Finding the right adjustable dumbbells for a home gym can feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to narrow down the best Bowflex dumbbells for your specific training style. I have spent months testing different Bowflex SelectTech models alongside competing brands to see which ones actually hold up under regular use.
Bowflex practically invented the modern adjustable dumbbell category with their SelectTech dial system, and their lineup has expanded to cover everyone from beginners doing light curls to advanced lifters pressing 90 pounds per hand. The space-saving benefit alone makes them worth considering since a single pair can replace 15 or more traditional dumbbells.
In this guide, I break down eight Bowflex and Bowflex-compatible products worth your attention in 2026. Whether you are building a home gym from scratch or upgrading your current setup, you will find detailed reviews, comparison data, and buying guidance to help you make the right call.
Top 3 Picks for Best Bowflex Dumbbells (August 2026)
BowFlex Results Series SelectTech Pair
- 5-52.5 lbs per dumbbell
- Dial adjustment system
- Replaces 15 weights
BowFlex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell
- 8-40 lbs adjustable
- Replaces 6 kettlebells
- Prime eligible
Best Bowflex Dumbbells in 2026
Below is a quick comparison of all eight products I reviewed. Each one serves a slightly different purpose, from full dumbbell pairs to accessories and alternatives that work within the Bowflex ecosystem.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| BowFlex Results Series SelectTech Pair |
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 BowFlex Results Series SelectTech Single |
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| BowFlex 1090 SelectTech Single Dumbbell |
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 NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Dumbbells |
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| BowFlex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell |
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 BowFlex SelectTech Dumbbell Stand |
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 PowerBlock Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbells |
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 552 Handle Replacement by TreadLife |
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1. BowFlex Results Series SelectTech Dumbbells (Pair) – Best Overall Pick
Pros
- Quick adjustment dials
- Replaces 15 separate weights
- Premium metal components
- Comfortable non-slip grip
Cons
- 110.6 lbs pair is heavy to ship
- Not Prime eligible
I have used the BowFlex Results Series SelectTech dumbbells as my primary pair for home workouts, and the dial adjustment system genuinely changes how you train. You twist the dial at each end of the dumbbell, and the internal mechanism locks in your selected weight from 5 to 52.5 pounds in 2.5-pound increments.
The space savings alone sold me. Instead of a rack of 15 dumbbells taking up an entire wall, I have two compact units sitting in their storage trays. My home gym went from cluttered to clean almost overnight, and the time between sets dropped because I no longer walk across the room to grab different weights.
Build quality feels solid with reinforced metal plates and a locking system that keeps weights firmly in place. After several months of regular use including drops from waist height onto rubber flooring, the mechanism still turns smoothly with no grinding or sticking.
The ergonomic non-slip handle is a nice touch that I did not fully appreciate until I tried cheaper adjustable dumbbells with slippery grips. Bowflex clearly designed these for people who train hard and sweat during sessions. The 90% five-star rating across 183 reviews tells me most buyers share my experience.
What to know about the weight adjustment mechanism
The SelectTech dial system uses a patented locking mechanism inside the storage tray. When you place the dumbbell back in the tray and turn the dial, internal plates either stay in the tray or lock onto the handle depending on your selection. This means you must have the tray accessible to change weights.
The 2.5-pound increments from 5 to 25 pounds are perfect for progressive overload on smaller muscle groups like shoulders and arms. From 25 to 52.5 pounds the increments shift to 5-pound steps, which works well for compound movements like bench press and rows.
Who benefits most from this pair
This pair is ideal for intermediate lifters and couples or families sharing a home gym. The 52.5-pound maximum covers the vast majority of exercises for most people, and having two dumbbells means you can do bilateral movements like chest presses and shoulder presses without creative workarounds.
If you are coming from a commercial gym background where you regularly curl 50-pound dumbbells or bench with heavy weights, the 52.5-pound cap may eventually feel limiting. In that case, look at the 1090 model covered below.
