Dumbbell Buying Guide – The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide To Hand Held Weights

While gyms have evolved and changed over the years, adding all kinds of weird and wonderful machines (we’re looking at you, Skierg!) You can still walk into any gym and find racks and racks of dumbbells.

Best dumbbells for 2025

1PROIRON 20kg Cast Iron Adjustable Dumbbell Set Hand Weight

Best Overall

"Solid build quality with easy adjustments, making workouts effective for beginners and professionals."

1. Weight range: 0.5kg - 30kg
2. Material: Cast Iron
3. Adjustable?: Yes
4. Level: Pro

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Amazon UK

2MuscleSquad Hex Rubber Dumbbell Pairs (25kg)

Runner Up

"Well-rated, durable dumbbells with comfortable grip, perfect for versatile home workouts."

1. Weight range: 1kg to 50kg
2. Material: Rubber
3. Adjustable?: Yes
4. Level: Suitable for all levels

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Amazon UK

3Extreme Fitness Hex Dumbbell Rubber Weights Set & Storage Rack

"Compact storage with a wide range of dumbbell weights for versatile home workouts."

1. Weight range: 2.5-25kg
2. Material: Rubber
3. Adjustable?: No
4. Level: Beginner to Intermediate

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Amazon UK

4LifePro Adjustable Dumbbells Set

"Space-saving dumbbells with adjustable weight options for versatile workouts and compact storage."

1. Weight range: 2.25kg to 11.25kg
2. Material: Alloy Steel
3. Adjustable?: Yes
4. Level: Beginner to Advanced

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Amazon UK

5Northdeer Adjustable Dumbbells Set 10kg Pair (5kg/7kg/8kg/10kg) Ultracompact Chrome Dumbbells

"Solid and stylish design with easy weight adjustment."

1. Weight range: Adjustable from 1kg to 25kg
2. Material: Alloy Steel
3. Adjustable?: Yes
4. Level: Suitable for beginner to advanced

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Amazon UK

6BRAINGAIN Adjustable Dumbbells Set 24kg / 40kg Pair

"Space-saving with versatile weight options, ideal for varied workouts and multiple users."

1. Weight range: 2.5kg - 24kg
2. Material: Durable cast iron
3. Adjustable?: Yes
4. Level: Suitable for all fitness levels

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Amazon UK

7Dripex Adjustable Dumbbells Weight Set 2.5kg/5kg/10kg Pair

"Versatile dumbbells with easy weight adjustment, perfect for home workouts."

1. Weight range: 4kg to 10kg
2. Material: Stainless Steel, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
3. Adjustable?: Yes
4. Level: Beginner to Advanced

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Amazon UK

8Chase Fitness 22.5KG Hex Dumbbell PAIR Rubber Coated

"High-quality dumbbells with a protective rubber coating and comfortable knurling grip."

1. Weight range: 22.5kg each
2. Material: Cast Iron
3. Adjustable?: No
4. Level: Intermediate to Advanced

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Amazon UK

This age-old training equipment has stood the test of time and they’re still one of the more popular pieces of gym gear around in 2025. There are many dumbbell benefits and this humble training tool is suitable for anyone, of any age. In this guide, we’re nerding out on this muscle-building staple and helping anyone new to lifting free weights pick the perfect dumbbells for them.

• A full dumbbell buying guide – what you’ll need and why
• How to get them most out of them
• Things to look out for selecting the correct weight
• Lots of other tips and tricks that will save you some problems

Why dumbbells should be in any home gym

This humble bit of gym equipment is a basic tool for strength training and it constitutes a vital part of the workout routine of most fitness enthusiast’s around the world.

Whether you go for a single dumbbell, a set of two (highly recommended – you’ll be able to do more exercises…) or a bench and weights package, this basic strength training tool can transform your body.

The beauty is you can purchase your own dumbbells fairly cheaply and exercise with it from the comfort of your home. If you’re shopping for the perfect set of dumbbells, there’s a few tips and tricks that you need to know.

What are the best Amazon dumbbells in 2025?

