With so many different PowerBlocks models on the market, it can be a nightmare trying to decide which one best suits your needs. This post explains the differences between the PowerBlocks and reveals which model is the best for you!
The PowerBlock models differ mainly in their weight settings, expandability, and weight plate materials. The expensive PowerBlocks can be expanded with more weight and usually offer a higher weight capacity. They also have a greater range of increments and are made with more durable materials.
Before I took the plunge with my PowerBlock Elite EXP (which I highly recommend), IU was stumped by the sheer variety of different models.
And the most confusing thing?
They all look the same! (kinda).
That’s why I decided to write this post to help you better navigate the PowerBlock maze!
- Interested In The PowerBlocks?
- The Different PowerBlock Models Currently Available
- Difference Comparison Between The PowerBlocks
- Differences Between PowerBlock Elite/Sport/Pro Vs EXP Models
- Difference Between PowerBlocks Elite USA Vs Elite EXP
- Difference Between PowerBlocks Sport Vs Elite
- Difference Between PowerBlocks Pro Vs Elite
- Difference Between PowerBlocks Pro Vs Sport
- Which PowerBlock Model Is The Best?
- Recommended PowerBlocks Recap
- Conclusion
Interested In The PowerBlocks?
Other than the PowerBlock website itself, I found Amazon to provide the most competitive pricing and fastest delivery.
I wasn’t a fan of PowerBlocks limited delivery options; no international shipping and slow delivery times.
So I bought my PowerBlocks from Amazon.
Having tested dozens of other brands and models, I feel the PowerBlock Elite EXPs to be the best value for money dumbbells on the market (so far!).
Product | Brand | Description | Prime | Buy |
---|---|---|---|---|
Top Top | PowerBlock Elite EXP | BEST PowerBlock model adjustable from 2.5-90lbs in 2.5/5lb increments. Replaces up to 28 pairs of dumbbells. Requires addon kits for full weight settings. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
TopTop Top | PowerBlock EXP | UPDATED BEST PowerBlock model adjustable from 2.5-90lbs in 2.5/5lb increments. Replaces up to 28 pairs of dumbbells. Same specs and function as the above PowerBlock Elite EXP but cheaper and newer. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
Top Top | PowerBlock Pro 50 | PREMIUM PowerBlock model adjustable from 2.5-50lbs in 2.5/5lb increments. Replaces 14 pairs of dumbbells. Features urethane-coating but not expandable past 50lbs. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
Top Top | PowerBlock Sport 24 | BUDGET PowerBlock model adjustable from 3-24lbs in 3lb increments. Replaces 8 pairs of dumbbells. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
Top Top | Flybird | Foldable weight bench that can be adjusted with flat, incline, and decline settings. Good-value weight bench for the PowerBlock dumbbells. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
The Different PowerBlock Models Currently Available
PowerBlock has released a few variations of their adjustable dumbbells over the years.
At the time of writing, here are the different PowerBlock models currently available:
- Elite USA.
- Elite EXP.
- Sport 24.
- Sport 50.
- Sport 50 EXP.
- Pro 32.
- Pro 50.
- Pro 50 EXP.
PowerBlock also makes a commercial Pro series.
These are essentially the standard Pros but kitted with premium materials worth being used in a commercial gym.
However, they are very expensive and not too popular with the average population.
Therefore I’ve decided to omit them from my PowerBlock model comparison.
Next, I’ll explain the differences between the PowerBlocks.
