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Sometimes, all you need for an effective workout is a dumbbell. After tens of thousands of reps, these are our favourites

Bicep curls or burpees over dumbbells? Tricep extensions or heavy dumbbell snatches? Whatever your fitness poison, we've recruited the Men's Health hive mind to bring you the definitive guide to the best dumbbells to shop in 2022. Just like adjustable dumbbells, barbells, weight benches, squat racks and battle ropes, the best dumbbells are the cornerstone of any home gym set-up. In fact, they should be at the top of the list — because when it comes to getting the most from your home workouts, few do it better than the humble dumbbell.

The best dumbbells are small, affordable and work with any type of workout — from muscle-tearing leg days to lung-busting CrossFit WODs — and, if you're short on space, nestle away tidily in a cupboard or under the sofa. With that in mind, read on for our guide to the best dumbbells.

If you're looking for the very best dumbbell for your home workouts, it's hard to beat Bulldog Gear's Hex Dumbell 2.0. Made with knurled rubber handles and coated with a shock-absorbent rubber, the 'hex' design also allows the dumbbell to lay flat and, as such, help you to perform dumbbell exercises such as press-ups, renegade rows and devil's press without trouble. Weights range from 2.5kg to 50kg.

Adjustable from 2 to 24kg, the Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbell is one of the best we've tested. By combining 15 different weights into one unique system, it eliminates the need for multiple weights or a dumbbell rack. If you want to go heavier, though, you may want to keep scrolling.

Want to keep things more affordable? No problem. For bang-for-your-buck, these are the best dumbbells we've found if you're looking to save cash. Opti's Cast Iron Dumbbells are adjustable — using a spinlock system — to help build bigger arms, stronger shoulders and thicker legs. Made with steel you can rack up each individual dumbbell to 20kg total weight. Ideal if you want to blast your arms at home every now and then.

If, for whatever reason, you opt for chrome-handled dumbbells over rubber alternatives, Bulldog Gear's Hex Dumbbells are the best choice for you. From 5kg up to 50kg, you won't be stuck for choice. The dumbbell handles are knurled for additional grip and the dumbbell heads are coated with virgin rubber to protect your surfaces. Ideal for high-intensity workouts and bodybuilding.

Designed specifically for varied training styles, Domyos' dumbbell is designed to protect against impact with a triangular silhouette — making it ideal for press-ups and another bodybuilding staples. The knurled grip keeps you in control when you get sweaty, and the dumbbell stacks away nicely.

Fancy something a little more high-tech? JAXJOX's DumbbellConnect is the world's first electronic adjustable dumbbell. The JAXJOX app can track reps, volume, sets, average power output and workout duration in real-time. Using the central button, you can also toggle an increase or decrease in weights across increments of 3kg, making mid-workout weight changes a breeze.

After something a little more luxe? Technogym's Chrome Dumbbells are just the ticket. Using the same high-quality finish as motorcycles, Technogym's sleek chrome dumbbells are sweat proof and have higher resistance against damage.

A strength and bodybuilding staple brand, Hammer Strength are tough, durable and come with anti-roll heads for high-intensity workouts. Weights go from 2.5kg to 50kg and come as a pair. Use the code DRCT10 for 10% off.

After a more Globo Gym feel? Try Jordan's classic rubber dumbbells on for size. Used for bodybuilding, functional training and classic dumbbell exercises, the dumbbells feature a contoured chrome handle and a new design for added safety.

Want to go big? This dumbbell rack from Phoenix Fitness is ideal if you're looking to deck out your home gym. The dumbbells range from 2.5kg to 25kg, each with a chrome handle for a more comfortable grip. The rubberised coating will help prevent damage too.