Powerblock Compact Dumbbells

The most compact dumbbells available are the powerblock dumbbells. Since the powerblocks are designed so the weight is condensed more towards the hands instead of to the sides, this allows you to balance the dumbbells more effectively. Also, because of the compact nature of the power blocks, exercises such as the bench press or the curls aren’t restricted by the length of the dumbbell bar.

Powerblocks Compared to Fixed Weight Dumbbells

Pro-style and hex dumbbells are not as compact as the powerblocks. They are longer because the weight is distributed at the sides whereas the power blocks have some of the load situated where the handle is located.

Powerblocks Compared to Bowflex Dumbbells

Although the bowflex selecttech is an easy to use, quick change dumbbell set, it has a fixed bar length. Meaning, if you wanted to use 5lbs, the length of the bar would remain the same as if you were using 52.5lbs. With the powerblocks, the length of the dumbbells changes as you increase in weight.

Compared to Plate Loaded Adjustable Dumbbells

Plate loaded weights also suffer from a fixed dumbbell bar length.

Overall, the most compact set of dumbbells around are the powerblock adjustable dumbbells.