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PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 Adjustable Dumbbells, 5-50 lb (Pair)View on Amazon ↗VSQuick verdict
Choose the PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 Adjustable Dumbbells, 5-50 lb (Pair) if you want stays narrower handle-to-handle than round-plate designs at every weight setting. Choose the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair) if you'd rather have fastest, most proven adjustment mechanism in the category. Overall we rank the PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 Adjustable Dumbbells, 5-50 lb (Pair) higher: #1 versus #2 in our Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Heavy Lifting list.
Winner overall: PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 Adjustable Dumbbells, 5-50 lb (Pair)
PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 Adjustable Dumbbells, 5-50 lb (Pair) vs Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair) compared
Every difference that matters, in one table.
Keep researching
- Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Heavy Lifting
- PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 Adjustable Dumbbells, 5-50 lb (Pair) review
- Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair) review
- All adjustable dumbbells
Bottom line
Choose the PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 Adjustable Dumbbells, 5-50 lb (Pair) if you want stays narrower handle-to-handle than round-plate designs at every weight setting. Choose the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair) if you'd rather have fastest, most proven adjustment mechanism in the category. Overall we rank the PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 Adjustable Dumbbells, 5-50 lb (Pair) higher: #1 versus #2 in our Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Heavy Lifting list.
PowerBlock
Highest achievable ceiling in this list at 90 lb per hand with full expansion
- 5 to 50 lb per hand, expandable to 90 lb with Stage 2 and 3 kits
- Pin-selector weight system
- Steel internals for durability under heavy loads
✓ Pros
- Fastest, most proven adjustment mechanism in the category
- Consistent 2.5 lb increments across the full range for smooth progression
- Widest parts and accessory availability of any adjustable dumbbell
✕ Cons
- 52.5 lb ceiling with no official expansion path
- Wider footprint than block-shaped alternatives
Bowflex
Highest ceiling in this list, room to grow well past a beginner's first year without upgrading
- 5 to 52.5 lb per hand, 2.5 lb increments
- Dial-turn selector
- Molded storage trays included
✓ Pros
- Highest ceiling in this list, room to grow well past a beginner's first year without upgrading
- Widest parts and community support if you have questions starting out
- Fine 2.5 lb increments make it easy to find a comfortable starting weight
✕ Cons
- Costs significantly more than the budget picks in this list
- More dumbbell than most true beginners need on day one
FAQ
Common questions
Which is better, the PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 Adjustable Dumbbells, 5-50 lb (Pair) or the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair)?
Choose the PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 Adjustable Dumbbells, 5-50 lb (Pair) if you want stays narrower handle-to-handle than round-plate designs at every weight setting. Choose the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair) if you'd rather have fastest, most proven adjustment mechanism in the category. Overall we rank the PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 Adjustable Dumbbells, 5-50 lb (Pair) higher: #1 versus #2 in our Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Heavy Lifting list.
What is the difference between the PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 Adjustable Dumbbells, 5-50 lb (Pair) and the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair)?
The PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 Adjustable Dumbbells, 5-50 lb (Pair) stands out because stays narrower handle-to-handle than round-plate designs at every weight setting, while the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair) stands out because fastest, most proven adjustment mechanism in the category. The trade-offs differ too: the PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 Adjustable Dumbbells, 5-50 lb (Pair)'s ma in caveat is that boxy shape feels less like a traditional dumbbell to some lifters, and the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair)'s is that 52.5 lb ceiling with no official expansion path.
Is the PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 Adjustable Dumbbells, 5-50 lb (Pair) worth it over the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair)?
For most buyers, yes: it's our #1 pick. Consider the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair) instead if boxy shape feels less like a traditional dumbbell to some lifters is a deal-breaker for you.
Who should buy the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair) instead of the PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 Adjustable Dumbbells, 5-50 lb (Pair)?
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair) suits home gyms, while the PowerBlock Elite EXP Stage 1 Adjustable Dumbbells, 5-50 lb (Pair) is best for small apartments.
Keep researching
Related guides & comparisons
Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair)