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Best Dumbbells Under $100 (2025 Guide): Affordable Picks That Actually Hold Up

If you’re building a home gym on a budget, dumbbells are the perfect place to start. They’re affordable, versatile, and don’t take up much space. The good news? You can absolutely find high-quality dumbbells under $100 that are durable and comfortable to use.

In this guide, we review the best dumbbells under $100 in 2025, compare features, and help you choose the right option for your workout routine.

Read more – Best Treadmill Under $500 (2025 Guide): Affordable Picks That Actually Deliver


What to Look for When Buying Dumbbells Under $100

Before jumping into the top picks, here are the key things to check so you don’t waste your money:


1. Build Material

Common options under $100 include:

  • Neoprene dumbbells — soft, beginner-friendly

  • Rubber hex dumbbells — durable, gym-quality feel

  • Cast iron dumbbells — extremely long-lasting

  • Adjustable dumbbells — best value for multiple weight options

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 2. Weight Range

For under $100, you can typically get:

  • Fixed dumbbells: 5–25 lbs each

  • Adjustable sets: up to 40–50 lbs total

  • Neoprene sets: 1–10 lbs

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3. Grip Comfort

Look for:

  • Rubber or neoprene coating for beginners

  • Knurled steel handles for strength training

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4. Durability

Rubber-coated hex dumbbells and cast iron options will last the longest — even with heavy use.

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5. Fixed vs Adjustable

Fixed Dumbbells:

Best for fast workouts, high durability, simple use.

Adjustable Dumbbells:

Best for small spaces and saving money on multiple weights.

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Best Dumbbells Under $100 (2025 Top Picks)

Below are the best budget dumbbells based on value, comfort, durability, and real user feedback.


1. Amazon Basics Rubber Hex Dumbbells — Best Overall

Why it’s #1:
These are the closest you’ll get to commercial gym dumbbells for under $100. The rubber hex design prevents rolling, protects floors, and feels extremely sturdy.

Key Features:

  • Durable cast-iron construction

  • Rubber coating for protection

  • Comfortable, knurled grip

  • Wide weight range options

Ideal For:

Strength training, long-term home gym use.

Drawback:

Heavier weight pairs may cost slightly over $100 depending on availability.

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2. CAP Barbell Neoprene Dumbbells — Best for Beginners

These colorful, comfortable dumbbells are perfect for lightweight training such as HIIT, Pilates, and toning workouts.

Key Features:

  • Non-slip neoprene coating

  • Beginner-friendly design

  • Available in sets or single pairs

  • Affordable pricing

Ideal For:

Beginners, cardio workouts, home exercise routines.

Drawback:

Not suitable for heavy strength training.

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3. Yes4All Adjustable Dumbbells — Best Adjustable Under $100

If you want multiple weight options without buying several pairs, this set gives you the best value.

Key Features:

  • Up to 40–50 lbs total weight

  • Cast-iron plates

  • Spin-lock collars for secure lifting

  • Space-saving and budget-friendly

Ideal For:

Full-body strength training on a budget.

Drawback:

Changing plates takes more time than fixed dumbbells.

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4. Nice C Adjustable Dumbbells — Best for Light Workouts

These adjustable dumbbells are ideal for beginners and seniors who want lighter weights with a safe, comfortable grip.

Key Features:

  • Soft, ergonomic design

  • Quiet and floor-safe

  • Adjustable using water or sand

  • Great for daily toning routines

Ideal For:

Low-impact workouts, rehab, beginners.

Drawback:

Weight range is limited.

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5. BalanceFrom Cast Iron Dumbbells — Most Durable Under $100

If you want dumbbells that will last for years, cast iron is the way to go. These are simple, solid, and built to take a beating.

Key Features:

  • Heavy-duty cast iron build

  • Great grip

  • Very budget-friendly

  • Long-lasting quality

Ideal For:

Strength training, durability-focused buyers.

Drawback:

No rubber coating, so they may feel cold or rough.

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Comparison Table: Best Dumbbells Under $100

Product Type Max Weight Best For Price
Amazon Basics Hex Fixed 5–25 lbs Strength training $$
CAP Neoprene Fixed 1–15 lbs Beginners & toning $
Yes4All Adjustable Adjustable Up to 50 lbs Full-body workouts $$
Nice C Adjustable Adjustable Light weights Seniors & beginners $
BalanceFrom Iron Fixed 5–20 lbs Heavy-duty durability $

Simple Workouts You Can Do with Budget Dumbbells

Full Body Workout

  • Squat to press — 12 reps

  • Bent-over row — 12 reps

  • Deadlift — 10 reps
    Repeat 3 times.


Upper Body Workout

  • Bicep curls — 12 reps

  • Shoulder press — 12 reps

  • Tricep extensions — 10 reps
    Repeat 2–3 times.


Lower Body Workout

  • Goblet squats — 12 reps

  • Lunges — 10 reps each side

  • Romanian deadlift — 12 reps
    Repeat 3 times.


Final Verdict: Which Dumbbells Should You Buy?

If you want the best overall dumbbells under $100:
👉 Amazon Basics Rubber Hex Dumbbells

If you want maximum versatility:
👉 Yes4All Adjustable Dumbbells

If you want light, beginner-friendly weights:
👉 CAP Neoprene Dumbbells

If you want something almost indestructible:
👉 BalanceFrom Cast Iron Dumbbells

No matter your fitness level, a solid pair of dumbbells under $100 can help you build strength, improve health, and elevate your home workouts — without breaking your budget.

FitnessNala.com — your friendly fitness hub offering simple workouts, honest wellness tips and motivation to help you build a healthy, sustainable lifestyle.

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