Top Pick

PROIRON 20kg Cast Iron Adjustable Dumbbell Set Hand Weight

Overall Best Dumbbells

Sturdy, reliable and perfect for people looking to enhance total body fitness. Worth buying for versatile exercises and long-term durability.

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The PROIRON 9kg/14kg Adjustable Dumbbells stand out for their versatility and practicality. They're perfect for users wanting to improve total body fitness and encourage cardiovascular health. They target specific muscles without causing pain and offer an inexpensive yet effective workout. Made of high-quality cast iron, they promise lifetime durability.

The package includes solid steel handles and an extension bar, turning the dumbbells into a barbell. This feature adds value as it allows for varied exercises without the need for multiple pieces of equipment. The knurled all-steel handle provides excellent grip and the anti-loose rubber ring on the collar ensures safety during workouts.

One downside is the extension bar, which isn't long enough for some users. This affects the barbell experience. While it's great as a pair of dumbbells, the barbell feature could be improved. Moreover, the dumbbells are a bit bulky, making them less ideal for smaller spaces. It would be great if the bar extension could be adjusted to suit different needs.

Some users also felt the weights could be better balanced when assembled. However, these issues don't seem to detract much from the overall quality and utility.

Compared to other weights, PROIRON's dumbbells rank high among adjustable sets. They are well-received, with a 4.5 average rating from over 13,000 reviews. Users appreciate the solid build quality and ease of conversion from dumbbells to a barbell. Although the bar extension could be longer, it still outshines many similar products in this price range.

The pricing in this category is competitive, especially given the quality of materials used. For users looking for versatile fitness equipment, these dumbbells are a reliable choice.

If you want durable and versatile dumbbells, PROIRON's adjustable set is worth considering. Good for beginners and experienced users alike, they offer a solid workout solution at home. Just keep in mind the barbell extension might not be as effective. Overall, they're a sound investment.

Runner up

MuscleSquad Hex Rubber Dumbbell Pairs (25kg)

Runner Up Dumbbells

Perfect for people wanting a sturdy, reliable and versatile workout tool at home. Its hex shape offers stability and safety.

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What we liked:

The MuscleSquad Hex Rubber Dumbbell Pairs are truly impressive. I love the variety these come in. With weights ranging from 1kg to 50kg, they're suitable for everyone. The durable rubber casing minimizes noise and prevents wear during intense workouts. This is perfect for home use. Their hex shape is especially great for exercises like renegade rows. The knurled 33mm handle offers a comfortable grip, which is crucial for longer sessions. You can also combine them with other MuscleSquad equipment for diverse routines.

The inclusion of a free downloadable exercise chart is a thoughtful bonus. It helps you plan and execute varied workouts. The quality is evident in user reviews, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 237 reviewers.

What we didn't like:

While these dumbbells are top-notch in quality, some users mention that they aren't the most affordable option. A few reviews noted that the price could be a bit steep, especially when adding multiple weights to a collection. However, the durability and versatility tend to justify the cost for many.

Some might find the 11.3kg dumbbells heavy to move around due to their weight. Improvements in portability could make them more user-friendly.

How does it compare to similar dumbbells?

Compared to other dumbbells, MuscleSquad HEX stands out with its extensive weight range and robust build. Many dumbbells on the market don't offer such durability with rubber casing. This makes them more noise-friendly for home use. The hex shape is also a unique feature, useful for specific exercises.

This brand offers more versatility in workouts because it can be combined with additional MuscleSquad equipment, which isn’t something many competitors provide.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

Yes, especially for home gym users looking to invest in durable and versatile dumbbells. With a broad weight range and solid build quality, they cater to various fitness levels and needs. However, if budget is a concern, consider which weights you need most to start.

Extreme Fitness Hex Dumbbell Rubber Weights Set & Storage Rack

Ideal hex dumbbells for compact home gyms

Efficient, space-saving set for varied workouts. Rubber-coated for durability. Perfect for home gyms needing versatility.

