11 Best Dumbbells of 2024, Tested by Trainers and Editors | GQ

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Barbells and squat racks, treadmills and rowers—when you picture a pristine, high-end home gym, you may not immediately imagine a simple pair of dumbbells. And while there’s nothing all that glitzy about them, these weights may just be the single best workout tool to have at home.

“Dumbbells offer more versatility, allow for a wider range of motion, and promote functional strength and stability,” says Karly Mendez, MS, human performance specialist at Memorial Hermann Health System. “They engage more stabilizing muscles compared to machines, which can lead to better muscle activation. Using dumbbells can also help prevent muscle imbalances, as each side of the body must work independently.”

Right now you might be asking yourself, okay, but aren’t all dumbbells pretty much the same? Despite their similar silhouettes, there are some subtle (but important) differences that set a high-quality dumbbell apart from one you’ll need to replace after a few months. Here are 11 pairs that we’d be happy to stock in our gym at home.

The REP Fitness Hex Dumbbells earn the spot of best dumbbells overall for their solid construction, durability, and weight range. Whether you opt for the 2.5-pounders or the 125s, a single pair or a full set, you’ll get a fully knurled steel handle and rock-solid build that will last for years.

Whether you’re building a full home gym or just adding to your setup, dumbbells should fit your space, goals, and style of training. These are our top picks for best dumbbells.

Plus, six more dumbbells we tested and loved:

How We Chose the Best Dumbbells

We scoured the market to find more than two dozen of the best dumbbells you can buy right now. Then, we brought in the big guns—personal trainers, competitive athletes, and everyday gym goers—to test them all for their durability, functionality, and value. Here’s more on how we test fitness equipment.

REP Fitness

REP Fitness

The REP Fitness Rubber Hex Dumbbells hit a sweet spot between durability, performance, and price that few competitors manage to hit.

Product Features

REP’s Rubber Hex Dumbbells are an easy pick for the best overall spot because they deliver on build quality, ease of use, and price. They're made with a special low-odor rubber compound that protects the dumbbells and your floors from damage—and keeps things quiet during your workout. The ​​friction welding that connects the heads to the handle delivers a beyond-sturdy bond. (And trust us, we put the durability to the test when we dropped and tossed heavy dumbbells around our lab.) The hex design ensures these weights don’t roll away if you drop them; plus, it’s super convenient for exercises like push-up rows. (It’s way easier to balance on the flat face of these dumbbells versus a round dumbbell.)

We found these dumbbells to be incredibly well-balanced, with a solid, comfortable grip thanks to the fully knurled, straight handle. One detail to note: If you have big hands, you’ll love the slightly longer handle, but smaller hands might find that the extra room makes the weights a little harder to balance at times. But if you’re building out a serious home gym, these are a workhorse investment that you won’t regret.

Titan Fitness

Titan Fitness

The Titan Fitness Rubber Coated Hex Dumbbells are a solid contender in the home gym world, offering a no-frills, durable design that gets the job done.

Product Features

If you’re looking for reliable, no-nonsense equipment to fill out your home gym without draining your bank account, Titan Fitness Rubber Coated Hex Dumbbells deliver where it counts. Each dumbbell features a hexagonal rubber head that has been molded around cast iron steel, which means there’s zero risk of the head ever detaching from the grip. The ergonomic handles are partially knurled, which gives a decent grip, though we think a fully knurled design would have offered a little more control (especially during those sweat-drenched sessions). But it’s important to keep in mind that comfort is really in the eye of the beholder, and we’d say this handle has a medium aggressiveness that we think CrossFitters and HIIT lovers will find completely suitable.

One drawback we should point out: We noticed that these dumbbell heads have a very light oily film on them, which can leave black marks on anything they scrape up against. Wiping down the rubber and washing them with dishwashing soap helped a bit, but just a heads up that you might want to be conscientious of where you’re using them until the initial residue has worn off.

NordicTrack

NordicTrack

A solid choice for rookies and experienced lifters alike, the adjustable NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbell set replaces 30 total dumbbells.

Product Features

The NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Dumbbells are the space-saving answer to those of us who want a full rack of weights without sacrificing living room real estate. We found the weight selection system to be intuitive—just slide the pin and you’re good to go, adjusting from 10 to 55 pounds in seconds. Plus, they come with a compact storage tray, keeping things organized and sleek, which we think adds a nice touch to your home gym aesthetic.

