10 Best Heavy Dumbbell Sets

A heavy dumbbell set is a must-have if you want to do full-body workouts from home.

It’s hard for some people to imagine that these pieces of gym equipment can activate all the major muscle groups in the body.

The truth is that, with the right technique and weight, dumbbell workouts can give you massive gains.

What is more, there is a perfect dumbbell set for you, whatever your budget or the size of your storage space is.

The question now is, how do you choose which one to buy?

Here’s a closer look at some of today’s most popular brands and models.

Best Heavy Dumbbell Set Reviews

1. Sporzon! Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbell

If it is your first time hearing about this brand, don’t let this scare you away.

Its products are actually quite popular, especially among online buyers.

Sporzon! specializes in dumbbells, kettlebells, weight plates, dip stands, and other fitness tools.

The Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbell is one of its bestsellers.

Review

This pair of dumbbells is for fitness enthusiasts of all levels who want to do their workouts at home.

Some of its key features include:

• Versatility

These dumbbells from Sporzon! are versatile pieces of equipment that would make a great addition to your home gym.

They can help you do a full-body workout routine to get a well-balanced physique.

You could also target specific muscle groups, which is important if you are trying to strengthen weak areas.

This dumbbell set also has a wide range of weight options.

However, note that you have to buy the light weights in pairs and the heavy weights in singles. 

Hence, it might be a bit expensive if you want to complete the set.

That said, you could consider it a good investment since you are spending your money on your wellness.

Alternatively, you could purchase only the weight range you need to minimize your expenses.

• Durability

Your workouts can easily get intense, especially if you are trying to achieve a specific fitness goal.

So when shopping around for sets of dumbbells, you must ensure they can withstand rough handling.

The good thing is that these Sporzon! Dumbbells is more than up to the task.

Each one is made from solid cast iron, which is advantageous in several ways.

Cast iron is known for being incredibly durable. It can survive a few bumps and drops without any scratches.

It is also solid, so you know that it has no weak points that would crack or break over time.

Another thing you would love about these dumbbells is that they won’t do a number on your home gym flooring.

That is because each iron dumbbell has a durable rubber coating that will cushion the impact.

• Knurled Dumbbell Handle

You can expect to experience muscle pain or discomfort the next day, especially after doing advanced workouts.

However, this type of pain should not be from an injury.

So when shopping for a dumbbell, you should look for features like ergonomic chrome-plated handles, which this Sporzon! product has.

The knurled handle is specifically designed to maximize its grip and enhance its ergonomics for safe use.

Pros:

• Durably built
• Ergonomically designed handle
• Coated to protect your gym flooring

Con:

• Need to purchase different dumbbell weights separately

2. Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Adjustable Dumbbell

Bowflex has been around for over 35 years and is one of the more respected brands in the fitness industry.

It is known for delivering products that bring a gym-quality workout experience at home.

SelectTech is one of its most popular categories, which consists of adjustable dumbbell sets and free weights.

Review

The 1090 Adjustable Dumbbell is from the said product line and is also a favorite among fitness enthusiasts.

This is for you if you are looking for dumbbell set options that don’t take up too much space.

• Space-Saving Design

One of the biggest draws of the 1090 Adjustable Dumbbell is that it only takes up a little space.

It’s like you crammed 17 different dumbbells into one, and all you have to do to switch between weights is to turn a dial.

Imagine replacing a rack of dumbbells with just two pieces of this equipment!

Granted, the 1090 Adjustable Dumbbell is a bit pricier than some other models.

However, remember that you are getting an entire set’s worth of dumbbells.

In the end, you come out on top in terms of cost, value, or performance.

• JRNY App

This product from Bowflex comes with a one-year JRNY membership, an app with thousands of workout possibilities for you to explore.

You sweat it out with world-class trainers and target different muscle groups for a rewarding full-body workout.

However, note that this membership renews automatically.

If you do not want to extend the free trial, you need to cancel your membership 48 hours before its cycle ends.

