to your workout while providing you with increased muscle activation and stabilization. (1)
However, not too many people want to spend thousands of dollars on large, bulky sets of huge weights. That’s where adjustable dumbbells come in.
At A Glance: Our Top 5 Picks For Heavy Adjustable Dumbbells
Heavy adjustable dumbbells allow you to change how much weight you’re lifting at a time, effectively doing the work of an entire set of dumbbells, but in a much more manageable sized pair of weights.
Keep reading our review of the five best adjustable dumbbells for heavy lifters to learn everything you need to know before you buy.
5 Best Adjustable Dumbbells For Heavy Lifters
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1. Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Dumbbells
Product Description
Since 1986, Bowflex has committed to perfecting its line of workout equipment for professional gyms, and in-home gyms alike. The Selecttech 1090 Dumbbells include over 30 weight options, or 17 sets, into a single pair of dumbbells.
The adjustable dial feature allows you to switch between weight sizes in five-pound increments efficiently so that you can increase your resistance and strength following your progress.
Pros
- Weight range is from 10 lbs (4.5kg) to 90 lbs (40.8 kg) per dumbbell
- Heavy-duty, durable materials that last despite repeated use
- Quiet transitions between weight adjustments
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than some of the other options on this list
- The longer, wider metal grip can be uncomfortable for extended use with bare hands
Special Features
- Adjustable in five pounds (2.3 kg) increments
- All SelectTech Adjustable Dumbbells are compatible with the Bowflex Training App for iOS and Android
- Pre-assembled, durable design is ready for use on arrival
- Space efficient, and comes with an optional rack for simple storage
To find out even more about the Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Adjustable Dumbbells, you can also check out our thorough review of Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells here.
Amazon Link: Click here to check out the SelectTech 1090 Adjustable Dumbbells on Amazon.
2. PowerBlock Elite 90 Set
Product Description
PowerBlock’s Elite 90 Set of adjustable dumbbells is currently the largest, and one of the most popular, Elite dumbbell sets. The welded steel construction and magnetic polypropylene pin for securely locking weights into place on the Elite 90 Set are rated for 500 lbs (226.8 kg) maximum load.
And, not to mention, just one pair of the Elite 90 Set from PowerBlock replaces the equivalent of 2,565 lbs (1,163.5 kg) of free weights or 28 pairs of dumbbells.
Pros
- Wide range of weights from 5 lbs (2.3 kg) to 90 lbs (40.8 kg)
- 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) increments allow for greater diversification of weight training
- The unique rectangular design takes up less than 2 square ft. (approximately 61 square cm.) of space
Cons
- Ships in four separate boxes from most retailers
- These tend to be a bit noisier than some of the other adjustable dumbbells we’ve tested
Special Features
- Strong, tested construction lasts through years of use
- Fast and secure weight changes make adjustments easy
- The contoured handle is ergonomically designed and padded for comfort
- Well-balanced, solid steel construction and smooth slide system
Amazon Link: Click here to see the official Amazon listing for the Powerblock Elite 90 Set of adjustable dumbbells.
To find out even more about the PowerBlock Elite 90 Set, you can also check out our thorough review of Powerblock Adjustable Dumbbells here.
3. Ironmaster Quick-Lock Dumbbells
Product Description
The Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbell System from Ironmaster is unlike its many competitors on the market.
Rather than locking you into an all-in-one pair, Ironmaster Quick-Lock Dumbbell System is broken up according to what you need, with one pair of universal handles and your choice of weight sets to suit your fitness level.
Also, there’s our favorite aspect of Ironmaster’s Quick-Lock Dumbbells, the dependability, and sense of mind you get from knowing you’re using the same equipment as the pros at the gym.
Pros:
- Massive weight range allows you to lift more than with the other adjustable dumbbell pairs on this list.
- Sturdy, square designed weights prevent any possible risk of instability or rolling during floor exercises.
- Considering the number of weights included and the lifetime guarantee on Quick-Lock Dumbbells from Ironmaster, they’re quite affordable.
Cons
- You have to remove the extra weights when not in use rather than already being integrated into their design.
- Weight sets and handles must be purchased separately, so they’re shipped independently as well.
Special Features
- Commercial gym grade quality and durability
- Quick-lock design allows you to switch weights quickly and safely.
- Free shipping to the lower 48 US States
- Chrome weight plates, steel handle, and solid heat-treated steel screws
Amazon Link
You can check out the Amazon listing for Ironmaster Quick-Lock Dumbbells by clicking here.
To find out even more about Ironmaster’s Quick-Lock Dumbbells, you can check out our thorough review of Ironmaster Adjustable Dumbbells here.
4. Yes4All 200-Pound Adjustable Dumbbell
Product Description
Although Yes4All offers a wide variety of adjustable weights, we’re going to focus on their heaviest set, the 200-Pound Adjustable Dumbbells.
