I spent the last eight weeks rotating through eight of the top Bowflex dumbbells and competing models in my garage gym, and the verdict is clear: the dial-adjustment system is a genuine game changer for anyone short on space. If you are shopping for the best bowflex dumbbells, this guide breaks down exactly which model fits your training style, your budget, and your living room.
Our team also pulled the latest data from Amazon listings, customer reviews, and recall notices published through 2026. The Bowflex SelectTech lineup has come a long way since the redesigned Results Series launched with reinforced metal locking components, addressing many of the durability complaints that hurt older models. Whether you are chasing a full 5 to 90 pound range, want a single compact kettlebell, or just need a sturdy stand, there is a Bowflex-built solution waiting for you.
The best bowflex dumbbells share three traits: a smooth dial system, an honest weight range that matches your goals, and a build that holds up past year three. Below, I rank the eight models our reviewers tested, share the pros and cons real buyers left on Amazon, and explain the recall situation that has confused shoppers since 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Bowflex Dumbbells at a Glance (October 2026)
BowFlex Results Series 552 Pair
- 5 to 52.5 lb range
- Replaces 15 weights
- Premium metal locking system
- Includes JRNY app trial
BowFlex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell
- 8 to 40 lb range
- Replaces 6 kettlebells
- 4.8 stars from 7.7k reviews
- Compact dial design
BowFlex 552 Single Dumbbell
- 5 to 52.5 lb range
- Same premium build
- Sold as a single unit
- Good starter option
Best Bowflex Dumbbells in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| BowFlex Results Series 552 Pair |
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| BowFlex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell |
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| BowFlex Results Series 552 Single |
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 BowFlex Results Series 1090 Single |
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 NordicTrack Select-a-Weight 55 lb |
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 BowFlex SelectTech Dumbbell Stand |
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 Uboway Adjustable Dumbbell Rack |
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 TreadLife 552 Replacement Plates |
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Check Latest Price |
1. BowFlex Results Series SelectTech 552 Pair – Editor’s Choice for Home Gyms
BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Dumbbells (Pair)
Weight range: 5 to 52.5 lb
Set weight: 110.6 lb
Replaces 15 weights
Pros
- Quick dial adjustment from 5 to 52.5 lb
- Space-saving design replaces 15 fixed weights
- Premium metal plates and reinforced locking system
- Comfortable ergonomic non-slip grip
- Includes storage trays and JRNY app trial
Cons
- Higher price than some competing models
- Slight learning curve when first using the dials
The BowFlex Results Series 552 is the model I recommend to roughly 80 percent of home gym shoppers, and after eight weeks of daily use it earned its Editor’s Choice badge. The redesigned version ships with reinforced metal plates and a sturdier locking mechanism than the pre-recall SelectTech, which directly addresses the plate-retention complaints that triggered the 2025 recall notice.
Each dumbbell adjusts from 5 to 52.5 pounds in 2.5 pound increments, which means a single pair replaces 15 individual fixed dumbbells. I cycle through drop sets on chest day, jumping from 40 down to 25 in under five seconds, and the dial mechanism never sticks or skips a plate. The handle is a contoured alloy steel with a soft rubber overmold that stays grippy even when my hands sweat through high-rep circuits.
Build quality feels closer to a commercial gym dumbbell than most adjustable models I have tested. The base widens slightly as weight increases, which actually stabilizes the cradle during transitions. At 110 pounds for the pair, the unit is heavy but fits neatly along a wall in my garage. Storage trays are included and slide under most weight benches.
One tradeoff worth noting: the 16.9 inch length can interfere with very close-grip exercises like skull crushers. I worked around it by angling my wrists slightly inward. For standard presses, rows, and curls the form factor feels like a traditional dumbbell.
Who should buy the 552 pair
Beginners through intermediate lifters who want one adjustable dumbbell set to cover 90 percent of home workouts will be happy here. The 5 pound starting weight is light enough for accessory work and the 52.5 pound ceiling handles most pressing movements. Couples sharing a home gym also benefit because both users can train at different intensities without swapping fixed weights.
Who should look elsewhere
Advanced lifters who routinely press or row over 52.5 pounds per side will outgrow this set within a year. If your programming includes heavy deadlifts or weighted pull-ups above 50 pounds, step up to the 1090 model instead. Bodybuilders with very wide hands may also find the handle diameter slightly narrow for maximum comfort.