Difference Comparison Between The PowerBlocks
The table below gives you an overview of the differences between each PowerBlock model:
Specification | Classic 50* | Classic 70* | Elite USA | Elite EXP | Sport 24 | Sport 50 | Sport EXP | Pro 32 | Pro 50 | Pro EXP |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dimensions | 17″x15″x10″ | 20″x18.5″x17″ | Base: 11.75”x6”x6” W/ Stage 2: 14”x6”x6” W/ Stage 3: 16.25”x6”x6” | Base: 11.75”x6”x6” W/ Stage 2: 14”x6”x6” W/ Stage 3: 16.25”x6”x6” | 10.5”x5.25”x5” | 12.5”x6.5”x6.5” | Base: 12”x6.5”x6.5” W/ Stage 2: 14”x6.5”x6.5” W/ Stage 3: 16”x6.5”x6.5” | 12”x5.75”x5.5” | 13”x7”x7.25” | Base: 12.5”x7”x7.25” W/ Stage 2: 14.75”x7”x7.25” W/ Stage 3: 17”x7”x7.25” |
Base weight | 50lbs | 70lbs | 50lbs | 50lbs | 24lbs | 50lbs | 50lbs | 32lbs | 50lbs | 50lbs |
Expandable? | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Maximum weight | 50lbs | 70lbs | 90lbs | 90lbs | 24lbs | 50lbs | 90lbs | 32lbs | 50lbs | 90lbs |
Weight Increments | 5lbs | 2.5lbs | 2.5 to 5lbs | 2.5 to 5lbs | 3lbs | 5lbs | 2.5 to 5lbs | 4lbs | 2.5lbs | 2.5 to 5lbs |
Adder Weights | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
Number of dumbbells replaced | 9 | 24 | Up to 28 | Up to 28 | 8 | 9 | Up to 28 | 8 | 20 | Up to 28 |
Weight Plate Material | Powder-coated steel | Powder-coated steel | Powder-coated steel | Powder-coated steel | Powder-coated steel | Powder-coated steel | Powder-coated steel | Urethane-coated steel | Urethane-coated steel | Urethane-coated steel |
Pin-Selector | Polypropylene | Polypropylene | Polypropylene | Polypropylene | Polypropylene | Polypropylene | Polypropylene | Polypropylene | Polypropylene | Polypropylene |
Handle Shape | Straight | Straight | Straight | Contoured | Contoured | Contoured | Contoured | Contoured | Contoured | Contoured |
Handle guard | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | No |
Handle Thickness | 33mm | 33mm | 33mm | 38mm | 30mm | 38mm | 38mm | 30mm | 38mm | 38mm |
Handle Material | Rubber | Rubber | Rubber | Rubber | Rubber | Rubber | Rubber | Rubber | Rubber | Rubber |
Warranty | 5 years | 5 years | 5 years | 5 years | 5 years | 5 years | 5 years | 5 years | 5 years | 5 years |
Barbell compatibility? | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
You can see that most of the PowerBlocks share similar features.
A lot of these features are actually patented by PowerBlock and serve as the foundation for constructing their dumbbells.
Here are the things that all PowerBlocks have in common:
- Rubber handle.
- Color-coded weight chart sticker.
- 5 year warranty.
- Steel rail frame.
- Polypropylene slector pin.
However, looking closer also reveals several distinguishing differences between each PowerBlock model.
That’s what I’ll discuss in detail next.
Differences Between PowerBlock Elite/Sport/Pro Vs EXP Models
The ability to expand is the main difference between the PowerBlock Elite, Sport, and Pro EXP and all of their non-EXP variations. EXP models can be upgraded with addon kits that take each dumbbell to 70lbs and 90lbs per dumbbell. Non-EXP PowerBlocks do not have this option.Specification PowerBlock EXP PowerBlock Non-EXP Maximum weight 90lbs (when fully expanded) 50lbs Increments 2.5 to 5lbs 2.5 to 5lbs (depends on model) Number of dumbbells replaced Up to 28 (when fully expanded) Up to 20 (depends on model) Color coding chart Color or numerical (depends on model) Color or numerical (depends on model) Handle material Rubber Rubber Handle diameter 33 or 38mm (depends on model) 30 or 38mm (depends on model) Handle guards Yes (depends on model) No Weight plate material Powder or urethane-coated steel (depends on model) Powder or urethane-coated steel (depends on model) Cost: $350-509 (depends on model) $199-499 (depends on model)
Note: The PowerBlock Elite USA is the only model that CAN be expanded but ISN’T designated with “EXP”. These were the original Elites before the more recent Elite EXPs were released. They are essentially the same dumbbell (more on in the next section).
Weight settings:
All EXP PowerBlocks come as a base model that weighs 50lbs per dumbbell.
This can then be upgraded to 70lbs and 90lbs per dumbbell using the stage 2 and stage 3 addon kits (respectively).
Additionally, all EXP PowerBlocks utilize the adder weight inserts to adjust each dumbbell by as little as 2.5lbs.
EXP models can replace up to 28 pairs of dumbbells once they’ve been fully upgraded.
Non-EXP PowerBlocks cannot be upgraded.
