Bowflex SelectTech 552 vs 1090 (2022): Which Adjustable Dumbbells Should You Buy?

If you are planning on starting a home gym or if you just want to stay fit at the comfort of your own home, dumbbells are a must. However, a complete set of dumbbells can get quite expensive and they will take up a lot of space in your room or workout area. If you don’t want to spend too much money and you’d like to keep clutter to a minimum, investing in a pair of adjustable dumbbells is recommended. The Bowflex SelectTech 552 and SelectTech 1090 are adjustable dumbbells that can provide a satisfying workout without costing a ton and taking up too much space. Their main difference is their weight range, but there are some subtle differences here and there that will make one the better choice for you than the other. So which one should you choose? Below is our SelectTech 1090 vs 552 comparison.

Bowflex SelectTech 552 vs 1090 Dumbbells Comparison Chart

Design and Build Quality

Both the Bowflex SelectTech 552 and 1090 are space savers.

Looks-wise, they are quite similar since they are from the same manufacturer, however, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 are more compact. Each Bowflex SelectTech 552 dumbbell is measured at 9 x 8 x 15.75 inches, while each 1090 dumbbell measures 10 x 10 x 17.5 inches. Their storage trays perform double duties—for storage and adjustment.

As for build quality, both adjustable dumbbells are made of a combination of metal and plastic. The Bowflex SelectTech 552 handles are made of metal, but they are covered with textured rubber grips. On the other hand, the handles of the Bowflex SelectTech 1090 are bare textured metal, so they can be harsher on your skin. The plates on both adjustable dumbbells are made of metal, but are covered with plastic composite for quieter workouts.

Since these dumbbells have mechanical parts, you can’t use them as you would rubber or metal dumbbells. For instance, you can’t drop them after a set since the mechanical parts may get damaged. If they do get damaged, these dumbbells come with a 2-year warranty period.

Ease of Use

The SelectTech 552 and 1090 have the same adjusting mechanism, but the 552 are much more comfortable to hold due to their textured rubber grips.

Using these dumbbells is pretty straightforward since everything is labelled. Adjusting the weight is as easy as setting the dumbbells down to their storage tray, rotating the dials on both ends to your desired weight, then lifting them up. Changing weights for different exercises does not take much time at all, so they are great for doing drop sets when you are strength training.

One advantage of the Bowflex SelectTech 552 over the 1090 is with their textured rubber grips. The rubber grips are less likely to cause slippage and they are easier on the palm of your hands. The textured metal grips of the Bowflex SelectTech 1090, in contrast, can be a bit harsher, especially if you are lifting heavy. Aside from that, they are both easy to use.

Click here for our Bowflex vs NordicTrack adjustable dumbbells comparison

Weight Settings

There are 15 weight settings for the SelectTech 552 and 17 for the 1090.

When it comes to weight settings, the Bowflex SelectTech 552s are more beginner friendly since they have a starting weight of only 5lbs for each dumbbell. Also, they can be adjusted in 2.5lb increments up to 25lbs, so you can increase the weights gradually in order to progress with your workouts. From 25lbs to 50lbs, the dumbbells go up in 5lb increments.

On the other hand, the Bowflex SelectTech 1090s are better suited for stronger individuals or those with experience in lifting weights. The starting weight of 10lbs can be a bit too heavy for certain exercises, such as lateral raises. This will result in bad form and it can lead to long term injuries. As for the weight settings, there are 17 in total. These dumbbells go up in 5lb increments from 10lbs to 90lbs.

Verdict

The Bowflex SelectTech 552 are excellent for those just starting out on their fitness journey while the 1090 are better suited for experienced lifters and those that want to focus on strength.

If you just want to stay fit at home, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 are great since these are more budget friendly. Also, these dumbbells are more forgiving to beginners and weaker individuals because they can be adjusted in 2.5lb increments. However, if your home training is more focused on strength and hypertrophy, the Bowflex SelectTech 1090 are better since they are heavier.

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