(2025) NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell Review: Best Home Gym Option?

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 good home gym equipment that doesn’t take up much space can be a challenge. After trying out the NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Adjustable Dumbbells, the WorkoutHealthy team was impressed by how easy it was to use them for different workouts and then put them away again.

 

Switching between weights felt quick and smooth, which helped us keep our routine moving without a lot of interruption. We liked that one compact set covered many weight options, but noticed that the use of plastic in the build means they’re best handled with a bit of care. After regular use, we found they held up well, but some parts can feel a little loose.

Bottom Line

If you want adjustable dumbbells for a range of strength levels without filling up your room, these are worth a look. 

 

Check the pricing out the NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells here.

Key Points

Ideal for those with limited space; not for anyone wanting to lift very heavy weights.

  • Weight range: 10–55 lbs; adjusts in 2.5, 5, and 10 lb jumps. Note: jumps skip 17.5, 27.5, 37.5, 47.5 lbs, so plan progressions accordingly.
  • Adjustment type: Manual spring loaded sliding pins
  • Change speed: 3.5 sec per dumbbell
  • Best for: Home workouts, shared use, beginners to intermediate lifters
  • Skip if: You need ultra-heavy weights or dislike plastic parts

Check out what happened when we put them through tough, everyday use next.

Why Listen to Us?

At WorkoutHealthy we've spent many years working with gym equipment and helping people find the right fit for their home gyms. After testing the Nordictrack select-a-weight Set in our own workouts, we’ve seen both the strengths and some small drawbacks firsthand.

 

We noticed the NordicTrack 55 lb dumbbells are easy to adjust and can save space in tight rooms. Some small issues came up, like a bit of looseness between the weight plates and a grip that might feel rough at first. But overall, we found they are solid for daily use.

 

Our team has handled equipment like this for nearly two decades, so you can trust our real-world experience and honest feedback. We’re here to help you figure out if these adjustable weights are the right choice for your needs.

Who is the Nordictrack Select-a-Weights Dumbbell For?

Not every set of adjustable dumbbells works for every workout plan, and the Select-a-Weight proves it. After spending time with this set, we noticed both clear strengths and some limits.

        Who it suits ✔

  • People who want to build beginner or intermediate strength at home with minimal equipment
  • Anyone with limited workout space who needs a compact, all-in-one dumbbell solution
  • Users who like quick and easy weight changes for faster workout flow

    Who should skip ✖

  • Heavy lifters looking to press more than 55 pounds per hand
  • Anyone bothered by some minor handle or plate movement during lifts
  • People who prefer traditional, fixed-weight dumbbells for maximum sturdiness

Real-World Workout Test

Using these adjustable dumbbells, we tried both bicep curls and bench presses; among other exercises. 

 

Adjusting the weight was quick and didn't interrupt our pace. The handle has a rough texture that provides a solid grip, even when our hands got sweaty.

 

We did notice some small movement between the weight plates, but it didn't get in the way of our sets. The plastic parts didn’t feel flimsy, but dropping the weights probably isn’t a good idea. Space was never an issue, and swapping weights kept our workout on track.

 

Pros:

  • Easy to adjust between exercises
  • Good grip, even with sweaty hands
  • Saves space compared to a full rack

Cons:

  • Slight movement between plates
  • Some plastic parts may not last forever

Overall Pros and Cons

Pros

We really liked how easy it was to switch between different weights. The adjustment pin is smooth and lets us quickly pick the weight we need, whether we want just a little bit more or a big jump. Being able to replace a whole rack of dumbbells with this compact set saves a lot of space in our workout area.

 

Using these adjustable dumbbells felt sturdy during lifts, and the handle was comfortable to grip after a few uses. The storage tray also keeps everything tidy, making it simple to find and select the right weight. It's convenient for anyone who wants to train different muscle groups without stopping to grab different dumbbells.

  • Easy weight selection
  • Compact size replaces many dumbbells
  • Solid feel during workouts
  • Organized storage

Cons

We did notice some play between the weights, especially if we moved them quickly or put them down hard. There’s a fair bit of plastic in the construction, so dropping them could damage the parts or the locking system. The grip can also feel rough for some of us until we get used to it.

 

Switching weights isn’t completely silent, and sometimes the smaller plates move around slightly. Also, the size of each dumbbell does not change with the weight selected, which can make certain exercises a bit more awkward compared to standard dumbbells.

  • Some loose feeling between weights
  • Heavy use of plastic materials
  • Grip may feel rough at first
  • Awkward size for some movements

Save space and switch weights fast with 15 easy-to-adjust settings built for home workouts.

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Durability and Build Quality

We noticed right away that this set feels sturdy when moving through workouts. The mix of steel and hardened plastic gives the dumbbells a solid overall feel, though there’s a bit more plastic than some might expect.

