What Are The Cheapest Dumbbells

Starting a home gym doesn’t have to drain your bank account. If you’re wondering what are the cheapest dumbbells, you’re in the right place. Finding budget-friendly fitness gear is totally possible with a little know-how. This guide will walk you through all the affordable options, from stores to materials, so you can get strong without getting broke.

Let’s look at the main types of cheap dumbbells you’ll find on the market. Each has it’s pros and cons for the budget-conscious buyer.

Vinyl-Coated or Rubber Hex Dumbbells

These are often the most common and affordable starter dumbbells. They have a cast iron core coated in a thin layer of vinyl or rubber, with a hexagonal shape to prevent rolling.

Pros: Very low cost per pound, widely available at big-box stores, the coating protects floors and reduces noise.
Cons: The coating can crack or peel over time, especially if dropped. The weight increments can be limited.
Best For: Beginners and those on an extremely tight budget.

Standard Cast Iron Dumbbells

These are the classic, uncoated iron dumbbells. They are simple, durable, and often sold as individual weights or with a basic metal bar and spin-lock collars.

Pros: Typically cheaper than coated options, incredibly durable and long-lasting, you can often buy plates separately to build your set.
Cons: Can rust if not cared for, they are very hard on floors and will make a loud noise if dropped.
Best For: Lifters who don’t mind the bare-bones look and want a lifetime product.

Adjustable Dumbbell Handles

This is one of the most cost-effective and space-saving solutions. You buy one or two handles and then add standard-sized weight plates as needed.

Pros: Extremely versatile, saves a ton of money and space compared to a full rack of fixed dumbbells, weight can be changed quickly.
Cons: Can feel bulky or long during some exercises, the spin-lock collars need to be checked for tightness.
Best For: Anyone with limited space or who wants a wide range of weights without the high cost.

Secondhand and Marketplace Finds

Never underestimate the power of the used market. Many people sell fitness equipment that is barely used.

Where to Look: Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp, garage sales, and local thrift stores.
Tip: Search for generic terms like “exercise weights” or “fitness gear” to find listings that aren’t optimized for search.

So, which category truly wins the title for cheapest? For most people, the absolute lowest upfront cost will be a pair of vinyl-coated hex dumbbells from a store like Walmart, Target, or Dick’s Sporting Goods. You can often find pairs starting at 5 or 10 pounds for under $20. However, if you think long-term, a set of adjustable dumbbell handles with a few plates is usually the smarter financial investment. It grows with you, preventing you from having to buy heavier, more expensive fixed pairs later.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to finding your perfect budget set.

Step 1: Assess Your Actual Needs

Don’t just buy the cheapest set. Think about your goals.

Are you doing light toning or physical therapy? A few light, fixed pairs may suffice.
Are you planning on building significant strength over time? An adjustable set is non-negotiable.
Consider the weight range you’ll need for your various exercises, like heavier for lunges and lighter for lateral raises.

Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget

Know your max spending limit. Remember to factor in potential costs like shipping for online orders or gas for picking up used items. Sometimes, spending $10 more can get you a significantly better product.

Step 3: Shop the Right Stores

Big-Box Retailers (Walmart, Target, Academy Sports): Best for new, cheap vinyl or rubber dumbbells.
Sporting Goods Stores (Dick’s, Big 5): Good for sales on name-brand and cast iron options.
Online Marketplaces (Amazon, eBay): Great for price comparison and reading reviews. Watch for shipping costs on heavy items!
Used Markets (Facebook Marketplace, etc.): The undisputed champion for rock-bottom prices, but requires patience and safety awareness when meeting.

Step 4: Check the Price Per Pound

This is the best way to compare value. A 20-pound dumbbell for $30 is $1.50 per pound. A 25-pound dumbbell for $35 is $1.40 per pound—a slightly better deal. New dumbbells often get more expensive per pound as the weight increases.

Step 5: Inspect Before You Buy

If buying used, always check for these issues:

Cracks or Dents: Inspect coatings and the iron itself for major damage.
Rust: Surface rust on cast iron can be cleaned, but deep pitting is a bad sign.
Threads and Collars: For adjustable dumbbells, ensure the screw threads are not stripped and the collars lock securely.

Creative Alternatives to Traditional Dumbbells

If even the cheapest commercial dumbbells are out of reach right now, you can get creative with household items. Remember, resistance is resistance.

Water Jugs: Fill empty milk jugs or laundry detergent bottles with water or sand. The handles make them easy to grip.
Backpacks: Load an old backpack with books or bags of rice and wear it for weighted squats or push-ups.
Canned Goods or Water Bottles: Perfect for light resistance work, like shoulder rotations or tricep extensions.

Making Your Purchase Last

Taking care of your budget gear ensures it serves you for years.

Wipe down coated dumbbells with a damp cloth to prevent grime buildup.
For cast iron, keep them in a dry area. If rust appears, scrub it off with a wire brush and consider a light coat of mineral oil.
Store them properly—don’t just throw them in a damp garage corner. Use a simple rack or keep them on a mat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Buying Too Light: It’s common to outgrow 10 or 15 pound dumbbells quickly. Plan for progression.
Ignoring Ergonomics: Some very cheap dumbbells have poorly shaped handles that are uncomfortable. Try to hold them first if possible.
Forgetting About Space: A full set of fixed dumbbells takes up alot of room. Measure your space before buying a large rack.
Paying for Gimmicks: Stick to simple designs. Fancy shapes or “proprietary” systems are usually more expensive and not necessary.

FAQ Section

Where is the absolute cheapest place to buy dumbbells?

For brand new items, Walmart and Amazon often have the lowest prices on basic models. However, the absolute cheapest place is almost always the used market, like Facebook Marketplace or yard sales.

Are cheap dumbbells safe to use?

Generally, yes. Ensure the weights are securely fastened on adjustable models and that there are no sharp edges or major cracks in the material. Always inspect used equipment thoroughly.

What’s a good cheap adjustable dumbbell set?

Brands like CAP Fitness, Yes4All, and Bowflex (often on sale) offer reliable budget-friendly adjustable options. Look for sets that include the handles and a range of plates.

How much should I spend on my first set of dumbbells?

You can get started for as little as $30-$50 for a pair of fixed-weight dumbbells. For a more versatile adjustable set with a decent weight range, plan to invest between $80 and $150 for a quality budget setup.

Is it worth buying used exercise equipment?

Absolutely. Weights are simple, durable objects. As long as they are in good condition, buying used is the best way to save a significant amount of money on your fitness gear.

Starting your strength journey shouldn’t be cost-prohibitive. By knowing what to look for and where to shop, you can find durable, effective dumbbells that fit your budget. The most important thing is that you start, and with these tips, you have no excuse not to.