The Yes4All Cast Iron Adjustable Dumbbell Set offers an affordable alternative to premium brands like Bowflex and PowerBlock. Reviewers praised its simple KISS design with chrome handles and cast iron plates that work with standard bar diameters. The dumbbells are compact and reliable, though switching weights requires time due to the threaded collar mechanism. Users noted the round plates roll easily and the coating on weights is inconsistent. This set is ideal for budget-conscious home gym users seeking basic functionality over complex features.
Full review
Simple mechanical design
The Yes4All adjustable dumbbells employ a straightforward mechanical approach that eschews complex switching mechanisms in favor of a basic spin-collar system. This design choice makes the dumbbells more reliable and less prone to malfunction compared to high-end models with electronic or dial-based adjustments. The chrome-plated handles feature a knurled center section for grip, and the threaded ends accept cast iron plates that are secured with spin-lock collars. The simplicity of this approach means that the dumbbells are easy to use and maintain, though it does require more time to adjust weights between exercises. The collars include set screws to keep them in place, particularly important with higher weight settings. Reviewers noted that while the system works well when properly tightened, switching between weights is time-consuming due to the length of the handles, making it better suited for structured workouts rather than fast-paced circuit training.
Cast iron plate construction
The dumbbells utilize cast iron plates that are black-coated for rust resistance, a practical feature for indoor gym environments. These plates are designed to be compatible with standard barbell systems that have a 1.15-inch inner diameter, allowing users to repurpose them for other exercises. However, the coating quality is inconsistent and not particularly thick, which becomes apparent after extended use. Users have reported that the surface finish shows signs of wear, with some plates exhibiting rough patches or bumpy textures. The coating does begin to show through on the outer edges after several weeks of use on concrete surfaces, though this is primarily cosmetic. Despite these surface issues, the all-metal construction ensures durability, and the plates are solid enough to withstand regular strength training without structural compromise.
Weight adjustment process
Adjusting the weight on these dumbbells requires removing the spin collars and swapping out plates, a process that takes considerable time. Reviewers noted that this manual adjustment takes up to a minute per weight change, which is significantly longer than the quick dial systems found in premium models. The collars themselves are designed with set screws to secure them in place, but the process of removing and installing them is cumbersome. Users who plan to frequently switch between different weight ranges will find this system limiting, as it's better suited for workouts that maintain consistent weight usage. The time investment for adjustments is a notable drawback, especially for those who prefer circuit training or varied workout routines that require rapid transitions between weight levels.
Space efficiency and storage
The adjustable dumbbells offer significant space savings compared to traditional dumbbell sets, which is one of their main advantages. Users can replace dozens of individual dumbbells with a single compact unit that can be adjusted from 5 to 100 pounds per dumbbell. This makes them particularly suitable for home gyms with limited space or for those who want to maximize their workout area. The 16-inch handle length, while providing a good grip, does make the dumbbells bulkier than individual dumbbells, but the compact nature of the adjustable system still provides a space-efficient solution. The set comes with a variable number of 10-pound plates depending on the weight range selected, with lighter variations including fewer 10-pound weights. The packaging is designed to ship in three separate boxes, which helps with delivery but also means more assembly time upon arrival.
Durability and build quality
Despite their budget-friendly price point, the Yes4All dumbbells demonstrate solid build quality with all-metal construction that includes chrome-plated handles and cast iron plates. The handles have a textured finish that provides good grip, even when hands are sweaty, and there are no sharp edges on the threads. The chrome finish appears shiny and even, indicating good attention to surface treatment. However, the cast iron plates show some inconsistencies in coating thickness, and the finish is not uniform across all pieces. Users have noted that the coating begins to wear through on the outer edges after several weeks of use on concrete surfaces, though this does not affect structural integrity. The set includes rubber o-rings that help secure the plates, but reviewers observed that these o-rings vary in thickness and diameter, which may impact consistency in plate retention.
Performance in practical use
In practical use, the dumbbells perform adequately for strength training and provide a good balance between functionality and cost. Users who have purchased the 200-pound variation report being able to achieve 100 pounds per dumbbell, which is impressive for an adjustable set. The weight increments are in 5-pound steps, allowing for precise adjustments that are suitable for most strength training exercises. The handles are comfortable to grip and the knurled texture helps maintain control during workouts. However, the time required for weight adjustments limits their effectiveness in fast-paced workouts or circuit training where frequent switching between weights is necessary. The round plate design, while functional, does present a challenge as the plates tend to roll, particularly on uneven surfaces. This rolling tendency requires careful positioning of weights and can be a minor inconvenience during workouts.
Value proposition
At a price point that offers excellent value for money, the Yes4All dumbbells provide a functional solution for those on a budget who still want quality adjustable weights. The ability to adjust from 5 to 100 pounds per dumbbell means that users can cover a wide range of exercises without needing multiple sets of dumbbells. The cast iron construction and chrome finish provide durability that exceeds expectations for a budget product. However, the time investment required for weight adjustments and the rolling nature of the plates are drawbacks that users should consider. The set comes with 2.5, 5, and 10-pound plates, and the number of 10-pound plates varies based on the selected weight range. For users who prioritize simplicity and cost-effectiveness over convenience, these dumbbells offer a solid solution that delivers on basic functionality without unnecessary frills.
Strengths
- +Affordable price point at $1 per pound
- +Simple cast iron plate design that's compatible with other bars
- +Adjustable from 5-100lbs per dumbbell
- +Chrome plated handles with knurled center section for good grip
Watch-outs
- −Threaded collar takes time to install/remove
- −Manual weight adjustment is time-consuming
How it compares
The Yes4All Cast Iron set provides the most affordable option compared to the PowerBlock Elite and Bowflex Results Series, but it lacks the magnetic selector and ergonomic design of those models. While it offers a wider weight range up to 100 lbs, it's less convenient than the MX Select MX55 Rapid Change Adjustable Dumbbells, which provide faster transitions. Unlike the SMRTFT Adjustable Dumbbell, it has a simpler, more traditional design but lacks the compactness of the Lifepro PowerFlow Plus.
Rating sources
Our 4.5 score is the average of the 3 scored reviews above; 2 more reviewed it without printing a score and are not in the average. More about methodology.
