2025 Powerblock PRO 50 Adjustable Dumbbells Review

Written by Chris Pruitt, Certified ASFA Personal Trainer

We provide honest, unbiased reviews based on hands-on testing and 18 years of experience in the fitness product industry. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission—at no extra cost to you. Here's how it works.

Finding space for a bunch of weights at home? Yeah, it’s a challenge. We gave the PowerBlock Pro 50 dumbbells a shot to see if they really work as a one-stop solution for strength training.

Honestly, the best thing about these is how quick it is to change the weight. We switched between exercises fast, without a bunch of fiddling.

 

The compact size is a lifesaver if your workout area is cramped. They actually feel pretty solid and comfy in your hands.

 

The shape’s a little weird at first—definitely not like regular dumbbells. It took us a bit to get used to, and they’re a bit bulky for certain moves.

Still, we felt secure and never worried about them slipping or anything.

 

Bottom Line

Home lifters who need dozens of weight options but only feet of floor space get a fast-switch, rock-solid set with the Pro 50.

 

Check the pricing out the PowerBlock Pro 50 Dumbbells on Amazon here.

Key Points

Great choice for home gyms that need adjustable weights but don’t have much room.

  • Weight range: 5–50 lbs each, covers most training needs
  • Adjustment type: Magnetic pin; easy once you get used to it
  • Change speed: About 5–10 seconds per dumbbell
  • Best for: People wanting lots of weight options, but limited on room
  • Skip if: You plan on lifting more than 50 lbs per hand or want expandability

We put these through daily workouts and a bunch of different exercises, so here’s what we found.

Why Listen to Us?

At WorkoutHealthy we’ve actually used the Pro 50 dumbbells in real workouts, not just for show. After a little practice, adjusting the weights was quick—huge time saver mid-session.

 

We liked the comfort and how sturdy they feel, but just a heads up: you can’t go above 50 lbs, so it’s not for everyone. 

 

With nearly 20 years in the fitness world, we know what actually matters in gym gear, not just what sounds cool in ads.

Who is the PowerBlock Pro 50 Dumbbell For?

After training with the Pro 50, we realized it’s perfect for some people, not so much for others. The adjustable weight and small footprint are awesome, but the max weight could be a dealbreaker if you’re a heavy lifter.

 

But once you go PowerBlock you may never go back. One experienced lifter actually sold his first pair to try other high-end brands like REP and Ironmaster, but ended up repurchasing the Pro 50s—proof they hold long-term value for serious home gym users.

        Who it suits ✔

  • Anyone starting strength training or looking to build muscle with moderate weights
  • People short on space who need an all-in-one option
  • Those wanting to switch weights quickly for circuit or interval workouts
  • Even teens or beginners who need lighter weights to start (as low as 5 lbs with no adders)

    Who should skip ✖

  • Advanced users needing more than 50 lbs per hand for heavy lifts
  • People who prefer traditional round dumbbells for their feel or look
  • Lifters who want an expandable set to grow with their future strength goals

Real-World Workout Test of Pro 50 Dumbbells

We ran the Pro 50s through a mix of bicep curls, bench presses, and dumbbell rows to see how they hold up under real workout conditions. Right away, adjusting between weights felt smooth and quick—just pull the pin, slide it into the new slot, and go. We were able to switch from curls to rows in a few seconds without breaking our rhythm.

 

During curls, the weight felt balanced despite the blocky shape. It took a few reps to get used to the rectangular design, but once we locked in our form, the movement felt natural and controlled. 

 

For bench presses, the handle sat comfortably in the hand and didn’t dig in, even during longer sets. The cage design kept our wrists aligned and felt stable through the full range of motion.

 

On dumbbell rows, the weight stayed secure and didn’t wobble, even during explosive pulls. There was minimal shifting between the plates, and the dumbbells felt solid from the first rep to the last. Grip was reliable throughout, with no slipping—even when our hands got sweaty.

 

The flat, stable base also made them great for push-ups or using as parallettes between sets, adding another layer of functionality.

 

Overall, the Pro 50s handled every move without any issues. They stayed quiet, felt stable, and made it easy to move from one exercise to the next without wasting time.

Overall Pros and Cons of PowerBlock Pro 50 Dumbbells

Pros

These dumbbells are super space-saving—our workout area felt way less crowded. Weight adjustment is fast: just move the selector pin and you’re set.

 

The handle feels good, even during longer sessions. We like that these basically replace a whole rack of weights, and moving between increments is easy.

 

The steel build seems tough, so we’re not worried about them breaking anytime soon.