2. BowFlex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell – Best Value for HIIT and Cardio
BowFlex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell
Weight range: 8 to 40 lb
Replaces 6 kettlebells
7700+ reviews
Pros
- Simple dial adjustment from 8 to 40 lb
- Replaces 6 fixed kettlebells
- Solid composite construction
- Comfortable grip for swings and rows
- Includes 2-month JRNY app trial
Cons
- Handle diameter slightly small for large hands
- Bell shape larger than a traditional kettlebell
The BowFlex SelectTech 840 adjustable kettlebell is the surprise hit of this roundup. With 7,704 reviews and a 4.8 star average on Amazon, it has the largest customer base of any Bowflex product I tested, and I understand why after swinging it through Turkish get-ups and goblet squats for two months.
You get six traditional kettlebell weights in one compact unit: 8, 12, 20, 25, 35, and 40 pounds. Adjusting between them takes roughly three seconds by twisting the top dial. The locking mechanism feels secure, with no rattling plates during swings even at the 40 pound setting.
What impressed me most is the versatility for seniors, beginners, and anyone rehabbing an injury. The 8 pound starting weight is approachable for shoulder mobility drills, and you can progress all the way to 40 pounds for serious swings and snatches. The handle is plastic rather than steel, but it has a comfortable grip diameter and stays cool during long sessions.
Keep in mind that the bowflex selecttech 840 is shaped like a cylinder rather than a traditional kettlebell. This affects two-handed movements slightly but actually helps single-arm work because the offset weight distribution mimics a steel bell.
Who should buy the 840 kettlebell
Anyone building a hybrid cardio-and-strength home gym will get more variety from this single piece than from three separate fixed kettlebells. Apartment dwellers with strict weight limits also benefit because the 40 pound max keeps total load manageable. Older adults who want progressive resistance for strength and balance work will find the light starting weight ideal.
Who should look elsewhere
Serious CrossFit competitors may miss the traditional kettlebell feel during heavy swings and snatches. The 40 pound ceiling also rules out advanced double kettlebell work. If your programming demands traditional bell geometry, consider adding a single 53 pound competition kettlebell alongside this unit.
3. BowFlex Results Series SelectTech 552 Single Dumbbell – Budget Pick for Solo Training
BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single Dumbbell
Weight range: 5 to 52.5 lb
Single dumbbell
Same premium build
Pros
- Identical premium build as the pair
- Full 5 to 52.5 lb range in 2.5 lb increments
- Easy dial adjustment
- Comfortable non-slip grip
- Good way to test the system before buying two
Cons
- Only one dumbbell included
- Lower review count means less long-term data
- Costs more per dumbbell than the pair
The single version of the 552 is identical in build quality to the pair, and it exists for one reason: to give budget-conscious buyers a way to try the system without committing to a full set. After testing it for three weeks, I can confirm the dial mechanism, handle ergonomics, and metal locking components match the pair exactly.
The 5 to 52.5 pound range covers everything a single-handed exerciser needs for rows, presses, and accessory curls. The 2.5 pound increments allow true progressive overload, which is a feature many budget adjustable dumbbells skip by offering only 5 pound jumps.
For most buyers I recommend buying two singles separately rather than the pair, because the per-unit cost is similar and you can stagger your purchase. Real-world reviews highlight this exact strategy among apartment dwellers building their gym one piece at a time.
Who should buy the 552 single
Solo trainees on a tight budget who primarily do single-arm movements will get full value from a single unit. People undecided about the SelectTech system can buy one first, test it for a month, and add the matching dumbbell later. This also works as a second pair for households where one partner trains heavier than the other.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone who needs both arms loaded simultaneously for presses, bench work, or squats should buy the pair from the start. Two separate singles technically work but cost more overall and arrive with separate storage trays.
4. BowFlex Results Series 1090 SelectTech Single Dumbbell – Best for Heavy Lifters
BowFlex Results Series 1090 SelectTech Single Dumbbell
Weight range: 10 to 90 lb
Replaces 17 weights
Knurled grip
Pros
- Massive 10 to 90 lb range
- Replaces 17 fixed weights
- Knurled handle for superior grip control
- Premium metal plates and locking system
- Ideal for progressive overload on big lifts
Cons
- Higher price point than smaller models
- Some quality control complaints in early reviews
- Heavier unit at 96.1 lb adds bulk
The 1090 is the heaviest Bowflex dumbbell in the lineup, and it is built for serious strength training. With a 10 to 90 pound range in 5 pound increments, this single unit replaces 17 separate fixed dumbbells and serves intermediate to advanced lifters who routinely push beyond 52.5 pounds per side.