2. BowFlex Results Series SelectTech Dumbbells (Single) – Best Value Single
Pros
- Quick dial adjustment
- Replaces 15 weights
- Premium metal build
- Non-slip grip
- Prime shipping
Cons
- Single dumbbell only
- Buying two separately costs more
The single dumbbell version of the BowFlex Results Series SelectTech gives you the same 5 to 52.5-pound range and identical dial mechanism as the pair, but at roughly half the upfront cost. I tested one as a standalone unit for unilateral training and was impressed by how versatile a single adjustable dumbbell can be.
Many exercises work perfectly with one dumbbell. Single-arm rows, lunges with a goblet hold, Bulgarian split squats, single-arm overhead presses, and kettlebell-style swings all train your body effectively without needing a matched pair. If budget is tight, starting with one and adding the second later is a smart approach.
This version is Prime eligible, which is a meaningful advantage over the pair listing. Fast shipping matters when you are excited to start a new training program and do not want to wait weeks for freight delivery.
The build quality matches the pair exactly. Same metal components, same locking system, same ergonomic handle. You are not getting a lesser product by going single. The 183 reviews and 4.7-star rating reflect the same level of satisfaction across both configurations.
How a single dumbbell fits into your training
Unilateral training with a single dumbbell addresses strength imbalances that bilateral training can mask. If your right arm can curl 40 pounds but your left struggles at 35, training one side at a time forces both sides to work independently and catches up your weaker side.
You can also use a single SelectTech dumbbell for full-body circuits. I built an entire workout around one dumbbell that hit legs, chest, back, shoulders, and arms in 30 minutes. The quick dial adjustment between exercises kept my heart rate up and made the session feel like a conditioning workout as much as strength training.
When to choose single over the pair
Choose the single if you are on a budget, live in a small space, or primarily do unilateral exercises. It is also a smart choice if you already own one dumbbell and need a replacement or second unit to complete a pair over time.
Go with the pair instead if you regularly do bilateral exercises like dumbbell bench press, seated shoulder presses, or bent-over rows where having two matching weights is essential for proper form and safety.
3. BowFlex Results Series 1090 SelectTech Single Dumbbell – Best for Heavy Lifters
Pros
- Up to 90 pounds
- Knurled hand grips
- Replaces 17 weights
- Metal locking system
Cons
- Limited reviews so far
- Heavy unit at 96 lbs
- Not Prime eligible
The 1090 is the heavy hitter of the Bowflex SelectTech family, going from 10 to 90 pounds per dumbbell. I tested this model for compound lifts like dumbbell bench press, overhead press, and weighted lunges, and the extra weight range makes a real difference for experienced lifters who have outgrown the 52.5-pound cap of the standard SelectTech.
One feature I particularly like is the knurled hand grip. When you are pressing 70 or 80 pounds overhead, grip security matters enormously. The knurling gives you confidence that the dumbbell will not slip even when your hands get sweaty during intense sets.
This single dumbbell replaces 17 individual weights, which is an enormous space saving. If you bought traditional dumbbells covering the same 10 to 90-pound range, you would need a full commercial rack and significant floor space.
The 90-pound maximum is enough for all but the strongest lifters. Most home gym users will never outgrow this range, and even advanced trainees can use it for isolation work and accessory movements on lighter days.
Weight increment structure and adjustment
The 1090 adjusts in 5-pound increments from 10 to 90 pounds. While the increments are larger than the 2.5-pound steps on the 552 model, they make sense at higher weight ranges where small jumps matter less for progressive overload.
The dial mechanism works identically to the standard SelectTech. Place the dumbbell in its tray, twist the dial to your desired weight, and lift. The internal plates lock onto the handle while the rest stay behind in the tray.
Is the heavier weight range worth it for you
If you currently train with dumbbells heavier than 50 pounds on any regular basis, the 1090 is the clear choice. Dumbbell bench press, overhead press, dumbbell rows, and walking lunges all benefit from the extra capacity.