• Quieter Dumbbell Workouts

Aside from taking up much space, traditional dumbbells that use weight plates make lots of noise.

They clang when they bump against each other or if you happen to drop them, which could be problematic if you use them at home.

That is where the 1090 Adjustable Dumbbell comes in.

It features durable molding around the metal plates, making your transitions smoother and quieter.

Pros:

• Adjustable pounds of weight
• Space saver
• Reliable locking tabs

Cons:

• Flat handles
• Uncomfortable dumbbell grip

3. Balelinko Dumbbell Set

Balelinko is a company that specializes in dumbbells, weight plates, storage racks, and other accessories.

It is not as established as Bowflex, but its products sell very well on e-commerce platforms.

Clearly, it is doing something right to gain the trust of its target audience.

This dumbbell set is a good example, as it sells like pancakes online.

Review

If you are looking for a simple but reliable set of dumbbells, you should seriously consider the Balelinko Dumbbell Set.

• Weight Range

The first thing you would notice about this dumbbell is its wide range of weight options.

Many other brands start at five pounds and go to a maximum of 50 pounds in 5-pound increments.

This product from Balelinko starts at three pounds and can go up to a hundred pounds. 

You can buy pairs of dumbbells for weights of up to 35 pounds. Beyond that, you will have to buy single dumbbells.

• Durability

Like most of today’s top brands, Balelinko dumbbells are made of solid cast iron for maximum durability.

This feature is essential because of the rugged conditions that these fitness tools have to endure.

They often get dropped, rolled, and even stepped on. 

If they are not made of sterner stuff, they will only last for a while in a home gym or any other gym, for that matter.

• Design

This Balelinko dumbbell set comes with hexagonal-shaped heads, which prevents them from rolling and causing accidents. In addition, it makes storage easier.

Another clever design element for this fitness tool is its ergonomic handle. The surface is knurled, providing you with a secure and slip-proof grip.

On top of all these, the hexagonal heads are encased with protective rubber.

With this feature, you would not cause any damage to your floor even if you drop your weights.

Also, they won’t make much noise when they bump into each other or hit the floor.

Pros:

• Wide weight range
• Durably built
• Ergonomically designed
• Slip-proof grip

Con:

• Strong rubber smell

4. Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbell

Founded in the 1990s, Ativafit is one of the more established names in the fitness industry.

It started as a small team dedicated to bringing reliable, affordable fitness tools to its customers.

Now a big company, it is still committed to the same philosophy but on a larger scale.

Ativafit currently has a wide range of equipment and accessories designed to enhance flexibility, strength, and endurance.

The 71.5-Lb Adjustable Weight Dumbbell, its flagship product for the adjustable dumbbells category, is great for muscle building.

Review

If you are trying to achieve a certain fitness level, this dumbbell can help you get there.

Here are its top features:

• Range of Weights

This dumbbell set is excellent for intermediate strength workouts and advanced lifters. 

It is one of the heavier sets of weights that you will find on the market today.

The low-weight dumbbell options start at 11 pounds. It then goes up in 5.5-lb increments until you reach the maximum of 71.5 pounds.

With this wide range of resistance options, you could unleash the full potential of your workouts.

• Exercises You Can Perform

This set offers 12-weight dumbbell options, which allow you to do varied exercises.

Heavy lifters will find the 71.5-lb setting challenging, especially for arm workouts and upper body workouts.

You could also use heavier weights for squats and other lower body exercises.

The rubber-coated knurled handle will help ensure that you maintain a good grip through every movement.

• Ease of Use

While the technology behind this adjustable dumbbell set is a bit complex, you’ll be pleased to know it’s quite easy to use.

The number of pounds is clearly marked on the dial, so you can choose a setting easily.

Simply press the red lock button as you turn the dial to select the weight that you want.

From there, you can start exercising and sweating.

