Dumbbells have evolved more in the last few years than they did in the previous few decades.

Dumbbells of old were typically cast iron and molded to a specific shape and weight. That meant outfitting a home gym with dumbbells required numerous sets and a rack to accommodate them.

If space was a concern, it probably wasn’t going to happen. But those days are over.

In the last few years, the evolution of dumbbells has accelerated to the point that adjustable dumbbells options are available to the masses and at affordable prices.

The PowerBlock became an instant favorite among home workout enthusiasts a few years ago but there’s a new kid on the block challenging PowerBlock for its spot at the top of the adjustable dumbbell hierarchy.

NÜOBELL has some features that could replace PowerBlock in many home gyms, so how do they compare? Let’s find out.

PowerBlock

PowerBlock offers three different series of adjustable dumbbells: Pro, Sport, and Elite. There are options for some of the sets within these series to add weight or extensions (we’ll go further into that later).

Pro Series

Pro 32

Maximum weight: 32 lbs.
Increments: 4 lbs.
Price: $329

Pro 50

Maximum weight: 50 lbs.
Increments: 2.5 lbs.
Price: $459

Pro EXP

Maximum weight: 90 lbs.
Increments: 5 lbs.
Price: $417–$817

Sport Series

Sport 24

Maximum weight: 24 lbs.
Increments: 3 lbs.
Price: $169

Sport 50

Maximum weight: 50 lbs.
Increments: 5 lbs.
Price: $349

Sport EXP

Maximum weight: 90 lbs.
Increments: 5 lbs.
Price: $369–667

Elite Series

Elite 50 USA

Maximum weight: 90 lbs.
Increments: 5 lbs.
Price: $329–$627

PowerBlock offers accessories for its adjustable dumbbells, including a stand, a bench, a kettlebell handle, and a straight bar or an EZ bar to turn your dumbbells into a barbell (for Pro 50 and Pro EXP only).

Learn more about the different models that PowerBlock offers here.

NÜOBELL

NÜOBELL by SMRTFT is an adjustable dumbbell that looks more like traditional dumbbells, unlike the square-shaped PowerBlock dumbbells.

There are two NÜOBELL options: a 50-pound set or an 80-pound set. The only accessory available is a stand for $185.

The 50-pound set costs $595 and the 80-pound set is $745. You can use Affirm to pay $71 a month and you can also get $50 off by subscribing to the SMRTFT newsletter. SMRTFT does offer a 5% military discount.

NÜOBELL vs PowerBlock

Now that we’ve learned about each of these adjustable dumbbell sets, it’s time to see how they stack up against each other.

Adjustment Ease of Use

When using adjustable dumbbells, we’re looking for ones that are easy to adjust so we’re not spending too much time between sets messing around with the weight.

To change weights on the PowerBlock dumbbells, remove the pin, select the rail with the corresponding weight chart, then insert the pin completely into the desired slot.

NÜOBELLs are adjusted in their holder. Using the click-lock handle, rotate until you see the desired weight on the indicator, then pull the weight out and get to work.

Winner: NÜOBELL

Grip Comfort

The handle on dumbbells is a major factor for many of us. You’re going to spend a lot of time holding these things, so the last thing you want is an uncomfortable grip.

PowerBlock has a rubberized contoured grip handle and is super comfortable to use.

NÜOBELLs use a barbell-type handle with a quality knurled finish. It’s comfortable, feeling a lot like you’re gripping a barbell.

Winner: PowerBlock

Durability

PowerBlock dumbbells have been around a long time and have received mostly positive reviews for their durability.

NÜOBELL is made mostly from steel, so there’s little doubt that they’re durable. Unlike most adjustable dumbbells sets that are made up primarily of plastic, NÜOBELLs seem more capable of handling some punishment and are likely to last longer.

Winner: NÜOBELL

Price

The price for PowerBlock falls between $169 and $817, depending on which one you choose. You have a large number of choices to select from with PowerBlock, taking weight and accessories into consideration.

A 50-pound NÜOBELL set costs $595 and the 80-pound set is $745. These are the only two options to select from at this time.

Winner: PowerBlock