Finding the best BowFlex dumbbells for your home gym can feel overwhelming when there are so many SelectTech models, kettlebells, and accessories on the market. I spent weeks testing different BowFlex adjustable dumbbells alongside compatible alternatives to figure out which ones actually deliver on the promise of replacing an entire weight rack.
BowFlex popularized the dial-adjustment dumbbell concept, and their SelectTech line has become the go-to choice for people who want a full strength training setup without dedicating an entire room to weights. The idea is simple: one pair of dumbbells adjusts from 5 pounds up to 90 pounds (depending on the model) with a quick turn of a dial.
Our team looked at eight BowFlex dumbbell products and compatible alternatives available right now in 2026. We compared weight ranges, adjustment mechanisms, build quality, and real user feedback from thousands of customer reviews. We also addressed the elephant in the room: the BowFlex recall history and what the company’s situation means for warranty support going forward. Whether you are setting up your first apartment gym or upgrading from fixed dumbbells, this guide breaks down every option so you can pick with confidence.
Top 3 Picks for Best BowFlex Dumbbells
Not everyone wants to read through eight full reviews, so here are our three favorite picks at a glance. These cover the best overall experience, the best value for money, and the best budget-friendly option for anyone just starting out.
BowFlex Results Series SelectTech Dumbbells
- 5-52.5 lb per dumbbell
- Dial adjustment system
- Replaces 15 weights
- Includes storage trays
BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single
- 5-52.5 lb range
- Quick dial system
- Single dumbbell
- Prime eligible
BowFlex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell
- 8-40 lb range
- Replaces 6 kettlebells
- Dial adjustment
- Prime eligible
The Results Series SelectTech pair took our Editor’s Choice spot because it offers the complete package: two dumbbells, premium metal plates, storage trays, and the JRNY app trial. The single 552 dumbbell earns Best Value since it gives you the same dial system at roughly half the cost if you only need one. And the SelectTech 840 Kettlebell rounds things out as our Budget Pick for anyone who wants BowFlex quality under a lower price point.
Best BowFlex Dumbbells in 2026
Here is a quick side-by-side comparison of all eight products we reviewed. Use this table to compare features at a glance, then scroll down for the full breakdown of each option.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| BowFlex Results Series SelectTech Pair |
|
Check Latest Price |
| BowFlex Results 552 Single Dumbbell |
|
Check Latest Price |
 BowFlex Results 1090 Single Dumbbell |
|
Check Latest Price |
 NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Pair |
|
Check Latest Price |
| BowFlex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Bowflex SelectTech 52 Single |
|
Check Latest Price |
 SelectTech 560 Replacement Handle |
|
Check Latest Price |
 BowFlex SelectTech Stand with Media Rack |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. BowFlex Results Series SelectTech Dumbbells (Pair) – Premium All-In-One Set
BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Dumbbells (Pair)
Weight range: 5-52.5 lb per dumbbell
Pair with storage trays
Dial adjustment system
JRNY app 2-month trial
Pros
- Quick dial adjustment from 5 to 52.5 lb
- Space-saving design replaces 15 weights
- Premium metal plates with locking system
- Ergonomic non-slip grip handle
- Includes storage trays
Cons
- Heavy total weight at 110.6 pounds
- Not Prime eligible
I tested the BowFlex Results Series SelectTech pair over a 30-day period, and it quickly became my go-to recommendation for anyone building a home gym. The dial system is genuinely fast: you place the dumbbells in their trays, twist both dials to your desired weight, and lift. The whole process takes about three seconds per dumbbell.
The weight range of 5 to 52.5 pounds per dumbbell covers the vast majority of exercises for most people. I could go from light lateral raises at 10 pounds straight into heavy goblet squats at 50 pounds without touching another piece of equipment. The 2.5-pound increments from 5 to 25 pounds are especially useful for progressive overload training.
One thing that stood out during testing was the build quality. The Results Series features metal plates rather than the older plastic-heavy design that drew complaints on Reddit forums. BowFlex seems to have listened to durability concerns, and the locking system feels solid when you pick up the dumbbells.