  • Materials:
    • Handle is a blend of steel and plastic
    • Plates are mostly steel, with some plastic parts
    • Storage trays are all plastic

The heads are mostly round with a small flat spot that keeps them from rolling yet still feels like a traditional dumbbell on your thighs.

 

The weight plates stay in place most of the time, but there’s a small amount of movement between them, which leads to a light rattle if set down roughly. 

 

Adjusting the weight selector is easy, though we found a few spots where our fingers could get pinched if we’re not careful.

 

Still, as long as we avoid dropping them and treat them with some care, they seem like they'll last.

Weight Range, Increments & Expansion Kits

Switching between weights with these dumbbells is pretty simple.

 

We liked that the weight starts at 10 lbs and goes up to 55 lb each—this feels like enough for most home workouts. The smaller increases at the start are great for slow, steady progress. Unlike Bowflex, the handle alone weighs 10 lb, so you can use it as a ‘mini-bell’ for rehab or warm-ups.

 

Missing steps: 17.5, 27.5, 37.5 and 47.5 lb aren’t available—an acceptable trade-off for fewer moving parts.

 

A big plus is the flexibility. But we also noticed there isn’t an official expansion kit to go beyond 55 lb. For advanced lifters wanting heavier options, this may be limiting, and the lack of an upgrade path might be a drawback.

Adjustment Speed & Noise

Switching between weights is quick and smooth. From 10 → 50 lb = 3.5 seconds on average, so we didn’t have to wait long between sets. The adjustment pin moves with little effort, and there’s almost no sticking when moving up or down in the weight.

As for noise, the action is quieter than PowerBlock EXP. The weights don’t rattle when lifted out of the tray, which is nice if you prefer a less distracting environment.

 

For circuit trainers, this setup keeps our pace up without a lot of extra fuss.

Handle Feel & Ergonomics

When we picked up the Select-a-Weight dumbbells, the handle felt solid, but a bit rougher than expected. The knurling is about a grade 3 out of 5, so it isn’t too sharp, but it doesn’t slip easily either. The handle measures roughly 32mm across, which worked well for most grips.

In our slip tests, the grip held steady with dry hands, but things got a little risky with sweaty palms—especially since the handle is coated in chrome, not rubber. The handle length gives enough space for both small and larger hands, but if you use a very wide grip, it might feel snug.

 

One minor downside is the slight play between weights, which you notice more during quick movements. There is a slight bottom-heaviness when the 2.5-lb adder plates are engaged—most noticeable on strict curls or presses.

 

Overall, the ergonomics are solid, but we wish the grip felt a little less abrasive for longer sessions.

Customer Reviews

When we tried out these adjustable dumbbells, we noticed a few patterns in other user experiences that match our own. Many people say they are easy to use and great for small spaces, which fits what we found at home. Most of us appreciate the fast setup and simple adjustment, especially for changing weights quickly.

 

On the downside, we did see some talk about the plastic parts feeling less sturdy than metal options. Some of us noticed a little wobble between plates, but nothing that stopped a workout. 

 

Overall, most reviewers and our team felt the weight range and build make these a solid pick for home fitness, as long as you aren’t too rough with them.

Footprint & Storage

Space has always been an issue when adding new gear to our home gym, but these dumbbells take up much less room than a rack of fixed weights. The trays fit nicely into smaller areas, and each tray measures about 19.4 × 11.4 inches. Two trays side-by-side cover roughly 3 square feet—far less than the 6–8 square feet a full rack of fixed weights consumes.

 

Storing them is pretty easy; the trays are custom-molded and keep things tidy. The optional stand is available, but for most of us, the included trays work well, so we don’t think the stand is necessary unless you need the extra height or better accessibility.

 

Overall, the small footprint is a big plus.

Cost Breakdown

When we checked out the NordicTrack dumbbells, we noticed the price seemed a bit high at first. But after doing the math, the cost per pound makes more sense for an adjustable set. For example, if the price is $399, we’re paying about $7.27 per pound for 55 pounds per dumbbell.

 

We found that this isn’t the cheapest option on the market, but the set combines several weights in one, saving space and possibly money compared to buying single pairs separately.

 

On the downside, shipping is sometimes extra, so that’s another cost to keep in mind. Overall, we think the price fits the value if you want adjustable weights, but it’s worth comparing to other sets if budget is a big concern.

Smart Features & App Tie-Ins

We noticed there aren’t built-in smart features like Bluetooth, rep-count tracking, or direct app connections. While using these Select-a-Weight dumbbells, we didn’t come across guided workouts or automatic syncing with fitness apps such as Apple Health or Google Fit.

