Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbells vs. PowerBlock

Last Updated on June 4, 2020 by Sam Corbin

a comparison of bowflex dumbbells versus the powerblock elites

In the fitness world, there’s nothing more important than a high-quality set of dumbbells. These can be used in a variety of ways including dumbbell-only workouts to target different muscle groups.

With time, new innovations have entered the industry and one of them comes in the form of adjustable dumbbells.

In essence, adjustable dumbbells come as one piece with dials on both sides. These dials can be spun to adjust based on the amount of weight a person needs at that given moment.

Instead of having to lug around 50 different dumbbells, you can just buy a pair of adjustable dumbbells and get a huge range of weights all in one place.

These adjustable dumbbells can often offer resistance between 5-90 pounds with nothing more than a spin of the dial.

Two of the leading competitors in this market are the topic of discussion in this comparison: The Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells and PowerBlock Elite dumbbells have earned acclaim for their quality and it’s time to look at which one is better.

PowerBlock or Bowflex Dumbbells: Key Differences

a woman does split squats with her bowflex dumbbells

Choosing the right pair of adjustable dumbbells means understanding what the key differences are. Bowflex and PowerBlock continue to dominate the fitness industry for a number of reasons, yet continue to show differences along the way.

It’s important to know what these differences are before moving forward with an investment.

1. Adjusting the Weight

In general, the main difference has to do with how the weights are changed when it is time to “adjust” them on the fly.

How to Adjust Bowflex SelectTechs

a guy adjusts the weight on his selecttechs by simply turning the dial

For example, the Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells are designed to be adjusted using a dial-based mechanism. This means the weight has to be put into place and then dials on both sides of the dumbbells are spun until they lock onto the required weight.

Once everything is aligned, the user is able to pull the dumbbell out and use it as required.

How to Adjust PowerBlocks

someone adjusts the weight on the powerblock dumbbells

On the other hand, PowerBlock has a different mechanism where there is a selector pin in place to manage transitions between weights.

In this case, the pin has to go into place for the weight to be pulled out. If the pin is in the right place, users are able to pull out the adjustable weight and use it as required.

2. Dumbbell Shape

Another difference that is noticeable with these adjustable dumbbells has to do with the shape. The Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells are shaped like traditional dumbbells with larger ends to accommodate for the dials.

While PowerBlock goes for a more squared look that isn’t as close to the traditional look. The appearance is often a matter of preference based on what a person likes as they use the weight.

1. Bowflex SelectTech – Our Top Choice

PRICE: Check Latest Deals Here on Bowflex.com here

a woman working out with the bowflex selecttech dumbbells

Key Features

  • Adjustable Weights (0-90)
  • Multiple Weight Settings (Dial-Based)
  • 3 Models to Pick From
  • Premium Grip
  • Ergonomic Weight Rack
  • 2-Year Warranty
  • Get Free SelectTech Workouts with Bowflex App
  • Priced Right – Financing Available

Why Bowflex is Our Top Pick

Here’s a detailed look into what we like about the Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells and why they are our number one choice in the fitness industry.

Anyone that is serious about investing in a brand-new pair of adjustable dumbbells should be going with this option.

They’re the best choice in our eyes and here’s more on why that is the case.

1. High-Quality

a close up shot of the selecttech 552s

It starts with something as simple as the build quality. Bowflex has been in the fitness industry for a long time and has a feel for what works and what does not.

Having this type of experience in the manufacturing of brand-new fitness products is valuable when everything is said and done.

The craftsmanship of these adjustable dumbbells is simply exemplary and that’s what makes them such an ideal option for most home gym owners.

Being able to go with equipment that is ready to go and will be able to withstand regular use is essential. Most people are going to be looking to make a one-time investment and these adjustable dumbbells do a good job of holding on.

The first-class build quality is a huge plus point for Bowflex and is something that shines through as soon as the investment is made. Other dumbbells are not able to hold up as well and this can deter people over the long-term.

Whether it is the dials or the handles, everything about these adjustable dumbbells is top-notch. This is something they have taken the time to analyze in detail before planning the design and it shows. Anyone that is hoping to invest in a long-term pair of adjustable dumbbells shouldn’t look past this offering from Bowflex.

They have gone the extra mile in ensuring each and every component in the dumbbells is meticulously managed from top to bottom. This ensures there aren’t maintenance requirements with these dumbbells and it’s as simple as using them on a daily basis!

2. You’ll Love the Grip

close up shot of the grip

The first thing a person will notice as soon as these adjustable dumbbells are brought into their home has to do with the premium grip.

The grip is something Bowflex has mastered and it has to do with the underlying texture. The grip is robust and is built in a way that makes it easier to lift even as a person begins to sweat.

Too many adjustable dumbbells are difficult to handle as soon as a bit of sweat or water gets onto them. This becomes a painful experience as the grip starts to give out but that’s not a problem here at all.

Instead, Bowflex has gone the extra mile to make sure there is a textured surface in place where the handle is located. This simplifies the weight lifting process even as a person sweats a bit during their workout session.