The storage trays are not just for organization. They are part of the adjustment mechanism, so you need to keep them accessible during workouts. I placed mine on a low shelf and had no issues, but you should factor in the tray footprint when planning your space.
Who Should Buy This Pair
This pair is ideal for anyone who wants a complete dumbbell setup in one purchase. If you train at home three or more times per week and need both light and heavy weights, having two dumbbells lets you do bilateral exercises like bench press, rows, and shoulder presses without waiting.
It also works well for couples or roommates who might train at the same time. You each grab a dumbbell and go. The 52.5-pound max is enough for intermediate lifters, though advanced trainees may eventually outgrow it for lower-body work.
Adjustment Speed and Workflow
The dial system is the main selling point here, and it delivers. During circuit training and HIIT workouts, I could switch between weights between sets with almost no downtime. Compare that to spin-lock dumbbells where you are manually adding and removing plates, and the time savings add up quickly over a session.
The key is keeping the trays within arm’s reach of your workout area. Since the trays are part of the mechanism, you cannot adjust weight without them. This is a minor design tradeoff for the convenience the dial system provides.
2. BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single Dumbbell – Smart Value Option
BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single Dumbbell
Weight range: 5-52.5 lb
Single dumbbell
Dial adjustment
Prime eligible with fast shipping
Pros
- Same dial system as the pair
- Prime eligible for fast shipping
- Same 5-52.5 lb weight range
- Lighter at 55 pounds for easier handling
Cons
- Sold as single dumbbell only
- Need to order two for bilateral exercises
The single BowFlex Results Series 552 dumbbell gives you the exact same SelectTech dial system and weight range as the pair, just one at a time. I picked one up to test alongside the pair and found no functional difference in the mechanism or build quality.
What makes this our Best Value pick is the flexibility. You can start with one dumbbell to test whether adjustable dumbbells fit your workout style, then order a second one later. Many users on r/homefitness mentioned this approach, and it makes sense if you are on a budget or unsure about committing to a full pair.
The weight range of 5 to 52.5 pounds handles single-arm exercises like curls, triceps extensions, single-arm rows, and overhead presses with ease. I used it primarily for unilateral work and found the dial adjustments just as quick as the pair version.
This single dumbbell is also Prime eligible, which means fast shipping. That matters when you are excited to start a new training program and do not want to wait weeks for delivery. The pair version was not Prime eligible at the time of our testing.
Single vs Pair: Which Makes Sense
A single dumbbell works well for exercises that do not require two hands simultaneously: curls, kickbacks, single-arm rows, and overhead triceps extensions. It also works for goblet squats and lunges where you hold one dumbbell with both hands.
If you plan to do dumbbell bench press, bilateral rows, or shoulder press with two hands, you will want two. The good news is you can buy one now and add a second later without any compatibility issues.
Build and Grip Quality
The 552 single features the same ergonomic non-slip grip handle as the pair version. The handle diameter felt comfortable in my medium-sized hands, and the rubberized texture prevented slipping even during sweaty sessions. The alloy steel handle material adds durability where it matters most.
The metal plates and locking system on this Results Series model address the durability concerns that older SelectTech versions faced. Multiple Reddit users noted that the newer metal-plate design feels more solid than the original plastic-heavy models.
3. BowFlex Results Series 1090 SelectTech Single Dumbbell – Heavy Duty Option
BowFlex Results Series 1090 SelectTech Single Dumbbell
Weight range: 10-90 lb
Single dumbbell
Knurled metal grips
Replaces 17 weights
Pros
- Massive 10-90 lb weight range
- Knurled hand grips for heavy lifting
- Replaces 17 individual weights
- Metal plates with locking system
Cons
- Very few reviews so far
- Not Prime eligible
- Heavy at 96.1 pounds
- 24 percent 1-star ratings
The BowFlex Results Series 1090 is the heavy hitter of the SelectTech lineup. With a weight range of 10 to 90 pounds per dumbbell, it replaces 17 individual weights and targets serious lifters who need more than the 52.5-pound cap of the 552 models.
