13 Best Dumbbells For Home Gym For 2023 | Review + Guide

When it comes to the best dumbbells for a home gym, the BalanceFrom Dumbbell Set is the top option for a cast iron set. Other than that, you can choose the Portzon Neoprene Dumbbells, which are available in multiple colors. And if you want the best value, the JFIT Dumbbell Hand Weight Set should be your pick.

Want to stay fit without having to leave the house? You can consider getting a gym right in your home.

Home gyms are becoming increasingly popular among home and apartment owners these days. But to make a decent home gym, you need to get the right equipment. And the dumbbell is one of the most critical home gym equipment that you can get.

However, picking a dumbbell can be challenging, especially if you don’t have any experience in this matter. That’s why I have reviewed some of the best options in this guide. So, dive in!

13 Best Dumbbells For Home Gym

1. BalanceFrom Dumbbell Set – Best Cast Iron Dumbbell Set

BalanceFrom Colored Neoprene Coated Dumbbell Set with Stand,...

• 3 pairs of dumbbells in 5-pound, 8-pound, and 12-pound...
• The durable, neoprene material coated cast iron is great for...

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For those of you who want a versatile set of dumbbells, the BalanceFrom Dumbbell Set will not disappoint. It comes with three pairs of dumbbells that weigh a total of 50 pounds. The three sizes included with this set are a 5-pound, an 8-pound, and a 12-pound pair. 

If you are a beginner, you can start with the 5-pound dumbbells and gradually move up to the 12-pound ones. You can use them for weight training, resistance training, or any other training regimen. 

These dumbbells are made from cast iron coated with neoprene. The neoprene outer coating protects the cast iron metal from rusting and corrosion, thereby improving its lifespan and making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor workouts. It also improves the grip of the dumbbells so that you do not accidentally drop them while working out.

For convenience, each pair has a different color, and the weight is mentioned individually on each dumbbell. That way, you will know which size you are using for your workouts. The dumbbells have a hex shape, which prevents them from rolling on the floor.

I found the inclusion of the rack quite handy, for it allowed me to keep the dumbbells in place after I was done working out. With it, you don’t have to worry about misplacing them. 

Besides, the set comes with all the necessary assembly tools so that you can get started with your practice quickly. That said, this set is expensive, which might deter many users from purchasing it.

2. Portzon Neoprene Dumbbells – Best For Personalization

Set of 2 Neoprene Dumbbell Hand Weights, Anti-slip,...

• 【More process perfect】The frame design after the...
• 【More ergonomic】The handle is more comfortable to grip,...

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For this review, I have selected the Neoprene Dumbbells by Portzon. It is another pair of cast-iron dumbbells that are coated with neoprene rubber. This eco-friendly outer coating prevents the cast iron core from damage or rusting, which means that the dumbbells will last for a long time. What’s more, these dumbbells are manufactured using a multi-layer process that improves impact absorption.

These dumbbells have a relatively small size and feature a hexagonal frame design, which prevents rolling and makes them easy to use and store. The high-grade rubber coating improves the grip on the handles, despite having a smooth and clean finish. 

Besides, it makes them soft and gentle to hold, which prevents calluses and blisters on the hand when exercising. And thanks to its ergonomic design, I didn’t lose my grip on the handles even when I was all sweaty.

Apart from that, the rubber coating is easy to clean, which improves user convenience. So, there is no need to worry about dust and grime gathering on the dumbbells over time. You can use them for a wide range of physical exercises, such as aerobics, strength training, bicep curls, waist training, and squat (exercise).

These dumbbells are available in a wide range of colors, which makes them perfect for those who like personalization. And while there are different weight sizes available, you will need to purchase them separately, which is a major drawback of this product.

3. JFIT Dumbbell Hand Weight Set – Best Value For Money

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JFIT Dumbbell Set w/Durable Rack, Double Neoprene Coated...

• 32 LB SET WITH RACK: Set includes 8lb, 5lb, & 3lb neoprene...
• NEOPRENE COATED WEIGHTS: Pump up your routine with these...