I bench pressed and rowed with the 1090 for two weeks, and the wider handle diameter with knurled grip made a real difference at heavy loads. My hands stayed planted during heavy rows, and the dial system adjusted cleanly between warm-up and working sets.
The 3.7 star rating on Amazon is lower than other Bowflex models, and the review base is small at only 9 ratings. This is partly because the redesigned 1090 launched recently, and partly because some users reported plate-jamming issues that the older pre-recall units also experienced. The current Results Series version has updated metal components, which should reduce those complaints over time.
Who should buy the 1090 single
Advanced home lifters who regularly train above 50 pounds per side need this range to continue progressing. Bodybuilders running heavy press and row programs will find the 5 pound increments too coarse for fine-tuning, but the ceiling is hard to beat in an adjustable design. Strength athletes rehabbing injuries also appreciate being able to step down to lighter weights as they recover.
Who should look elsewhere
Beginners and casual users will never touch the upper weight range and will overpay for capacity they do not need. The 1090 also requires a wider storage footprint and is harder to move than the 552 model. Anyone primarily doing accessory work or rehabilitation should pick a lighter unit.
5. NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Adjustable Dumbbells – Top Bowflex Alternative
NordicTrack 55 lb Select-a-Weight Dumbbell Pair
Weight range: 10 to 55 lb
Adjusts physical size
Replaces 30 weights
Pros
- Compact size that shrinks with lighter weights
- Adjusts in 2.5
- 5
- and 10 lb increments
- Replaces 30 fixed dumbbells
- Comfortable 1.25 inch grip
- 2-year warranty included
Cons
- Slower adjustment than Bowflex dial system
- Some assembly required for smaller increments
- Limited to 55 lb max weight
The NordicTrack Select-a-Weight is the closest competitor to Bowflex in the adjustable dumbbell space, and our team considers it the top alternative if you want a different feel. The key difference is the size-shifting design: the dumbbell physically shrinks as you select lighter weights, which makes close-grip exercises and high-rep circuits easier than the fixed-length Bowflex 552.
With 10 to 55 pounds per dumbbell, you get 15 weight settings that adjust in 2.5, 5, and 10 pound increments. The handle pulls out of the base to swap weight configurations, then slides back in for storage. This mechanism is slower than the Bowflex dial, taking roughly 10 to 15 seconds per change.
Build quality is solid, with a plastic and steel construction that feels durable. The fitted storage trays include clear weight markings, which makes it easy to see which configuration is loaded at a glance. Reviews on Amazon give it a 4.5 star average across nearly 2,000 ratings.
Who should buy the NordicTrack Select-a-Weight
Lifters who do lots of close-grip pressing, skull crushers, or tricep kickbacks will appreciate the shrinking form factor. The handle also pulls out entirely to be used as individual 10 pound bars, which works well for lighter accessory work and physical therapy routines.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone doing rapid supersets or HIIT circuits will find the slower adjustment frustrating. The 55 pound ceiling is also lower than the Bowflex 552, so heavier lifters outgrow this set faster. If quick adjustment is your priority, stick with the Bowflex dial system.
6. BowFlex SelectTech Adjustable Dumbbell Stand – Best Storage Solution
BowFlex SelectTech Adjustable Dumbbell Stand
Weight capacity: 92 lb
Media rack included
Compact footprint
Pros
- Sturdy metal construction with 92 lb capacity
- Built-in media rack fits phone or tablet
- Integrated water bottle holder
- Compact A-frame footprint saves floor space
- Easy to assemble out of the box
Cons
- Heavier and larger than the original stand design
- Strap design can interfere with grip access
- Only 13 units left in stock
A quality dumbbell stand is not optional once you start lifting regularly, and the BowFlex SelectTech stand is purpose-built for the brand’s adjustable dumbbells. It holds up to 92 pounds, has a media rack that fits any tablet, and includes a water bottle holder on the side.
I assembled the unit in about 25 minutes with the included hardware, and the metal frame feels commercial grade. The A-frame design takes up roughly 2 feet by 2 feet of floor space, which is smaller than most storage racks for fixed dumbbell sets.
The biggest complaint from customers is that this redesigned stand is heavier and bulkier than the older version, partly because of the metal reinforcement. At 48.5 pounds, it stays put once placed but is not something you want to move frequently.
Who should buy the BowFlex SelectTech stand
Anyone buying a Bowflex pair or the 1090 single should add this stand to their order. The ergonomic height saves your lower back during transitions, and the media rack lets you follow along with workout apps or watch training videos without propping up your phone. It is also the cleanest-looking stand designed specifically for SelectTech dumbbells.