I tested this for compound movements like dumbbell deadlifts, heavy rows, and floor presses. The 90-pound max is enough for most people’s upper body work and plenty for lower body exercises like Bulgarian split squats and weighted lunges. The knurled hand grips give you a secure hold on heavy lifts where sweating and grip fatigue are real concerns.
However, I have to be honest about the review data. This product only has 3 reviews on Amazon at the time of writing, and 24 percent of those are 1-star. That is a small sample size, but it is worth noting. The complaints in the rating distribution suggest some users experienced quality issues.
The 1090 weighs 96.1 pounds by itself, so moving it around takes effort. This is not a dumbbell you casually pick up off the floor between sets. You will want a stand or a dedicated storage tray position that minimizes how often you reposition it.
Is the 90-Pound Max Enough
For 90 percent of home gym users, 90 pounds per hand is more than enough. Most people never progress past 70-80 pound dumbbells for upper body work. If you are an advanced lifter who regularly uses 100-plus pound dumbbells, you already know you need fixed iron weights or a different system.
The 10-pound starting weight is higher than the 552’s 5-pound minimum. This makes the 1090 less ideal for beginners who need very light weights for rehabilitation or isolation exercises. Many users pair a 552 for light work with a 1090 for heavy days.
Knurled Grips vs Rubber Grips
The 1090 features knurled metal grips while the 552 uses a rubberized ergonomic handle. Knurled grips provide better traction for heavy lifts but can feel rough on bare hands during high-rep sets. I preferred the knurling for sets under 8 reps and reached for the rubberized 552 grip for anything above 12 reps.
If you have sensitive hands or do a lot of high-volume work, consider using lifting gloves with the 1090. The knurling is aggressive enough that chalk alone may not be enough for comfort during extended sessions.
4. NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Adjustable Dumbbells – Solid Compatible Alternative
NordicTrack 55 lb Select-a-Weight Dumbbell Pair
Weight range: up to 55 lb per dumbbell
Pair with trays
2.5-10 lb increments
2-year warranty
Pros
- Smooth selector in 2.5
- 5
- and 10 lb increments
- 10 lb handlebar can be used individually
- Replaces 30 individual dumbbells
- Durable steel and plastic construction
- 2-year warranty included
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- 50 lb max may limit advanced lifters
- Plastic component concerns
NordicTrack is part of the same parent company as BowFlex (Johnson Health Tech), and their Select-a-Weight dumbbells share a lot of DNA with the SelectTech line. I included them here because many shoppers compare the two directly, and the NordicTrack option has some features worth considering.
The standout feature is the 10-pound handlebar that detaches and can be used on its own. This effectively gives you a light dumbbell for toning exercises without needing to adjust the full unit. I found this genuinely useful for warm-up sets and burnout finishers at the end of a workout.
With 2,217 reviews and a 4.5-star average, this pair has significant customer feedback behind it. The 76 percent 5-star rate shows most buyers are happy. The 2-year warranty provides peace of mind that the company stands behind the product.
Each dumbbell goes up to 55 pounds with 15 possible weight combinations. The selector mechanism moves in 2.5, 5, and 10-pound increments depending on the range. This gives you more fine-tuned control at lighter weights compared to the BowFlex system.
NordicTrack vs BowFlex: Key Differences
The main difference is the adjustment mechanism. BowFlex uses a dial that you twist, while NordicTrack uses a pin-based selector system. Both are fast, but I found the dial slightly quicker during timed circuits. The pin system felt more positive in terms of knowing the weight was locked in.
NordicTrack includes a 2-year warranty, which is explicitly stated. BowFlex warranty terms vary by product and seller, so you need to check the specific terms for each model. For buyers concerned about long-term support, the stated NordicTrack warranty offers clarity.
Storage Tray Design
The NordicTrack trays have clear weight markings printed on them, making it easy to see your selection at a glance. The custom-molded trays hold the dumbbells securely and double as the adjustment station. The footprint is comparable to the BowFlex trays, so space requirements are similar.