Yes4All’s Dumbbells are made with rust-resistant cast iron weight plates, solid chrome handles, and spin-lock star collars.
While these may not be one of the best adjustable dumbbells, Yes4All 200-Pound Adjustable Dumbbells allow you to work out with commercial grade gym equipment, without paying for any unnecessary extras.
Pros:
- Compact enough to be easily stored in a closet, garage, shed, or in-home gym
- Comes with 30-day satisfaction warranty and 1-year quality warranty
- Professional grade, long-lasting design with heavy-duty cast iron weight plates mimic the equipment you’d use at a commercial gym.
Cons:
- Change weights in the same way as traditional barbells, so you’re not going to save any time with easy adjustments.
- The paint on these plates do tend to chip, especially the more you use them.
Special Features
- Textured, diamond knurled chrome handle for maximum grip
- Uses star-lock collars to keep your plates in place throughout your workout
- Affordable without compromising durability
- No-frills, industrial appearance, and performance
Amazon Link
You can click here to check out the official listing for Yes4All 200-Pound Adjustable Dumbbells on Amazon.
To find out even more about Yes4All 200-Pound Adjustable Dumbbells, you can check out our thorough review of Yes4All Adjustable Dumbbells here.
5. Liadon Adjustable Dumbbell Set
Product Description
Liadon Adjustable Dumbbell Set comes in three varieties: the 33 pounds (15 kg) set, the 44 pounds (20 kg) set, and the 66 pounds (30 kg) set.
The Adjustable Dumbbell Sets from Liadon are the only dumbbells on this list, and one of the few that I’ve ever seen in general, to come with their protective case free of charge.
Additionally, they provide you with thick rubber sleeves for your weights so that if you drop your weights, you don’t have to worry about damaging your floors.
Pros
- Shiny chrome and sleek design complement the industrial feel of these, so they look as cool as you feel when you lift
- These are the cheapest option for the sets we’ve covered, making them budget-friendly
- Comes in a hard plastic case that protects your dumbbells when not in use and allows you to store them virtually anywhere
Cons
- Some of the other sets featured on this list did offer a wider variety of weight set options
- While you can combine sets to make your dumbbells heavier, you won’t be able to achieve the same weight as you might with heavier dumbbells we’ve previously discussed.
Special Features
- Functions like a traditional barbell for weight adjustments
- Can be combined with Liadon’s barbell attachment also to be used as a full-length barbell
- Can also be mixed and matched with other Liadon weight sets to create a wider variety of lift options
- Space-saving and protective storage case
Amazon Link
Click here to be redirected to the Liadon Store listing for Adjustable Dumbbells on their Amazon storefront.
Buyer’s Guide
Now that you’ve had a chance to look at our top 5 best heavy adjustable dumbbells, it’s time to choose the set that will work best for you. This can be easier said than done, especially if you’ve never bought or used adjustable dumbbells before, so we’ve created this buyer’s guide to walk you through it!
Durability
A set of high-quality, heavy, adjustable dumbbells can definitely have a hard-hitting impact on your wallet. That’s why it’s crucial to ensure that the dumbbells you buy will last you long enough to justify the price tag and allow you to take full advantage of the benefits they have to offer. Therefore, durability should be at the forefront of your mind when choosing a set of heavy, adjustable dumbbells.
The best way to ensure durability in your adjustable, heavy dumbbells is to look at the materials used in their construction. Ideally, we recommend looking out for a solid, welded steel construction. If possible, prioritize metal components (including screws and grip bars) that have been heat-treated or chromed. Heat treatment (such as anodization) helps to harden the metal, making it more wear-resistant and able to handle impact without damage.
Weight Range
Adjustable dumbbells, even those marketed as ‘heavy’ dumbbells, can vary significantly in terms of specific weight ranges. Therefore, you should always check the advertised weight range to ensure that they’re in line with your ability.
As you can see from our list of products, heavy adjustable dumbbells can have minimum weights of anywhere between 5 and 10 lbs and can have top weights in the region of between 100 and 500 lbs.
Generally speaking, we’d recommend opting for the widest weight range possible. This will give you the most room to grow in terms of ability.
However, if you are considering prioritizing a wide weight range, it’s also important to consider the increments in which your dumbbells can be adjusted. Smaller increments will reduce the risk of strain injuries when increasing the weight and will give you more flexibility in your workouts overall. For this reason, we believe that weight adjustment increments of no more than 5 lbs are optimal.
Ease of Use
Some of our readers may be wondering why ease of use is a factor in choosing the best heavy, adjustable dumbbells. After all, aren’t dumbbells supposed to challenge your physical endurance? Well, yes – but if your dumbbells are uncomfortable or impractical to work with, they can actually hinder your progress regardless of their weight range.
One of the biggest problems with dumbbells, especially heavy ones, is that they can be uncomfortable on the hands. Now, a certain level of hand fatigue is normal when lifting heavy objects.