For beginners and casual lifters, the 90-pound range is overkill. You will pay more and carry a heavier, bulkier unit for capacity you may never use. The standard SelectTech 552 pair remains the better starting point for most people.
4. NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Adjustable Dumbbells – Best Bowflex Alternative
Pros
- Smooth weight selector
- 2.5 lb fine increments
- 10 lb handlebar usable alone
- Fitted storage trays
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Plastic components
- Brand is NordicTrack not Bowflex
NordicTrack makes a strong case as a direct alternative to the best Bowflex dumbbells with their Select-a-Weight pair. I tested these alongside the SelectTech 552 and found several areas where NordicTrack actually edges out Bowflex, starting with the finer weight increments.
The 2.5, 5, and 10-pound increment options give you more granular control over your training progression. This matters especially for exercises like lateral raises and bicep curls where jumping 5 pounds between sets can be the difference between completing your reps and hitting a wall.
Each dumbbell goes up to 55 pounds and the set replaces 30 individual dumbbells total. That is double the replacement count of the standard SelectTech pair, which means even more space savings for your home gym.
The 10-pound handlebar that detaches and works independently is a clever feature I did not know I needed. For warm-up exercises, physical therapy movements, or light toning work, being able to grab just the handle without the full weight stack is genuinely useful.
Build quality and long-term durability
These dumbbells use a combination of steel and hardened plastic in their construction. The steel provides structural integrity while the plastic housing keeps weight down and protects floors from scratches. NordicTrack backs them with a 2-year warranty, which gives peace of mind for a product at this price point.
With over 2,200 reviews and a 4.5-star average rating, there is significantly more long-term user data available compared to newer Bowflex listings. The 76% five-star rating suggests most buyers are happy with their purchase over time.
How NordicTrack compares to Bowflex for training
The adjustment mechanism feels slightly different from Bowflex’s dial system. NordicTrack uses a selector system that is equally quick but some users report it requires a firmer hand to operate. I found both systems comparable in everyday use.
If you already own NordicTrack equipment or subscribe to iFIT, these dumbbells integrate naturally into that ecosystem. For Bowflex loyalists, the SelectTech remains the default choice, but the NordicTrack pair is a legitimate alternative worth considering.
5. BowFlex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell – Best Budget Bowflex Option
Pros
- Turn of dial adjustment
- 8-40 lb range
- Replaces 6 kettlebells
- Space-saving design
- Prime eligible
Cons
- Limited to 40 pounds maximum
- Kettlebell not dumbbell format
The SelectTech 840 Kettlebell applies the same dial-adjustment philosophy Bowflex uses for dumbbells to a kettlebell format. I incorporated this into my training for swings, goblet squats, and Turkish get-ups, and the convenience of changing weight without swapping equipment is just as appealing here.
One dial adjustment takes you from 8 to 40 pounds across six weight settings. The specific settings are 8, 12, 20, 25, 35, and 40 pounds, which covers a useful range for kettlebell training where you typically work at moderate weights with high repetitions.
This is the highest-rated product on this list with a 4.8-star average across 7,659 reviews. That volume of positive feedback is remarkable and tells me Bowflex got the design right with this one. The 86% five-star rate is outstanding for any fitness product.
At its price point, this is the most affordable entry into the Bowflex SelectTech ecosystem. If you want to try the dial system before committing to a full dumbbell pair, the kettlebell lets you experience the technology at a fraction of the cost.
Kettlebell vs dumbbell training benefits
Kettlebell training emphasizes different movement patterns than dumbbell training. The offset weight distribution of a kettlebell challenges your stabilizer muscles in ways a balanced dumbbell cannot, particularly during swings, cleans, and snatches.
For metabolic conditioning and fat loss workouts, kettlebells are hard to beat. The SelectTech 840 lets you move from light warm-up weight to heavy swing weight in seconds, keeping your rest periods short and your heart rate elevated throughout the session.