The number designated in their name is their maximum weight.
For example, the PowerBlock Sport 24 has a max weight of 24lbs, the PowerBlock Pro 32 has a max weight of 32lbs, and so on.
They do not have the adder weights.
Each dumbbell adjusts in 3-5lb increments and replaces 8-20 pairs of dumbbells (depending on the model).
It should be noted however that the PowerBlock Pro 50 DOES have an adder weight function despite not being an EXP model.
Color-code chart:
Each Powerblock model utilizes a weight-coding system to help you read the weights.
This coding system is different between models in different line-ups (e.g. Elite vs Sport vs Pro) but remains the same between models in the same line-up (e.g. Sport 24, Sport 50, Sport EXP).
For example, all Elites use a black/white/purple/green/yellow/blue coding system. Each color represents a 10lb increment.
In comparison, all Sports (including the 24, 50, and EXP) use a numerical coding system. Each number represents the actual increment.
And finally, all Pros (including the 32, 50, and EXP) use a black/white/orange/green/yellow/blue/red coding system.
The labels take the form of a plastic sleeve that wraps around the center rail of each weight plate.
Handle:
The dumbbell handle is generally the same between EXP and non-EXP PowerBlocks, being a rubber-coated 38mm contoured handle.
However, the lightest model in the Sport and Pro lineup (PowerBlock Sport 24 and Pro 32) has a slightly thinner handle measuring just 30mm.
This is presumably made for women, beginners, and those with small hands.
Note, the Elite USA has a 33mm straight handle that’s different from any other PowerBlock.
Material:
The EXP and non-EXP PowerBlock Elites/Sports/Pros all utilize the same materials within their respective lineup.
For example; the Sport 24, 50, and 50 EXP all feature powder-coated steel. As do the Elite USA and Elite EXP but in black paint instead of gunmetal grey.
In contrast, the Pro 32, 50, and 50 EXP all feature urethane-coated steel which is more durable.
Price:
EXP models are much more versatile and future-proof compared to non-EXP PowerBlocks. This means EXP models are more expensive compared to the non-EXP models.
Difference Between PowerBlocks Elite USA Vs Elite EXP
The PowerBlock Elite USA and EXP are very similar with only slight differences. The main difference is that the USA and EXP addon kits are not compatible with each other. Furthermore, the USA has a straight 33mm handle compared to the EXP which has a contoured 38mm handle.Specification PowerBlock Elite USA PowerBlock Elite EXP Maximum weight 90lb (when fully expanded) 90lb (when fully expanded) Increments 2.5 to 5lbs 2.5 to 5lbs Number of dumbbells replaced Up to 28 (when fully expanded) Up to 28 (when fully expanded) Color coding chart Color-coded Color-coded Handle material Rubber Rubber Handle diameter 38mm 33mm Handle guards Yes Yes Weight plate material Powder-coated steel Powder-coated steel Cost: $420 $350
Weight settings:
The PowerBlock Elite USA and EXP are near-identical dumbbells.
They both weigh 50lbs for the base model and can be upgraded to 70lbs and 90lbs using the stage 2 and 3 addon kits. Just be aware that the addon kits are not compatible with each other.
In other words, the Elite USA kits can’t be used on the Elite EXP, and vice versa.
Everything else remains the same.
They both replace up to 28 pairs of dumbbells when fully expanded and adjust in 2.5lb/5lb increments using the chrome adder weights.
One thing to note however is the auto-lock switch.
Although they perform the same function in the Elite EXP and USA, they are located in different areas.
In the Elite EXP, it’s found on the side of the dumbbell.
On the Elite USA, it’s found on top of the dumbbell.
If you’re interested in how the auto-lock switch works, you can check out my other article to learn how to use a PowerBlock dumbbell.
Color-code chart:
Both dumbbells feature a color-coded weight adjustment mechanism.
The rails are marked in black/white/purple/green/yellow/blue/red. And there’s a color chart stuck to the top of the handle to allow you to read the weight you’ve selected.
Handle:
The Elite USA features a straight 33mm rubber-coated handle.
In comparison, the Elite EXP has a contoured 38mm rubber-coated handle.
I prefer the thicker contoured handle. In my opinion, it provides more grip than the straight handle found in the Elite USA (which I think PowerBlock is slowly phasing out).
