{"id":371168,"date":"2025-12-27T01:57:06","date_gmt":"2025-12-27T01:57:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/371168\/"},"modified":"2025-12-27T01:57:06","modified_gmt":"2025-12-27T01:57:06","slug":"13-best-dumbbells-of-2026-tested-and-reviewed","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/371168\/","title":{"rendered":"13 Best Dumbbells of 2026, Tested and Reviewed"},"content":{"rendered":"

Whether you\u2019re just starting out on your fitness journey<\/a> or working out like a pro, investing in the right equipment<\/a> is crucial. Basic gear like dumbbells<\/a> can not only help you build strength and muscle, but they\u2019re also extremely versatile since you can weave them into multiple types of workouts, experts say.<\/p>\n

To help you choose the right dumbbells, I spoke to personal trainers and fitness experts to break down the different types and what to consider when shopping for them. I also compiled a list of expert-recommended options to shop, as well as dumbbells our NBC Select editors use and love.<\/p>\n

How I picked the best dumbbells<\/a><\/p>\n

When shopping for dumbbells, the experts I spoke to recommend keeping the following factors in mind:<\/p>\n

Fixed vs. adjustable: Fixed weights<\/a> are sold either individually or in pairs and have one set weight, while adjustable dumbbells<\/a> let you choose your weight using a rotating dial, sliding mechanism or a removable pin. Fixed weights are great for beginners and low-impact workouts or those who want to work out a specific part of the body. Adjustable weights, on the other hand, allow for variety without taking up a lot of space.Material: Dumbbells are usually made of rubber, neoprene or metal. Metal is more durable, while rubber and neoprene are softer and less likely to damage your floors.Shape: Fixed dumbbells typically come with either hexagon (which are preferred by fitness experts) and round ends. Those with hexagonal ends are less likely to roll away compared to round dumbbells and tend to run a little cheaper.<\/p>\n

Want more from NBC Select? Sign up<\/a> for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter.<\/p>\n

The best dumbbells of 2026<\/a><\/p>\n

Each of the following dumbbells is made from durable metal, rubber or neoprene material, which is in line with my experts\u2019 guidance. I separated the below options into two categories: fixed<\/a> and adjustable<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"Amazon<\/a><\/p>\n

Weight range: 10 lbs to 50 lbs\u00a0| Material: rubber-encased ends; solid cast iron core\u00a0| Shape: hexagonal<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

Budget-friendlyNon-slip handleWon\u2019t roll away<\/p>\n

The Amazon Basics dumbbells earned an NBC Select Wellness Award<\/a> due to their durable build and non-slip textured surface for a more secure grip. They\u2019re a budget-friendly, rubber-coated option, and are great for beginners, too. Keep in mind Amazon Basics does not offer these dumbbells in pairs, which means you\u2019ll have to buy two if you\u2019re hoping for a set.<\/p>\n

\"All<\/a><\/p>\n

Weight range: 2 lbs to 20 lbs\u00a0| Material: neoprene\u00a0| Shape: hexagonal<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

Highly durableNonslip handlesWon\u2019t roll away<\/p>\n

Something to note<\/p>\n

Nothing to note at this time<\/p>\n

These sturdy, highly rated and nonslip dumbbells won\u2019t fall out of your hand, even during the sweatiest workouts. \u201cI honestly needed dumbbells that I could use for my at home spin class that I thought I would quit after a few months \u2014 call me pleasantly surprised that these actually felt nice and safe with my sweat covered hands during a work out,\u201d says NBC Select video producer Josh Rios. \u201cI ended up buying more than the set I originally had.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"REP<\/a><\/p>\n

Weight range: 2.5 lbs to 125 lbs\u00a0| Material: rubber-encased ends; chrome plated handle\u00a0| Shape: hexagonal<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

Knurled edges for better gripRubber, soft-landing endsSold individually or pairs<\/p>\n

These rubber hex dumbbells have rubber-encased ends that can limit wear and tear to both the dumbbells and the floor, according to the brand. The handles are also fully knurled, meaning they contain ridges that provide a more comfortable and sturdier grip when working out.<\/p>\n

\"CAP<\/a><\/p>\n

Weight range: 3 lbs to 115 lbs\u00a0| Material: rubber-coated ends; steel chromed handle\u00a0| Shape: hexagonal<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

Sturdy handleComes in fixed and adjustable<\/p>\n

CAP Barbell, which makes both fixed and adjustable dumbbells<\/a>, has a standard, quality dumbbell that is a great fit for anyone, experts say. The rubber-coated hex dumbbells from the brand come in singles. If you\u2019re willing to splurge on a set, CAP Barbell\u2019s Dumbbell Set<\/a> comes with five pairs of weights ranging from five pounds to 25 pounds, as well as a rack to store them in your home.<\/p>\n

