Bowflex SelectTech 552 review: buy or skip?

What the Bowflex SelectTech 552 does well

The headline: dial-adjust dumbbells from 5 to 52.5 lb. Key specs: Type: Adjustable dumbbells; Weight range: 5–52.5 lb each; Footprint: About 16×8 in each; Max load: 52.5 lb each. In our list it is the pick for: adjustable dumbbells. It usually sells for $349–$429.

Replaces 15 pairs of dumbbells.

The trade-offs

Good: quick weight changes, space-saving, durable, well known. Not so good: bulky shape, do not drop. Read the skip-if line before you order: skip it if you drop weights hard.

What to buy instead

Instead, consider the Rogue Ohio Bar ($295–$395): made-in-USA Olympic barbell for lifting at home. Better if you are building a barbell gym.

Instead, consider the Titan Fitness T-3 Power Rack ($449–$599): solid rack at a lower price. Better if you want a rack on a budget.

Instead, consider the Bowflex 5.1S Stowable Bench ($249–$329): folding adjustable bench for small spaces. Better if you need an adjustable bench that stores upright.

Before you buy

Space: measure floor area and ceiling height; a power rack needs about 7.5 feet of height for pull-ups. Weight range: adjustable dumbbells that go to 50–90 lb per hand replace a full rack of fixed weights. Build: look for steel frames, weight capacity ratings and solid warranties on racks and benches.

US buyer tip

Home gym gear sells out in January; shop in summer or on Black Friday, and check freight shipping costs on heavy racks.

Prices on Amazon.com move in a pattern. The deepest cuts land on Prime Day in July, Prime Big Deal Days in October and the Black Friday to Cyber Monday week, with smaller drops around Presidents Day, Memorial Day, the Fourth of July and back-to-school. Judge a deal against the usual price we show, never against the crossed-out list price.

Order from Amazon itself or the brand's official storefront so the US manufacturer warranty applies, keep your order confirmation and register the product with the brand. Most items can be returned within 30 days, and holiday purchases often get an extended return window into January.