Material:
Both the Elite USA and EXP are made from heavy-duty steel weight plates with a plastic composite handle cavity and foam-coated handle guards.
The steel plates are powder-coated in black paint to protect them from rusting.
Price:
The PowerBlock Elite USA is much more expensive compared to the Elite EXP.
To this day I’m still unsure as to why.
I’ve tested both and they are the same (the Elite EXP being the most recently released version and the Elite USA being the older version).
I suspect it has something to do with the manufacturing process.
The Elite USA is made in the US and the Elite EXP is made in China.
And Chinese manufacturing is obviously much cheaper!
You can check out my other article for more information on where PowerBlocks are made and what their shipping is like.
Difference Between PowerBlocks Sport Vs Elite
The main difference between PowerBlock Sport and Elite lies in their ability to expand. All PowerBlock Elites (USA and EXP) can be expanded to 90lbs. In contrast, only the PowerBlock Sport EXP can be expanded whilst the Sport 24 and 50 are non-expandable.Specification PowerBlock Sport PowerBlock Elite Maximum weight 90lbs (when fully expanded) 90lbs (when fully expanded) Increments 2.5 to 5lbs (depends on model) 2.5 to 5lbs Number of dumbbells replaced Up to 28 (depends on model) Up to 28 (when fully expanded) Color coding chart Numerical-coded Color-coded Handle material Rubber Rubber Handle diameter 30 or 38mm (depends on model) 33 or 38mm (depends on model) Handle guards No Yes Weight plate material Grey powder-coated steel Black powder-coated steel Cost: $199-410 (depends on model) $350-420 (depends on model)
Weight settings:
Both the PowerBlock Elite EXP and Elite USA can be expanded to 90lbs. As can the PowerBlock Sport EXP.
Additionally, all three of these PowerBlock models have 2.5lb adder weight increments and replace up to 28 pairs of dumbbells when fully upgraded.
Meanwhile, the PowerBlock Sport 24 and Sport 50 cannot be upgraded. What you buy is what you are stuck with (24lb and 50lb max capacity respectively).
Furthermore, the Sports 24 and 50 feature 3lb and 5lb weight increments (respectively) which are slightly larger compared to the Elites and Sport EXP.
Finally, the shape of the weight plates is slightly different between the PowerBlock Elite and Sport.
The PowerBlock Elites have a square shape whilst the PowerBlock Sports feature a curved top. This is mostly for aesthetic purposes and does not confer any functional benefits as far as I’m aware.
Color-code chart:
The Elites feature a color-coded chart compared to the Sports which use a numerical-coded-chart.
Both Elites and Sports label their weight plate using a plastic sleeve that wraps around the central rail.
I personally think the PowerBlock Elite color-coded weight chart is easier to read compared to the PowerBlock Sport numerical-coded chart. I feel the numbers on the Sports are too small.
But ultimately this is down to personal preference.
Handle:
The PowerBlock Elite EXP and Sport models feature a 38mm rubber-coated contour handle that fits the curvature of your palms.
The PowerBlock Sport 24 is the exception.
Whilst its handle is also rubber contoured, it’s slightly thinner at 30mm.
Meanwhile, the PowerBlock Elite USA has a straight rubber handle that’s also relatively thin at 33mm.
The thinner handles usually offer more comfort to beginners and those with small hands. But it can be difficult to maximize grip for more experienced lifters.
Important update: I just noticed that the Sport also doesn’t have a handle guard. In comparison, the Elite has two rails on either side. This restricts the handle cavity space. If you’re clenched fist is bigger than 5″, then the Sport is the better option!
Material:
Other than the expandability of their models, the other difference between the Elites and Sports lies in their material.
Whilst both PowerBlock models are constructed from a heavy-duty steel frame (as all PowerBlocks are), they are powder-coated in a different color.
The PowerBlock Elites feature a black powder-coating whilst the PowerBlock Sports have a gunmetal grey powder-coating.
Both types of paint have a similar quality. It’s mainly the aesthetics that are different.
Additionally, the handle cavity is slightly different between the PowerBlock Elite and Sport.
The PowerBlock Elite handle is made from grey plastic composite whilst the PowerBlock Sport handle is made from a black plastic composite.
Again, this is mainly for aesthetic purposes and does not confer any significant functional benefits.