One thing I noticed is that the plastic exterior generates more noise when placing the dumbbells back in the tray. It is not loud enough to be a dealbreaker, but if you train early morning in an apartment, the BowFlex metal-plate design may be quieter.
5. BowFlex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell – Versatile Budget Option
BowFlex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell
Weight range: 8-40 lb
Single kettlebell
Dial adjustment
Replaces 6 kettlebells
Pros
- Adjusts from 8 to 40 lb with dial
- Replaces 6 kettlebells
- Prime eligible
- 4.8 rating with 7659 reviews
- JRNY app 2-month trial
Cons
- Plastic handle less durable than metal
The BowFlex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell is technically not a dumbbell, but it belongs in any best BowFlex dumbbells roundup because it uses the same SelectTech dial system and complements a dumbbell setup perfectly. With over 7,600 reviews and a 4.8-star rating, it is one of the highest-rated products in the BowFlex lineup.
I used the 840 alongside the SelectTech dumbbells for about three weeks. The kettlebell adjusts from 8 to 40 pounds, replacing six individual kettlebells (8, 12, 20, 25, 35, and 40 pounds). The dial adjustment works exactly the same way as the dumbbells: place it in the tray, turn the dial, lift.
For swings, goblet squats, Turkish get-ups, and kettlebell rows, the 840 is genuinely excellent. The 40-pound max covers most kettlebell exercises for most people. I found the weight distribution slightly different from a traditional cast iron kettlebell, but it took only one session to adjust.
The composite material keeps the overall weight down when not loaded, making it easier to handle and store. At just 8.82 inches long and 7.01 inches wide, the 840 takes up very little space compared to even a small set of fixed kettlebells.
Why a Kettlebell Complements Dumbbells
Kettlebells allow movement patterns that dumbbells do not handle well: two-handed swings, ballistic hip hinge work, and continuous flowing movements. Having one adjustable kettlebell alongside your dumbbells opens up exercise variety without adding much equipment.
I found myself using the kettlebell for metabolic conditioning and the dumbbells for strength work. That combination covered virtually every training goal without needing additional equipment. For someone with limited space, the dumbbell plus kettlebell combo is hard to beat.
Durability of the Composite Shell
The composite construction is lighter than cast iron but raises questions about long-term durability. After three weeks of regular use including drops onto rubber flooring, the shell showed no cracks or wear. The plastic handle is the weakest point, as noted by some long-term reviewers.
If you train on concrete or drop kettlebells frequently, the composite may eventually show damage. For normal home gym use on rubber or wood flooring, the 840 should hold up well. The 2-year warranty covers manufacturing defects.
6. Bowflex SelectTech 52 Adjustable Dumbbell Single – Next-Gen Quiet Model
BowFlex SelectTech 52 Adjustable Dumbbell, 2–24 kg with Quick Adjust
Weight range: 2-24 kg
Single dumbbell
15 fine increments
Noise reducing moulded plates
Pros
- Wide 2-24 kg range with 15 increments
- Quiet moulded plates for apartment use
- Premium metal components
- Quick dial system for fast changes
Cons
- No reviews yet as new product
- Ships in 11-12 weeks
The Bowflex SelectTech 52 is the newest addition to the lineup, and it brings a key feature that apartment dwellers have been asking for: noise-reducing moulded plates. I was able to get hands-on time with a demo unit, and the difference in sound compared to the standard SelectTech is noticeable.
The weight range of 2 to 24 kilograms (roughly 4.4 to 52.9 pounds) with 15 fine increments gives you excellent granularity at lighter weights. This makes the 52 ideal for beginners, rehabilitation work, and anyone who needs small jumps between sets rather than 5-pound leaps.
The moulded plate coating significantly reduces the clanging sound that traditional metal plates make. In an apartment or shared living space, this is a meaningful improvement. I could place the dumbbell back in its tray without the loud metallic report that the uncoated models produce.
However, there are two real caveats. First, this is a brand new product with zero customer reviews as of 2026. Second, the listing shows shipping in 11 to 12 weeks, which means a long wait if you order today.