\"Portzon<\/a><\/p>\n

Weight range: 1 lb to 15 lbs\u00a0| Material: neoprene\u00a0| Shape: hexagonal<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

Anti-slipFor low-impact workouts<\/p>\n

These dumbbells are a favorite of NBC Select reporter Zoe Malin<\/a>, who uses them for low-impact workouts. \u201cThey\u2019re easy to grip and soft, and I can hold them tightly even during sweaty hot yoga or weight lifting workouts,\u201d she says. Weights range from one pound to 15 pounds, so they\u2019re a great option if you prefer less weight. Made from neoprene, these dumbbells are also anti-slip and won\u2019t roll away on the floor, according to the band.<\/p>\n

\"WomanMalin has multiple sizes of these Portzon weights and says they come in handy when she’s doing low-impact workouts like yoga and Pilates at home.Courtesy of Zoe Malin\"Amazon<\/a><\/p>\n

Weight range: 1 lb to 20 lbs\u00a0| Material: neoprene\u00a0| Shape: hexagonal<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

No odorBudget-friendlyFor low-impact workouts<\/p>\n

Another NBC Select Wellness Awards winner<\/a> from Amazon Basics, these hand weights are a smaller, budget-friendly option that\u2019s great for low-impact workouts or those who don\u2019t necessarily want heavy weights. They have a cushioned material that makes them easy to hold and maintain a good grip, plus the rubber material doesn\u2019t hold any noticeable odor, according to our NBC Select editors. The weights come in pairs, or you can purchase a rack with three pairs.<\/p>\n

Best adjustable dumbbells<\/a>\"NordicTrack<\/a><\/p>\n

Weight range: 10 lbs to 55 lbs\u00a0| Material: steel\u00a0| Shape: round<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

Great for small spacesComfortable handles<\/p>\n

This option won an NBC Select Wellness Award for best overall adjustable weights. Though they\u2019re on the pricier side, you\u2019ll get several weights in one compact tool \u2014 because they\u2019re adjustable, you don\u2019t need multiple sets of free weights, which many of our NBC Select editors love for their small apartments. Our editors also love how durable these weights are and how comfortable the handles are to hold, even during sweaty workouts.<\/p>\n

\u201cI used to not be a big fan of adjustable dumbbells, but these Nordictrack ones won me over \u2014 they have replaced essentially all of the dumbbells I used to have (plus a barbell),\u201d says NBC Select reporter Harry Rabinowitz<\/a>. \u201cThe big differentiator is size: these are a lot smaller than other adjustable dumbbells. That\u2019s because the dumbbells have a unique locking system that means you don\u2019t end up with a super long dumbbell with mostly empty slots as you lift \u2014 if I\u2019m lifting 20 pounds, I just get two 10 pound plates, without any extra empty slots or length.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"ManRabinowitz loves the compact size of these Nordictrack adjustable dumbbells, which he says makes them much easier to handle and exercise with.Courtesy of Harry Rabinowitz\"PowerBlock<\/a><\/p>\n

Weight range: 5 lbs to 100 lbs\u00a0| Material: urethane-coated steel plates\u00a0| Shape: square<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

Wide weight rangeDurable steel platesAuto-lock lever<\/p>\n

These PowerBlock adjustable dumbbells come recommended by Mike Boyle<\/a>, co-founder of Mike Boyle Strength and Conditioning, and Craig Levergood<\/a>, a personal trainer and certified strength and conditioning specialist, both of whom use these in their respective gyms. \u201cPowerBlocks are some of the best adjustable dumbbells you can get in the fitness industry,\u201d says Levergood. These dumbbells have durable urethane-coated steel plates and the attachments allow them to go up to 90 pounds per dumbbell. You can adjust the weight by inserting a pin into the plate of your choice. These dumbbells also include an auto-lock lever on the handle that can help make micro-adjustments in 2.5-pound increments, according to PowerBlock.<\/p>\n

\"The<\/a><\/p>\n

Weight range: 2 lbs to 6lbs\u00a0| Material: Silicone\u00a0| Shape: round<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

CompactMinimalist designTwistable<\/p>\n

Each of these compact and stylish weights have three pieces total, and each one weighs two pounds (six altogether). They have a twist on-off design that\u2019s easy to customize, and they\u2019re small enough to store in small spaces and homes. \u201cI don\u2019t have a gym membership and I also live in a very small space, so I have to be incredibly thoughtful about the exercise equipment I invest in. This is the dumbbell set I use most often,\u201d says NBC Select senior editor Nikki Brown. \u201cThey\u2019re easy to twist on and off and the long sleek design is easy to grasp. I really like the soft silicone material, too, because it doesn\u2019t give me calluses unlike more traditional-looking dumbbells.\u201d Brown pairs these weights with Bala Bangles<\/a> on her ankles for a challenging at-home YouTube workout.<\/p>\n

