Adjustable Dumbbells vs Rubber Hex Dumbbells

Let’s quickly talk about what adjustable dumbbells and rubber hex dumbbells are. Adjustable dumbbell sets are just what the name implies – they have a handle with weights on both ends that can be adjusted. Now there are a few different ways to adjust the weights. Some adjustable dumbbell sets have miniature weight plates on both ends that can be added or removed like weight plates on a barbell. Others, have locking mechanisms like pins or handle rotations that allow weights to be added or removed so you only get the weights you want.

Rubber dumbbells have a metal handle with a rubber coating on both heads. The hex is simply the shape of the head. The rubber coating is more practical than a non-rubber coating because it muffles noise and is safer for the floor. The hex head is useful because the dumbbell can be placed on the floor without moving – unlike a round head.

There are three key differences, and they each have their pros and cons, so let’s get right into it.

1) Storage and Space

This is probably the biggest difference between adjustable dumbbells and rubber hex dumbbells.

For the size of a set of large rubber hex dumbbells, you can have a set of adjustable dumbbells that range from 5 pounds to over 50 pounds in most cases. You can see how this is a huge advantage for an adjustable dumbbell set. I would say this is the best adjustable dumbbell advantage.
Especially if you have very limited space, an adjustable dumbbell set can be a great idea. You get a ton of workout flexibility without almost any space. When starting a home gym, we love a good volume to space ratio. They give you a ton of workout options (volume) and take up very little space.

Now, one thing to consider is that if you are considering buying a heavier pair of dumbbells (around 70 pounds and up), it is an extra challenge to find an adjustable dumbbell set that can handle that much weight. The common range is 5 to 50 pounds; however, heavier ranges can still be found. Some brands even make expansion packs that allow you to add to your existing adjustable dumbbells.

2) Ease of Use

Rubber hex dumbbells don’t move around. They are permanently fixed, and sometimes the slight movement of the adjustable dumbbells while training doesn’t feel very nice or secure. This isn’t really a big deal, but if space isn’t an issue, the rubber hex dumbbells are ideal.

3) Price

In this economic situation, we have to consider price. So far, space and storage are advantages for adjustable dumbbells, while ease of use is an advantage for rubber hex dumbbells.

Now, this price difference really depends on what you plan to buy. If we compare a set of 5 to 50 lbs adjustable dumbbells, instead of buying a set of rubber hex dumbbells that have 5, 10, 15, 20, … and 50 lbs, you might save a few hundred dollars by choosing a set of adjustable dumbbells.
But do you really need to increase the weight every 5 lbs? Probably not.

For men who are just starting to train, the 10, 25, 40, and 60 lb sets might be enough. For women in the same category, the 5, 15, 25, and 40 lb sets would be great starter sets. Choosing the exact weight is up to you, but if you go that route, rubber hex dumbbells will likely cost the same or slightly less than adjustable dumbbells. However, you do lose weights all in between.

No matter which dumbbell set you buy, you won’t make a wrong choice. Durability isn’t an issue with either. Having dumbbells at home makes working out very easy, and there are tons of exercises and workouts to choose from. Pick one and start training!