Price:
PowerBlock Elite and Sport EXPs are basically priced the same. If you’re trying to decide between the two, then go with whichever one you like the look of more.
A price difference only shows when comparing the Elites with the non-expandable Sport 24 and 50.
The latter models are much cheaper compared to the Elites.
That’s because the Sport 24 and 50 cannot be upgraded.
For more information on which PowerBlocks can be expanded and which cannot, you can check out my other post on how heavy each PowerBlock dumbbell is.
Difference Between PowerBlocks Pro Vs Elite
PowerBlock Pros and Elites mainly differ in their weight plate materials. Both the Pros and Elites use heavy-duty steel weight plates. But the Pros feature urethane-coating which makes them very durable. In comparison, the Elites feature powder-coating which is more susceptible to degradation.Specification PowerBlock Pro PowerBlock Elite Maximum weight 90lbs (when fully expanded) 90lbs (when fully expanded) Increments 2.5 to 5lbs 2.5 to 5lbs Number of dumbbells replaced Up to 28 (when fully expanded) Up to 28 (when fully expanded) Color coding chart Color-coded Color-coded Handle material Rubber Rubber Handle diameter 30 or 38mm (depends on model) 33 or 38mm (depends on model) Handle guards No Yes Weight plate material Urethane-coated steel Powder-coated steel Cost: $340-510 (depends on model) $350-420 (depends on model)
Weight settings:
The maximum weight on the Elite EXP/USA and Pro EXP is both 90lbs when fully expanded.
Additionally, both of these PowerBlocks adjust in 2.5-5lb increments using the adder weights and replace up to 28 pairs of dumbbells when all addon kits have been applied.
Weight differences only start appearing when you compare the Elite EXP with the non-expandable Pro 32 and 50.
These only have a capacity of 32lbs and 50lbs, respectively.
Additionally, they only replace 8 or 20 pairs of dumbbells, respectively.
Furthermore, the Pro 32 can only adjust in 4lb increments which are slightly higher than the Elites 2.5lb increments.
Finally, the Pro 50 and EXP are rather unique in that they feature barbell connectivity. This allows you to attach the dumbbells onto the PowerBlock straight-bar connector to perform barbell training at home.
Color-code chart:
Both the Elites and the Pros use the color-coded weight rail chart.
The main difference lies in how the color coding is presented.
On the PowerBlock Elites- the colored sleeves are applied to a significant portion of the rail and the sticker chart is highly visible
In comparison, the colored sleeves are only applied to the ends of each rail in the PowerBlock Pros and the sticker chart is more hidden.
I personally prefer the color-coding of the Pros over the Elites, but don’t feel this alone justifies the price difference.
Handle:
The PowerBlock Elites and Pros both have a standard or a thin handle, depending on which model you choose.
The standard 38mm handle is found on the Elite EXP, Pro EXP, and Pro 50.
In comparison, the Elite USA and Pro 32 feature thinner handles. This measures 33mm on the Elite USA and 30mm on the Pro 32.
Additionally, the handle is contoured in all the Elites and Pro, except for the Elite USA which has a straight handle.
All PowerBlocks feature the same rubber-coating on their handles.
Important update: the Pro doesn’t have a handle guard. In comparison, the Elite has two rails on either side restricting the handle cavity space. If you’re clenched fist is bigger than 5″, then the Pro or Sport is the better option!
Material:
This is the main difference between the Pros and the Elites.
The Pros have a nice urethane-coating that’s resistant to scratches, protects your floor, and is quieter when dropped.
In comparison, the Elites have a lower-quality powder-coating that can damage your floor and emits a metallic clink when dropped.
Price:
As expected, the Pros are generally more expensive than the Elites.
But the exact price difference depends on which PowerBlock model you’re specifically comparing.
The PowerBlock Pro EXP is around $100-150 more than the Elite EXP/USA.
And the Pro 32/50 is around $0-150 more than the Elite Elite EXP/USA.
Unless the urethane-coating and barbell compatibility is something you’ll benefit from, then just stick with the Elites!
If you’re concerned about the sturdiness of PowerBlock dumbbells, you might be interested in my other post which explains how durable PowerBlocks are and how long they last!
