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