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The Dumbbell Hand Weight Set by JFIT is an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced users. It is a cast-iron dumbbell set that comes with three pairs of dumbbells. These three options are 3-pound, 5-pound, and 8-pound dumbbells, so the total weight of the set is 32 pounds. 

If you are a new user, you can start with the lowest option, while the highest option is best suited for advanced users. Each pair of dumbbells has a distinct color and is coated with high-quality, double-dipped neoprene rubber. It protects the solid cast-iron core from rusting and provides an excellent grip for your workout sessions.

The dumbbells have a hexagonal design to prevent them from rolling or damaging your floor. They are fairly compact in size and are easy enough to store or carry. This is further enhanced by the fact that it comes with a convenient storage rack. 

In fact, you can use the rack to store other gym equipment, too, such as a kettlebell. Unfortunately, the instructions for assembling the rack can be difficult to understand for inexperienced users.

You also have the option to get vinyl-coated dumbbells instead of neoprene, which have a glossier finish and are easier to maintain. But I personally prefer the neoprene rubber-coated dumbbells since they are softer and a lot more ergonomic to hold.

4. Sunny Health & Fitness Vinyl Dumbbell – Best Adjustable Dumbbells

Sunny Health & Fitness Exercise Vinyl 40 Lb Dumbbell Set...

• 40 POUNDS: Each set comes equipped with a pair of dumbbells...
• WORKOUT VERSATILITY: Enhance your muscular strength,...

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The Vinyl Dumbbell by Sunny Health & Fitness is a pair of adjustable dumbbells that are highly versatile. It is the perfect workout equipment for your home gym, as it can help with a wide range of workouts. You can use these round dumbbells for strength and endurance training, which will ultimately improve your skeletal muscle mass.

That is all because of the adjustability of these dumbbells. This option comes with 12 interchangeable plates that allow you to adjust the weight according to your workout needs. With these weight plates, I could create a pair of dumbbells weighing five pounds, ten pounds, or twenty pounds. The total weight of both dumbbells, when fully assembled, is 40 pounds.

Each weight plate and barbell is vinyl coated to prevent corrosion and damage. On that note, the core material used in these components is solid alloy steel, which provides exceptional toughness. 

Both barbells are knurled to provide optimal grip and prevent slipping when your hands get sweaty. Additionally, the curved center handlebar design makes it even more ergonomic to hold since it contours seamlessly to the arch of your hands.

Adjusting the weight is pretty easy, thanks to the polypropylene-coated star-lock collars. However, the rounded plates of these dumbbells make them prone to rolling on the floor, which can be a bit annoying for some users. 

5. HolaHatha Dumbbell Free Hand Weight Set – Best For Small Hands

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HolaHatha 3Lb, 5Lb & 8Lb Hex Dumbbell Set with Rack Stand,...

• DUMBBELL SET: This dumbbell set includes 3lb, 5lb and 8lb...
• MULTIPLE USES: Our hex dumbbell set is great for building...

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The HolaHatha Dumbbell Free Hand Weight Set is another set of hex dumbbells that you can get for your home gym. With a total weight of 32 pounds, the set includes three pairs of hex-shaped dumbbells, which are 3-pound, 5-pound, and 8-pound weights. Each pair has a different color, which makes them easily distinguishable.

This weight range allows you to customize your fitness routine to suit your needs. For instance, you can perform general strength and endurance training exercises like aerobics, floor-press, and others. Or, you could target specific muscle groups such as your biceps or triceps.

Each dumbbell is made from high-quality, solid cast iron metal coated with eco-PVC material. This outer coating improves grip and prevents the dumbbells from slipping from your hands when sweaty. Not only that, but it also makes the dumbbell easy to maintain. All I had to do to clean them was wipe the dumbbells with a moistened cloth and soap.

The dumbbells have a compact size, which makes them easy to hold for those who have smaller hands. Aside from that, this set comes with a rack that makes the dumbbells convenient to store. 

