Bowflex or HAKENO: the smarter adjustable dumbbell buy?

Display

This category is not applicable in the usual tech sense, since neither product has a screen. What matters instead is how clearly the weight selection is communicated and how easy the mechanism is to verify at a glance. Bowflex wins here because the SelectTech system is widely known for its simple, intuitive dial-based selection and very low chance of user error. HAKENO’s 15-in-1 adjustable format is functional, but it relies more on manual plate changes and setup awareness, which is less elegant when you want to train quickly.

Performance

HAKENO wins on raw strength potential. The listing indicates a 2 x 24 kg / 40 kg adjustable dumbbell set, which gives you a much higher ceiling than the Bowflex 552 single dumbbell, which tops out at 24 kg. For pressing, rows, goblet squats and progressive overload beyond intermediate level, that extra load matters. Bowflex wins for speed between sets and lighter-to-moderate training, because the dial system lets you change weight instantly without handling loose plates.

Build quality and design

Bowflex wins on proven design maturity. The SelectTech 552 has been on the market for years, with a huge user base and nearly 9,560 reviews at 4.7/5, which is a strong signal that the mechanism is durable and well understood. The single-dumbbell format is also compact and tidy, though it is limited to one handle unless you buy another. HAKENO’s design is more ambitious because it promises two dumbbells and heavier loading, but with only 250 reviews at 4.6/5, it has a smaller evidence base. In practical home-gym terms, Bowflex is the safer bet if you want a system that just works for years with minimal fuss.

Battery life

Neither product uses batteries, so there is no battery-life advantage to discuss. If you want the most maintenance-free option, Bowflex still has the edge because its adjustment mechanism is simpler to live with day to day. HAKENO’s manual plate-based approach avoids electronics too, but it introduces more handling and setup time.

Price and value for money

Bowflex wins on value if your training needs fit within its ceiling. At £160.09, it is £15.89 cheaper than HAKENO, and that lower price comes with an exceptional review volume and a trusted brand name. However, HAKENO may be better value for stronger lifters because you are getting two dumbbells and a higher maximum load for only a modest premium at £175.98. If you compare cost per kilogram of potential load, HAKENO looks more attractive. If you compare confidence, ease of use, and resale trust, Bowflex is stronger.

Game library/features

This category maps best to training versatility and feature set. Bowflex wins for convenience features: the SelectTech dial system is the standout, letting you switch weights quickly for drop sets, supersets and circuits without clutter. It is especially good for general fitness, hypertrophy work and households where multiple users want a simple system. HAKENO wins for heavy-duty versatility because the 24-40 kg range is more suitable for advanced strength work, and the dual-dumbbell setup gives you more flexibility for bilateral training, loaded carries and heavier pressing. If your goal is a compact all-rounder, Bowflex has the better feature set. If your goal is to push serious weight, HAKENO offers more training headroom.

Overall user experience

Bowflex wins overall for most buyers. It is the more polished, better-known product, backed by a much larger review base and a lower purchase price, which makes it easier to recommend with confidence. The SelectTech 552 is ideal if you want a compact, easy-to-use dumbbell system for home workouts, especially where space is tight and convenience matters. HAKENO is the better pick for lifters who already know they need heavier loading and prefer having two adjustable dumbbells rather than one premium single unit. In a typical UK garage gym or spare-room setup, Bowflex is the more dependable all-round choice; HAKENO is the more specialised strength-focused option.

Overall summary: Bowflex is the safer, more refined buy for most people, especially if you want proven reliability, fast weight changes and a lower upfront cost. HAKENO only becomes the better choice if you specifically need the higher load range and are happy to trade some polish for extra strength potential.