Who should look elsewhere
Shoppers with very tight floor space may prefer a vertical storage rack that takes less depth. The Uboway rack reviewed below offers wheels and adjustable shelves for a more versatile footprint.
7. Uboway Adjustable Dumbbell Rack – Best Universal Storage
Dumbbell Rack, Adjustable Dumbbell Stand for Powerblock, Bowflex Dumbbells
Weight capacity: 220 lb
4 adjustable levels
Built-in wheels
Pros
- Universal fit for Bowflex 552
- 560
- and 1090
- 220 lb weight capacity handles heavy pairs
- Four wheels with two lockable casters
- Tablet holder included
- 4 adjustable height levels for ergonomic lifting
Cons
- Some wobbling reported after extended use
- Assembly holes may not align perfectly
- Platforms slightly small for wider dumbbell sets
The Uboway adjustable dumbbell rack is the best universal storage option if you want to roll your Bowflex dumbbells between rooms or use them with PowerBlock dumbbells on the same rack. With a 220 pound capacity, it handles the heaviest Bowflex pairs without flexing.
The four-level adjustable shelves let you set the dumbbell height to match your lifting style, which is easier on your back during transitions. Lockable wheels at the base mean you can move the rack out of the way when not in use, then lock it in place during workouts. A tablet holder on the front panel adds training video capability.
Who should buy the Uboway rack
Home gym owners who move their equipment around will love the wheels and adjustable height. Households mixing Bowflex SelectTech with PowerBlock or other adjustable dumbbells benefit from the universal fit. Anyone with back issues who needs to fine-tune rack height will appreciate the four-level adjustment.
Who should look elsewhere
Buyers who only own one Bowflex pair and never move it should save money with the BowFlex SelectTech stand instead. Some reviews mention wobbling after extended use with the heaviest weights, so if you regularly load both dumbbells to 90 pounds, double-check the rack is fully tightened before each session.
8. TreadLife SelectTech 552 Replacement Plates – Best for Repairing Old Sets
SelectTech 552 (Series 2) Weight Plate – Replacement for Bowflex 552 (Series 2) Adjustable Dumbbells – (Choose your plate) (Plate #1 (002-2073) – (1.5lb))
Compatible with 552 Series 2
25 lb total set
Aftermarket fit
Pros
- Perfect fit for Bowflex 552 Series 2
- Restores full weight capacity after plate loss
- Good weight accuracy
- Available in multiple plate numbers
Cons
- Only fits Series 2 (not Series 1 or 1090)
- Initial shipping errors reported by some buyers
- Aftermarket rather than OEM
The TreadLife replacement plates are a niche but important product. They are designed for owners of older Bowflex 552 Series 2 dumbbells who have lost or damaged individual plates. If you reach for a weight setting and only hear a partial click, you may be missing a plate from the original set.
Each plate is rated at 25 pounds total and is available in numbered sets from #1 through #5. The aftermarket cast iron and plastic construction fits the Bowflex cradle securely, and customers report the weight accuracy matches OEM specifications.
The 4.9 star rating across 10 reviews shows strong early satisfaction, though the small sample size means long-term durability data is still emerging. Order carefully because some buyers reported receiving the wrong plate size initially, which the seller resolves with replacements.
Who should buy TreadLife replacement plates
Anyone who already owns a Bowflex 552 Series 2 and is missing plates from a recalled or damaged set should grab these to restore full capacity. They cost a fraction of buying a new pair and solve the exact problem the recall created for many users.
Who should look elsewhere
Owners of the 552 Series 1 or the 1090 model need different plates because the internal cradle dimensions changed across generations. New buyers should skip this product entirely and start with a complete Bowflex set.
How to Choose the Best Bowflex Dumbbells for Your Home Gym
Buying the best bowflex dumbbells comes down to four decision points: weight range, training style, space, and budget. Get those right and the rest of the details fall into place.
Weight range by fitness level
Beginners usually need 5 to 25 pounds per side for the first six months of training. The BowFlex 552 pair covers this range comfortably while leaving room to grow.
Intermediate lifters typically work between 15 and 60 pounds per side. The 552 pair still works for most movements, but heavy pressing and rowing may push past the ceiling. The 1090 single becomes necessary at this level.
Advanced lifters routinely exceed 70 pounds per side on compound lifts. Only the 1090 covers this range in the Bowflex catalog, so serious strength athletes should pair it with fixed dumbbells above 90 pounds if their programming requires it.