 

Key highlights:

  • Smooth and quick weight changes
  • Takes up very little space
  • Feels sturdy and safe while lifting
  • Handles are comfortable, even for bigger hands
  • Replaces many sets of regular dumbbells

Cons

Downsides? The weights only go up to 50 lbs, so you might outgrow them if you’re planning to get a lot stronger. We also saw some confusion about what’s actually in the box, so double-check before buying.

 

Switching weights takes a little practice, especially if you’re new to this style. The shape is bulkier than regular dumbbells, which makes some moves feel awkward.

 

Things to consider:

  • Maximum weight is 50 lbs per dumbbell
  • Not expandable for future upgrades (specific to the PowerBlock Pro 50 model)
  • Product listing can be confusing about what’s included
  • Bulkier shape for certain movements
  • Adjusting weight takes some practice

Train multiple muscle groups with just one compact, easy-to-adjust dumbbel set.

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Durability and Build Quality of Powerblock Pro 50

First impression: these feel really solid. We dropped them (not on purpose) and didn’t see any dents or cracks.

 

These dumbbells use urethane-coated steel plates that feel solid, reduce clanking noise during use, and are more durable than bare metal options found in lower-end models.

  • Materials: Mostly steel with urethane coating
  • Parts: Plastic used for weight selector pin
  • Mechanism: Slide pin with secure fit

No weird rattles when changing weights, and the plates stay put during sets. We didn’t run into any pinching issues, which is honestly rare for adjustables.

 

The plastic pin seems fine so far, but we’d handle it with a bit of care just in case.

Weight Range, Increments & Expansion Kits for the Pro 50

Switching weights is quick—start at 5 pounds and go up in 2.5-pound steps until 25 , then 5-pound jumps after that. That makes it easy to find your sweet spot (technically you can use the 2.5 lb. adder weights to lift)

 

Out of the box, you max out at 50 pounds per dumbbell. There’s no official expansion kit, which is a bummer if you’re looking to go heavier. But for most people, 50 pounds is plenty for a compact set like this.

Adjustment Speed & Noise of the Pro 50

Once we got the hang of it, switching between weights was fast—around 2 seconds from 10 to 50 lbs. Not bad at all.

 

The Pro 50 is quieter than the PowerBlock EXP, especially when changing weights. Plates don’t rattle much, and the lifting action is pretty smooth.

 

One thing to watch out for: if the magnetic pin isn’t fully inserted (e.g., halfway between color zones), the dumbbell may not pick up the intended weight—always double-check before lifting.

If you’re doing circuits, the quick and quiet adjustments make it easier to keep moving without bugging anyone else in the house.

Handle Feel & Ergonomics of the Pro 50

The rectangular shape is definitely different. The handle isn’t super thick, so most of us found it easy to grip, even for longer sets.

Grip texture is moderate—maybe a 3 out of 5 if we had to rate it. No slipping when dry, but sweaty hands made it a bit slick unless we grabbed a towel.

 

With the 2.5-lb adder weights inserted into the handle, we noticed the balance shifts slightly forward, which might feel different during curls or presses.

 

The rubber coating keeps your palms happy, but it’s not as grippy as bare steel. Adjusting weights didn’t hurt our hands, and even after a bunch of sets, there weren’t any sore spots.

Footprint & Storage of Powerbock Pro 50

Setting these up, we were surprised by how little space they need. Each dumbbell cradle is just 12.5” × 7” × 7.25”, so about 0.6 square feet each.

 

If you grab the optional stand (18” × 22”), everything stays tidy and it’s easier to reach. Compared to racks of fixed dumbbells, these save a ton of floor space—like, 12 square feet.

 

Storing them is simple—just drop them in the cradle and you’re done. Is the stand worth it? Honestly, yeah, since it saves your back and keeps things organized.

Smart Features & App Tie-Ins of the Pro 50

We didn’t see any fancy tech here—no Bluetooth, no app, no automatic rep counting. It’s just basic, no-frills weights.

 

On the upside, there are no extra subscription fees or annoying setup. But if you want digital features or app support, you’ll probably be disappointed. 

 

For us, it’s kind of nice not having to mess with more tech.

Customer Reviews of PowerBlock Pro 50

Most users said the Pro 50s are easy to adjust and comfy to use. People like the solid design and how convenient they are for daily training.

 

Some folks were confused by what’s included in the box, so there are a few complaints about that. A handful wish the set went above 50 lbs, especially after using them for a while.

 

Still, most agree the Pro 50 is a good value and helps replace a whole rack of weights. There are a few shipping hiccups and stories of only one dumbbell arriving, but overall, people seem happy—beginners and experienced users alike.

Cost Breakdown of Powerblock Pro 50

First thing we noticed: the listed price covers both dumbbells, not just one. Each dumbbell adjusts from 5 to 50 pounds, giving you a combined total of 100 pounds across the set.