In addition to providing a decent amount of grip, the handles are also positioned in a manner that is ergonomic and safe. This is a must for those dealing with joint-related issues and wanting to ensure the weight distribution is as even as possible.

Everything about these dumbbells engineered to be top-of-the-line, right down to the littlest details.

3. Change Weights on the Fly

a man adjusting the weights on the fly

Transitioning between weights is the entire purpose of going down this road in the first place. Most people want to move away from traditional dumbbells sets because those are impossible to carry and can be quite expensive over the long-run.

As a result, it makes more sense to go with options that are easy to set up, affordable and will remain effective when it is time to workout.

In this case, Bowflex manages to offer a solution that is exceptionally useful for a number of reasons and is well worth the investment.

This has to do with how easy it is to transition between weights when necessary.

All a person has to do is put the weights back into the weight holder, spin the dial to the required weight, and pull. This is all it takes to get the weight out and begin working out again.

The easy transitions are what make this product amazing to use and why it is ideal for those who want a quick solution for their workouts. No one likes to go with solutions that have tedious steps and that may lead to mistakes while going through a workout.

Instead, this is straight to the point and that’s what makes it empowering.

4. Enough Weight for Beginners and Advanced Lifters

two people working out with dumbbells

The increments are set up to be as even as possible ensuring a person is able to transition through their workout without having to skip past weights.

Most people are going to slowly get stronger and that means being able to access smaller increments throughout the workout. In this case, Bowflex makes sure the increments are as small as possible by offering 5 lb steps.

This means a person is able to walk through different steps by simply spinning the dial while getting 5 lb increments.

Instead of going with a solution that offers larger increments, this is effective and offers enough value for those who want to maximize their session.

5. Priced Right

It’s always important to look into the smaller details when everything is said and done. With Bowflex, users are getting adjustable dumbbells that are not only going to work well but are also coming in at a good price point. Anyone that is looking to buy on a budget will know the value of every dollar along the way.

In this case, users are getting high-grade adjustable dumbbells at an affordable price point making them a cost-efficient option. Instead of investing in expensive dumbbells sets, users are able to get an all-in-one solution at a reduced price.

6. Awesome Warranty & Customer Service

weights and bench bundle

The one thing Bowflex has always been known for as a company has to do with customer service.

There is nothing worse than spending money on a product and then not being able to reach out to the company when it’s time to ask questions.

Bowflex has a professional team of representatives that are always available to talk to and that’s what makes it a legitimate enterprise. They have been around for a long time and this shows through their professionalism.

Whether it is regular questions and/or warranty claims, people are able to get everything done through their customer service team.

Their customer service is unparalleled and that is why they continue to grow from strength to strength as a business. They do the same for all Bowflex adjustable dumbbells.

Where to Get the Best Deal

Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells are sold through a multitude of providers and can also be found through the official online store at Bowflex.com.

Right now is a great time to buy, too, with some of their lowest prices of the season:

Learn more and lock in the best SelectTech prices here.

2. PowerBlock Elite Dumbbells

Price: Check latest prices on Amazon here

a pair of powerblock elite dumbbells

Key Features

  • Adjustable Weights
  • Multiple Weight Settings (Pin-Based)
  • 3 Lb. Increments
  • Padded Handle
  • 1-Year Warranty

Who Should Buy PowerBlocks

powerblock personal trainer set

The one question people will have involves the type of person buying PowerBlock Elite dumbbells. It’s important to have a feel for what type of person buys these dumbbells before making an investment.

In general, anyone that is on the lookout for affordable dumbbells will want to keep these in mind. Users are able to get a good deal that is going to be far greater than any traditional set of dumbbells.

This alone makes them an ideal solution especially for those looking to get started with a small workout. Being able to pull these adjustable dumbbells out at any time is useful and makes them a good go-to option compared to other products in the same space.

If the goal is to save a bit of money and still get the best possible adjustable dumbbells then this is a good direction to go in as there is value to be had.

Where to Buy

For those looking to invest in a new pair of PowerBlock Elite dumbbells then we recommend checking out Amazon for the best deals.

Check latest PowerBlock deals on Amazon here.

Comparison Summary: Which Set is Best?

a woman deciding which set to buy

In the end, Bowflex hits it out of the park with the SelectTech dumbbells.

These adjustable dumbbells are simply perfect while offering a wonderfully balanced and ergonomic solution for users.

Anyone that is on the market looking for a well-designed set of dumbbells will know it’s time to start with Bowflex’s offering.

The premium grip is an exceptional plus point and adds value to the overall workout. Instead of having the weight slip out of one’s hand, these remain snugly in place and don’t hurt the hands over a longer session. Having the comfort of these grips in hand can make all the difference in the world as time goes on!

Bowflex also does a better job with regards to the usability of its settings. The adjustable dumbbells are easy to manage with nothing more than a spin of the dial.

This keeps thing simple and a person is able to transition between weights in a matter of seconds. The simplicity and quality of these adjustable dumbbells are what wins people over.

Choose from a variety of Bowflex models, pick the right financing plan if you need it, and get the perfect set right now!

Head here to learn more and lock in best Bowflex deals.


Resources