Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells vs PowerBlock Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbells: Which to Buy? (2026)
Choosing between the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells and PowerBlock Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbells? We compare specs, scores and real-world performance to give you a clear verdict.
Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
Replaces 15 pairs of dumbbells. Turn the dial, pick 2.5–24kg in 2 seconds.
PowerBlock Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbells
2.5–50kg per hand. Expandable to 90kg. The most compact heavy-duty adjustable dumbbell.
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Our Verdict
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells scores 9.2/10 vs 9.0/10 for the PowerBlock Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbells. Home gym builders wanting a complete weight range in minimal space. Best space-to-capability ratio in strength training.
🛒 Buy the Winner on Amazon →Head-to-Head: Bowflex vs PowerBlock
| Criterion | Bowflex SelectTech 552... | PowerBlock Elite EXP... | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Our Score | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 | Bowflex |
| Amazon Rating | 4.7★ (26,200) | 4.6★ (9,400) | Bowflex |
| Price Range | Mid-Range | Mid-Range | Draw |
| Range | 2.5–24kg per dumbbell | — | Draw |
| Increments | 2.5kg | From 1.25kg | Bowflex |
| Settings | 15 | — | Draw |
| Dimensions | 42 x 20 x 23cm each | — | Draw |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years | Draw |
| Base Range | — | 2.5–50kg | Draw |
| Expandable | — | To 90kg (kits sold separately) | Draw |
Full Specifications Compared
| Specification | Bowflex SelectTech 552... | PowerBlock Elite EXP... |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Bowflex | PowerBlock |
| Our Score | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| Amazon Rating | 4.7★ (26,200) | 4.6★ (9,400) |
| Price Range | Mid-Range | Mid-Range |
| Range | 2.5–24kg per dumbbell | — |
| Increments | 2.5kg | From 1.25kg |
| Settings | 15 | — |
| Dimensions | 42 x 20 x 23cm each | — |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
| Base Range | — | 2.5–50kg |
| Expandable | — | To 90kg (kits sold separately) |
| Build | — | Commercial grade |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the Bowflex SelectTech 552... if…
Home gym builders wanting a complete weight range in minimal space. Best space-to-capability ratio in strength training.
🛒 Check Price on Amazon →Choose the PowerBlock Elite EXP... if…
Intermediate to advanced lifters who want a heavy range (up to 50kg+) and plan to expand their weight range over time.
🛒 Check Price on Amazon →Pros & Cons
Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
✓ Pros
- Replaces 15 dumbbell sets (2.5–24kg) in footprint of one pair
- 2-second dial adjustment — no fumbling between sets
- Compact storage tray included
- 10-year track record of reliability
- 25 weight settings covers virtually all home strength training
✗ Cons
- Longer than standard dumbbells — some floor exercises feel awkward
- Not designed for dropping — unlike fixed iron
- 24kg upper limit insufficient for advanced lifters
PowerBlock Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbells
✓ Pros
- Expandable: add Stage 2 and 3 kits to reach 90kg per hand
- More compact than Bowflex — takes up less floor space
- 1.25kg increments at lower weights for precise progression
- Commercial quality build — used in gyms and PT studios
- Faster adjustment than dial systems for experienced lifters
✗ Cons
- Pin-selector adjustment slower than Bowflex's dial system
- Bulkier shape can feel awkward on some exercises
- Higher cost than Bowflex for equivalent weight range
Ready to Buy?
Check current prices on Amazon — prices update daily.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells better than the PowerBlock Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbells?
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells scores 9.2/10 vs 9.0/10 for the PowerBlock Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbells. Home gym builders wanting a complete weight range in minimal space. Best space-to-capability ratio in strength training.
Who should buy the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells?
Home gym builders wanting a complete weight range in minimal space. Best space-to-capability ratio in strength training.
Who should buy the PowerBlock Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbells?
Intermediate to advanced lifters who want a heavy range (up to 50kg+) and plan to expand their weight range over time.
What is the price difference?
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells is Mid-Range. The PowerBlock Elite EXP Adjustable Dumbbells is Mid-Range. Check current Amazon prices above.