Powerblock vs. Bowflex Dumbbells Comparison for 2023 (REVISED)

We review fitness products independently. When you make a purchase, we may earn a small commission to help maintain this blog.

Dumbbells are one of the best exercise equipment that you can get. What makes them great is that unlike other home gym equipment, they do not require confusing setups.

They are also very sturdy so that you can use them for a long time so that you can train your muscles without constantly.

You might think that all dumbbells look the same, but they are designed differently depending on their brands.

Today, we will look into two brands of dumbbells to find out which one is the best. The Powerblock and Bowflex dumbbells are the two most popular brands of adjustable dumbbells.

To help you decide which dumbbell to get, then let this unbiased review spread the facts in front of you so that you can make the right decision on which dumbbell to purchase.

Powerblock vs. Bowflex (Overall comparison)

Powerblock and Bowflex are two giants which have capitalized on the adjustable dumbbell market each with their own benefits and drawbacks.

The issue with a lot of home-gym equipment is that it can be confusing to set up and then when you finally do, it breaks after just a few uses.

The frustrating thing about the world of fitness equipment at the minute is that it’s hard to tell what’s worth your money and what’s just good marketing.

Thankfully, both Powerblock and Bowflex are offering high-quality, simple equipment that you can purchase right now to help you reach your fitness goals.

Powerblock

Powerblock has stuck to a formula that works, rarely changing their equipment and instead of sticking to the tried and true method.

The dumbbells look extremely different to normal dumbbells as instead of one handle with two round weights at the end, the weights are actually square and the handle is almost enclosed around the weight.

This can make it tricky to pick up for some exercises but the square design stops them from rolling away.

To adjust the dumbbell you essentially just have to stick a pin into the weights that you want, much like a machine.

You would then dock them back into the weights in order to reselect your next weight. Simple, easy, and straightforward.

Features

Bowflex

If you had to pick one, then Bowflex is most likely the top brand in the adjustable dumbbell market.

Bowflex is sporting a more traditional and ergonomic design with the handle in the middle and several sets of round weights on either side.

They come with a dial at the end of each set of weights so that you can easily switch between weights as and when needed.

In terms of models, there are two to choose from:

To adjust the weights on a Bowflex you just have to use the built-in dial on either side which is actually quicker than the Powerblock option.

Features

Powerblock vs Bowflex (Detailed comparison)

Adjustment and Weight Variety

Quality of Materials and Durability

Both Powerblock and Bowflex make dumbbells with the materials that are high quality and durable.

Powerblock uses metal for the weight plates which is a black powder coat painted. Bowflex, on the other hand, uses arduous metallic which is covered in sturdy onerous plastic.

In terms of overall quality and durability, both brands are on par with each other. Both brands also use plastic elements in the design, however, it has no significant drawback.

Comfort/Safety

Size/Shape

Return Policies

What should you do if you purchase a set of dumbbells and find them unsuitable for your needs? Let’s examine the return policies of these two manufacturers.

Powerblock vs. Bowflex (Pros and Cons)

Buyer’s Guide for Powerblock And Bowflex Dumbbells

The Powerblock and Bowflex dumbbells each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Based on the comparison chart, you might think that the Bowflex is better than the Powerblock dumbbells because it has more weight options and subtle increments.

But you have to take note that while the weight options and small increment are the best features of the Bowflex dumbbells, the selling point of the Powerblock dumbbells is its intuitive and practical cubic weights.

Varied Weights and Subtle Increments

The Bowflex dumbbells have more varied weight options from 5 to 52.5 pounds. It also has a subtle increment of 2.5 pounds, so you can choose the weight that you want without putting too much strain on your upper body.

This is a great option, especially among beginner fitness enthusiasts. Because of its small increments, it can be used by the entire family. But it is important to take note that the Powerblock dumbbells have options from 5 to 45 pounds.

However, it can only be adjusted at 5 pounds increment thus it does not provide a subtle increase in weight.

Practical and Stable Design

When it comes to the practicality of the design, we will recommend the Powerblock dumbbells as the weights come with the innovative cubic design. This gives more stability to the users as the weights have stable ends that sit perfectly on the legs as you lift them.

But if what you want is a comfortable dumbbell, the Bowflex dumbbells come with very comfortable handlebars thus it can reduce the risk for wrist injuries.

I am scared of using weights because the plates might fall off. Which one offers better safety features?

To answer this question in a straight-forward manner, both dumbbells come with different types of safety features. While the Powerblock dumbbells come with an elastic band to hold the weights in place, the Bowflex dumbbells come with metal tabs to hold the weight plates securely in place.

Should I Buy The Powerblock or Bowflex?

You might want to pick the Powerblock if:

You might want to pick the Bowflex if:

Preview	Product
	BowFlex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells	Check Price
	PowerBlock USA Elite 5-50lbs Dumbbell Set	Check Price

Our Verdict

Both brands of adjustable dumbbells are ideal for homes or gyms.

However, when comparing the features and the value for money, our verdict goes to the Bowflex dumbbells because of their versatility and flexibility. They can be used by different types of fitness enthusiasts at whatever level they may be.

But although this may be the case, we still think that the Powerblock dumbbells will also give you a bang for your buck especially if you take into consideration its practical cubic weights, material, and space-saving feature.

Again, what you choose largely depends on your preferences.

We hope that this review will help you make the right decisions.

Previous

Bowflex Max Trainer M3 Review (REVISED)

Next

Dumbbell Workout for Beginners

Chris Jordan

Hey there, I'm Chris Jordan! I'm a certified personal trainer and dietician with over 11 years of experience in the fitness industry. I've helped thousands of people achieve better physical and mental health. When I'm not working, I love spending time with my dog.