 

There’s no access to trial periods (e.g. 30-day free) or memberships for NordicTrack's iFit included in the purchase of the dumbbells. We confirmed this with our customer support chat (see screenshot in the section below).

 

 Management of weights relies fully on the manual selector, without digital integration. This may limit those looking for a connected or tech-focused setup, but for basic at-home strength training, the lack of ongoing subscription fees keeps things simple.

Warranty, Parts & Customer Service Check

Right after opening the box, we looked into what kind of support actually backs up these dumbbells. For the Select-a-Weight set, here’s what we found:

 

Warranty Coverage:

  • Handles: 2 years
  • Weight plates: 2 years
  • Mechanism: 90 days

Replacement Parts:

  • Pin replacements run about $25-$45 each, plus shipping.

We tried the live chat for a simple question and got a full answer in under 2 minutes. Customer service was polite and gave us direct info, which is helpful if something goes wrong. 

Lift smarter at home with a compact design that replaces an entire rack of dumbbells.

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Alternatives Worth a Look

When looking at adjustable dumbbells, it's helpful to compare a few options before deciding.

 

Feierdun Adjustable Dumbbells offers a range up to 52.5 lbs and is popular for its quick adjustment dial, which can save us time during workouts. Check Amazon price here.

 

PowerBlock Elite Series stands out with a stackable block design, letting us expand the set later if we want heavier weights. Check our price here.

 

Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbells go up to 44 lbs and take up very little space, making them good for anyone focusing on lighter training or working out in small areas. Check Amazons price here.

Conclusion

The team here at WorkoutHealthy think these adjustable dumbbells save space and give us the flexibility to switch weights easily, which makes home workouts more convenient. 

 

There is a bit of plastic in the build and some slight movement between plates, so they might not suit those looking for a gym-heavy feel.

 

We think they’re a practical pick for people who want a versatile weight set without taking up much room.

FAQs

What is the unique feature of the NordicTrack adjustable dumbbell?

The NordicTrack adjustable dumbbell features the Select-a-Weight system, allowing users to quickly adjust between 15 different weight increments, making it versatile for various exercises.

How does the weight adjustment system work on the NordicTrack Select-a-Weight dumbbells?

The weight adjustment system on the NordicTrack Select-a-Weight dumbbells is designed to be user-friendly. By simply sliding a pin you can select the desired weight, ranging from 10 to 55 lbs, which is perfect for progressive weightlifting routines.

How do NordicTrack adjustable dumbbells compare to traditional dumbbells?

NordicTrack adjustable dumbbells offer flexibility and space efficiency that traditional dumbbells do not. A single adjustable dumbbell set replaces multiple sets of non-adjustable dumbbells, making it ideal for those with limited space.

What are the benefits of using the NordicTrack Select-a-Weight dumbbell set?

The NordicTrack Select-a-Weight dumbbell set offers benefits such as adjustable weight increments for varied workouts, a compact design that saves space, and the ability to quickly switch weights, which can enhance workout efficiency.

How do the NordicTrack Select-a-Weight dumbbells compare to Bowflex SelectTech 552?

Both the NordicTrack Select-a-Weight dumbbells and Bowflex SelectTech 552 offer adjustable weight settings. However, the NordicTrack version provides a different range of weight increments and a distinct weight adjustment mechanism, catering to different user preferences and workout needs.

What is included with the purchase of NordicTrack Select-a-Weight adjustable dumbbells?

With the purchase of NordicTrack Select-a-Weight adjustable dumbbells, you receive a pair of dumbbells with a plastic tray for storage.

How much do NordicTrack adjustable dumbbells cost?

The cost of NordicTrack adjustable dumbbells varies based on the retailer and any ongoing promotions. Generally, their price point is competitive compared to other brands offering similar features and weight adjustment capabilities.

Are NordicTrack’s Select-a-Weight dumbbells suitable for beginners?

Yes, NordicTrack’s Select-a-Weight dumbbells are suitable for beginners due to their easy-to-use weight adjustment system and the variety of weight increments available, which allow new users to gradually increase their strength training intensity.

Can I use NordicTrack adjustable dumbbells for professional weightlifting?

While NordicTrack adjustable dumbbells are excellent for general fitness and strength training, professional weightlifters might prefer heavier weight options and specialized equipment like metal handles. However, they are ideal for a wide range of exercises and fitness levels.

What do users say in reviews of the NordicTrack adjustable dumbbell set?

Reviews of the NordicTrack adjustable dumbbell set often highlight the convenience of the Select-a-Weight system, the compact design, and the overall value for money. Users appreciate the ability to perform a variety of exercises without needing multiple sets of individual dumbbells.

DUMBBELL HIGHLIGHTS

  • Quick Weight Changes

  • Space-Saving Design

  • Strong Steel Plates

  • 15 Sets of Dumbbells

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