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What we liked about the hex dumbbells

I found the Extreme Fitness Rubber Dumbbell Hex Weights Set truly impressive, particularly due to its wide range of weights from 2.5kg to 25kg. The set is perfect for home gyms and offers versatility for a full-body workout. The rubber coating is a standout feature as it enhances grip and safety during exercise. Users appreciate the ergonomic design of the handles, which makes lifting comfortable. What's more, the set comes with a durable rack that is compact enough to fit in small spaces. This makes it a great choice for home or commercial use. The fact that it’s both space-saving and high-quality makes it highly appealing.

What we didn't like...

There were a few downsides noted by users. A common issue was the misleading information about the weight range. Someone received weights only up to 12.5kg instead of the promised 25kg, sparking disappointment. Additionally, some confusion arose due to split deliveries. Although the seller was responsive in such cases, it would be better if weight increments were more consistent between 10kg and 25kg. This would potentially make it more appealing for various workout routines.

How does it compare to similar products?

Among dumbbell sets, it stands out for its compact yet sturdy design. The rubber coating is superior compared to metal counterparts, improving grip and reducing noise when dropped. Though some other dumbbells might offer more weights, the Extreme Fitness set's range is quite adequate for most users. With a high customer rating of 4.6 out of 5, it certainly competes well on quality.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The Extreme Fitness Rubber Dumbbell Hex Weights Set is an excellent choice for those looking for a versatile and compact weight set. With a comfortable grip and durable design, it’s ideal for both home and commercial gyms. Its wide weight range supports full-body workouts, despite some issues with weight labeling.

LifePro Adjustable Dumbbells Set

Best adjustable dumbbells for compact storage

Sturdy, reliable and adjustable for various workouts, perfect for home gyms prioritizing space and versatility.

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The LifePro 11kg adjustable dumbbells are a standout choice for home workouts. What makes them exceptional? They combine five weight options in one compact design, ranging from 2.25kg to 11.25kg. This makes them perfect for customized training. The use of premium alloy steel ensures durability and their ergonomic design adds style to any home gym. Storage is a breeze thanks to their compact build. The upgraded adjustment mechanism is brilliant. It allows users to change weights quickly and efficiently, which is ideal for maintaining workout flow. Users also appreciate the smooth, well-finished surface and strong holding trays.

The flat weight bottoms prevent rolling and the design supports various exercises, from pullovers to pushups.

However, there's room for improvement. Some users noted issues with the lifetime warranty registration. This is a disappointment, considering it’s a significant selling point. Additionally, while the dumbbells are well-constructed, the end caps are plastic with metal end caps, which sometimes arrive dented. A rubber coating on weights could enhance their appeal for home use.

Compared to other adjustable dumbbells, LifePro’s offering is solid and smooth. The simple weight adjustment is a standout feature often missing in other brands. Although some have faced warranty issues, the overall performance rivals other leading dumbbells.

If you're serious about strength training and want flexibility with minimal space, these dumbbells are worth considering. They're highly recommended for their durability and ease of use. However, be cautious about the warranty process.

Northdeer Adjustable Dumbbells Set 10kg Pair (5kg/7kg/8kg/10kg) Ultracompact Chrome Dumbbells

Best for compact home workout spaces

Elegant and versatile, these dumbbells are perfect for home workouts. Suitable for users looking for easy adjustments and stylish storage.

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What we liked:

The Northdeer dumbbells are a standout choice for anyone into fitness. I was quite impressed with their compact design and wide range of adjustable weights. You're looking at a dumbbell that can be adjusted from 3.5kg to 10kg, which is quite handy for varying workouts. The sleek silver finish and solid alloy steel construction make them both durable and visually appealing. I also loved the no-nut design, which makes adjusting the weights a breeze.

Many users commented on how easy they are to grasp and their small size means they don't take up much space. They're built with high-quality materials, ensuring they last for a long time. The elastic foam handles add an extra touch of comfort during workouts. These dumbbells are also designed to stand upright, keeping your home looking tidy.