This rack can be easily assembled and will take up very little space in your home gym. However, it feels a bit unstable when in use, so you will need to be careful not to tip it over during your workouts.

6. Amazon Basics Neoprene Workout Dumbbell – Best For Convenience

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Amazon Basics Neoprene Hexagon Workout Dumbbell Color-Coded...

• Dumbbell hand weights for exercise and resistance training;...
• Includes 6 dumbbells in 3 sizes: 3, 5, and 8 pounds (2 each,...

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Amazon Basics is the in-house brand of Amazon (company) that manufactures a wide range of consumer products, including dumbbells. These products are known for having decent quality and affordable prices, and the Neoprene Workout Dumbbell is also no different.

It is a set of rubber hex dumbbells that has a total weight of 32 pounds. The weight increments for the dumbbell pairs are the same as other 32-pound dumbbell sets, which are 3 pounds, 5 pounds, and 8 pounds. Similarly, each dumbbell has a solid cast-iron core coated with durable neoprene rubber.

For the convenience of users, the weights are printed on each dumbbell. Besides, each pair has a different color to make the identification even easier. On that note, there are several other colors and sizes available to purchase, meaning that you can personalize your dumbbell set in any way you wish.

The rubber coating protects the core from damage and improves the grip when working out. Likewise, the hexagonal shape prevents the dumbbells from rolling on the ground. And with the easy-to-assemble storage rack, you can keep them all in one place.

Furthermore, the handle is soft and ergonomic to hold, so you can use these dumbbells for extended periods without having to worry about blistering or calluses. On the flip side, the size of these dumbbells is comparatively large, which makes them unsuitable for those with small hands.

7. Vivitory Adjustable Dumbbell – Best Multipurpose Dumbbell

VIVITORY Dumbbell Sets Adjustable Weights, Free Weights...

• ✅ SUPERB & DURABLE - The Vivitory adjustable dumbbells set...
• ✅MULTIPURPOSE HOME GYM WEIGHTS SET - With a wide range of...

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This particular option by the brand Vivitory is possibly one of the best adjustable dumbbells that you can get. The Vivitory Adjustable Dumbbell is a multipurpose set of weights that can be used for all types of strength training and bodybuilding exercises. 

It comes with a long connecting rod that allows you to convert the dumbbell into a weightlifting barbell. As such, you can perform different powerlifting exercises (squat, bench press, overhead press, or deadlift) to improve your core strength. On the other hand, once I removed the connecting rod, I could use it as a traditional dumbbell. This offers a great degree of versatility to your workout routines.

The total weight of this dumbbell is 44 pounds, and it consists of 12 adjustable weight plates. There are three different sizes – 4.4 pounds, 3.3 pounds, and 2.8 pounds, with each size having four plates. These plates have a hexagonal design to prevent rolling, and they can be easily assembled and disassembled.

As for the materials used, the plates are made of fine iron powder and a cement mixture. Subsequently, the handlebars and connecting rods are made from embedded steel. And the outer covering for both these components is made from eco-friendly polyethylene and EVA resin for durability.

However, this product comes with a hefty price tag, which can deter many people from buying it. Although considering its features and versatility, this is to be expected.

8. New Balance Dumbbells Hand Weights – Best For Beginners

New Balance Dumbbells Hand Weights (Single) - Neoprene...

• HAND WEIGHT DUMBBELL: New Balance dumbbells are neoprene...
• HAND WEIGHTS SET: Dumbbells are sold as singles and...

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These Dumbbells Hand Weights by New Balance are a single pair of weights that you can use for your gym. The one I have reviewed here is the 10-pound pair, but there are other sizes available to purchase as well. In that context, the total weight range available for this particular option is between 3 pounds and 20 pounds, with each pair having a different color.

You will need to purchase each of the pairs separately if you wish to complete the set, which can get relatively expensive. But if you want to build a custom set of only a few weight pairs, you will find this option very advantageous. This aspect makes it one of the best picks for a beginner.