On the flip side, we noticed that while the plastic components make the adjustment mechanism lightweight, they don’t feel quite as durable as some all-metal systems—something to consider if you’re lifting heavy often. And of course, they can feel a little bulkier during certain moves (like curls, for example) compared to fixed-weight dumbbells. Still, for anyone looking to maximize efficiency and versatility in a compact setup, these adjustable dumbbells are a solid solution from a brand known for high-quality construction.

Bells of Steel

Bells of Steel

The Bells of Steel Rubber Hex Dumbbells have a squared-off shape that keeps them from rolling around, which we love. The starting price point drops lower than other high-quality dumbbells on our list, which we love even more.

Product Features

Hex-shaped dumbbells are a great pick for home-gym enthusiasts, and for the money, the Bells of Steel Rubber Hex Dumbbells are a step above the rest in this category. They are the kind of gym gear that feels solid in hand without breaking the bank. While we love a fully knurled handle, we found the ergonomic, partially knurled handles on these to be plenty comfortable—especially during presses, carries, and flys.

The major downside? They use recycled rubber for the head. While that makes the weights no less durable than other rubber weights (we’ve had no issues with cracked or dented heads after repeated use), we did find they give off a pretty unpleasant “old tire” smell when unboxed. Thankfully, this odor will fade in time, but we recommend leaving them in an open-air environment or out in your garage until they do.

BowFlex

BowFlex

The BowFlex Select Tech 552 dumbbells helps you streamline your workout setup and save the hassle of switching out weights mid-session. These adjustable dumbbells replace 15 sets of weights—and are a great option for beginners who want to progress in small, 2.5-pound increments.

Product Features

When it comes to the BowFlex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells, you're looking at one of the most versatile and space-saving options on the market. In our testing, we found that their biggest advantage is convenience—these dumbbells replace 15 sets of weights with a quick dial turn. For anyone working with limited space (we see you, studio apartment dwellers), this is a major win. The weight range—from 5 to 52.5 pounds—should cover most of your lifting needs, too.

They can take some getting used to, especially when it comes to their size. The silhouette stays the same regardless of the weight you choose, which we found made the range of motion feel a bit awkward during certain movements. (For example, during front raises, the longer dumbbell shape was really noticeable compared to a lighter fixed-weight dumbbell.) Although they’re great for a range of exercises, the 52.5-pound limit might start to feel restrictive for super-strong or already advanced lifters who may benefit more from a power rack.

Iron Bull

Iron Bull Strength

Product Features

There’s a lot to like about the Iron Bull Strength Rubber Hex Dumbbells. The hex-shape heads keep them from rolling around in between sets, while the knurled handles give excellent grip during those last few reps. Plus, you can get them for as low as roughly $1.70 per pound (with free shipping on orders over $150). If you’re serious about your home gym setup, these are a smart, durable investment that’ll last for years.

ProForm

ProForm

Product Features

The ProForm Adjustable Dumbbells are a sleek, space-saving solution for anyone looking to level up their home workouts without cluttering the living room. With just a twist, you can adjust the weight from 10 to 50 pounds. (Though the upkeep requires some TLC: While the plastic adjustment dial is smooth and intuitive, it doesn’t quite match the durability of iron plates.) Overall, if you're after versatility and minimalism, these dumbbells deliver big in a small package.

Living.Fit

Living.Fit

Product Features

While they aren’t the absolute cheapest dumbbells on the market, the Living.Fit Dumbbells win our praise as one of the best budget-friendly values you’ll find shopping for gym equipment on Amazon. In terms of construction and performance, these are just as good as any high-quality rubber hex weight on our list. The handle is plenty comfortable at high weights, and won’t roll around on you in between sets. You can buy them in pairs from 5- to 100-pounds, but they also have an array of bundled sets that can help keep costs low. Not to mention, the brand offers a lifetime warranty for their dumbbells, so there’s some extra reassurance that your money won’t be wasted.

Core Home Fitness

Core Home Fitness

Product Features

For efficiency and style in one chic package, the Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbells are hard to beat. Coming in at a slightly lower price point than many of the other adjustable dumbbells on our list, these deliver a solid value. The smooth, twist-lock mechanism lets you adjust from 5 to 50 pounds with a quick flick of the wrist, helping you keep up the pace during circuit workouts. They also have a more natural feel compared to some bulkier adjustable sets, so you won't feel like you're swinging around a couple of bricks.

