This review looks at two of the most popular offerings in the PowerBlock Adjustable Dumbbell Set range: the 24 lb and the 50 lb pair.
If you’re in the market for dumbbells and you are new to fitness and not sure which weight to get, the
PowerBlock 24 lb Adjustable Dumbbell Set would be an excellent choice.
Those who have already been lifting for a while will probably find the PowerBlock 50 lb Adjustable Dumbbell Set a better option due to its higher weight capacity.
The sets offer the versatility and muscle-building potential of either eight or nine different pairs of hand weights, depending on which one you get.
Along with saving you space and money, you can increase your workload as you become fitter with such a set.
Another benefit of adjustable dumbbells is that you can use lighter or heavier weights to train different muscle groups.
And, you can share the set with your partner or roommate even if you have different fitness levels.
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the PowerBlock Sport 24 Dumbbell Set and the PowerBlock 50 lb Adjustable Dumbbell Set to determine if one will be right for you.
Please note that the 50 lb set is now known as the Powerblock Elite EXP.
Table of Contents
PowerBlock Adjustable Dumbbell Set Specs
24 lb Set:
Dimensions – PowerBlock Sport 24 Adjustable Dumbbells measure 10.5″ (L) x 5.26″ (W) x 5″ (H)
Weight range – Their weight range adjusts from between 3 lb and 24 lb
Weight increments – The increments are 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, and 24 lbs per dumbbell
50 lb Set:
Dimensions – The dumbbells in the PowerBlock Sport 50 lb Adjustable Dumbbell Set measure 12.25″ (L) x 6.5″ (W) x 6.5″ (H)
Weight range – Their weight adjusts from 10 lb to 50 lb each
PowerBlock Sport Adjustable Dumbbell Set 24 lb & 50 lb Overview
The PowerBlock Sport 24 lb Dumbbell Set and the PowerBlock 50 lb Adjustable Dumbbell Set comprise anti-corrosive chip and scratch-resistant steel weight plates and rods with a durable gray enamel finish.
Their handles have a neoprene rubber foam coating that provides a comfortable and secure grip. The finish also helps to wick away sweat and prevent blisters.
The dumbbells’ polyurethane selector pins are incredibly robust and can support more than the highest weight on offer.
Both sets are made in the USA. They come with a 10-year warranty covering free repair or replacement if a material or workmanship defect develops.
They function in the same manner. The only real difference between the two sets is the starting weight, the increments, and the end weight capacity. Their appearance is also a little different.
The PowerBlock Sport 24 Dumbbell Set gives access to weights from 3 lb to 24 lbs, increasing in 3-pound increments. It allows you to work with a pair of 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, and 24 lb weights.
The 24 lb set is color-coded, making it super-easy to select the weight you want to use.
Each dumbbell has a different colored insert on the sides that designates a different weight. To select the right weight for the exercise you want to do, match the color to the one on the chart atop the cradle.
The PowerBlock 50 lb Adjustable Dumbbell Set allows you to work with between 10 lb and 50 lb of weight in 5-pound increments.
This gives you a pair of weights weighing 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, and 50 lbs. It is not color-coded. The handles feature a red trim that lists the weight of each.
With both sets, swapping to another weight couldn’t be more simple. Just pull the selector pin’s handle to remove it from the cradle, then insert it into the slot that correlates to the new weight you want to use.
Magnets and an elastic band system will lock the dumbbell into position. It will then be ready to lift, with those you are not using remaining in the cradle.
Adjustments take around four or five seconds at most. This makes the sets ideal to use with workout programs such as P90X, ChaLEAN Extreme, and the like.
If you’re looking for a convenient way to store your dumbbells, check out the small PowerBlock Compact Weight Stand. It is perfect to use with either of the weight sets.
Measuring 20″ (W) x 24″ (H) x 18″ (D), it weighs 14 lbs, it can support up to 100 pounds. It folds flat if you want to store it.
Things to be aware of
These dumbbells are approximately 30% smaller than most other adjustable dumbbells.
As a result, they take up less space and are easier to lift out of the cradle.
However, this may present a downside for some in that people with very large hands may find using smaller dumbbells restricts their movement when doing exercises such as Dumbbell Curls.
Their construction does not make it possible to load additional weight.
If you buy the 24 lb set, that is the maximum weight you will be able to lift. Buy the 50 lb set, and you won’t be able to add more weight to it.
When you place the weight back in its cradle, be sure to align it properly. This will make switching to another weight faster and smoother.
PowerBlock Sport 24 Adjustable Dumbbells Video Review
Pros
Suits a variety of users – These sets will suit all but very experienced weight lifters who will need a set with a higher weight capacity
Saves space – They offer the equivalent of eight or nine non-adjustable dumbbells that nest within each other for tidy and compact storage
Safe – The locking system is very secure, so you can exercise without worrying about a dumbbell dropping on your foot
Ergonomic handles – The ergonomic handles help to support the wrists, and they offer comfortable and secure workouts
Durable – The dumbbells’ robust anti-corrosive composition will provide you with workouts for many years
Quick to adjust – Adjustments take just seconds, so you will be able to get on with your workout without having to waste time
Excellent warranty – A 10-year warranty enables you to buy with confidence, knowing that in the unlikely event there is a problem, you will be covered
Cons
No facility to upgrade – The sets cannot be used with a weight expansion kit
Dumbbell size – Being smaller than average in size, some people may find that they restrict movement when undertaking certain exercises
Slight learning curve – The first few times you change weights may be fiddly, but with a bit of practice, you will be able to finish the process in seconds
Final Thoughts on the PowerBlock Adjustable Dumbbells Set
The PowerBlock 24 lb Adjustable Dumbbell Set and the PowerBlock Sport 50 lb Adjustable Dumbbell Set are high in quality, and versatile.
They are comfortable to grip, safe, and easy to use. Their broad weight range will enable you to use them now and well into the future when you are fitter.
The selector pin may take a bit of getting used to, but you will quickly get the hang of it.
Just make sure to slot it in straight and not across two different weights. You will then be good to go!
If neither of these sets is suitable for you, click here to read a review of the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells Pair.