Pros:

• Decent range of weights
• Easy to use and adjust
• Slip-free grip design

Cons:

• Big uncomfortable for those with big hands
• Not very durable

5. PowerBlock Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbell Set

PowerBlock is a company specializing in adjustable dumbbells, kettlebells, and various accessories.

It started its operations in 1993 and has since grown into one of the more reliable brands in the fitness space.

The Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbell Set is an entry-level offering from its line of expandable dumbbell sets.

Review

This set is an excellent option for fitness enthusiasts who want the toughest dumbbell workouts and are planning to take things up a notch in the future.

• Range of Resistance Options 

Like many of today’s top brands, these PowerBlock dumbbells have a maximum weight of 50 lbs, which is more than enough for a home gym.

What sets them apart is that you can adjust their weight in 2.5- and 5-pound increments. It’s like having 15 different dumbbells in one.

PowerBlock also uses a secure magnetic polypropylene pin to adjust the settings quickly and easily.

With this level of control, you can maximize your gains with each repetition.

• Provision for Heavier Weight Options

Another thing that makes the PowerBlock EXP unique is that you can increase its weight capacity.

If you use a PowerBlock expansion kit, the 50-lb maximum weight will go up to 90 lbs.

This cool feature could save you a lot of money in the future because you do not have to buy another set of dumbbells once you outgrow your 50-pounders.

• Construction

If you want to lift heavier weights but are short on space, you would love this dumbbell set from PowerBlock.

It is 12 inches long, six inches wide, and six inches high, so it has a much smaller footprint than a rack.

This dumbbell set makes it possible to set up a home gym even if you live in a small condo unit or apartment.

Its weight stacks are made with welded steel, which is a very durable material.

PowerBlock even gave it a powder-coated finish for good measure.

Pros:

• Decent range of resistance
• Easy and quick to adjust
• Compact and expandable design
• Durably built

Cons:

• Takes time to get used to when using both hands in one dumbbell
• A bit uncomfortable grip

6. Proform Rapid Strike Adjustable Dumbbell

If you have been a fitness enthusiast for some time now, there is a good chance that you’ve heard the name Proform.

Established in 1977, Proform is known for its state-of-the-art equipment and diverse product line.

The company is founded on the idea that people should exercise to become the best versions of themselves and live life to the fullest. Train to live, not the other way around.

The Rapid Strike Adjustable Dumbbell is one of its more popular offerings.

More importantly, it is among the more affordable models on the market.

Review

The Proform Rapid Strike Adjustable Dumbbell is for you if you are looking for a reliable, cost-effective fitness tool.

Here are some of its top features:

• iFit App

One of the biggest draws of buying the Rapid Strike Adjustable Dumbbell is that it comes with an iFit Family Membership.

iFit is an app that gives you access to thousands of trainer-led workout videos.

It is like having your personal trainer to help you perform all the body-weight exercises like a pro.

With this app, you would increase your gains without risking any injuries from executing moves the wrong way.

Note that you are not obligated to upgrade to a premium version once the free trial runs out.

Also, you could cancel this membership any time you want to.

• Ease of Adjustment

The Rapid Strike Adjustable Dumbbell is aptly named. It has an easy-to-use weight selector that you can pull and push to choose the setting you want.

With this feature, you can toggle from 10 to 50 lbs in 10-pound increments within seconds.

It will allow you to start your exercises quickly and do them with practically no interruptions.

• Construction

One problem with some adjustable dumbbells is durability. Some brands could not stand up to the rough handling that is sometimes unavoidable when workouts get intense.

The Proform Rapid Strike Adjustable Dumbbell has you covered on this front.

It features a durable steel construction reinforced by hardened plastic in all the right places.

That said, ProForm did not neglect its aesthetics and gave it a sleek finish that would look good in any home.

Pros:

• Durable and sleek
• Easy to adjust
• Affordable

Cons:

• Light, plastic base
• Textured handle; requires gloves

7. Feierdun 4-in-1 Adjustable Dumbbells

All the other brands so far have been quite impressive in terms of functionality and flexibility.