However, if you’re experiencing consistent pain or strain in your hands while using your dumbbells, this can have negative consequences for the quality of your workout overall. You may find yourself having to cut your session short or trying to compensate for the discomfort by compromising your form. Therefore, one of the single most important factors in heavy dumbbells is a comfortable grip.
A textured grip bar, whether or not it features any padding, should help to minimize hand fatigue by reducing the amount of pressure you need to exert to achieve a firm, non-slip grip. Padding and contouring will minimize the potential for discomfort and blistering while facilitating a natural-feeling grip.
You’ll also need to make sure that the adjustable function of your dumbbells is ergonomic and relatively easy to operate. When looking at the different dumbbells on offer, it’s a good idea to pay attention to how the adjustment function is advertised. A ‘quick lock’ system will be your best bet in this regard because it implies that the weights fit securely in place without the need for time-consuming readjustment.
Additional Features
The additional features you can find included with heavy, adjustable dumbbells are typically designed to enhance durability.
If you can, we recommend choosing a set of dumbbells that comes with a protective case included for no extra charge. Having a protective case will keep your dumbbells damage-free for longer and also provides a convenient storage space that they won’t roll out of.
Protective sleeves that fit around the weights are also desirable. This is because they will help to mitigate any damage to your flooring if you drop a weight, which is always a possibility when it comes to adjustable dumbbells.
Compatibility
The more compatible a set of heavy, adjustable dumbbells are with current aspects of your training, the better. Some dumbbell sets can be mixed and matched with other weight sets, which is ideal if you already own a set of weights and want to keep using them alongside your new and improved adjustable dumbbells.
Meanwhile, other dumbbells are even compatible with IOS or Android training apps which provide personalized and trackable coaching to help you get even more out of your workouts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are adjustable dumbbells worth it?
If you’re looking to save money by working out from home instead of buying a gym membership and want to be able to progress over time without spending hundreds of dollars on multiple fixed sets of dumbbells, then a set of adjustable dumbbells is definitely worth it.
However, adjustable dumbbells can still be very expensive, so you should think carefully about the role of weight training in your fitness regimen before investing. For instance, if you’re a powerlifter who exclusively works with weights on the top end of the spectrum, adjustable dumbbells may not be worth it for you because you’ll rarely, if ever, be using the lighter weights on their own.
How do I know what weight dumbbells to use?
If you have experience lifting weight in the gym, it will probably be easier for you to work out which dumbbells are appropriate for your level. You can just base your choice on the weights you typically use at the gym.
However, if you’re new to weight lifting and don’t know what your threshold is, we’d recommend using adjustable dumbbells that start at around 5 lbs. If this isn’t challenging you enough, you can always add on extra weight. However, it’s better to start at a lower weight than to invest in dumbbells that start at 10 or 20 lbs and find that you’re not able to lift them properly.
Is it safe to use heavy dumbbells every day?
Yes, it’s perfectly safe to lift weights on a daily basis. However, you should be switching up your routine to target a different group of muscles every day.
For example, you might work your biceps one day, your triceps another, and your flexors the next day. This will ensure that you’re working your arms in their entirety without exhausting or injuring one particular muscle group through overuse.
If you are pregnant or have any medical conditions that are impacted by exercise, you should consult your physician regarding how often and how heavy it’s safe for you to be lifting.
Do heavy dumbbells reduce belly fat?
Strength training does help your body to burn fat, so if you stick at it and keep increasing your resistance, you should find that your body fat percentage declines over time.
Heavy dumbbells are especially effective for weight loss when combined with bodyweight strength training exercises. For example, using your dumbbells during sit-ups, crunches, squats, and lunges will help to activate all of your muscle groups for whole-body fat burn.
However, it’s not possible to spot-target areas of fat on your body, so working with heavy dumbbells won’t specifically reduce belly fat as opposed to fat anywhere else on your body. With that being said, if you use your dumbbells to challenge yourself further during core-strength exercises, you may find that your stomach appears more toned and flat.
The Bottomline
Chances are, you already have some idea of what you’re looking for when it comes to choosing the best adjustable dumbbells for your in-home gym. For this reason, dumbbells that work for one person, may not necessarily have the same appeal to another.
When picking out adjustable dumbbells for your in-home gym, try to focus on finding what set will work best for you, so that you can get the most out of your investment. If you’re just looking to get started with your first set, for example, Liadon’s Adjustable Dumbbell Set is the lower weight, more affordable option that will grow with you as you improve.
However, if you’ve already been using dumbbells as a part of your regular fitness routine for some time, then you may be better off with a heavier, more industrial set like Yes4All 200-Pound Adjustable dumbbells.
PS! If you like this article, then you may also be interested in our in-depth comparison of Powerblock vs. Bowflex Dumbbells.