\"SomeoneCompared to more traditionally-shaped dumbbells, these slim, sleek pieces are easier to maneuver through certain overhead movements, like tricep raises.Courtesy Nikki Brown\"Lifepro<\/a><\/p>\n

Weight range: 5 lbs to 55 lbs\u00a0| Material: alloy steel plates\u00a0| Shape: round<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

Easy to switch weightsNon-slip gripBuilt-in safety locks<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve been using this adjustable dumbbell set about three times a week for the past year, and it\u2019s undoubtedly upgraded my strength training workouts,\u201d says Malin. \u201cI don\u2019t have a ton of room to store weights in my apartment, so being able to get multiple out of one set is a game-changer, and it lets me continuously challenge myself as I get stronger instead of having to constantly buy new weights.\u201d The dumbbells have a slider that lets you easily change the weights, plus the individual bases keep them stable as you store them. <\/p>\n

\"McBig<\/a><\/p>\n

Weight range: 5.5 lbs to 40 lbs\u00a0| Material: polyethylene plates\u00a0| Shape: round<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re looking for a less expensive adjustable set, this one is a favorite of Brown. \u201cI reach for these when I need to do moves with just one dumbbell and need more of a challenge,\u201d she says. \u201cThey\u2019re a solid option if you\u2019re not using them daily. Keep in mind they\u2019re not exactly small space-friendly since you\u2019ll need room to store the weights.\u201d They come with a long, foam rod, so you can use it as a barbell. <\/p>\n

\"Nuobell<\/a><\/p>\n

Weight range: 5 lbs to 80 lbs\u00a0| Material: steel\u00a0| Shape: round<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

Twist handle to adjustWide weight rangePortable cradle for storage<\/p>\n

These Nuobell adjustable dumbbells are great for those looking for a wider weight range. They have an easy-to-use adjustment mechanism, which involves twisting the handle instead of using a dial, she says. These dumbbells come as a pair and include a portable cradle to store both dumbbells and avoid damaging your floors, according to the brand.<\/p>\n

\"Core<\/a><\/p>\n

Weight range: 5 lbs to 50 lbs\u00a0| Material: steel, aluminum cradle\u00a0| Shape: round<\/p>\n

What we like<\/p>\n

Includes sturdy standBuilt-in knob to adjust<\/p>\n

These NBC Select editor-favorite adjustable dumbbells<\/a> go up to 50 pounds and let you manually adjust at increments of five pounds using the built-in knob. Each dumbbell sits in its own aluminum stand, so the set saves plenty of space in smaller homes and apartments, according to our editors.<\/p>\n

How to shop for dumbbells<\/a><\/p>\n

Not all dumbbells are created equally, and certain factors can affect the quality of your workout. As you\u2019re shopping for dumbbells, experts recommend considering dumbbell type, material and shape.\u200b<\/p>\n

Fixed versus adjustable dumbbells<\/a><\/p>\n

Dumbbells usually have either a fixed or adjustable weight, each of which can be beneficial for specific types of workouts and preferences.<\/p>\n

Fixed weights are sold either individually or in pairs and offer one set weight; in other words, a 15-pound dumbbell can only be and will always be a 15-pound dumbbell. These are best for people who are just starting to lift weights or want to focus on one area of the body, experts say. If you\u2019re buying multiple fixed weights, you\u2019ll need to consider storage space and likely invest in a storage rack to keep them together.Adjustable weights offer multiple increments of weights that can be adjusted using a rotating dial or a removable pin. They provide variety without taking up as much space as a rack of fixed dumbbells, plus they\u2019re a good option for people who like to lift heavier and weight train since weight increments tend to go higher, says Levergood. Adjustable dumbbells can ultimately be a more affordable option than investing in a whole set of weights, experts say. Not only do sets of weights take up space, but it\u2019s going to cost you a lot more than most adjustable dumbbells.Material<\/a><\/p>\n

Dumbbells are usually made of rubber, neoprene or metal. You\u2019ll typically see dumbbells with cast iron or steel heads that are rubberized or coated in neoprene, but some are made entirely of cast iron or other types of metal, experts say. Keep in mind that the material doesn\u2019t make much of a difference in terms of exercise \u2014 it simply comes down to personal preference, says Traci Thompson<\/a>, an associate professor of Health and Kinesiology and director of PEAK Health and Fitness<\/a> at the University of Utah. Metal is typically more durable, while rubber and neoprene are softer and less prone to damaging floors, she says.<\/p>\n