PowerBlock

PowerBlock

Product Features

Its blocky design may not win any beauty contests, but don’t let that fool you: The PowerBlock Elite USA 90 not only saves a ton of space, but is engineered for serious lifters, going up to 90 pounds per hand. The quick-adjust pin system is intuitive and surprisingly smooth, making transitions between sets a breeze. The downside? The rectangular shape can feel a bit awkward and tough to get used to. But if you’re after raw functionality and heavy lifting capacity in your home gym, the PowerBlock Elite doesn’t mess around.

Rogue Fitness

Rogue Fitness

Product Features

When it comes to the best round dumbbells, the Rogue Fitness Urethane Dumbbells are the definition of premium. The urethane coating is more durable than your typical rubber, meaning they won’t scuff or chip easily, even if you’re frequently swinging or dropping them between sets. The medium-grade-knurled handles are a nice touch, giving you a solid, slip-free grip without tearing up your palms. These are definitely on the higher end of the price spectrum, and because they’re fixed weights, you’ll need space for multiple pairs. If you want a set that feels as good as it looks and will stand up to heavy use, Rogue’s Urethane Dumbbells are an investment in both form and function.

Here’s a price breakdown for each set of dumbbells. For fixed-weight models that come in multiple sets of weight ranges, these are the prices for the lightest and heaviest sets so you can get a feel for the range.

Here’s the thing: No piece of equipment is “too basic” in our eyes. We believe training smart includes the gear you choose to use, so we put every piece of equipment to the test so you can feel confident in your purchases.

To find the best dumbbells, our team analyzed more than 100 pairs of free weights. Our trusted group of certified personal trainers, competitive weightlifters, and hard-core gym goers personally tested more than two dozen dumbbells. Using our in-depth testing methodology, we filled up our home gyms with handheld iron, using them in our own workouts to assess each pair for factors like:

Ultimately we came away with this list of top dumbbells for every type of strength trainer.

When shopping for dumbbells, it’s all about finding the right balance between functionality, durability, and convenience. “I would suggest looking at a number of factors like your budget, the space where you intend to work out and store the dumbbells, and the type of workouts you'll be doing,” says Mendez. Here are a few of the biggest factors you’ll want to keep in mind.

Adjustable or Fixed Weight

Your first call is deciding between fixed and adjustable dumbbells. If you're tight on space or have multiple people (with varying strength levels) using the same set of weights, adjustable dumbbells like the BowFlex SelectTech or NordicTrack Select-a-Weight are a game changer. They let you swap between weights with a simple dial or pin, replacing as many as 15 pairs of dumbbells in one compact set. But if you’re into serious lifting and don't have space concerns, a solid pair of fixed-weight dumbbells might be more your style.

Durability

Look for dumbbells with rubber or urethane coatings—they’ll not only save your floors from dings, but also help keep noise down during intense sessions. And don’t overlook the small details: Welded heads are more durable than bolted ones, and ergonomic grips will keep your hands comfortable rep after rep.

Grip

Speaking of comfort: The type of grip on your dumbbell matters more than you think. Many of the dumbbells we featured have either full or partial knurling. Knurling is a textured, cross-hatched pattern etched into the metal of many high-quality dumbbells, barbells, and weightlifting equipment. This design provides extra friction, improving your grip during workouts—especially when your hands get sweaty or you're lifting heavier weights. Smooth handles, often found on more budget-friendly or lighter dumbbells, can be comfortable for lighter exercises but may become slippery and hard to grip when your palms get sweaty or the weights get heavier. Rubber-coated or contoured handles can be more comfortable and softer on the hands but don't offer the same level of secure hold as knurled steel. In short, knurled handles are all about performance, while other types may prioritize comfort or cost.

To determine the right dumbbell weight range for you, consider your current fitness level and your goals. Ten weeks of strength training alone has been shown to improve your physical and mental health in numerous ways, but if you’re looking to make significant gains, you might want to take a more strategic approach.

It’s often better to start with lighter weights and gradually increase as you progress—especially for beginners. “If you're just starting out, start light until you've ‘earned the right’ to go heavier,” says NASM-certified personal trainer Steve Stonehouse, vice president of programming and education at Body Fit Training. “There’s no reason to try and set a world record on day one.” In fact, Stonehouse points out that if you’re used to using weight machines at the gym, switching it up with dumbbells can take some time to adjust due to the extra free motion that dumbbells provide. “Typically, you'll feel progress in coordination and balance sooner than you may in strength,” he says. Focus on nailing your form first, and then you can begin to bump up the weight.