What we didn't like:

Despite their excellent features, the Northdeer dumbbells aren't perfect. Some users mentioned they are a bit pricey. They do offer good quality, but the cost might be a barrier for some. Though they're compact, extra caution is needed when adjusting weights to avoid misplacing parts. A few reviews pointed out that these could be heavier than expected for beginners, even at their lowest adjustable weight. It would have been great if they included a storage base for better organization.

How do they compare to similar dumbbells?

When you compare the Northdeer dumbbells to others like the Dripex, which starts at a lower price, you find that Northdeer excels in quality and design. The Northdeer dumbbells have a slightly higher user rating than the Dripex set, indicating a good reception. However, the Dskeuzeew set matches the Northdeer in ratings with a more competitive price. Both alternatives offer adjustable weights, but Northdeer stands out for its stylish look and premium build.

Verdict: Are they worth a buy?

If you're willing to invest in quality and style, Northdeer dumbbells are worth considering. These are for users looking for a durable, compact and adjustable dumbbell set that fits well into a modern home. Those who want a premium feel without worrying about space will find these appealing.

BRAINGAIN Adjustable Dumbbells Set 24kg / 40kg Pair

Best adjustable dumbbells for space efficiency

Compact, reliable and great for people who need a range of weights without cluttering their home gym. Saves space while offering multiple weights in one system.

What we liked:

The Braingain Adjustable Dumbbells offer a brilliant space-saving solution for home gyms. What stood out is their ability to combine 15 different weights into one pair of dumbbells. Switching from 2.5kg to 24kg in seconds is ideal for varied workouts. The advanced locking system is a game-changer, ensuring secure and quick adjustments. I appreciated the durable cast iron construction and the knurled non-slip handles, which really feel secure.

These dumbbells cater to all fitness levels, which is perfect for users looking to progress or maintain their strength. Customer reviews mention that they feel high-quality and aren't cheap, which is a big plus for long-term use.

What we didn't like:

Though these dumbbells are well-received by most users, some have pointed out initial concerns with their appearance. They differ slightly from advertised pictures. While customer service eased these worries, it highlights a potential area for improvement. Additionally, while they cover a wide weight range, some might find the transition between weights a bit tricky at first. A simpler adjustment mechanism could further enhance user experience.

How do they compare to similar dumbbells?

Compared to typical adjustable dumbbells, the Braingain set excels with its innovative design and space efficiency. The weight range with small increments offers flexibility not found in many alternatives. Many users praise the high build quality. It's fair to say these dumbbells hold their own against pricier brands without compromising on features or durability.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The Braingain Adjustable Dumbbells suit anyone wanting versatile and durable weights for their home gym. With a smart design and secure weight changes, they cater to users of all fitness levels. Despite minor design concerns, their functional benefits make them a worthwhile addition.

Dripex Adjustable Dumbbells Weight Set 2.5kg/5kg/10kg Pair

Best dumbbells for convenient home use

Sturdy, reliable and highly adjustable dumbbells for people looking to enhance their home workouts. Ideal for improving training efficiency.

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What we liked:

The Dripex Adjustable Dumbbells offer a lot for any fitness enthusiast. The ability to adjust the weights between 4kg, 6kg, 8kg and 10kg easily is a major selling point. You just press and slide to change weights, which helps speed up training sessions. The non-slip handle, made from TPU soft rubber, provides a secure and comfortable grip even if your hands get sweaty. Users found this feature enhances their workout experience. The material, a mix of stainless steel and ABS, adds to its durability. Also, it's compact and portable, saving space in your home gym.

I love that there's a focus on user satisfaction, backed by a return policy that allows returns within 30 days if needed. These dumbbells meet diverse fitness needs effectively.

What we didn't like:

Despite the many positives, some aspects could be improved. The Dripex adjustable dumbbells don't offer weight options beyond 10kg, which might limit advanced users wanting to increase the challenge further. Also, there weren't many reviews available. This makes it hard to gauge long-term durability. More feedback would reassure potential buyers about its lifespan. For some, the lack of additional weight increments might be a downside.