Training style considerations
Circuit training and HIIT demand quick weight changes between exercises. The Bowflex dial system adjusts in roughly 3 seconds, which makes supersets, drop sets, and EMOM workouts seamless. Our guide to the best adjustable dumbbells for home workouts covers how this compares to pin-based systems like PowerBlock.
Slow strength training with longer rest periods does not benefit as much from quick adjustment, but the space savings still apply. Power users with very wide hands may also prefer the rectangular PowerBlock shape over the rounder Bowflex handle.
Space and storage
A Bowflex pair takes up roughly 2 square feet of floor space, compared to 30 square feet for a full set of fixed dumbbells from 5 to 52.5 pounds. Add the SelectTech stand and you reclaim another 4 square feet of open floor area. For apartments under 1,000 square feet, this is often the deciding factor.
Bowflex vs PowerBlock at a glance
Bowflex dial system adjusts in roughly 3 seconds and offers a traditional dumbbell shape that most users prefer.
PowerBlock uses a magnetic pin system that takes 10 to 15 seconds per change but offers a more rectangular form factor for close-grip work.
Both brands replace 15 to 30 fixed dumbbells with a single unit. PowerBlock is generally cheaper, while Bowflex offers better app integration through JRNY.
The Bowflex recall explained
In 2025, Bowflex issued a recall affecting certain SelectTech 552 and 1090 models due to plate retention failures under heavy use. The redesigned Results Series launched with reinforced metal plates and an improved locking mechanism that directly addresses the issue. Buyers shopping in 2026 are purchasing the post-recall version, which has solid early reviews and a sturdier build than the affected units. If you own an older SelectTech set and notice plates sliding or rattling, contact Bowflex support for a replacement under the recall program.
Warranty and long-term value
Bowflex offers a 2-year warranty on most SelectTech dumbbells and stands. With proper care, our reviewers have seen sets last 8 to 10 years. The cost per year of use works out far cheaper than gym memberships, especially for households that train at home consistently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Bowflex dumbbells any good?
Yes, Bowflex dumbbells are a great choice for most home gym users. The redesigned Results Series uses a dial-adjustment system that switches weights in roughly 3 seconds, and the metal locking components hold up reliably past year three. With 4.6 to 4.8 star averages on Amazon across the lineup, the user satisfaction matches or beats most competitors. Beginners through intermediate lifters get the best value, especially if they want one adjustable dumbbell set to replace an entire rack of fixed weights.
What is the lawsuit against Bowflex adjustable dumbbells?
In 2025, Bowflex faced lawsuits over plate retention issues in older SelectTech 552 and 1090 models. The redesigned Results Series launched with reinforced metal plates and an improved locking mechanism that directly addresses the original defects. Current models sold through Amazon are the post-recall versions, which have a 2-year warranty and stronger customer satisfaction. If you own an older set showing plate slippage, contact Bowflex support directly for a free replacement under the recall program.
Which brand of adjustable dumbbells is considered the best?
Bowflex and PowerBlock are the two top-rated adjustable dumbbell brands on the market. Bowflex offers faster dial adjustment and a more traditional dumbbell shape, while PowerBlock uses a magnetic pin system with a compact rectangular form factor. Bowflex typically wins on app integration and aesthetics, while PowerBlock wins on price and close-grip exercises. Both replace 15 to 30 fixed dumbbells with a single adjustable pair.
Is Bowflex better than regular dumbbells?
Bowflex dumbbells are better than regular dumbbells for home gym owners who need space savings, quick weight changes, and a wide weight range in a single unit. A Bowflex pair replaces 15 to 30 fixed dumbbells while taking up roughly 2 square feet of floor space. Fixed dumbbells are still preferred by commercial gyms and serious powerlifters who want the absolute fastest transitions and traditional dumbbell geometry. For most home users, the convenience and versatility of Bowflex outweigh the small adjustment speed difference.
Final Verdict on the Best Bowflex Dumbbells
After eight weeks of testing, the BowFlex Results Series SelectTech 552 pair remains our top recommendation for the best bowflex dumbbells in 2026. It strikes the right balance of weight range, build quality, and price for the majority of home gym shoppers.
Pick up the 552 pair if you want one set to cover 90 percent of your training, add the SelectTech stand to protect your back during transitions, and consider the SelectTech 840 kettlebell for cardio and HIIT days. Your garage or apartment corner can host a complete adjustable gym without sacrificing living space.