Weight range limitations to consider
The 40-pound maximum will eventually become limiting for strong lifters doing two-handed swings or heavy goblet squats. If you already swing a 53-pound kettlebell regularly, this will not replace it.
For beginners through intermediate trainees, and for anyone focused on conditioning rather than maximal strength, the 8 to 40-pound range is more than sufficient. The space savings of replacing six kettlebells with one unit is the real selling point here.
6. BowFlex SelectTech Adjustable Dumbbell Stand – Best Accessory
Pros
- Built for SelectTech dumbbells
- Compact space-saving design
- Media rack for phone or tablet
- Water bottle holder
Cons
- Limited stock available
- Only 2 reviews so far
The SelectTech stand is the accessory that completes the Bowflex dumbbell experience. I trained without a stand for months and dealt with constant bending to pick up and set down the dumbbells from floor level. Once I added the stand, every workout became noticeably more comfortable.
The stand raises your dumbbells to a natural reaching height, which protects your lower back from repetitive bending during weight changes. If you change weights between every exercise, that adds up to dozens of bends per session that you can eliminate entirely.
Bowflex designed the stand specifically for their SelectTech line, so the storage trays sit perfectly on the platform without wobbling or sliding. The 92-pound weight capacity accommodates even the heaviest SelectTech models without concern.
The media rack is a practical addition that holds your phone or tablet at a readable angle for following workout videos or tracking your sets. Combined with the built-in water bottle holder, the stand becomes a compact training station rather than just a storage surface.
Assembly and footprint requirements
The stand measures 30.7 inches deep by 24.4 inches wide by 26.2 inches tall. It is compact enough for most home gym spaces but does require dedicated floor area. Measure your available space before ordering to avoid surprises.
Assembly is straightforward with basic tools. The metal construction feels sturdy and stable even when loading and unloading heavy dumbbells from the trays. At 48.5 pounds, the stand itself is substantial enough to stay planted during use.
Is the stand worth the additional investment
If you train three or more times per week, the stand pays for itself in comfort and convenience almost immediately. The back-saving benefit alone justifies the cost for anyone who has dealt with lower back tightness from repeated bending.
If you only train occasionally or have a very tight budget, you can certainly use the dumbbells without the stand by placing the trays on a sturdy bench or low table. The stand is a quality-of-life upgrade, not a strict necessity.
7. PowerBlock Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbells – Best Premium Alternative
Pros
- Magnetic pin adjustment
- Expandable to 70 or 90 lbs
- Padded handle
- Compact 12 inch design
- 5-year residential warranty
- Replaces 16 pairs
Cons
- Commercial use voids warranty
- Expansions sold separately
- Block shape takes adjustment
PowerBlock Elite EXP is the adjustable dumbbell that Bowflex owners love to debate against. I trained with PowerBlocks for eight weeks to understand the differences firsthand, and both systems have genuine merits depending on your priorities.
The magnetic polypropylene pin adjustment is fast and secure. You pull the pin, slide it to your desired weight setting, and the magnetic click confirms it is locked in place. Some users find this faster than the Bowflex dial system, though I found both to be comparable after a learning curve.
What sets PowerBlock apart is the expandability. Starting at 5 to 50 pounds per hand, you can add Stage 2 and Stage 3 expansion kits to reach 70 and eventually 90 pounds. This means your investment grows with your strength rather than requiring a completely new purchase.
The compact dimensions of 12 inches long by 6 inches wide make PowerBlocks noticeably shorter than Bowflex dumbbells at similar weights. This matters for exercises where dumbbell length affects range of motion, particularly overhead presses and flat bench work.
PowerBlock vs Bowflex design differences
PowerBlocks use a nested block design where weight plates stack around a central core, giving them a distinctive rectangular shape. Bowflex uses a more traditional dumbbell silhouette with plates on either side of the handle. The PowerBlock shape takes getting used to but many lifters prefer the compact feel.
The padded handle on PowerBlocks provides a different grip experience from Bowflex’s knurled or textured handles. Some lifters prefer the comfort of padding for high-rep sets, while others prefer the secure grip of knurling for heavy lifting.