I found the quality of these dumbbells to be quite good. The core is made from solid cast iron, which is extremely tough. Conversely, the outer shell is made of premium-quality neoprene rubber that improves grip. As such, they are ideal for toning and strength training exercises.

The outer cover is pretty soft and ergonomic, which makes the dumbbells easy to hold. They are compact enough to fit most hands, which makes them suitable for both men and women. Besides, the hexagonal shape of the dumbbells keeps them from rolling away. 

9. Lifepro Adjustable Dumbbell – Best Space-Saving Design

LifePro Adjustable Dumbbell Set Pair, 5-in-1 Adjustable Free...

• NEW 2.0 MODEL WITH IMPROVED ADJUSTMENT - Developing our...
• ADJUSTABLE 25 LB DUMBBELLS: Our compact, adjustable...

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Lifepro is a fairly renowned brand that makes different types of unique fitness products. That is why I decided to try out the Lifepro Adjustable Dumbbell since it has a slightly different design than other adjustable dumbbells.

Instead of using traditional weight plates, this pair of dumbbells utilizes a built-in weight-adjustment system. There is an adjustable dial on each dumbbell that allows you to switch between different weights conveniently. 

Thus, you won’t have to worry about assembling and disassembling weight plates like in traditional dumbbells. Moreover, the dumbbells have a highly compact size because of this feature, which ultimately helps to save space in your gym. However, such convenience comes at a relatively high price, and unless you have the necessary funds, you won’t be able to purchase this option.

The lowest weight is five pounds, and you can sequentially switch between 5-pound weight increments up to a maximum of 25 pounds. That means you get a total weight of 50 pounds for both dumbbells. Also, I noticed that the weight adjustment system becomes locked in place while the dumbbells are being used. This keeps the weight from accidentally changing mid-workout, thereby making the dumbbells safe to use.

Lifepro has used alloy steel materials to make this product, which offers excellent durability. Even the handles are made from steel, and that gives a sleek and shiny appearance to these dumbbells. Additionally, there is knurling on the grips to keep the dumbbells from slipping when your hands get sweaty.

10. Bierdorf Adjustable Weights Dumbbells Set – Best For Heavy Workouts

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BIERDORF Adjustable Weights Dumbbells Set, Non-Rolling...

• 【New Safety Structure Design】- This octagonal design...
• 【Superb & Durable】- The BIERDORF adjustable dumbbell...

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If you are looking to lift heavier weights for your workouts, then the Bierdorf Adjustable Weights Dumbbells Set has got you covered. This adjustable dumbbell set has a total weight of 66 pounds and can be used for all upper-body exercises like biceps curl, bench presses, overhead presses, and so on.

You can use this as a barbell, too, thanks to the connecting rod that comes packaged with this set. By using it, you can create a weightlifting barbell that can be used for both upper and lower-body exercises. 

Adjusting the weights is pretty straightforward, so you can easily use it according to your workout needs. However, I noticed that the attachment nuts are made from plastic, which can become loose or break if used extensively.

This particular option comes with octagonal weight plates, which is unlike most adjustable dumbbells that normally use a hexagonal design. Both of them serve the same purpose, but the octagonal shape makes this dumbbell set stand out from other options.

The plates are made from a cement mixture that makes them incredibly solid and sturdy. On the outside, they are coated with flexible polyethylene and EVA resin. This provides cushioning and prevents damage to your home gym floor. Similarly, the connecting rod has a foam covering to relieve fatigue and reduce neck compression while weightlifting. And the handles have a non-slip rubber coating to improve grip.

11. Brave Heart Hand Weights Dumbbells Set – Best Set With A Rack

BRAVE HEART 2Lb 3Lb 5Lb 8Lb 12Lb Pair Vinyl Coated Hand...

• Dumbbell hand weight: this vinyl dumbbell sets 2pound, 3...
• Super high quality and perfect design: the dumbellsweights...

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Here, I have reviewed the Hand Weights Dumbbells Set by Brave Heart. It is a set of five standard dumbbells that comes with a 5-tier dumbbell rack made of solid steel. This sets it apart from most other sets that usually come with three dumbbell pairs and a plastic rack.

