The Best Brands of Dumbbells

Dumbbells are a staple in many different types of workouts, most notably in strength and conditioning routines. Dumbbells come in a broad range of sizes, allowing for a large degree of variation between individual exercises that utilize them. However, this also means that you will have to spend money buying several different weights if your goal is to add more resistance over time because it is impractical (and potentially unsafe) to lift with the same weight on each side every day.

It may be tempting to buy a set of dumbbells that come with heads of different weight, but you will wind up spending more in the long run if your goal is to add resistance over time. For example, if you buy a set with handles and heads ranging from 5 pounds to 40 pounds, it may cost less than buying only weights separately but if the additional weights don’t match up perfectly (as they should), which can cause uneven stress on joints while lifting them. If your budget doesn’t allow for all of the variations you need, make sure to buy a set with some plates that allow for the largest increments you can afford.

Let’s take a look at the best brands of dumbbells on the market today:

4. AmazonBasics

Amazon’s own brand of dumbbell set is a great choice if you are looking for something simple. These rubber-coated hex dumbbell handles come in three weights: 5 pounds, 7.5 pounds, and 10 pounds per side. If you had your heart set on another weight but they were out, this set is 100% customizable. For example, you could buy all three weights and then use 5 pound plates to add that extra bit of weight needed if you are using the 10 pound handle.

These dumbbells come in a set of three and each has an engraved number so there will be no question as to which one is 7.5 pounds instead of 15 or 20 – this makes for convenient usage but also increases safety by making it harder to add too much resistance at once (although always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions to avoid injury).

Another positive thing about this set is that each handle has a wide grip. While it may not be as beneficial for someone with exceptionally large hands, these handles will fit comfortably in most people’s hands and allow them to focus more on their workout instead of getting tired from gripping hard while lifting heavier weights. The last thing anyone wants when working out is discomfort; buy something you can enjoy using.

3. Ironmaster

Ironmaster has been making quality dumbbells for over 30 years. These hexagonal solid iron dumbbell handles are extremely strong, yet still comfortable and functional when using them. They come in 5 different weights: 5 pounds, 7.5 pounds, 10 pounds, 12.5 pounds, and 15 pounds per side (there is also a set consisting of all five). The handle itself is heavily knurled to create excellent grip so you don’t slip while lifting.

The handles are coated in corrosion-resistant zinc for a smooth feel and to prevent rust, as well. The 10 pound handles have a width of 1 inch while the 15 pound version is slightly wider at 1.5 inches – this is one area where Ironmaster made design alterations because they believe that the extra grip provided by the larger handle will help you lift safely without slipping.

These dumbbells do not come with heads; instead, you get just hexagonal iron handles. So if you are looking to add some weight, you will need to buy a separate insert head. If you choose this set, we recommend the 2-inch inserts as they have more room for adding weights.

2. Rogue

Rogue offers a sturdy pair of hexagonal dumbbell handles that have head sizes ranging from 1.25 to 2-inches. There are four different weights: 5 pounds, 7.5 pounds, 10 pounds and 15 pounds per side (Rogue also features several other types of dumbbells with heads within this range including ones with unusual weight increments between each – check out the detailed reviews for more information). Rogue is very popular among gym-goers due to its high quality construction as well as the selection of weight and size options.

The handles are made from steel with a black powder coat finish; these provide the benefits of both solid metal in construction as well as the coating to prevent corrosion and rust (as well as making them shinier than they would be otherwise). They each have a knurled grip for superior handling when lifting weights, which can range from 1-inch wide on the 5 pound side to 1.5 inches thick on the 15 pound handles. If you prefer an increase in grip thickness as you add weight, the 10 and 15 pound handles will be your best bet.

This set is one of the more expensive options on our list; however, keep in mind that they are still quite a bit cheaper than buying individual weights of each size (especially ones with different widths and thicknesses). Plus, if you have ever bought hexagonal dumbbell heads separately they can get fairly pricey too! So spending a little extra for this set may save you over time.

1. Core Fitness

Core Fitness is another popular brand among gym-goers due to its heavy duty construction. These dumbbells are made with solid cast iron and are extremely sturdy – although not quite as thickly coated as the ones from Rogue above, they still protect them well against rusting or other damage from water (if you plan on using these outside make sure to wipe away any salt or sand first). Plus, if your goal in buying a set of dumbbells is to lift heavier weights over time, buying something from a high quality brand like this one is highly recommended.

These dumbbells come in 5 different weights that range from 1.25 to 2 inches thick (the last weight increment is 13 pounds per side – core fitness sells hexagonal heads separately). However, if you add more than 12 pounds of weight on each handle they can become fairly unwieldy and tight – so we recommend staying below 2 inches for the best experience. If your goal is simply to lift heavy while getting a great workout, you can also check out other hexagonal dumbbell handles that are more expensive but offer even thicker heavy duty construction (if you have been lifting for a while and are looking to lift heavier weights without buying new equipment).

We recommend choosing the 2 inch plates as they provide a good middle ground between having enough room on each plate to add extra weight and being able to grip them safely while lifting. 

Now all that’s left is for you to get ready to lift, build muscles and burn fat – it really doesn’t get much better than that (unless we add in sipping on some post workout protein shake). We hope that you have enjoyed reading this article as much as we did putting it together for you. If you think there is a product here that deserves to be included on the list, don’t hesitate to let us know.