How does it compare to similar dumbbells?

Compared to other dumbbells, Dripex stands out with its easy weight adjustment and non-slip handle. While some brands provide a broader range of weights, these excel with compactness and user-friendly design. Some other brands may lack the same quick adjustment feature and secure grip. This makes Dripex a solid choice for home gyms.

The Dripex Adjustable Dumbbells are ideal for beginners to intermediate users looking for compact, versatile home gym equipment. They're perfect if you need efficient weight adjustment and a secure grip without taking up much space.

Chase Fitness 22.5KG Hex Dumbbell PAIR Rubber Coated

Best for durability and comfort with knurling grip

Sturdy, reliable and perfect for intermediate to advanced users looking for quality weights with a safety-focused design. Worth buying for home workouts or gym use due to their durability and comfort.

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What we liked:

Chase Fitness 22.5kg Hex Dumbbell stands out for several reasons. The high-quality cast iron build ensures durability, making it perfect for both home and gym use. One key feature is the knurling on the handles, which provides a secure grip, helping users lift more comfortably and safely.

Another benefit is the rubber coating. It acts as a protective layer to absorb impacts if dropped, which is crucial for maintaining floor conditions and dumbbell integrity. The hexagonal shape prevents any unwanted rolling and adds convenience when setting them down. Most users find them a great investment for fitness and praise the strong build and quality.

What we didn't like:

While the Chase Fitness dumbbells offer numerous advantages, there are downsides. Some users mentioned the dumbbells are chunkier than expected, which might not suit everyone. One review highlighted the thin grip, which could be an issue for some people looking for more comfort.

Reports of rust-like discoloration under the weights have been noted, though it's unclear if this is actual rust. Additionally, users were disappointed with the customer service. It was described as blunt and unhelpful, which is unfortunate for those needing support.

How does it compare to similar dumbbells?

Compared to other dumbbells, Chase Fitness offers good quality and features for its category. While other dumbbells might offer thicker grips or slightly better finishes, the hex design and rubber coating of these dumbbells are appreciated. However, the customer service issues might steer some users towards other brands for peace of mind.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The Chase Fitness 22.5kg Hex Dumbbell is ideal for those prioritizing durability and grip security. Despite some customer service issues and grip size concerns, its build quality makes it a solid choice for both gym and home settings.

Dumbbells: not the poor cousin to resistance machines … by a long shot

Two words: Functional fitness.

Although you can isolate a muscle group you want to train with a dumbbell (like good old bicep curls!) It’s really hard not to exercise other muscles at the same time. Which is great news! Functional fitness is all about training lots of muscle groups at the same time, getting your whole body stronger and fitter.

It’s mind-blowing that a simple set of dumbbells can have so many benefits to your training and such a diverse number of uses. I’m still finding new ways to use dumbbells (thanks Youtube!)

Dumbbells: one bit of gym gear, endless training possibilities

But with dumbbells, you can perform hundreds of different movements and this is unlike weight machines that only support two movements at best. That is one of the reasons dumbbells are a must-buy for you if you want to perform lots of movements with a single equipment. 

I’m still finding new ways to use dumbbells (thanks Youtube!) Anyone can start with dumbbells, no matter how in-shape you are. The trick is choosing the correct weight (more on that in a bit…)

Losing weight and getting in shape with dumbbells, even when you’re short on time

Unless you’re extremely lucky, your life might be a bit hectic at times (OK a lot?) So getting a good workout done in a short amount of time can leave time to get stuck into the other things you need to.

One of the best things you can do is get a smallish set of dumbbells and try some HIIT training! This High Intensity Interval Training can work brilliantly with a set of dumbbells, building strength, muscle and shredding calories to help lose some pounds. There’s a wealth of free videos on Youtube – check out some of Joe’s here.