Shape<\/a><\/p>\n

Fixed dumbbells come in two shapes: hexagon and round. Dumbbells with hexagonal ends (which experts say they typically prefer) are much less likely to roll away when they\u2019re on the floor compared to round dumbbells and typically run a little cheaper. Either shape can come in any material.<\/p>\n

The shape of your dumbbell doesn\u2019t typically affect the type of workout you\u2019re doing, either, experts say. \u201cThe shape is really going to be dependent on what you find and how you use it, but in my experience, the dumbbell shape doesn\u2019t really matter whatsoever,\u201d says Levergood. In some instances, you can benefit from using one shape over the other \u2014 for example, if you\u2019re using your dumbbells as platforms (for something like a renegade row), you\u2019ll likely want a hexagon shape.<\/p>\n

Frequently asked questions<\/p>\n

What are the benefits of dumbbells?<\/p>\n

Dumbbells are considered free weights, which means they\u2019re not attached to another piece of gym equipment, so you can pick them up and move them around. They\u2019re great for just about anyone (whether you\u2019re a beginner or an experienced weightlifter) because you can easily determine the weight that\u2019s most comfortable for you.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you are just starting to exercise, dumbbells can help you add intensity slowly so you don\u2019t get injured as you are getting stronger,\u201d says Thompson.<\/p>\n

Dumbbells can also be more shoulder-friendly for upper body exercises: \u201cThe shoulder joint seems to self-select a path that\u2019s most comfortable when using dumbbells [and] this isn\u2019t as achievable with a straight bar,\u201d says Boyle.<\/p>\n

Both fixed and adjustable dumbbells add variety to your weight training since you can use them for practically any weighted exercise, including bicep curls, overhead presses and lunges. They can also encourage more range of motion and help challenge your joint stabilizer muscles (like the gluteus medius and triceps that help stabilize your body while performing different exercises) by requiring more balance to control two weights versus one, experts say. Dumbbells, especially adjustable ones, can also be useful for those building a home gym in a small or tight space.<\/p>\n

However, keep in mind that you will need to lift the dumbbells into position when you work out, which can be an issue if you suffer from back pain. \u201cI often caution those with lower back issues to be careful with heavy dumbbells as the back stress of lifting them into position can be significant,\u201d says Boyle. <\/p>\n

How do you safely use dumbbells during a workout?<\/p>\n

For anyone just starting out with weights, it\u2019s important to develop a proper lifting technique. \u201cIf you have not lifted weights or are unsure how to lift weights safely, you should meet with a certified personal trainer to help you dial in the technique so you don\u2019t get injured,\u201d says Thompson.<\/p>\n

Once you nail down the technique, you can increase weight gradually. A good rule of thumb is to lift a weight that\u2019s challenging by the time you reach the recommended number of repetitions, says Thompson. For example, if you\u2019re doing 12 repetitions of a biceps curl, you should choose a weight that\u2019s heavy enough to make the last repetition hard, but not to the point where you\u2019re compromising your form just to finish.<\/p>\n

If you can do your weight lifting exercises very easily, you probably need to increase the weight. \u201cMuscles need to be challenged; If it doesn\u2019t feel challenging, you may not be using enough weight to receive benefits,\u201d says Thompson. However, \u201cif you\u2019re unable to do 12 [repetitions] without \u2018cheating\u2019 by letting your form deteriorate \u2014 arching your back or swinging your arms, for example \u2014 you need to reduce the weight,\u201d she says. <\/p>\n

Meet our experts<\/a><\/p>\n

At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and\/or experience. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.<\/p>\n

Traci Thompson<\/a> is an associate professor of Health and Kinesiology and director of PEAK Health and Fitness<\/a> at the University of Utah.Mike Boyle<\/a> is the co-founder of Mike Boyle Strength and Conditioning.Craig Levergood<\/a> is a personal trainer and certified strength and conditioning specialist.Why trust NBC Select?<\/a><\/p>\n

I\u2019m an updates editor<\/a> at NBC Select and I\u2019ve written a variety of stories about fitness equipment over the past few years, including indoor exercise bikes<\/a>, affordable ellipticals<\/a> and weighted hula hoops<\/a>. For this article, I spoke to four fitness experts about how to shop for dumbbells and researched dozens of options on the market to recommend the best ones to consider.<\/p>\n

Catch up on NBC Select\u2019s in-depth coverage of tech and tools<\/a>, wellness<\/a> and more, and follow us on Facebook<\/a>, Instagram<\/a>, Twitter<\/a> and TikTok<\/a> to stay up to date.<\/p>\n