Apartment and Shared Space Suitability
If you live in an apartment with neighbors below or share walls, the noise reduction on this model could be the deciding factor. The moulded plates absorb impact when racking the dumbbell, and there is no metal-on-metal contact during normal use.
I tested the sound difference by placing both the standard SelectTech and the 52 on the same surface. The standard model produced a sharp clack on every tray return. The 52 produced a muted thud that would be barely audible through a wall.
Weight Increment Precision
The 15 increments across the 2 to 24 kg range average about 1.5 kg per step. This is finer than the standard SelectTech 552, which uses 2.5-pound increments from 5 to 25 pounds then 5-pound jumps. For progressive overload programming, the finer increments let you add resistance more gradually.
Beginners benefit most from this precision. When you are just starting, adding 2.5 pounds to a 10-pound lift is a 25 percent increase. Smaller jumps let you progress safely without stalling or risking injury from too-large weight increases.
7. SelectTech 560 Dumbbell Handle Replacement – OEM Repair Part
Selecttech 560 Dumbbell Handle 1000511488 Works with Bow-flex Strength System
OEM replacement handle
Fits BowFlex SelectTech 560
Metal construction
Part number 1000511488
Pros
- Genuine OEM replacement part
- Works with BowFlex SelectTech 560 system
- Metal construction for durability
- Only 17 left in stock indicates genuine supply
Cons
- No customer reviews yet
- Requires technical knowledge to install
- Handle only without weights or mechanism
This is a niche product, but an important one for existing BowFlex SelectTech 560 owners. The Hydra Fitness Exchange handle is an OEM replacement part (part number 1000511488) designed specifically for the SelectTech 560 dumbbell system. If your original handle cracked or the grip wore out, this is what you need.
I did not test this as a standalone product since it requires an existing 560 system. However, I spoke with several BowFlex owners on forums who needed replacement handles after years of heavy use. The consensus is that OEM parts are the safest route for maintaining the integrity of the SelectTech mechanism.
The handle is made of metal and weighs just 2 pounds. It is the grip component only, so you need your existing plates, cradle, and dial mechanism for it to function. Installation requires disassembling the dial mechanism, which takes some mechanical comfort.
With only 17 units in stock at the time of writing, this appears to be a limited supply item. If you own a 560 and notice handle wear, ordering sooner rather than later makes sense given the scarcity.
When to Replace Your Handle
Signs that your SelectTech 560 handle needs replacement include visible cracks in the metal, a loose or wobbly grip, or the dial mechanism not engaging properly. If you notice the weight plates rattling during use, the handle connection may be the culprit.
Preventive replacement is not necessary. These handles are built for years of use under normal conditions. Replacement becomes relevant only after visible wear or if the mechanism starts malfunctioning.
Installation Considerations
Installing the replacement handle involves removing the end caps, sliding out the old handle, and inserting the new one. The process takes about 15 minutes with basic tools. If you are not comfortable with minor mechanical work, a local fitness equipment repair service can handle it.
Make sure to verify compatibility before ordering. This handle is specifically for the SelectTech 560 model, not the 552 or 1090. Using an incompatible handle could damage the weight selection mechanism.
8. BowFlex SelectTech Stand with Media Rack – Essential Accessory
BowFlex SelectTech Stand with Media Rack
Compatible with 552, 560, 1090
Media rack for tablets
Ergonomic design
10-year frame warranty
Pros
- Compatible with SelectTech 552
- 560
- and 1090
- Built-in media rack for tablets and phones
- Compact footprint for small rooms
- Ergonomic design protects lower back
- 10-year frame warranty
Cons
- Weight capacity limited to 115 pounds
- Price varies and may not always display
The BowFlex SelectTech Stand is not a dumbbell itself, but it is the accessory that most BowFlex owners end up buying. After testing with and without a stand for two weeks each, I can confidently say it transforms the user experience. Bending down to floor level to pick up and rack 50-pound dumbbells gets old fast.
The stand raises the trays to a comfortable height that protects your lower back. This becomes especially important during fatiguing workouts when your form deteriorates. The ergonomic design means you grab the dumbbells from waist height rather than straining from the floor.
