Adjustable Dumbbells

Bowflex SelectTech 552 vs PowerBlock Pro 50 Adjustable Dumbbells

Quick verdict

Winner on Gym Score: Bowflex SelectTech 552 (100)

PowerBlock Pro 50 Adjustable Dumbbells still wins for some buyers — see the fit cards below.

Bowflex SelectTech 552
Best for
  • · Apartment lifters who can't fit a rack of fixed dumbbells
  • · Intermediate lifters working in the 10 to 50 lb dumbbell range
  • · Hybrid home gyms that need one tool covering curls through goblet squats
PowerBlock Pro 50 Adjustable Dumbbells
Best for
  • · Lifters who want a single adjustable system that scales from 5 to 90 lb per hand
  • · Compact home gyms where dumbbell rack footprint is the main constraint
  • · Buyers who prioritize Made-in-USA construction and lifetime warranty on the core

Spec-by-spec

SpecBowflex SelectTech 552PowerBlock Pro 50 Adjustable Dumbbells
Weight Range5-52.5 lb5-50 lb (expandable to 90)
Increments2.5 lb2.5 lb
MechanismDial selectorPin selector

Bowflex SelectTech 552

Strengths
  • +5-52.5 lb in 2.5 lb increments
  • +2-year warranty
  • +Proven 20+ year track record
  • +Global aftermarket
Weaknesses
  • Handle diameter feels bulky
  • Drop damage voids warranty
  • Plastic shell looks cheap

PowerBlock Pro 50 Adjustable Dumbbells

Strengths
  • +Expandable to 90 lb per hand
  • +Compact footprint (4 sizes)
  • +Made in USA
  • +Lifetime warranty on core
Weaknesses
  • Square profile feels odd vs round dumbbells
  • Pin-based adjustment is slower than dial
  • Aesthetically utilitarian
Full review: Bowflex SelectTech 552Full review: PowerBlock Pro 50 Adjustable DumbbellsAll Adjustable Dumbbells