Best Adjustable Dumbbells in the U.S. 2026: A Complete Review of Bowflex SelectTech

Why Adjustable Dumbbells Remain Popular in 2026

More people rely on small home gyms than ever before. Adjustable dumbbells solve three consistent problems:

• They save space by replacing a full rack.

• They reduce long-term cost.

• They make it easier to switch weights during workouts.

Bowflex was one of the first brands to turn this idea into a mainstream product. Their SelectTech models remain some of the most widely used sets in the country.

1. Build Quality and Design

SelectTech 552 (5–52.5 lbs)

The 552 model uses a simple dial system. You turn the dial to select the weight, lift the dumbbell from the base and you’re ready to go. The casing is mostly molded metal plates with a plastic shell that keeps everything aligned.

SelectTech 1090 (10–90 lbs)

The 1090 model looks similar but feels more robust. It targets intermediate and advanced lifters who need heavier loads.

Real-world durability

Most lifters in the U.S. still prefer Bowflex because the plates lock securely. The plastic casing raised questions in the past, but long-term users report it holds up as long as the dumbbells are not dropped from height. Heavy lifters who like explosive movements may find the plates shift slightly, but not enough to affect the exercise.

Ease of adjustment

Bowflex still has one of the fastest adjustment mechanisms among adjustable sets. Turning the dial takes only a couple of seconds, which helps during supersets or interval-style training.

2. Performance During Workouts

For strength training

Bowflex dumbbells handle most strength exercises without problems. Bench press, rows, curls, shoulder press and lunges feel stable. Weight distribution is even, although the dumbbells are longer than fixed weights. That extra length takes a little time to get used to, especially for chest or tricep movements where the dumbbells can tap against each other.

For HIIT or fast-paced circuits

The quick dial makes it easy to change weights mid-workout. This is where Bowflex outperforms many competing brands that use pin-style or plate-addition systems.

For beginners

The 552 model is a perfect entry point because it covers the weight range most beginners use during their first year of training. The smooth adjustment also prevents “intimidation moments” that come with large racks of weights.

For advanced lifters

Heavy lifters may want the 1090 model. It goes up to 90 pounds per hand, which supports progressive overload for compound lifts. The shape is still long, which can feel awkward for chest pressing, but the tradeoff is worth it for the flexibility it gives.

3. Space Saving: Where Bowflex Still Wins

A standard dumbbell rack with weights from 5 pounds to 50 pounds can take up several feet of space. Bowflex condenses that entire range into a single pair that fits under a desk or in a corner. This remains one of the strongest selling points in 2026, especially for people living in apartments or shared homes.

Even buyers with larger spaces prefer the simplicity of one adjustable set instead of dealing with racks, plates and clutter.

4. App Support and Training Guidance

Bowflex offers a companion app with guided workouts and weight-tracking. The app isn’t flashy, but it covers the basics: video demonstrations, recommended weight settings and workout history. The integration is helpful for beginners who want a simple structure and don’t know where to start.

If you prefer third-party apps like Strong, Fitbod or Apple Fitness, Bowflex dumbbells work just as well without dedicated integration.

The point of the SelectTech system is the hardware, not a complicated ecosystem, and that approach still appeals to most buyers.

5. Pricing in 2026

The pricing in the U.S. varies depending on the retailer:

• SelectTech 552: usually between $349 and $429

• SelectTech 1090: usually between $649 and $799

During major sales, especially around the holidays, both models often drop significantly. Bowflex remains competitive in price despite the growing number of adjustable dumbbell brands in the market. The long lifespan and broad weight range make the investment worth it for anyone committed to home training.

6. Pros and Cons: What You Should Know Before Buying

Pros

• Fast weight adjustment

• Saves considerable space

• Good value for long-term use

• Stable weight distribution

• Smooth learning curve for beginners

• Wide range of weight options

Cons

• Not meant to be dropped

• Longer shape may feel awkward for some exercises

• Plastic shell can wear out with rough handling

• Price can be high outside sale seasons

7. How Bowflex Compares to Other Adjustable Dumbbells in 2026

Bowflex vs NordicTrack

NordicTrack’s pin system works well, but it isn’t as smooth as the Bowflex dial. Bowflex also feels more secure during heavy sets.

Bowflex vs PowerBlock

PowerBlocks have a compact design and are known for durability. The biggest downside is the block-shaped structure, which some users find restrictive for wrist movement. Bowflex feels more natural for curls, presses and rows.

Bowflex vs Budget Brands

Many budget adjustable dumbbells look similar to Bowflex but use cheaper parts. Buyers often report uneven plates, slipping mechanisms and slow weight adjustments. Bowflex still leads on reliability.

If your priority is long-term use, Bowflex remains the safer choice.

8. Who Should Buy Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells in 2026

Great for

• Beginners who want an all-in-one setup

• Apartment or condo residents

• Home gym users who want flexible weight changes

• People who follow structured strength programs

• Intermediate and advanced lifters using the 1090 model

• Anyone replacing a full dumbbell rack

Not ideal for

• Lifters who train with explosive movements

• People who drop weights after sets

• Those who prefer compact dumbbell size over adjustable length

Final Verdict

Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells remain one of the strongest home gym investments in 2026. They offer a good blend of durability, range, ease of use and value. Beginners can grow into them, and experienced lifters can use the heavier model without outgrowing it too quickly.

If your goal is to build a home gym that feels simple, functional and flexible, Bowflex adjustable dumbbells still stand at the top of the market. They aren’t perfect, but they deliver consistent performance that makes training at home easier and more enjoyable.