 

At an average retail price of $549, that breaks down to about $5.49 per pound ($549 ÷ 100 lbs). That’s more than traditional cast-iron dumbbells, which usually run $1.50–$2.00 per pound, but the comparison isn’t apples to apples.

 

This set replaces 19 pairs of fixed-weight dumbbells, takes up a fraction of the space, and makes switching between exercises fast and easy. 

 

When you add up the convenience, space savings, and long-term durability, the upfront cost starts to feel justified—especially if you’re building a compact home gym for serious use.

Warranty, Parts & Customer Service Check of the Pro 50 Dumbbells 

We liked knowing the Pro 50 comes with some solid coverage for home use:

  • 5-year warranty on handles, plates, and the selector pin
  • Warranty does not extend to commercial gym use

If you ever need a new dial or pin, prices seemed fair to us—about $15–$25 each when we checked on the official site.

 

It's reassuring that these parts are easy to buy direct from the manufacturer.

When we reached out for help, support responded on live chat within 2 minutes. That’s quick, honestly.

 

Our experience with warranty and customer service was smooth, with clear instructions and fast answers to our questions.

Saves serious space and lets you swap weights in seconds—exactly what a tight home gym needs.

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Alternatives to the PowrBlock Pro 50

While using the Pro 50, we noticed it's limited to 50 pounds per hand. That might not suit those planning to lift heavier in the future.

 

For those needing even heavier options, the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP can expand well past 50 pounds. It’s probably better for long-term progress.

 

Another choice is the Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbells, which range from 5 to 50 pounds and stand out for their compact size and easy-to-hold shape.

 

Each of these has key differences in how quick adjustments feel and future flexibility. It’s worth weighing your training goals before choosing—there’s no one-size-fits-all here. https://amzn.to/4kRFVcA

Conclusion

PowerBlock’s Pro 50 delivers compact strength training that keeps your workout flowing instead of fumbling with plates. 

 

The magnetic pin, stout steel plates, and 0.6-sq-ft footprint make it a practical pick for most home gyms under 50 lb per hand. 

 

If you’ll soon lift heavier, consider a PowerBlock EXP model; otherwise, this set covers nearly every move you’ll do at home without hogging space.

FAQs

What are Powerblock adjustable dumbbells?

Powerblock adjustable dumbbells are versatile fitness tools designed to replace multiple sets of traditional fixed dumbbells. They allow users to adjust the weight easily, making them suitable for various exercises and fitness levels. With weight increments ranging from 5 to 100 lbs., depending on the model, they provide a space-saving solution for home gyms.

How do Powerblock dumbbells compare to Ironmaster quick-lock dumbbells?

Powerblock dumbbells offer a unique design that allows for quick weight adjustments without the need for weight plates, while Ironmaster quick-lock dumbbells are known for their sturdy build and traditional look. Both brands have their advantages, but Powerblock's space-saving design and ease of use make it a popular choice for those with limited space.

Are Powerblock adjustable dumbbells durable?

Yes, Powerblock adjustable dumbbells are built to last. They feature a durable construction with urethane-coated surfaces, ensuring they withstand regular use. The knurled handle provides a secure grip, making them safe to use during various workouts.

What is the weight range of the Powerblock Pro 50?

The Powerblock Pro 50 adjustable dumbbells have a weight range of 5 to 50 lbs, allowing users to perform a wide variety of exercises without needing multiple sets. This range makes them ideal for both beginners and advanced users looking to challenge themselves.

Can I expand my Powerblock set?

The PowerBlock Pro 50 is a non-expandable model. However other models are expandable.

What are the benefits of using Powerblock dumbbells in a garage gym?

Using Powerblock dumbbells in a garage gym provides a compact and efficient solution for weight training. Their adjustable nature means you can replace multiple sets of traditional fixed dumbbells, saving space. Additionally, their durable design ensures they can withstand the rigors of a home gym environment.

How do I adjust the weight on Powerblock adjustable dumbbells?

Adjusting the weight on Powerblock adjustable dumbbells is simple. Users just need to place the selector pin in the desired weight slot, allowing for quick changes between exercises. This feature is particularly beneficial for circuit training or when performing different movements that require varying weights.

Are Powerblocks suitable for beginners?

Yes, Powerblocks are suitable for beginners due to their adjustable weight increments. They allow new users to start with lighter weights and gradually increase the resistance as they build strength and confidence. This adaptability makes them a great choice for anyone starting their fitness journey.

DUMBBELL HIGHLIGHTS

  • Fast 2 sec weight change

  • Replaces 19 sets

  • Tiny 12.5 × 7 in size

  • Solid steel plates

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