In this Bowflex SelectTech 552 vs PowerBlock EXP review, I break down the features and differences between the two dumbbells to see which one wins the title of best adjustable dumbbell.
➡️ Click here for more PowerBlock adjustable dumbbells info
➡️ Click here for more Bowflex adjustable dumbbells info
Adjustable Dumbbells Reviews
Table of Contents
As you saw in the Bowflex vs Powerblock video above, both dumbbells work, however, there are some pros and cons for both.
In the videos below you’ll get a more thorough review of each individual adjustable dumbbell so that you can see them in more detail.
PowerBlock EXP Review
Bowflex SelectTech 552 review
Build Quality & Durability
The PowerBlock EXP is made of solid steel.
The Bowflex 552 is made of heavy duty plastic.
Because the Bowflex has more moving parts and they’re plastic, I believe the PowerBlock (which are made of iron) are more durable than the Bowflex.
If I were to accidentally drop one of these weights, I believe the metal would be stronger than the plastic.
Mechanism of Adjustment
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 uses a dial turning system which makes it fairly quick to change, however, the dumbbell must be on the base to change weight.
The Powerblock EXP uses a magnetic pin system.
You stick the pin under the weight you want to pick up and you’re good to go.
When it comes to changing weight in 2.5 lbs increments, the Bowflex is faster.
The PowerBlock EXP takes a bit longer due to the adder weights (2.5 lbs weights) being inside the dumbbells but honestly I don’t even mess with the adder weights.
Dumbbell Size
The Bowflex 552 has a constant length whether you pick up 5 lbs or 52 pounds.
The length may interfere in some exercises such as bench press, curls hitting thighs, and overhead shoulder presses.
This may limit the range of motion in exercises.
The PowerBlock EXP allows you to pick up only the weight you select.
This allows the dumbbell to be smaller with lighter weights which allows for better ROM during certain exercises.
Warranty
The Bowflex 552 dumbbell comes with a 2 year warranty.
The PowerBlock EXP comes with a 5 year warranty.
Expandability
The Powerblock EXP gives you the ability to expand as you get stronger. So for example if you buy stage 1 which goes up to 50 lbs, you can buy stage 2 which makes it adjustable to 70 lbs, then stage 3 which goes up to 90 lbs.
Powerblock’s newest version of this dumbbell, Powerblock Pro 100 EXP, has 4 stages and goes up to 100 lbs.
Bowflex is limited to 52 lbs when you buy the Bowflex 552 or you can just buy the Bowflex 1090 and get 90 lbs all at once.
If you buy the Bowflex 552 and you outgrow them, you can’t add more weight to it.
You have to buy the additional set of dumbbells (Bowflex 1090) in order to add more weight to your workouts.
Dumbbell Rack in a Box
Both these adjustable dumbbells are not cheap, however, buying a whole rack of dumbbells is much more expensive.
Here’s a breakdown of what each dumbbell replaces when you compare it to a rack of dumbbells.
- PowerBlock Stage 1 – Replaces 16 pairs of dumbbells
- Powerblock Stage 2 – Replaces 22 pairs of dumbbells
- PowerBlock Stage 3 – Replaces 28 pairs of dumbbells
- Bowflex SelectTech 552 – Replaces 15 sets of dumbbells
- Bowflex SelectTech 1090 – Replaces 34 sets of dumbbells
Bowflex vs Powerblock Best Prices
Since these adjustable dumbbells are heavy, buying them directly from the official website will cost you a lot for shipping.
So i’ve scoured the internet and found the best prices…
For the Powerblock, you get a better deal buying them individually then buying all 3 stages at once (trust me I did the math).
The links below will get you the best prices PLUS you’ll get FREE shipping.
You’re welcome…
➡️ PowerBlock Stage 1 best price
➡️ PowerBlock Stage best price
➡️ PowerBlock Stage 3 best price
Bowflex vs Powerblock: Who Wins?
Both of these adjustable dumbbells are great for home gym owners because when it comes down to it, weight is weight.
As long as you’re picking something up, you’re challenging your muscles.
However, if I had to pick one in this Bowflex vs Powerblock battle, it would be the Powerblock.
It just feels more sturdy, durable, and more functional to me.
There are also dumbbells like the Nuobell which can go up to 80 lbs and look more like traditional dumbbells.
Garage Gym Equipment
If you’re working on starting your home, basement, or garage gym, check out all my garage gym equipment.
I’ve been able to build a pretty awesome garage gym while still being able to park my car inside.
Make sure you check it out for some ideas and thanks for visiting my page.
Garage gym athlete, gym hacks, DIY gym projects, and garage gym equipment reviews