8 reasons we love our dumbbells, and why you will too

We love our dumbbells on Home Gym Experts. Here’s some of the best qualities and things to get excited about our weighty little friends:

1. They’re beginner friendly – As long as you’re careful picking up and using them, the exercises you’ll be doing are simple and (technically speaking) easy to perform.
2. They can help lose weight – especially when used in high intensity routines HIIT. Looking good and building strength at the same time? Yes please.
3. Improved stamina and endurance – Whether you’re training for a sporting event outside of weight lifting, or just want more health and energy in every day life, a good routine with your dumbbells can make a huge impact.
4. Toned muscles – With very little time you can get ‘that feeling’ – you know the one where your muscles are sore the next day. It’s a great feeling. It means your dumbbells are making you bigger and stronger.
5. They’re portable…ish. If you’re not ready or able to take the leap and go for a full-on home gym, then you need training gear you can pull out and just as easily put away. You can grab your dumbbells and take them in the living room, use them in your spare room, or even the kitchen.
6. You don’t need much space – Unlike skipping, running machines, or pretty much any other exercise, you just don’t need that much space when it comes to dumbbells. It’s not like you’re going to be flailing them around… right?
7. Another reason we love dumbbells is they’re quiet. You can get up any time and not disturb the rest of the house doing your routine (as long as you’re not throwing them down on the floor, or yelling “ONE MORE REP! to yourself.
8. You’ll never get bored of them – Well, you could – if you’re doing the exact same exercise day after day, year after year! Branch out. Look on youtube for some awesome new ways to use your dumbbells. Try a new book – there’s always fresh ideas that will work different muscles, or the same muscles in different ways.

Related: Adjustable Dumbbells For Women

HELP! There’s too many dumbbells to choose from

If you’re new to dumbbells, you might be struck by the sheer number of shapes, styles, colours and types (for example HEX dumbbells) there are out there. There’s a lot of choice and each kind has a slightly different market and use. What you’ll need for your home gym can be different from what is used in a commercial facility.

In the next section of this dumbbell buying guide – we’ll save you some time and simplify the process for you. We’ll cover every important factor to consider before choosing any type of dumbbell.

Types of dumbbell and which one is best for you

First, lets get familiar with the different types of dumbbells available in the market (Yep, there’s a lot in 2025!)  Though they all do a very similar job, the subtle differences in shape, material and design are best suited for different things.

1) Fixed Dumbbells

This is the most common type of weight you will find in a commercial gym. It’s often placed in a horizontal or upright rack and they usually come in pairs. They can weigh anything from 1kg to a monstrous 100kg each. 

As the name suggests, these dumbbells have fixed parts and, unlike most gym gear, you don’t need any assembly. You cannot modify the weight to suit you.

Fixed dumbbells can be made from a combination of materials or cast out of the same material completely. 

This kind of dumbbell are durable and can take a lot of pressure since it is extremely difficult to detach the disc. It’s extremely rare that this kind of weight can break. 

2) Adjustable Dumbbells

Adjustable dumbbells are hugely popular in home gyms because you can have multiple weights from single pair. You can adjust the weight on both sides by reducing or adding discs on both sides. This is normally done by screwing a large bolt on or off and changing the weight.

Good value for money

The great thing with a set of this kind of dumbbells is you can effectively have many sets of dumbbells just from one purchase. Even though I’ve got a good range of fixed weights, I still have a pair of adjustable weights for those times you need that perfect weight. Check out our full guide on the best adjustable dumbbells here.

A bit of a pain to adjust

Spinning the side nuts on and off to change the weights seems to take forever. Although it does give you a sneaky extra breather if you’re in need of a rest.

There are some brilliant adjustable dumbells you can get that use a different system though. You can simply place your handle into the rack, select your desired weight by turning a dial and then lift the handle off the rack. Your desired plates are attached, so you don’t have to stress yourself before starting your exercise.

Not all adjustable dumbbells are this advanced though, with most types requiring you to change the plates manually and tighten them down to prevent the plates from falling off when you’re lifting.

A good choice if you’re starting out, or not sure what weight dumbbell weight to go for

The plates for adjustable dumbbell sets start at a tiny 1.25 kg on each side, so they’re a great option if you’re new and not sure what weight to go for. The down side being that there’s a limit to the number of plates you can fit on and the upper weight you can get to with each set.