Generally speaking, you want to find a weight that allows you to perform eight to 15 reps of an exercise, says Mendez. “By the end of the set, you should feel like you can maybe do one to two more reps.” Mendez suggests starting with a lighter range (like five to 15 pounds) for beginners, while more experienced lifters could go heavier (15 to 50 pounds or more). Keep in mind that you will likely have a noticeable difference in your upper body strength compared with your lower body strength. That’s why “it’s beneficial to have a variety of weights to accommodate different exercises and muscle groups,” says Mendez. If you’re shopping for fixed weights, try to get at least two pairs (one light, one heavy) so you can switch them up depending on the exercise.

One of the best things about dumbbells is just how much range they have in terms of exercise. There are literally hundreds of moves you can do with a simple pair of dumbbells. Here are six staple exercises you can do with dumbbells that require minimal room and no other equipment.

Goblet Squat

Hold a dumbbell vertically next to your chest, with both hands cupping the dumbbell head. Your feet should be twice hip-width apart. Push your hips back and lower your body into a squat until your upper thighs are at least parallel to the floor. Your elbows should brush the insides of your knees in the bottom position. Pause, then push your body back up to the starting position.

Dumbbell Squat to Overhead Press

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Hold a pair of dumbbells so that your palms are facing each other at shoulder height. Keep your torso as upright as possible and your upper arms parallel to the floor. Brace your abs and lower your body as far as you can by pushing your hips back and bending your knees. Pause, then push yourself back to the starting position and immediately press the dumbbells overhead until your arms are almost straight. Lower your arms back down to the starting position.

Dumbbell Reverse Lunge

Grab a pair of dumbbells and hold them at arm's length next to your sides, your palms facing each other. Step backward with your right leg and slowly lower your body until your front knee is bent at least 90 degrees. Pause, then push yourself to the starting position as quickly as you can. Complete the prescribed number of reps with your right leg, then do the same number with your left leg.

Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift

Grab two dumbbells and hold them at your sides. Push your hips backward, lowering your torso toward the ground, only going as low as you can without rounding your lower back. Pause, then reverse the movement, returning to the starting position. Squeeze your glutes at the top.

Dumbbell Bent-Over Row

Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and hold a dumbbell in each hand. Bend the knees slightly and bend at the waist with your back straight. Avoid rounding the upper back and keep your head neutral. Extend your arms fully so each dumbbell is just above the floor. Contract your back and pull both dumbbells up to your ribcage. Be sure to pull through the elbow and hold for one second in the top position. Lower the dumbbells to the fully extended arm position and repeat.

Dumbbell Overhead Press

Hold a pair of dumbbells just outside your shoulders, your arms bent and palms facing each other. Set your feet shoulder-width apart and bend your knees slightly. Press both dumbbells up until your arms are straight, then return to the starting position.

What is the best type of dumbbell?

The best type of dumbbell will depend on your individual needs and budget, but fixed-weight dumbbells are preferred for their durability and ease of use while adjustable dumbbells are often chosen for their space-saving design.

How much do dumbbells cost?

Dumbbells typically cost around $3 per pound, depending on the brand, material, and type. Adjustable dumbbells can start around $100-$300 and run as high as $800.

Are adjustable dumbbells or fixed dumbbells better?

Adjustable dumbbells are better for space saving, while fixed dumbbells offer greater durability. It depends on your preferences and training style.

Can you build muscle using dumbbells?

Absolutely, you can build muscle using dumbbells. By progressively increasing the weight and performing a variety of resistance exercises, dumbbells effectively target and strengthen multiple muscle groups, which makes them a great tool for both beginners and advanced lifters.

How often should you use dumbbells?

How often you use dumbbells should greatly depend on your personal goals and recovery needs. However, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, adults should do muscle-strengthening activities of moderate or greater intensity that involve all major muscle groups on two or more days a week.

Karly Mendez, MS, is an exercise physiologist and human performance specialist at Memorial Hermann Health System.

Steve Stonehouse is a NASM-certified personal trainer and the vice president of programming and education at Body Fit Training.

Resources

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2019) Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. https://health.gov/sites/default/files/2019-09/Physical_Activity_Guidelines_2nd_edition.pdf

Westcott, W. (2012) Resistance training is medicine: effects of strength training on health. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22777332/