If you have been looking at the ever-changing world of gym and fitness, then you must have come across adjustable dumbbells.
For the at-home gym owner, adjustable dumbbells are a basic must buy.
That is why this article seeks to compare and contrast two of the best adjustable dumbbells out there for you — the Bowflex and the Ironmaster Dumbbells.
The Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbells earns its reputation as one of the best dumbbells out there for a home gym by its easy usability and durability.
They are made durable by the use of steel and polyurethane, which makes it easy to grip while exercising.
It is easy to use since all you have to do to change weights is to turn the dial and adjustable dumbbell set according to the weight you prefer.
Of course, this also makes it easy to transition weights in between exercises without having to shift them.
The Ironmaster Quicklock, on the other hand, has made a name for itself too, with its versatility and durability.
Their equipment is made durable by the combination of steel and iron they use, and their signature quick-lock system that ensures the weights do not come loose the more you use them.
They are versatile because you can use their weights on their dumbbells, or switch to kettlebells.
TL;DR Ironmaster vs Bowflex Dumbbells
Ironmaster Dumbbells
It enables easy changing weights from 5lb to 45lb in just a matter of seconds with 2.5lb increments.
They have locking screws in place to help keep everything in check and immovable while you are working out.
There is also the added advantage of having a wide range to choose from when it comes to the Ironmaster dumbbells.
In addition, Ironmaster equipment comes with a seven to ten-year warranty, which is one of the longest in the market.
Bowflex Dumbbells
There have been several designs, with the latest being the Bowflex SelectTech series. They come with an eye-catching design that is designed to look new over the many years of use.
One of the best things about them is that they have a great locking securing mechanism. All you have to do is turn a dial to select the weight you prefer, and that is it!
Another great thing is the range of choices you have. They come with 15-17 sets of weights ranging from 5lb to 90lb.
The weight increments also range from 2.5lb to 5lb per adjustment. They come with a two to three-year warranty just in case.
In-Depth Comparison: BowFlex vs Ironmaster
Design and Style
Bowflex
- Rounded plates
- Made of steel and polyurethane coated with a thin sheet of plastic
- Metal locking mechanism
- Modern sleek look
Ironmaster
- Square weight plates
- Made of cast iron and steel or chrome with a powder-coated frame
- Quick-lock design
- Old school look
Quality and Durability
Bowflex
- Can rattle when dropped
- Well constructed plates, so no rattling
- Parts made of steel and polyurethane, which makes it durable
Ironmaster
- It can withstand dropping during exercise
- The grooves on each plate fit seamlessly so no rattling
- Handle and locking screw made of heavy-duty steel, which is durable
Grip
Bowflex
- Good palms down grip with grooves for grip
- Each dumbbell has a rubber grip for easier handling
Ironmaster
- Has steel handles that come with a knurled grip for an easier grip
- Each dumbbell set comes with a fat grip adapter for an easier grip
Adjusting System
Bowflex
- Uses dial to adjust weights and metal locking hook to lock the weights in place
Ironmaster
- Patented a quick-lock adjustment system to adjust weights and lock them in place
Size
Bowflex
- Standard version 15.75 by 8 by 9 inches at 52lb size
Ironmaster
- Standard version 6.7 by 14.5 by 9 square inches at 75lb size
Weight Ranges
Bowflex
- Weight range of 5 lbs – 52.5 lbs with 2.5lb increments
Ironmaster
- Weight range of 5 lbs -75 lbs with add-ins available
Additional Features
Bowflex
- Modern and sleek design, but drawn back by rattling when dropped.
- Cheap to buy considering the make, but with a smaller range to choose from.
- Two to three-year warranty.
Ironmaster
- Excellent product but easy to overlook with a traditional design.
- Slightly costlier, but with a wider range to choose from.
- Nearly lifetime warranty.
What Do People Say?
Amazon Review: Ironmaster Quicklock
The Ironmaster dumbbells have an overall amazon review of above average rating.
Two of the negative things customers highlighted were the price compared to other manufacturers and the speed of adjusting weights compared to others.
There were a few comments here and there about the initial difficulty in using the dumbbells as well, which means it takes some getting-used-to
Amazon review: Bowflex Dumbbells
The Bowflex ST dumbbells received an impressive rating with a lot of reviews.
This implies it is more popular and preferable to the Ironmaster. Most people commended the design and the ease of use and adjustability of these dumbbells.
The design and modern look it seems is a huge plus.
However, a few people raised concerns over the mostly plastic make of the dumbbell, which made them worry about the life span.
Most also don’t seem to use them for heavy exercises though they seem perfect for light exercises. Their customer support seems moderate in response, which is normal considering their popularity.
Youtube review: Ironmaster Quicklock
They are super heavy-duty, which makes them more suitable for a heavy lifter than for a beginner.
However, this is more made up for by their durability and ease of use.
Compared to brands like Bowflex and Powerblock, they seem to be slower to adjust, but faster than most.
Youtube review: Bowflex SelectTech
Basically, they seem to receive high reviews generally with particular concentration on the modern design and the price.
Though compared to brands like Powerblock and Ironmaster, they seem to be less durable, and more popular because they are perfect for the average everyday person.
They also seem to be much faster to adjust than any others, which is a definite plus.
Bowflex VS Ironmaster Roundup - Which is Better?
Overall, it all depends on what kind of user you are, what you want, and what you value in a dumbbell.
Choose the Ironmaster Quicklock if you would settle for longevity over physical appearance. The dumbells’ weight ranges from 5 to 120lb.
They seem to have a traditional dumbbell look, but they are durable.
–Cheapest place to get the Ironmaster Dumbbells.
On the other hand, buy the Bowflex SelectTech if you are an average person. The brand seems to be more popular with average people than any other dumbbell because of the weight range, the ease of adjustability, and how easy it is to get used to them.
However, they can be difficult to handle when handling the higher weights because of a weaker grip.
They are averagely durable, but their design makes them a must for a modern at-home gym owner.
The Bottomline…
An adjustable dumbbell is a definite buy for an at-home gym owner because of their versatility and because they occupy less space than a traditional dumbbell.
These dumbbells are one of the best adjustable dumbbells that are something you should look into as far as exercising and muscle toning are concerned.
Just be sure of what you want as they both have their advantages and disadvantages.
Article by:
Daniel DeMoss
I’m a personal trainer based in Denver (Matrix Gym) and a true fitness nerd. If I’m not training clients or working out at my home gym, I’m probably skiing, cycling or hiking with my dog Rufus.
Get in touch: daniel@dumbbellsreview.com