If you’re looking for some heavy dumbbells, fixed are a much more practical way to go.

Related Hand Weight Guides

• One For The Ladies: Women’s Guide to Dumbbells
• Water Filled Dumbbells Review – A Good Portable Free Weight Solution?
• Are Dumbbells Safer Than Barbells?
• Are Adjustable Dumbbells Worth It [ The Verdict ]
• Rubber Hex Dumbbells – Complete Guide

Which kind of materials are the best?

I’ve got a decent collection of weights in my home gym and I love and use them all regularly.

In 2025, there’s several kinds of common materials dumbbells can be made from. Let’s quickly go over each one and look at their strengths.

Solid Metal Dumbbells

Metal dumbbells are very common. You’ll find them in pretty much any UK gym. They usually have a silver metallic handle and black disc(s). These weight’s aren’t colour-coded according to weight, instead relying on the weight being stamped on the ends, or embossed somewhere in the metal.

One good thing about solid metal dumbbells is that they are easier to hold than vinyl coated ones when your hands get sweaty. But if the metal dumbbell is textured for better grip, it can be damaging to your hands when it is wet.

Also, these dumbbells can cause huge damage if you accidentally drop them on the floor. Hence, you need to be extremely careful with them.

Vinyl-coated Dumbbells

This type of dumbbell is often made of cast iron with a tough vinyl coating. You can find them in multiple colors, making it easier for you to identify different dumbbells according to their weight. This is helpful if you have a growing collection in your home gym.

You’ll learn that the blue weights are the ten-pound weights while the pink weight are the five-pound weights. So grabbing the perfect weight for your next set is quick and easy.  There’s also less damage if you happen to drop one of these and they’re typically kinder to your body if you bump up against them.

They are slightly harder to hold if your hands are a bit sweaty and you might find it hard to maintain a grip on them.

More so, if you have an aesthetic taste for your home gym, it is better to avoid buying cheap painted dumbbells because once the paint chip off because of sweat, you will only have ugly-looking dumbbells around you.

Rubber Dumbbells

These weights have rubber coatings over their plates or discs, making them last longer. The rubber material protects the metal plates from getting exposed to moisture, thereby preventing rust.

Another good feature of the rubber dumbbells is that they have reduced pressure impact on the floor and this is attributed to the rubber material. So, when you drop these dumbbells on the floor, they prevent your floor from getting ugly scratches.

The only disadvantage of using the rubber dumbbells is that you cannot avoid the pungent smell of rubber, especially when you’re just starting out using these dumbbells. Although it does disappear with time! They’re also rarely cheap.

Rubber dumbbells are our #1 recommendation. They’re incredible to use and last forever.

Urethane Dumbbells

Another popular commercial dumbbell option. Urethane (polyurethane or PU) look somewhat similar to rubber dumbbells when you look at them physically, but it has numerous performance benefits that makes it a bit higher in price.

In terms of strength, urethane products are way stronger than rubber. They have a tougher outer layer which makes them harder to have cosmetic damages. These outer layers are resistant to scratches, marks and chips that are common on rubber weights products.

Apart from the hard outer layer, PU weights are non-marking, which is a big issue when rubber dumbbells are dropped on a new vinyl or wooden floor. Besides, they don’t produce the signature odor that is characteristic of rubber dumbbells.

Shape and Grip of Dumbbells

Some dumbbells come with rounded ends, while some are hexagonal or square. If the last thing you want to do is chase weights around the room, then the hexagonal shaped dumbbells are perfect for you.

More so, the grip is also an important factor because that’s how you handle your dumbbell. If it grip slips out of your hand, you might damage something and if it hurts your hands, you won’t want to work out with it.

The best way is to experiment with a few weights in the market to know the grip that suits you perfectly. However, take note that apart from the material, the grip is also made from the circumference. So, if it is too wide, you may risk injuring your wrist or perhaps drop the weight.