Difference Between PowerBlocks Pro Vs Sport
Weight plate material is the main difference between the PowerBlock Pro and Sport. The Pros have urethane-coated steel plates that are very durable. In contrast, Sports have powder-coated steel plates which can scratch. Additionally, the Sports cannot be used with the PowerBlock barbell connector.
Difference between Powerblock pro and sportSpecification PowerBlock Pro PowerBlock Sport Maximum weight 90lbs (when fully expanded) 90lbs (when fully expanded) Increments 2.5 to 5lbs 2.5 to 5lbs Number of dumbbells replaced Up to 28 (when fully expanded) Up to 28 (when fully expanded) Color coding chart Color-coded Numerical-coded Handle material Rubber Rubber Handle diameter 30 or 38mm (depends on model) 30 or 38mm (depends on model) Handle guards No No Weight plate material Urethane-coated steel Powder-coated steel Cost: $340-510 (depends on model) $199-410 (depends on model)
Weight settings:
The PowerBlock Pro EXP and Sport EXP have very similar weight settings.
They can both be expanded to 90lbs, replacing 28 pairs of dumbbells, and adjusting in 2.5/5lb increments using the adder weights.
Differences in weight settings become more apparent when comparing the non-expandable Pros and Sports.
The PowerBlock Pro 32 and 50 have a max capacity of 32lbs and 50lbs (respectively).
They also replace 8 or 20 pairs of dumbbells (respectively).
Additionally, the Pro 50 has the 2.5lb adder weight function but the Pro 32 does not.
In comparison, the PowerBlock Sport 24 and 50 have a max capacity of 24lbs and 50lbs (respectively).
They replace 8 or 9 pairs of dumbbells (respectively).
None of the PowerBlock Sports (other than the EXP model) has the adder weight function.
Finally, the PowerBlock Pros can be used with the PowerBlock straight bar for barbell-style lifts. This cannot be done with Sports.
Color-code chart:
The Pros and Sports use different weight charts.
The PowerBlock Pro has a color-coded weight rail and the color chart is stuck to the top of the handle at an angle so that it’s partially hidden.
In comparison, the PowerBlock Sport has a numerically-coded weight rail and the weight chart is stuck flat on top of the handle in full view.
Handle:
Just like with all of the modern PowerBlocks, the Sports and Pros have a rubber-coated contoured handle.
Differences lie in the width.
The Pro EXP, Pro 50, Sport EXP, and Sport 50 all have a 38mm handle.
In contrast, the Pro 32 and Sport 24 have a 30 mm handle that’s more suitable for smaller hands.
Material:
The weight plate material is the main distinguishing factor between the PowerBlock Pros vs Sports.
PowerBlock Pros have urethane-coated steel plates.
In comparison, PowerBlock Sports have grey powder-coated steel plates.
This means the Pros are generally longer-lasting, more resistant to scratches, and are less likely to damage your floor when dropped.
Not sure if the PowerBlocks are right for you? You may be interested in my other post which discusses if PowerBlocks are good and worth it!
Which PowerBlock Model Is The Best?
The Pro series is the most expensive and is generally considered to be the best out of the entire PowerBlock collection. They are constructed from urethane-coated steel which is durable and non-abrasive. However, the PowerBlock Elite and Sport EXPs offer better value for most people.
Note the difference between “best” and “best value”.
In my opinion, the PowerBlock Pro is a better dumbbell compared to the Elite and Sport Series when you’re comparing pure specs and functionality.
And this is to be expected given the premium price tag attached to the Pro.
However, expensive does not always equal best value.
And I think for most people (especially beginners and intermediates), the Sports and Elites generally offer better value for money.
Therefore I would choose the Elites/Sports as my final answer!
Not sure how to use the PowerBlocks? You can check out my full-body PowerBlock dumbbell workout here!
Why the PowerBlock Pros are the best:
Very few people will deny that the urethane-coated steel in the PowerBlock Pro is superior to the simple powder-coated steel in the Elites/Sports.
The urethane is resistant to scratches, doesn’t chip, protects your floor, and is generally quiet when it hits the floor.
In comparison, the paintwork on the Elites/Sports can chip if they’re abused, can scratch your tiled floor, and can be quite loud when they hit the floor.
Additionally, the PowerBlock Pros (except the Pro 32) can be used with the PowerBlock straight bar.
