Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission if you buy through our links, at no extra cost to you.
The short answer: The Bowflex SelectTech 552 is better if you want a traditional dumbbell feel, quick weight changes with a dial, and a compact storage cradle. The PowerBlock Elite is better if you prioritize durability, a wider weight range (up to 50 or 90 lbs), and a more compact footprint when stored. Your choice depends on your lifting style, space, and budget.
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 uses a dial system on each dumbbell. You turn the dial to select a weight from 5 to 52.5 pounds in 2.5-pound increments. The dumbbell rests on a cradle, and when you lift it, the selected plates stay on the handle. This design mimics a traditional dumbbell, so the weight is evenly distributed, and the handle feels like a standard hex dumbbell.
The PowerBlock Elite uses a pin system. You insert a selector pin into the weight plates to choose the load. The expansions allow you to go from 5 to 50 pounds initially, and you can buy additional expansions to reach 70 or 90 pounds. The handle is shorter and the weight is more forward, which takes some getting used to, especially for exercises like curls or lateral raises.
In terms of speed, the Bowflex dial is faster and more intuitive, especially during supersets. The PowerBlock pin is also quick, but you have to align the pin properly, which can be a bit fiddly if you’re in a hurry.
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 covers 5 to 52.5 pounds per dumbbell. It includes 2.5-pound increments up to 25 pounds, then 5-pound increments after that. This is great for beginners and intermediate lifters who need precise small jumps for progressive overload.
The PowerBlock Elite starts at 5 pounds and goes to 50 pounds per dumbbell in its base configuration, with 2.5-pound increments up to 25 pounds, then 5-pound increments. You can add the 50-70 pound expansion kit (sold separately) to reach 70 pounds, and another expansion to get to 90 pounds. This makes the PowerBlock more future-proof if you plan to get stronger and need heavier weights.
If you’re a beginner, the Bowflex is sufficient. If you’re an advanced lifter or want to avoid buying heavier dumbbells later, the PowerBlock’s expansion options are a major advantage.
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 has a plastic base and metal plates. The plates are coated with a rubber-like material to protect floors, but the internal mechanism is known to wear over time. Some users report that the dial mechanism can become less precise after years of heavy use. Also, the plastic cradle can crack if you drop the dumbbells.
The PowerBlock Elite is built like a tank. The plates are solid steel, and the whole unit is welded. There is no plastic in the load-bearing structure, so it’s extremely durable. The handle is made of steel with a knurled grip, which some find too aggressive, but it’s very secure. The only downside is that the weight plates are exposed, which can pinch fingers if you’re not careful.
If you plan to drop weights or have a rowdy workout style, the PowerBlock is clearly more robust. If you handle your equipment gently, the Bowflex is fine.
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 comes with a molded cradle that holds both dumbbells. The footprint is about 17 inches wide, 9 inches deep, and 9 inches tall. It looks neat and is easy to tuck under a bench or in a corner. The cradle also doubles as a display stand.
The PowerBlock Elite is more compact, especially if you get the stand (sold separately). Without the stand, the dumbbells are two blocks that stack together, taking up less than 1 square foot of floor space. You can even store them under a couch. However, the exposed plates can be a bit unsightly if you care about aesthetics.
If you have a small apartment, the PowerBlock’s compactness is a big win. If you want a more polished look, the Bowflex is nicer.
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 feels like a traditional dumbbell, so you can do all standard exercises without any awkwardness. The handle is long enough to fit both hands for exercises like goblet squats or overhead triceps extensions. The plates are round, so you can do exercises that require rolling, like renegade rows or push-up rows.
The PowerBlock Elite has a unique design where the plates are rectangular and the handle is shorter. This can limit certain movements. For example, you can’t do exercises that require the dumbbell to rest on your thighs (like a suitcase deadlift) because the plates are in the way. Also, the shape makes it uncomfortable for exercises like lying chest flys, as the plates can dig into your chest. However, for most basic lifts (curls, presses, rows), the PowerBlock works fine.
If you plan to do a wide variety of movements, the Bowflex is more versatile. If you stick to the basics, the PowerBlock is acceptable.
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 is typically in the mid-range to premium price bracket, depending on sales. The PowerBlock Elite is usually in the budget to mid-range bracket for the base 50-pound set. Adding the expansion to 70 pounds costs extra, and to 90 pounds another additional cost. So for the same weight range, the PowerBlock is often more affordable, but if you want the higher weights, the cost adds up.
Both are investments compared to a full set of fixed dumbbells. The Bowflex includes the cradle, which adds value. The PowerBlock’s expansion kits are a smart way to upgrade gradually.
For more comparisons and top picks, check out our best dumbbells guide.
Neither is designed for dropping. The Bowflex has plastic parts that can crack, and the PowerBlock has exposed plates that can damage floors or cause injury. Always place them down gently.
The PowerBlock Elite takes up less floor space, especially when stacked. The Bowflex requires a cradle that is wider. If space is tight, go with PowerBlock.
Yes, both offer 2.5-pound increments up to 25 pounds, then 5-pound increments after that. The Bowflex goes up to 52.5 pounds, while the PowerBlock can go higher with expansions.
Ultimately, both are excellent choices. If you value traditional feel and ease of use, choose Bowflex. If you value durability and expandability, choose PowerBlock. Consider your long-term fitness goals and current strength level.
We don't accept free units or payment for placement. Our rankings combine verified manufacturer specifications, real owner feedback and availability, compared on one transparent S to C rubric.
Honesty note: We have not hands-on tested every product mentioned on this page. Where we have not personally used a product, any ranking referenced here is based on verified specs, aggregated owner feedback, availability and editorial comparison rather than a hands-on review.