Hex Dumbbells

These dumbbells are named after their unique shape. They have many facets that prevents rolling once you keep them on the floor. This is highly useful if you are switching between exercises or weights and you’re constantly dropping and picking them up.

More so, due to their added stability, the hex dumbbells are great for floor-based circuits, such as dumbbell push-ups. Besides, you can store them easily, even if you happen to miss a rack.

The best part is that the hex dumbbells are way cheaper than the urethane or rubber dumbbells, making it a budget-friendly option.

Check out our 2025 Hex Dumbbell Guide for more info on these awesome weights.

Useful Tips When Buying Dumbbells

Looking at the different types of dumbbell options mentioned above, coupled with their good sides and bad sides, you may become confused making the right choice. But the varieties are to your benefit. Here are some useful tips to find the dumbbell setup that best suit you:

What size dumbbell should I start with?

This is very important before opting for a dumbbell in the market. You need to ask yourself, “How much weight do I want to gain?” The reason is simple- you don’t need a 50-pound dumbbell if you just want to increase your arm strength. You can achieve a great result for quite some time if you start with a set of 5-pound dumbbells.

If you intend to do a full-body workout with your dumbbells, then you may need the heavier weights to work your lower back.

So, here’s the point- Determine whether you want to use your dumbbells for isolated movement, like a curl, for upper body strength, or for whole body strength. 

Then, you need to know the maximum weight you can carry if you’re going to use the dumbbell to curl. How much can you squat if you intend to do full body workouts with your dumbbell? What can you deadlift? These two lifts are the heaviest a body can do.

So, once you know your maximum weight, you can purchase at least one level beyond your maximum. For example, if you can do only 15 curls, then you can try purchase dumbbells that support up to at least 30 pounds.

Ideally, you should be lifting according to your body weight, that is get a dumbbell according a certain percentage of your own weight. While this isn’t a fixed rule, it is always the best way to go about it. Below is what is advised:

For a beginner start with dumbbell of between 10 to 15 percent of your body weight.

For an expert go with dumbbell of between 20 to 25 percent of your body weight.

While for someone who’s in between the above categories, you should go with dumbbell of between 15 to 20 percent of your body weight or could try out different dumbbells to see what works for you.

Consider your available space

How much space do you have in your home? This is very important when deciding on the best dumbbell to purchase.  Some dumbbell kits can take up much space, for example, the fixed weights. If you know you don’t have enough space, you can opt for the adjustable weights.

But if you have enough space in your home gym, basement, or garage, then you can move through a workout quickly without removing or adding weight with each transition. You can try the adjustable set up if your weights will stay in your living room.

Keep your budget in mind

Sometime, we spend our money on things that won’t work for us and this can eat into our budget. Hence, it is advisable that you keep your budget in mind as you look for available options. This way, you won’t have to spend too much and regret later due to overspending.

Besides, when you keep a budget, it helps you choose dumbbells that offers the best value for your money.

Other useful tips include:

• You can get essential accessories like gloves, bench, mat and storage rack
• You may decide to add kettlebells and barbells depending on your goal and fitness program.

Dumbell Buying Guide: Final thoughts

There’s no getting around the fact that dumbbells certainly aren’t cheap. Unless you’re shopping for a tiny weight, you’re going to rack up the ££ digits as quick as a pro body builder racks Olympic plates. The good news is that it’s a hell of a good investment.

You won’t ever out-grow your weights either.

There’ll be times when you want to drop down in weight when your body needs a bit of a breather, or you might find a new HIIT routine that requires a lighter dumbbell. I’ve got a decent collection of weights in my home gym and I love and use them all regularly.

That’s the end of our dumbbell buying guide. Take your time and consider each type of dumbbell and make your choice based on your fitness goal, space, budget and other important criteria listed above. Happy shopping and here’s hoping you buy the perfect dumbbells that last a lifetime!

Resources and further reading

• Frontiersin.org – Resistance training vs Multi-joint exercises
• NHS – Strength exercises
• PainScience – Strength Training Frequency
• The Body Coach TV on Youtube