Head-to-head · Best Adjustable Dumbbells Under $200

BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Dumbbells vs Core Adjustable Dumbbells

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Core Adjustable Dumbbells comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.3 vs 4.6). The gap is mostly about Users prioritizing speed of adjustment over precision — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #4 in Best Adjustable Dumbbells Under $200

BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Dumbbells

4.3

5 sources2 derived$399as of Sep 20

The Bowflex Results Series 552 SelectTech Dumbbells offer adjustable resistance from 5 to 52.5 lbs with a dial system that allows quick weight changes. Users appreciate the compact design that saves storage space compared to multiple dumbbell sets, and note the sturdy construction with no rust after months of use. However, reviewers have criticized the opposite dial directions which causes confusion, and the large size makes some exercises awkward. The product is recommended for home gym users seeking a versatile, space-saving solution, though those needing weights above 52.5 lbs or preferring more compact dumbbells may want to consider alternatives.

Strengths

— Adjustable resistance from 5 lbs up to 52.5 lbs with dial rotation
— Compact design that takes up less storage space than multiple dumbbell sets
— Sturdy construction with no rust observed after five months of daily use

Watch-outs

— Dials turn opposite on each side, causing awkwardness and difficulty remembering which direction to turn
— Large size (width and length) makes some exercises awkward and requires more finesse

$399 · Buy at bowflex.com Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Adjustable Dumbbells Under $200

Core Adjustable Dumbbells

4.6

7 sources2 derived$389.99as of Sep 20

The Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbell Set offers fast, simple adjustments from 5 to 50 pounds with a twist of a handle. Reviewers praised its comfortable grip and ergonomic design that shortens as weight decreases. While the 5-pound increments are less precise than some competitors, the ease of use makes it ideal for most home gyms. Minor drawbacks include the need for careful alignment when re-racking and occasional sticking when lifting fully loaded weights.

Strengths

— Adjusts from 5 to 50 pounds in seconds with a simple twist of a handle
— Comfortable grip design
— Ergonomic length that gets shorter as load decreases

Watch-outs

— Weight increments are 5 pounds rather than 2.5 pounds
— Requires careful alignment to rerack weights

$389.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Dumbbells

The Bowflex Results Series 552 SelectTech Dumbbells provide a dial-based adjustment system that's more precise than the Core Adjustable Dumbbells' twist mechanism, but it's less intuitive than the magnetic selector of the PowerBlock Elite. Unlike the SMRTFT Adjustable Dumbbell, it has a narrower weight range, though it offers better build quality than the CAP Barbell Adjustable Dumbbell. The Bowflex also lacks the rapid-change feature of the MX Select MX55.

Core Adjustable Dumbbells

The Core Adjustable Dumbbells offer the fastest adjustment mechanism compared to the Bowflex Results Series 552 SelectTech Dumbbells, which have a more complex dial system. However, unlike the PowerBlock Elite, it lacks the USA-made construction and magnetic selector. The Core also provides less precise weight increments than the SMRTFT Adjustable Dumbbell, which offers a wider weight range and more advanced features.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Dumbbells	Core Adjustable Dumbbells
Weight Range	5-52.5 lbs	5-50 pounds
Weight Increment	2.5 lb	5 lb
Adjustment Method	Dial system	Twist handle
Handle Material	Rubber coating	contoured soft-grip
Total Length	16.9” L	14.5 in
Material	plastic, rubber, and metal	Metal
Grip Type	textured rubber grip	Comfortable
Dimensions	16.9" L x 8.3" W x 9" H	14.5" L x 7.9" W x 7.5" H

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