Bowflex SelectTech 552 vs Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbells

I'm looking to pull the trigger on some adjustable dumbbells for my apartment. I've narrowed it down to the Bowflex 552s and the Core Home Fitness set. The Bowflex seems like the classic choice, but the Core ones look way more compact. Anyone here have experience with both? Especially curious about how they feel during a workout.

I've used both in my flat here in London. I actually switched from the Bowflex to the Core set last year. The biggest difference is the length—the Bowflex 552s are massive and stay that long even at low weights. The Core ones actually get shorter as you drop the weight. Much better for overhead presses.

Totally agree with LondonLad on the length. I'm up in Toronto and had to order the Core ones online. One thing though, the Bowflex 552s feel a bit more "premium" in the hand, even if they are clunky. Do the Core ones feel plasticky to you guys?

I don't find the Core ones plasticky at all. The twist-to-change mechanism is super slick. You just turn the handle! With the Bowflex, you're clicking dials on both ends of the dumbbell, which feels like it takes ages during a fast-paced circuit.

Checking in from BC! I actually prefer the Bowflex because of the 2.5lb increments for the first 25 lbs. Core jumps in 5lb increments. If you are doing smaller muscle groups or rehab work, those 2.5lb jumps are a lifesaver.

That's a fair point Dave, but how often do you really need a 2.5lb jump? I've got the Core set in my home gym and for most 'typical' lifting, 5lb increments are fine. Plus, they look much nicer in the corner of the room than the big bulky Bowflex cradles.

Wait, the Bowflex stays the same length at 5lbs as it does at 50lbs? That sounds like a recipe for banging your knees on lunges.

Precisely. It's about 16 inches long no matter what. It makes curls feel a bit awkward too because the weight distribution is so wide. The Core ones feel much more like a traditional dumbbell.

Another thing to consider is the rattle. My 552s used to clack around a lot. The Core set is surprisingly quiet while you're moving.

Does anyone worry about the longevity of the Core twist mechanism? It feels like if that handle breaks, the whole thing is a paperweight. Bowflex dials seem like they've been around forever.

I've seen some reviews saying the Core plates can fall off if you're not careful. Has anyone actually had that happen? That's my nightmare for overhead work.

Honestly, as long as you make sure they are clicked into place in the cradle, they are solid. I've been using mine for 18 months—no issues. Just don't drop them! But you shouldn't drop any adjustable dumbbells anyway.

Good to know. I'm leaning toward Core just for the speed of the transitions. I do a lot of P90X-style stuff where they switch weights fast.

If you're doing fast transitions, the Core set is the winner, hands down. Dials on the Bowflex are a chore when you're sweaty and out of breath.

One minor gripe with the Core set—the handle is a bit thick. If you have smaller hands, it might be a stretch. My wife finds them a bit uncomfortable for higher reps.

Really? I find them fine! Maybe it's just a preference thing. The texture is actually better than the rubber on the Bowflex, which can get a bit gross over time.

How much are the Core ones going for in the States right now? Here in Canada, the price difference isn't huge, so it usually comes down to which one is in stock.

I can get the Core ones for about $360 on sale. Bowflex is usually around $400. Not a massive gap.

If you can get the Core set for cheaper, I'd say go for it. The space-saving aspect alone is worth it if you're in an apartment.

Don't forget to look at the stands too. The Core stand is much more compact than the Bowflex one. Fits better in a closet if you need to hide your gear when guests come over.