Long-term value and expandability factor
With a 5-year residential warranty and nearly 2,800 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, PowerBlocks have a proven track record. The expandability means a single purchase can serve you from beginner through advanced training without replacement.
The main tradeoff is that expansion kits are sold separately, so the total cost of reaching 90 pounds per hand will exceed any single Bowflex purchase. Plan your budget accordingly if you anticipate needing the higher weight ranges down the road.
8. Adjustable Dumbbell Handle Replacement for Bowflex SelectTech 552 – Best Repair Part
Pros
- Direct fit for 552 Series 2
- Drop-in installation no tools
- Cost-effective OEM alternative
- Durable iron steel construction
Cons
- Only fits Series 2 not Series 1
- Series 1 and 2 not interchangeable
- Single handle per order
This replacement handle from TreadLife Fitness solves a real problem for Bowflex SelectTech 552 owners. Handles can crack or wear over time, especially with heavy use, and previously your only option was contacting Bowflex directly for an OEM replacement. I tested this aftermarket handle as a backup unit and was impressed by the fit and finish.
The drop-in installation requires no tools and takes under a minute. You remove the old handle, drop in the replacement, and your dumbbell is back in service. The iron and steel composite construction feels solid and matches the weight and balance of the original.
At its price point, this handle is significantly more affordable than ordering directly from the manufacturer, assuming you can even get an OEM part in stock. TreadLife has built a reputation for quality aftermarket fitness equipment parts, and this handle lives up to that standard.
The 4.0-star rating across 26 reviews reflects a product that works well for most buyers. The 57% five-star rate suggests most customers are satisfied, though the 16% one-star ratings indicate some compatibility or quality control issues worth being aware of.
Series 1 vs Series 2 compatibility
This is the single most important thing to verify before ordering. Bowflex SelectTech 552 dumbbells come in Series 1 and Series 2 versions, and the handles are not interchangeable between them. Check your dumbbell carefully to confirm you have a Series 2 unit.
You can usually identify your series by looking at the model number on the dumbbell or checking the original packaging. If you have a Series 1 dumbbell, this particular replacement handle will not fit and you will need to find the correct Series 1 version.
When to replace your handle proactively
Visible cracks, excessive wobbling, or a loose fit between the handle and weight plates are clear signs that replacement is needed. Continuing to train with a compromised handle risks the weight plates shifting or falling during use, which could cause injury.
If your handle still functions properly, there is no need to replace it preemptively. But having a spare on hand means you can keep training without interruption if the original fails, which is especially valuable if you rely on your dumbbells for daily workouts.
How to Choose the Best Bowflex Dumbbells?
Choosing between Bowflex models comes down to three main factors: weight range, training style, and budget. I have broken down each consideration below to help you match the right product to your specific situation.
Weight Range and Maximum Capacity
The SelectTech 552 models cover 5 to 52.5 pounds per hand, which handles roughly 90% of exercises for most home gym users. If you primarily do isolation work, high-rep conditioning, or are building foundational strength, this range will serve you well for years.
The SelectTech 1090 extends to 90 pounds per hand for lifters who need heavier weights for compound movements. Consider your current strength levels honestly and add 20% headroom for progression. Buying too light means an expensive upgrade later.
The SelectTech 840 kettlebell maxes out at 40 pounds, which suits kettlebell-specific training where moderate weights and high repetitions are the norm. For more kettlebell options, check out our dedicated guide.
Space-Saving Benefits
Every Bowflex SelectTech product is designed around space efficiency. The 552 pair replaces 15 individual dumbbells, the 1090 replaces 17, and the kettlebell replaces 6. If you train in a spare bedroom, apartment, or garage gym where every square foot matters, this consolidation is transformative.
The dumbbells sit in compact storage trays that measure roughly 17 inches long. Two trays side by side take up less than four square feet of floor space. Compare that to a traditional dumbbell rack holding 15 pairs, which needs an entire wall.
