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For one pair that covers most home workouts, the BowFlex Results Series 552 runs from 2.27 to 23.81 kg per hand with a turn of its dials. If you expect to get stronger, the BowFlex 1090 goes to 40.82 kg per hand. If you train in kg, REP's kilogram QuickDraw runs 2.5 to 30 kg in even 2.5 kg steps.
- 1Best overall
BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Dumbbells
15 settings from 2.27 to 23.81 kg, changed with a turn of the end dials while the dumbbell sits in its tray. It covers most beginner and intermediate programmes in one pair.
- 2Best heavy dial set
BowFlex Results Series 1090 SelectTech Dumbbells
17 settings from 4.54 to 40.82 kg in 2.27 kg steps, with a 3-year parts warranty. It suits lifters who would outgrow the 552 within a year.
- 3Best kg set in Canada
REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbell (KG)
The kilogram QuickDraw runs 2.5 to 30 kg in even 2.5 kg steps, sold direct by REP Canada with the same lifetime defect warranty.
| Model | BowFlexBowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Dumbbells | BowFlexBowFlex Results Series 1090 SelectTech Dumbbells | REP FitnessREP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbell (KG) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max weight | 23.81 kg | 40.82 kg | 30 kg |
| Min weight | 2.27 kg | 4.54 kg | 2.5 kg |
| Increments | 1.13 kg (2.5 lb) to 11.34 kg, then 2.27 kg (5 lb) | 2.27 kg (5 lb) | 2.5 kg with micro plates |
| Adjustment | Dials at both ends | Dials at both ends | Flip switch plus micro plates |
| Warranty | 2 yrs | 3 yrs | Lifetime |
How to choose adjustable dumbbells
Start with the heaviest weight you will need per hand in the next year or two, not today. Rows, goblet squats and Romanian deadlifts need more load than curls and lateral raises, so a set that tops out at 23 kg can feel small within months for an experienced lifter.
- Maximum weight: about 23 to 24 kg per hand suits most beginners, 27 to 30 kg suits intermediates, and 40 kg or more suits strong lifters. Some sets start lighter and expand later with add-on kits.
- Step size: small steps of 1.1 to 1.4 kg matter most on light moves such as raises and curls. Check the steps across the whole range, as some sets move in 2.27 or 2.5 kg steps only.
- Mechanism: dial and twist-handle sets change weight while the dumbbell sits in its tray. A selector-pin set changes weight by moving one magnetic pin. Plate-loaded steel is the most durable but slowest to change.
- Units: US-made sets are usually built in pounds, so the steps land on odd kg figures such as 2.27 or 11.34 kg. If you follow a kg programme, choose a set that quotes kg.
- Warranty: terms run from 12 months to lifetime, and some sets list none. Read what it excludes; some lifetime warranties exclude scratches and rust.
BowFlex Results Series 552: best overall
The 552 covers the weights most beginners and intermediates use. Each dumbbell goes from 5 to 52.5 lb (2.27 to 23.81 kg) over 15 settings, with 2.5 lb steps up to 25 lb, then 5 lb steps. You change weight by turning the dials at each end while the dumbbell rests in its tray. BowFlex sells it direct in the US and Canada, with a 2-year parts warranty.
Pros
- 15 settings per hand, with 2.5 lb (1.13 kg) steps at the light end
- Weight changes with a turn of the end dials while the dumbbell sits in its tray
- Sold direct by BowFlex in both the US and Canada
Cons
- Tops out at 23.81 kg per hand, which stronger lifters outgrow on rows and presses
- Parts warranty is 2 years, shorter than PowerBlock or REP
- Steps widen to 5 lb (2.27 kg) above 25 lb
BowFlex Results Series 1090: best heavy dial set
The 1090 uses the same dial system as the 552 but runs from 10 to 90 lb (4.54 to 40.82 kg) per hand over 17 settings in 5 lb (2.27 kg) steps. It has a 3-year parts warranty. It is the choice if you want dial convenience at heavy loads. If you also do light raises, a small second pair will help, as it starts at 4.54 kg.
Pros
- Goes to 40.82 kg per hand, close to the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP at full expansion
- 3-year parts warranty, one year longer than the 552
- Same dial-in-tray adjustment as the 552
Cons
- Starts at 4.54 kg, so the lightest accessory work needs a second pair
- Steps are 2.27 kg throughout, with no 1.13 kg micro step
- Costs about two thirds more than the 552
REP QuickDraw: best warranty
The QuickDraw uses a flip switch at each end to add or drop plates, plus two micro plates for smaller steps. The pound version goes to 60 lb (27.22 kg) per hand; the kilogram version sold in Canada goes to 30 kg in even 2.5 kg steps. Both come in four pair sizes and carry a lifetime warranty against defects in material and workmanship.
Pros
- Lifetime warranty against defects in material and workmanship
- Flip switches change the load in 10 lb (4.54 kg) jumps, and the two micro plates fill in 5 lb (2.27 kg) steps
- Sold in 30, 40, 50 and 60 lb pairs, so you only pay for the range you need
Cons
- The micro plates add a step to each weight change
- 2.5 lb steps mean loading one side heavier
- Warranty excludes wear such as scratches and rust
Are adjustable dumbbells worth it?
For most home gyms, yes. One adjustable pair replaces a rack of fixed dumbbells and stores in two trays. Fixed dumbbells make more sense if several people train at once or you drop weights.
What are the best dumbbells for home?
For a single pair, the BowFlex Results Series 552 in the US and Canada, and the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP in the UK and Australia. Both adjust in seconds and offer small steps at the light end.
What weight adjustable dumbbells should I buy?
Buy for where you will be in a year or two. Around 24 kg per hand suits most beginners. Experienced lifters doing rows and goblet squats often need 30 to 40 kg, so choose a set that reaches that or expands to it with add-on kits.
Can you drop adjustable dumbbells?
No. Dial, pin and twist mechanisms are not designed for drops, and some all-steel plate-loaded sets are not drop-rated either. Lower them under control.
Why are some adjustable dumbbells in pounds?
Many US makers build their sets in pounds, so the kg settings land on figures like 2.27 or 11.34 kg. If you follow a kg programme, choose a set that quotes kg. The comparison table shows each set's steps.
How we chose
We have not tested these dumbbells. We compared each maker's published weight range, step size, adjustment method and warranty. We did not rely on owner reviews for any claim. We only included sets sold new in each country by the maker's own local store or a retailer that ships from inside that country. Prices are the maker's list prices on 9 November 2026 and change often.
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