Combining the customer score with our export analysis, we awarded these dumbbells a Savvy Score of 8.9 out of 10. Our health experts put each one through an 11-move bodybuilding workout, working all major muscle groups using a combination of unilateral and bilateral movements, to see which ‘bells felt as sturdy and secure as a fixed weight dumbbell. They also tested how smoothly they could switch weights, before settling on their seven favourites.

Using and adjusting the weight mid-workout is simple, with a clear display on the front of the weight cradle showing the current weight, and plus or minus buttons to allow for 3kg incremental changes in either direction. Overall, they’re a really durable piece of equipment that we use weekly in our strength routines. "I've dropped these from three or four feet up after tough sets of presses, and they hold up just fine," Samuel recounts. (Although we don't recommend making a habit out of dropping any adjustable dumbbells on the regular.) Lifting and tech might seem like unlikely bedfellows, but it transpires a union of the two makes for a top set of dumbbells.

The best adjustable dumbbells you can buy in 2023

Strongology's (extremely) smart adjustable dumbbells go from 5kg up to 25kg with a spin of the handle, which makes them perfect for total-body home workouts. You won't be setting a new bench PB, but that's more than heavy enough for most supplemental work and you can work every muscle to failure with pyramid sets (once you hit failure at one weight, step down a couple of kilos and go to failure again; repeat until you run out of weight) or by increasing reps. For beginners and folks looking to engage in moderate strength training at home, a set that maxes out at 50 pounds per dumbbell should suffice. They offer a range of weight that can be used for a wide range of exercises and is a great starting point. Beginners can work on everything from bicep curls to overhead presses to squats with these. The rubber knurling and plastic central bar felt a bit cheaper than premium metal competitors, and the bulky shape could be somewhat cumbersome for exercises like bicep curls, catching against our thighs during the initial phase of the movement.

This dumbbell from Strongology has got a more limited weight range when compared to the Bowflex and Everlast dumbbells featured above, but it’s a good entry-level option for those who are unsure whether the investment into a more expensive selectorised dumbbell is worthwhile.We offer an Express Delivery option on certain products for a small additional charge, with delivery times between 1-2 business days. Bowflex’s SelectTech dumbbell is a selectorised dumbbell, which means its weight can be adjusted simply by turning a dial when the dumbbell is resting in its base. It combines 15 weights ranging from 2kg to 24kg, so you can easily achieve a varied workout. Weight range: Look for a weight range that meets your fitness goals. Most adjustable dumbbells can be adjusted in 2.5-pound or 5-pound increments, so it's important to consider a weight minimum and maximum that fits your needs.

Why should I buy an adjustable dumbbell over a trusty fixed weight pair?' you say. We’re glad you asked. Versatile You might notice that some of the adjustable dumbbells below have an Esquire Approves logo emblazoned upon them. That’s because each of these products has been put through the wringer by our dedicated fitness testing team. So, when we say Esquire Approves, we really do. READ NEXT: The best home gym equipment The best adjustable dumbbells you can buy in 2023 1. Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbell: Best overall adjustable dumbbellThey feel good in-hand thanks to an ergonomic grip and knurled handles that help you keep a hold during your workout. But, as you may be able to tell by looking at them, they don’t offer the same weight distribution as a traditional bell. "If you’re looking to use a set of adjustable movements for plenty of accessory movements, go with something more dumbbell-shaped," Samuel explains. Studies have found it can also improve bone health, boost the efficiency of your heart and lungs and reduce resting blood pressure. Strength-training can be even more important as you get older, too; the stronger you are, the better your balance will be, which can reduce the risk of falls later in life. I've never met a more adjustable dumbbell," says Samuel. "I love them for farmer’s walks, heavy DB lunges, and thrusters, and rely on them anytime I do a metcon-style workout at home."