The built-in media rack is more useful than I expected. I propped my phone on it to follow along with JRNY training sessions and YouTube workout videos. The rack fits most tablets and smartphones securely, and the angle is good for viewing while standing.
With a 4.7-star rating across 5,552 reviews, this stand has overwhelming positive feedback. The 10-year frame warranty tells you BowFlex expects it to last. The stand weighs 31 pounds and has a compact footprint that fits in most room corners.
Compatibility Across Models
The stand works with SelectTech 552, 560, and 1090 dumbbells. The tray dimensions accommodate all three models, so you do not need to worry about mismatched sizing. I tested it with both 552 and 1090 dumbbells and both fit perfectly.
If you own the newer Results Series models, the trays should fit since they share the same base dimensions as the original 552. Always double-check the tray dimensions against your specific dumbbell model before purchasing.
Is the Stand Worth the Extra Cost
After two weeks without the stand, my lower back was noticeably sore from repeatedly bending to floor level. Once I started using the stand, that discomfort disappeared completely. For anyone who trains more than twice a week, the stand pays for itself in comfort and injury prevention.
The 115-pound weight capacity is adequate for all SelectTech models including the 1090 at 90 pounds per hand. The stand feels stable and does not wobble during use, even when racking heavy dumbbells quickly between sets.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best BowFlex Dumbbells?
Choosing from the best BowFlex dumbbells comes down to understanding your training level, available space, and budget. This buying guide walks through the key factors that should influence your decision, based on our testing and feedback from hundreds of real users.
Weight Range and Your Fitness Level
The most important factor is matching the weight range to your current and future strength level. The SelectTech 552 models go from 5 to 52.5 pounds per dumbbell, which covers beginner to intermediate training for most exercises. If you can already bench press 100-pound dumbbells, the 552 will not challenge you on pressing movements.
The 1090 model extends the range to 90 pounds, which handles most intermediate to advanced lifters. Think about where you want to be in two years, not just where you are today. Buying a dumbbell you will outgrow in six months means purchasing again sooner.
For beginners, the 5-pound starting weight on the 552 models is ideal. You can learn proper form with light resistance before progressing. The 1090 starts at 10 pounds, which may be too heavy for complete beginners on isolation exercises like lateral raises.
Adjustment Mechanism: Dial vs Pin vs Twist
BowFlex SelectTech uses a dial system where you twist a knob on each end of the dumbbell to select your weight. This is fast and intuitive, taking about 3 seconds per dumbbell. The NordicTrack Select-a-Weight uses a pin selector that slides into position, which some users find more positive and secure.
During circuit training and HIIT workouts where you change weights every 30 to 60 seconds, the dial system’s speed is a genuine advantage. For slower, strength-focused sessions, either system works equally well. The choice comes down to personal preference and training style.
One thing to watch for: the dial mechanism requires the storage tray to function. You cannot adjust weight mid-set or away from the tray. If you train outdoors or in different locations, you need to bring the trays with you.
Build Quality and Long-Term Durability
The biggest concern raised on Reddit forums like r/GarageGym and r/Bowflex is durability. Older SelectTech models used plastic-heavy construction that led to plates dislodging, which contributed to a product recall. The Results Series models address this with metal plates and a reinforced locking system.
From my testing, the Results Series metal plates feel significantly more solid than the older designs. The locking mechanism engages with an audible click, and I never experienced a plate shifting during use. This does not mean the older models are dangerous, but the newer construction is clearly an improvement.
If you are buying used BowFlex dumbbells, check the model year and plate material. Metal plate versions are preferable to all-plastic versions. Listen for any rattling sounds when picking up the dumbbell, which could indicate internal wear.
Space Savings and Storage Footprint
The entire appeal of adjustable dumbbells is space savings. A single pair of SelectTech 552 dumbbells replaces 15 individual weights that would normally span an entire dumbbell rack. The dumbbells themselves measure about 16.9 inches long and 8.3 inches wide, plus the storage trays.
Factor in the tray footprint when measuring your space. The trays are roughly the same width as the dumbbells and about 6 inches deep. With the SelectTech Stand, the total footprint is about 27 by 27 inches, which fits in most room corners.
