Bowflex Selectech vs. Powerblock

I've been thinking about getting some adjustable dumbbells and I'm a little torn about which set. There are things I like about both. I won't lie, the brand name of bowflex is a plus for me but the powerblocks are more compact and I like how they seem to have a lot less parts to break. So what are your thoughts?

 

I have the Bowflex 552s, never tried the Powerblocks. The only thing that I don't like about the 552s is that they are pretty large, and that makes them awkward for some movements. Overall they are well built and a convenient option.

 

Bump

 

It does not matter which one, What matters if you actually use them on a regular basis, their expensive to sit around the house and collect dust.

 

Powerblocks no question. Nice design, had mine 8 years no issues

 

SHAKE WEIGHT!!!

 

Powerblocks, FTW! They are a quality item that can withstand a drop better than the Bowflex.

 

x2

 

Bowflex is limited to 52.5 Lbs.

Powerblocks can go as high as 130 Lbs. and can be adjusted in 2.5 Lb. increments.

I have the Powerblocks. Worth every penny.

 

Well it kind of does matter which one. Since they ARE so expensive I want to get the most quality product.

The bowflex actually does have the 1090 which goes up to 90lbs. But it is cool how you can buy add-ons to the powerblocks once you work up to it. I also like how the powerblocks are less bulky when you're not using the whole rack, where as the Bowflex is the same length no matter what weight you're using.

Good opinions, keep them coming!

 

Bump

 

Okay for powerblock owners: They are advertised as being able to increase in 2.5lb increments. Each plate is 10 lbs and the cylinders are 2.5lbs. So there is no way you can make 17.5, 27.5, 37.5 etc What the hell?

 

which would you rather have resting on your thighs when you rest them there before doing a set?

 

I have powerblocks, love 'em.

I have seem and played with the bowflex, overpriced for one thing, but I think they're just as functional and would work just as well.

The only gripe with my blocks, they having square edges can bind against the wrists when twisting at times...

The costs greatly differ

 

I decided to go with powerblocks. Looking forward to using them for the first time. For the cost difference, the reviews, and the size difference it became an easy decision. I just couldn't imagine doing dumbell bench press or militaty press with the bowflex since they seem like 12-15 inches long. Plus, if I get buff enough I can always add on another 40lbs to these. Man I hope I don't regret this purchase!

 

i have the powerblocks as well. the most important feature that sold me on them was the way in which the weight is selected. on other dumbell sets, i read that the mechanism can jam and/or fail over time. with the powerblock, however, you select the weight with a pin... which never fails

 

I have the powerblocks and I love them. They seem to be much more solid that the selectechs. For me the selectechs seems way to bulky.

 

So I used my powerblocks yesterday for the first time and I love them! They're comfertable and compact, and they give me so many more exercises to choose from than just using a barbell. The price was good too, especially when you buy them on base ($299). These are almost the most expensive equipment in my gym but they're totally worth it.

 

Actually, it's the 22.5, 32.5, 42.5, etc that you can't make. They do increase in 2.5lb increments, but they don't hit EVERY 2.5lb increment possible. It's a little missleading but nothing's perfect I guess.