Bowflex SelectTech 552 vs PowerBlock Elite EXP
Two of the most popular adjustable dumbbells on the market, but they couldn't be more different in design philosophy. The Bowflex uses a dial mechanism while the PowerBlock uses a selector pin. Here's what that means for apartment living.
Quick specs comparison
| Spec | Bowflex SelectTech 552 | PowerBlock Elite EXP |
|---|---|---|
| Weight range | 5–52.5 lbs per dumbbell | 5–50 lbs per dumbbell |
| Increments | 2.5 lb (up to 25 lbs), then 5 lb | 2.5 or 5 lb increments |
| Dimensions (each) | 15.75″ L × 8″ W × 9″ H | 12″ L × 6.5″ W × 6.5″ H |
| Weight (each, max load) | 52.5 lbs | 50 lbs |
| Adjustment mechanism | Dial (twist end caps) | Selector pin (magnetic) |
| Expandable | No | Yes (up to 70 or 90 lbs with kits) |
| Warranty | 2 years | 5 years (home use) |
| Approximate price (pair) | ~$349–$429 | ~$399–$469 |
Detailed comparison
Footprint & storage
The Bowflex 552 is noticeably longer than the PowerBlock, nearly 16 inches vs 12 inches per dumbbell. This matters in apartments: the PowerBlock's compact, block-shaped design takes up less shelf or floor space. Both come with or can be paired with a stand, but the PowerBlock's square form factor stores more cleanly in a closet corner.
Edge: PowerBlock meaningfully smaller footprint, especially for storage.
Adjustment mechanism & noise
The Bowflex uses a dial at each end, twist to select your weight. It's intuitive but the plates rattle slightly during exercises. The PowerBlock uses a magnetic selector pin, slide it into the desired slot. Pin changes are faster during supersets and produce virtually no rattle during use because the weight plates nest inside each other.
Edge: PowerBlock for noise the nested design eliminates plate rattle. Bowflex for intuitiveness the dial feels more natural to newcomers.
Durability & build quality
The Bowflex uses a mix of plastic and metal plates around a central mechanism. The plastic components, particularly the dial and cradle, are the most common failure points in long-term reviews. The PowerBlock is predominantly steel with a more industrial feel. Its 5-year warranty (vs Bowflex's 2-year) reflects this confidence in build quality.
Edge: PowerBlock steel construction and longer warranty.
Exercise comfort
The Bowflex's longer form factor can feel awkward for certain exercises (goblet squats, close-grip presses). The PowerBlock's compact shape handles these better, but its boxy design means your wrists sit inside a cage-like structure; some users find this restrictive or uncomfortable for curls.
Edge: Draw each has ergonomic trade-offs.
Expandability
The Bowflex 552 caps at 52.5 lbs with no upgrade path (the 1090 is a separate, larger product). The PowerBlock Elite EXP can expand to 70 or 90 lbs per dumbbell with add-on kits: a real advantage if your strength is growing.
Edge: PowerBlock future-proof with expansion kits.
Price
The Bowflex is typically $50–$70 cheaper per pair at retail. However, if you factor in the PowerBlock's expandability (avoiding a full replacement later), the cost calculation shifts in PowerBlock's favor for serious lifters.
Edge: Bowflex lower upfront cost.
The verdict
Choose the Bowflex 552 if…
- You want the lower upfront price
- You prefer an intuitive dial mechanism
- You won't need more than 52.5 lbs per hand
- You have a dedicated spot where length isn't an issue
Choose the PowerBlock Elite if…
- Apartment space is tight; it's significantly more compact
- Noise matters, no plate rattle during exercises
- You want to expand weight range over time
- Durability and warranty matter to you
Our lean for apartments: The PowerBlock Elite EXP. The smaller footprint, quieter operation, and expandability make it the stronger pick for small-space training. The Bowflex is a fine product; it's just designed for a garage gym, not a studio apartment.
Where to buy
Bowflex SelectTech 552
- Mechanism: Dial-based
- Footprint: 15.75″ × 8″ each
- Expandable: No
PowerBlock Elite EXP (Stage 1)
- Mechanism: Magnetic selector pin
- Footprint: 12″ × 6.5″ each
- Expandable: Up to 90 lbs