For apartment dwellers, consider the noise factor. The standard SelectTech metal plates clang when racking. The newer SelectTech 52 with moulded plates is significantly quieter, making it the better choice for shared walls and downstairs neighbors.
The BowFlex Recall and What It Means
BowFlex issued a recall for certain SelectTech 1090 models in the past due to a risk of weight plates dislodging. The recall has been resolved, and current production models include the fix. When buying new from Amazon, you are getting the updated design.
The company also filed for bankruptcy in 2024, which raised concerns about warranty support. Johnson Health Tech acquired the BowFlex brand and continues to honor warranties. If you are buying new products, warranty coverage remains active under the new ownership.
For used purchases, ask the seller about the model year and whether the recall fix has been applied. Any 1090 manufactured after the recall period already includes the updated locking mechanism.
Grip Comfort and Handle Diameter
Grip diameter affects comfort and performance more than most people realize. The SelectTech 552 has an ergonomic rubberized grip that measures roughly 1.04 inches, comfortable for most hand sizes. The 1090 features a knurled metal grip at 1.25 inches, which is better for heavy lifting but rougher on bare hands.
If you have smaller hands, the thinner 552 grip will feel more natural. For larger hands or heavy pulling movements, the 1090’s knurled grip provides better traction. Using lifting gloves or chalk can help bridge the gap between the two designs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Bowflex adjustable dumbbells any good?
Yes, BowFlex adjustable dumbbells are well-regarded for their convenient dial-adjustment system, space-saving design, and solid build quality. The Results Series models earn 4.7-star ratings from hundreds of reviewers, with users praising the quick weight changes and ergonomic grips. The main drawbacks are the plastic components on older models and the higher price compared to fixed dumbbells.
Is there a recall on Bowflex adjustable dumbbells?
BowFlex previously recalled certain SelectTech 1090 models due to a risk of weight plates dislodging during use. The recall has been resolved, and all current production models include the updated locking mechanism fix. If you are buying new from Amazon or authorized retailers, you receive the corrected version. Johnson Health Tech now owns the brand and continues to support warranty claims.
Why is everyone selling their Bowflex adjustable dumbbells?
Some owners sell their BowFlex dumbbells because they have upgraded to a full gym setup, outgrown the weight range, or switched to competing brands like PowerBlock that offer higher weight limits. Others sell after the company’s bankruptcy filing created uncertainty, though Johnson Health Tech has since acquired the brand and continues to honor warranties.
Are Bowflex dumbbells worth it?
For most home gym owners with limited space, BowFlex dumbbells are worth the investment. A single pair replaces 15 to 17 individual dumbbells, saving significant money and floor space compared to buying fixed weights. The dial system makes weight changes fast during circuit training. They are less ideal for advanced lifters who need weights above 90 pounds or prefer the feel of traditional iron dumbbells.
What is the best adjustable dumbbell for home gym?
The best adjustable dumbbell depends on your needs. For beginners to intermediate lifters, the BowFlex Results Series SelectTech 552 pair offers the best overall value with its 5 to 52.5-pound range and dial system. For heavy lifters, the SelectTech 1090 extends to 90 pounds. For budget-conscious buyers, the BowFlex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell provides excellent versatility at a lower price point.
Conclusion
After testing eight products and comparing features, weight ranges, and real user feedback, the best BowFlex dumbbells for most people are the BowFlex Results Series SelectTech pair. The 5 to 52.5-pound range, dial adjustment system, and metal-plate construction make it a reliable choice that covers the majority of home training needs.
For budget-conscious shoppers, the single 552 dumbbell or the SelectTech 840 Kettlebell offer BowFlex quality at a lower entry point. And for heavy lifters who need more resistance, the 1090 extends to 90 pounds per hand with knurled grips for serious training sessions.
No matter which model you choose, adding the SelectTech Stand transforms the experience by protecting your back and keeping your workout area organized. Take your current fitness level, available space, and training goals into account, and you will find the right BowFlex dumbbells for your home gym in 2026.