Feierdun takes it one step further with the 4-in-1 Adjustable Dumbbells.

It is not just any regular dumbbell; you can use it as a kettlebell, barbell, and push-up stand.

Review

This product is an excellent option for people who want to do a wide range of exercises at home, thanks to the following features:

• Four Pieces of Equipment in a Single Dumbbell

If we have to pick one thing to highlight about this product, that would be its multi-functionality.

The Feierdun Adjustable Dumbbells comes with a pair of kettlebell handles, four fixed nuts, one barbell connector, and one kettlebell base rod.

There are also a total of 12 weight plates that you can use in different combinations to vary the resistance.

With all these components, you can do squats, bench presses, and many other exercises.

• Space-Saving Workout Equipment

If you set it up as a pair of dumbbells, this product would only need 0.2 square meters of storage space.

This is much more convenient than having a whole rack of dumbbells at home.

Moreover, all the pieces are detachable, and you won’t have any problems removing each one if needed.

This feature will help you save even more storage space in your home, garage, or office.

• Non-Slip Grip

Whatever exercise you perform, it is important to maintain a secure grip to prevent accidents and injuries.

With the Feierdun Adjustable Dumbbells, you will have better control over every movement.

It has an ergonomic handle with a diamond texture, which helps increase friction.

This way, you can rest assured that the dumbbells won’t accidentally slip out of your hands.

Pros:

• Multi-functional
• Space saver
• Ergonomically designed handle
• Easy to assemble and use

Cons:

• Need to re-tighten screws regularly
• Plastic smell

8. Vivitory Adjustable Dumbbell Set

Founded in 2017, Vivitory is relatively new to the fitness scene, especially when compared to brands like Proform and Ativafit.

Nevertheless, it has managed to make a name for itself in a few short years.

It now has a wide range of products for weight lifting, balance training, CrossFit, and other fitness activities.

The Vivitory Adjustable Dumbbell Set is one of its bestselling products.

Review

This set is for fitness junkies who have limited space at home or wiggle room in their budgets.

Some of its features you need to make a note of are:

• Durability

This dumbbell set is cheaper than many other brands, but don’t make the mistake of thinking it is inferior.

It is made from a combination of polyethylene and ethylene vinyl acetate or EVA resin, which are both durable materials.

They are resistant to impact and normal wear and tear and are made even tougher with a mixture of cement.

• Functionality

Another thing that makes this set stand out is that you can actually convert it into a barbell. 

It comes with a foam-covered rod that you can use to connect the two dumbbells.

In this configuration, you can comfortably perform squats and other similar exercises without feeling any discomfort in the neck.

• Adjustability

One challenge with adjustable or multi-functional fitness tools is that you must stop your exercises to make the modifications.

It can disrupt your momentum and possibly diminish the results of your workouts.

The good thing about this set from Vivitory is that the weights are quite easy to adjust.

You can quickly add or remove plates or change the configuration.

This way, you can get back to your workouts much faster and maintain your high energy level.

Pros:

• Easy to adjust
• Durably built
• Slip-free grip
• Affordable
• Can be turned into a barbell

Cons:

• Can’t purchase additional plates
• Plastic rod

9. Flybird 55-Lb Adjustable Dumbbell

Founded in 2016, Flybird has not been in the fitness business for very long, but it has served over 700,000 fitness enthusiasts.

It was known in its early years for being a weight bench specialist but has since expanded its portfolio of products.

Now, it has an impressive selection of dumbbells and pull-up bars to go along with its benches.

The 55-Lb Adjustable Dumbbell, in particular, is a hit among its many customers.

Review

This dumbbell is another great option if you are looking for a more affordable alternative to popular but expensive brands.

Here are some of its features:

• Ease of Setting Adjustment

This adjustable dumbbell from Flybird uses a unique approach when it comes to selecting the weight setting.