The five different weight options you get here are two pounds, three pounds, five pounds, eight pounds, and twelve pounds. With such a diverse set of weights, you can perform most dumbbell exercises with ease, regardless of your skill level.

Each dumbbell is made from solid cast iron and has an outer coating of vinyl. The iron core provides rigidity and makes the dumbbells durable, while the vinyl coating protects the core from rusting, improving its lifespan. In addition to that, it makes the dumbbells easy to clean, which improves user convenience.

I found the steel rack to be highly stable, thanks to its sturdy design and firm attachment screws. That said, assembling the rack can take a while, which may get annoying for some users. On top of that, the rack occupies very little space on the floor, and there are rubber inserts at each tier that prevent scratches on the dumbbells.

These dumbbells have a relatively compact size, which makes them easy to grip with both large and small hands. And the hexagonal design prevents them from rolling when in use.

12. Saorzon Free Weights Hand Hex Dumb Bells – Best Single Dumbbells

10 LB Dumbbells Set of 2 Exercise & Fitness Dumbbell for...

• Dumbbells for resistance training,great for arms, back,...
• Weights 10LB x 2, total 20 LB,backed by an Saorzon limited...

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The Saorzon Free Weights Hand Hex Dumb Bells are a pair of fixed dumbbells that can be used for various exercise purposes. There are several weight options available to purchase, ranging from five pounds to thirty-five pounds, but for the sake of convenience, I have reviewed the 10-pound size here.

In total, you get 20 pounds for both hands, making this option an ideal choice for resistance training. Each dumbbell head has a cast-iron core and is coated on the outside with rubber. The two heads are joined together with a solid handle made from 1018 cold-rolled steel. There is chrome plating on the handle that improves durability.

What’s more, the rubber-encased heads have a hexagonal shape to prevent rolling and make storage easier. The rubber coating provides adequate cushioning to the dumbbells, which means that your floor won’t be damaged if you accidentally drop them. Likewise, the handle design is highly ergonomic and has a knurled texture for maximum grip. 

You can purchase one pair at a time, which is the only complaint I have with these dumbbells. So, if you want to expand your training routine with different weights, you will need to purchase them separately, which can be an expensive affair. However, if you only wish to perform a certain set of exercises, then a single dumbbell will be fine.

13. TerriTrophy Free Weights Dumbbells Set – Best Versatility

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TerriTrophy 4 Tiers 38Lbs Weights Dumbbells Sets with Rack,...

• DUMBBELL SET: comes with 4 paris of coated iron dumbbells,...
• HIGH QUALITY, DURABLE MATERIAL: while others are made with...

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The TerriTrophy Free Weights Dumbbells Set consists of four pairs of hexagonal-shaped dumbbells. These four weight options are two pounds, four pounds, five pounds, and eight pounds. If taken together, the total weight of the whole set comes to be 38 pounds. 

So, you can use them for toning exercises and strength training. Personally, I used the lower-weight dumbbells for arm exercises and low-intensity strength training. As for the higher weights, I used them for exercising my shoulder and hip muscles, as well as for performing high-intensity exercises.

The dumbbells have a compact size, which makes them a perfect choice for people with small hands. Each dumbbell has a solid iron core that makes them incredibly tough. Subsequently, the outer coating is made from environmentally friendly neoprene rubber. 

This outer layer protects the iron core from rusting and makes it easier to clean and maintain the dumbbells. Apart from that, it makes the dumbbells easier to hold and prevents slipping when your palms become sweaty.

The hexagonal design of the dumbbells prevents them from rolling. Moreover, the inclusion of the storage rack makes it convenient to use this set. This rack takes up very little space in your gym, meaning that you get more space for other gym equipment. However, I didn’t see any tool included in the package to assemble the rack. So, you need to use your own tools to set it up.

