Our picks at a glance
Paid link: buttons go to the retailer. Prices change often, so we link to the current price instead of listing one.
Comparison table
| Feature | Bowflex SelectTech 552Best adjustable dumbbells | Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling BikeBest exercise bike | Peloton BikeBest connected bike | NordicTrack Commercial 1750Best treadmill |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verdict | Buy | Buy | Consider | Consider |
| Best for | Small home gyms | Cycling without a subscription | Live class motivation | Serious home running |
| Key feature | Replaces 15 pairs of dumbbells | Works with your own apps | Huge class library | Incline, decline and touchscreen |
| Typical price | $350–$430 | $800–$1,000 | $1,200–$1,500 | $1,800–$2,400 |
| Weight range | 5–52.5 lb per dumbbell | — | — | — |
| Where to buy | Check price Paid link | Check price Paid link | Check price Paid link | Check price Paid link |
8.8/10 research score
Bowflex SelectTech 552
Replaces 15 pairs of dumbbells. Our pick for small home gyms.
- Buy it if
- You want a full set of dumbbells in a small space.
- Skip it if
- You drop weights or do very fast exercises.
Pros
- Quick weight changes
- Saves space
- Good build
Cons
- Bulky shape
- Not for dropping
Key specifications
- Weight range
- 5–52.5 lb per dumbbell
8.5/10 research score
Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike
Works with your own apps. Our pick for cycling without a subscription.
- Buy it if
- You want a quality spin bike that works with apps you already use.
- Skip it if
- You want a built-in screen.
Pros
- Smooth magnetic resistance
- Works with Zwift and Peloton apps
- No subscription required
Cons
- No built-in screen
8.0/10 research score
Peloton Bike
Huge class library. Our pick for live class motivation.
- Buy it if
- Instructor-led classes keep you motivated.
- Skip it if
- You do not want a monthly membership.
Pros
- Excellent classes
- Polished hardware
- Strong community
Cons
- Membership required
- Expensive
8.2/10 research score
NordicTrack Commercial 1750
Incline, decline and touchscreen. Our pick for serious home running.
- Buy it if
- You run regularly at home and want incline training.
- Skip it if
- You have a small room or low ceiling.
Pros
- Incline and decline
- Large touchscreen
- Cushioned deck
Cons
- Large and heavy
- Membership for classes
Compare more home gym on Amazon Paid link
How we chose
Adjustable dumbbells, exercise bikes and treadmills compared on build, space, subscriptions and value. We compared specifications, manufacturer documentation, warranty terms and typical prices, then gave every product a clear verdict with the people who should skip it.
What to look for in home gym
- Adjustable dumbbells replace a full rack in a fraction of the space.
- Check subscription costs for connected bikes and treadmills.
- Measure ceiling height and floor space before buying a treadmill.
Frequently asked questions
Are connected fitness subscriptions required?
Some machines work without them but lose classes and features. Factor the monthly cost in.