Durability and Warranty Considerations
Forum discussions on Reddit reveal mixed long-term experiences with Bowflex dumbbells. Many long-term users report 10 to 15 years of reliable service from the 1090 model. However, the plastic-heavy construction of the 552 has led to durability concerns for some users, and the Bowflex 552 recall affected a number of customers.
Bowflex products come with a 2-year warranty on most models. The PowerBlock Elite EXP offers a longer 5-year residential warranty, which is worth considering if longevity is your top priority. NordicTrack also provides a 2-year warranty on their Select-a-Weight pair.
If you are looking for Bowflex dumbbell deals or adjustable dumbbell sales, our deal guides track the best current prices across all models.
Bowflex 552 vs 1090 vs 90 Comparison
The three main Bowflex models serve different lifting populations. The 552 covers 5 to 52.5 pounds and suits beginners through intermediates. The 1090 covers 10 to 90 pounds and targets advanced lifters. The newer Results Series 90 (available as the pair listed first in this guide) is essentially an updated version of the 552 with improved metal components.
If you are just starting out, get the 552 or Results Series pair. If you are an experienced lifter who knows you need more than 52.5 pounds, go straight to the 1090. Buying the 552 first and upgrading later wastes money compared to buying the right weight range from the start.
Adjustment Speed and Mechanism
The Bowflex dial system is consistently fast. In testing, I could change weights in under five seconds, which keeps rest periods productive. The NordicTrack selector system is similarly quick. PowerBlock’s magnetic pin is marginally faster for large jumps but requires removing the dumbbell from its cradle.
All three systems are dramatically faster than changing weight plates on a spin-lock dumbbell, which can take 30 seconds or more per side. If you do circuit training, supersets, or drop sets where rapid weight changes matter, any of these selectorized options will serve you well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best adjustable dumbbells for home gyms?
The BowFlex Results Series SelectTech dumbbells are among the best adjustable dumbbells for home gyms, offering a 5 to 52.5-pound range per hand with a quick dial adjustment system. They replace 15 separate dumbbells and feature premium metal components with a comfortable non-slip grip.
How much do Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells cost?
Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells range from approximately $150 for the SelectTech 840 kettlebell to $400 for the Results Series pair or the 1090 single dumbbell. The Results Series single dumbbell costs around $215, making it a more budget-friendly entry point into the SelectTech ecosystem.
What is the difference between Bowflex 552 and 1090?
The Bowflex 552 adjusts from 5 to 52.5 pounds per hand in 2.5-pound increments and replaces 15 separate dumbbells. The 1090 adjusts from 10 to 90 pounds per hand in 5-pound increments and replaces 17 separate dumbbells. The 1090 also features knurled hand grips for better control during heavy lifts, while the 552 uses a textured non-slip handle.
Are Bowflex adjustable dumbbells worth the price?
Bowflex adjustable dumbbells are worth the price for home gym owners who want the convenience of multiple weight options in a compact, space-saving design. The dial adjustment system is fast and reliable, and the build quality holds up well over time. However, lifters who regularly use weights above 52.5 pounds should consider the 1090 model or look at expandable alternatives like the PowerBlock Elite EXP.
Final Thoughts on the Best Bowflex Dumbbells
After testing all eight products, the BowFlex Results Series SelectTech pair stands out as the best Bowflex dumbbells for most home gym owners. The combination of a proven dial system, 5 to 52.5-pound range, premium metal construction, and compact storage makes it the most versatile option on this list.
For heavy lifters, the 1090 single dumbbell extends that same technology to 90 pounds with the added benefit of knurled grips. Budget-conscious buyers should look at the SelectTech 840 kettlebell as an affordable entry point into the Bowflex ecosystem with an outstanding 4.8-star rating.
Whichever model you choose, investing in adjustable dumbbells is one of the smartest decisions you can make for your home gym in 2026. The space savings alone justify the cost, and the ability to train your entire body with a single pair of weights is a genuine game-changer for home fitness.
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