Bowflex SelectTech 552 Review
Better feel than PowerBlock but less durable. Here's the honest comparison.
Sam has used both Bowflex SelectTech and PowerBlock dumbbells in his own training for direct comparison.
SelectTech 552 vs. PowerBlock Elite: The Real Differences
Both adjustable dumbbells do the same job — replace a full rack of fixed dumbbells in a compact footprint. The differences are in feel, durability, and adjustment speed.
Feel: SelectTech wins. The traditional elongated dumbbell shape feels natural for overhead pressing, incline work, and single-leg exercises where you need the weight to rest on your knee. PowerBlock's square block shape is awkward for some movements.
Adjustment Speed: PowerBlock wins. The dial on SelectTech takes 5–7 seconds to rotate to the new weight vs. PowerBlock's 2-second pin swap. Minor in isolation, noticeable across a full workout.
Durability: PowerBlock wins. The plastic dial components on SelectTech are the most common failure point — if you accidentally drop the dumbbell on the tray, you risk cracking the mechanism. Our SelectTech 552 has been treated carefully (never dropped) and is functioning fine after 2 years of moderate use.
- ✓ Traditional dumbbell shape — natural for overhead work
- ✓ Intuitive dial mechanism — anyone can use it
- ✓ Good 5–52.5 lb range for most home gym users
- ✓ More affordable than PowerBlock at $329
- ✓ Comes with 2-year app subscription
- × Plastic components less durable than PowerBlock
- × 5–7 second dial change vs. 2 seconds for PowerBlock
- × Cannot be dropped — mechanism will break
- × 52.5 lb max limits stronger users
Verdict: Choose SelectTech if natural dumbbell feel matters more than adjustment speed. Choose PowerBlock if durability and faster changes are priorities. Both are vastly better than budget adjustable alternatives. Full dumbbell comparison here.
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