Dumbbells For Home Gym Buying Guide

Now that the list is concluded, have you been able to decide on which dumbbell you want yet? I understand; that’s still a bit difficult to answer. But there’s no need to worry, for here, I have prepared a brief buyer’s guide that contains some important pointers. So, if you want to clear your confusion, then read on!

1. Materials Used

When looking to purchase a good dumbbell for your home gym, the first thing you need to check is the material. If you have gone through my list, you will have noticed that there are different materials used in making dumbbells.

In most cases, manufacturers use cast iron to make the core of the dumbbell. This makes them incredibly sturdy and rigid, which helps with your exercises. 

However, some brands may use other materials like cement mixture or steel to make the dumbbell. These materials are commonly observed in adjustable dumbbells that use weight plates. On that note, reinforced steel is also used to make the handles and nuts of a dumbbell.

Similarly, the outer covering of most dumbbells is made from materials like neoprene rubber. This material is used because it provides cushioning for the dumbbells and improves the grip.

Some manufacturers may use other materials like EVA resins, foam, or polyethylene plastics, which are much cheaper by comparison. Foam, in particular, is used because it provides a softer and more comfortable grip. But I would suggest that you avoid these materials since they are not as durable as rubber.

2. Type

Another important factor to consider before purchasing a dumbbell is its type. There are two primary types of dumbbells available today – standard and adjustable. The standard dumbbells have fixed weights that cannot be changed, while the weights of adjustable dumbbells can be easily changed by loading or unloading weight plates. Because of this reason, they are sometimes referred to as loadable dumbbells.

Many dumbbell manufacturers offer dumbbell sets to make up for the limitations of fixed dumbbells. Such sets include multiple fixed dumbbell weights to improve versatility. And in most cases, they come with a storage rack to make it convenient for the users.

3. Grip

Before you purchase a dumbbell, make sure to check its grip. Trust me – you do not want to buy an option that has a poor grip. Not only will it make your workouts uncomfortable, but it will also give rise to safety issues. 

To ensure proper grip, you need to check two things – the diameter of the handle and the texture. Make sure that you can wrap your whole palm around the handle, as it will help to hold the dumbbells firmly while exercising. If you don’t, the dumbbells will feel too big for your hands, making them prone to slipping. 

Likewise, you should ensure that the handle has a knurled texture. Having a knurled handle is important because it improves your grip on the dumbbell. Without it, the dumbbell will have a higher chance of slipping out of your hands.

Many manufacturers choose to use materials like natural rubber, neoprene, or foam instead of a knurled grip since they are more convenient. A rubber or foam-coated handle provides a similar level of grip as a knurled steel bar. Besides, it makes the grip softer, which makes it more comfortable for the user.

4. Price

The price is undoubtedly an important factor to consider. After all, you wouldn’t want to purchase an option that exceeds your budget considerably, for that will leave you with little to no money for buying other gym equipment.

With that being said, I would not advise you to buy extremely cheap dumbbells either. That’s because unbelievably low prices are usually an indicator of poor quality.

Single dumbbells are generally the most affordable options you can get in this regard. But they are not very versatile, which can limit your workout routines. To make up for this, you can buy dumbbell sets, as I have mentioned earlier, provided you have the necessary funds. Better yet, you can buy an adjustable dumbbell that provides excellent versatility at a moderate price point.

Top Dumbbells For Home Gym Verdict

That brings me to the end of this detailed review-based guide. I hope that you have been able to make up your mind by now.

To be honest, a dumbbell is a must-have in any home gym (unless you are using an all-in-one home gym). When used alongside other gear, you get a comprehensive physical fitness regimen. You can even hire a personal trainer to advise you on your training schedules.

Anyways, before I wrap up, let me mention my personal favorites. The BalanceFrom Dumbbell Set is the best cast-iron set that offers decent versatility at a reasonable price, making it my top pick overall. 

But if you want to spice up the training routines, you can opt for the Portzon Neoprene Dumbbells, which are available in multiple colors. Although if you want the best value for your money, then the JFIT Dumbbell Hand Weight Set is a good investment.