Instead of flipping a switch, rotating a dial, or pushing a button, you turn the handle.

With this method, choosing the weight is a lot easier and faster to do.

All you need to use is one hand, and you can switch to another weight within one second.

• Construction

Given how fast and easy it is to switch weight settings, it’s natural to wonder if the plates will be secure.

The answer to this question is a resounding yes, as Flybird uses an eight-lock structure design.

You do not have to worry about any of its components falling off as you exercise.

Moreover, the weight plates are covered with a frosted powder coating, making them highly resistant to abrasions.

Finally, the textured handle has a plastic covering that increases friction and maximizes comfort.

Pros:

• Easy and quick to adjust
• Solidly built
• Affordable
• Space saver

Cons:

• Takes time to get used to holding it correctly
• Slightly off weight distribution

10. Buxano 55-Lb Adjustable Dumbbell

If you are looking for a heavy dumbbell set for your home gym, consider this product from Buxano.

It is a great fitness tool for full-body exercises, but you can also target specific muscle groups with it.

Review

This set is one of the more affordable options on the market, which is surprising given its many standout features.

• Weight Range

With the Buxano 55-Lb Adjustable Handle, it’s like you have five sets of weights in one piece of equipment.

You can select the lowest setting, which is 11 lbs, or go as high as 55 lbs. The weights increase in 11-pound increments.

This range should be more than enough even for intense home exercises, but you could also use it for intermediate-level workouts.

• Design

This adjustable dumbbell from Buxano features double safety buckles for the tray and the handle.

It is a feature that protects the user by ensuring that adjustments can only be made while the dumbbell is not in use.

Once the dumbbell leaves the tray, there is no way that the components will move or fall off. 

• Adjustability

Like the Flybird Adjustable Dumbbell, this set from Buxano makes switching between weights a breeze.

That is because you just have to turn the handle while the dumbbell is in the tray to choose a setting.

There is a pointer that will tell you what weight is being used, and you will also hear a clicking sound after the adjustment.

With this feature, you can enjoy a seamless workout where you do not have to stop all the time to switch weight settings.

Pros:

• Decent weight range
• Easy to adjust
• Non-slip handle
• Security settings

Cons:

• Plastic ends
• High weight increments; not for beginners

FAQs About Dumbbells

1. What is the advantage of using dumbbells over barbells?

Both fitness tools are great for full-body exercises, which is important if you want to achieve a particular physique.

However, dumbbells are better at isolating specific muscle groups and strengthening weak areas.

2. Is it OK to drop an adjustable dumbbell?

Adjustable dumbbells are quite durable, but they have mechanisms that facilitate the switching of weights.

It is not a good idea to drop the dumbbell as this might interfere with their functionality.

3. What exercises can you perform if you use a pair of dumbbells?

Any type of exercise is doable with a pair of dumbbells. You can perform squats, bicep curls, dumbbell rows, and more. 

A pair of light dumbbells will do the trick if you want to take your cardio workouts to the next level.

The possibilities are endless.

4. Are adjustable dumbbells safe to use?

Adjustable dumbbells are safe, but you must make sure you use them as instructed.

Also, it might be a good idea to check for defects regularly.

This way, you can ensure that the weights won’t fall off as you work out.

5. Is it possible to get a ripped body using just dumbbells?

You could get ripped using dumbbells with the right fitness plan, proper diet, and enough rest.

This is especially true if you buy sets with weights exceeding 50 lbs.

Which Dumbbell Set Is Best for You?

All the dumbbell sets reviewed above are top-notch products, but if we have to pick just one, we recommend Sporzon! Dumbbells.

They are simple yet effective and can help you achieve your fitness goal, whether losing weight or building muscles.

You may need some storage space for these dumbbells, so this is something that you need to think about.

That said, they are relatively affordable, and you can just buy the weights that you need.

If you have the space for hex dumbbells, you should seriously consider this gym equipment.