This is a handy accessory for beginners and intermediates to include barbell training in their home workouts.
And the best thing about the bar?
It’s affordable and doesn’t take up a great deal of space! (unlike a proper barbell).
Why the PowerBlock Elites/Sport EXP are the best value for money:
If you don’t need the urethane coating and barbell compatibility (and let’s face it many of us don’t), then the Elite EXP and Sport EXP both give you everything the Pros offer for a fraction of the price.
You can go for either the Elite EXP OR the Sport EXP.
Both are great dumbbells and actually very similar (you can choose depending on your aesthetic preferences).
If your clenched fist is more than 5″ in diameter, I’d go for the Sport EXP. It has a slightly wider handle cavity since there aren’t any handle guards like in the Elite EXP.
I currently own the PowerBlock Elite EXP (you can check out the hands-on review here).
They’re expandable to 90lbs, feature the 2.5lb adder weights for micro loading, have a great handle, cost less than 400 bucks, and can be delivered quickly from Amazon.
And just because the weight plates aren’t coated in urethane doesn’t make it flimsy.
It still features the PowerBlock steel frame design which makes it extremely durable.
Just make sure you don’t drop them too often or drag them along a hard floor (this can scratch your floor).
If you look after them properly, they’ll last just as long as the Pros!
You can find the cheapest PowerBlock Elite price here.
Why I don’t recommend the non-EXP PowerBlocks:
By now, some of you may be considering the Sport but unsure whether to buy the EXP or non-expandable model.
If you’re an absolute beginner or just training for general fitness, the Sport 24 and 50 can do you fine.
Just be aware that you’ll be stuck with the max weight capacity unless you replace the dumbbell altogether.
If you have goals of building some serious muscle, then just go for the Sport EXP.
You’ll have the option to expand if and when you wish.
And this will allow you to keep making uninterrupted gains!
Besides, the PowerBlock EXPs don’t cost a whole lot more than their non-expandable versions!
If you’re interested, you can get the cheapest PowerBlock price here.
Recommended PowerBlocks Recap
Product | Brand | Description | Prime | Buy |
---|---|---|---|---|
Top Top | PowerBlock Elite EXP | BEST PowerBlock model adjustable from 2.5-90lbs in 2.5/5lb increments. Replaces up to 28 pairs of dumbbells. Requires addon kits for full weight settings. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
TopTop Top | PowerBlock EXP | UPDATED BEST PowerBlock model adjustable from 2.5-90lbs in 2.5/5lb increments. Replaces up to 28 pairs of dumbbells. Same specs and function as the above PowerBlock Elite EXP but cheaper and newer. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
Top Top | PowerBlock Pro 50 | PREMIUM PowerBlock model adjustable from 2.5-50lbs in 2.5/5lb increments. Replaces 14 pairs of dumbbells. Features urethane-coating but not expandable past 50lbs. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
Top Top | PowerBlock Sport 24 | BUDGET PowerBlock model adjustable from 3-24lbs in 3lb increments. Replaces 8 pairs of dumbbells. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
Top Top | Flybird | Foldable weight bench that can be adjusted with flat, incline, and decline settings. Good-value weight bench for the PowerBlock dumbbells. | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
Conclusion
I’ve explained the differences between the different PowerBlocks and shared my opinion on which is the best model.
All PowerBlock dumbbells share a similar design and work the same way.
The difference you’re paying for between the models is mainly in:
- Weight settings.
- Plate materials.
- Barbell connectivity.
So you should choose a PowerBlock that best fits your needs.
In my opinion, the Elite and Sport EXPs offer the best value for money for most people.
They’re affordable and versatile dumbbells!
They’re very similar so which one you decide to get should be based on what you like the look of the most!
You may also be interested in checking out my other post for a comparison between PowerBlock and Bowflex (their closes competitor).
What do you think about the PowerBlocks?
Feel free to send me a message if you have any questions! You can find my details on the “contact us” page.
You may also be interested in the downloadable Kalibre Blueprint PDF which details exactly how I gained 40lbs of lean muscle (it’s 100% free!). It details the exact exercises and nutrition (with printable worksheets) I used to go from skinny to ripped!
Thanks for reading guys!
Peace Out,
Kal
(Biochemistry BSc, Biomedical Sciences MSc, Ex-Skinny Guy)