| Unit | Max. Dimensions | Type | Weight range | Weight increments | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Powerblock Elite 90 lb Check Discounted Price | L:16" W:6" H:6" | Adjustable, locking pin | 5-90 lbs | 5, 7.5, 10,15, 17.5, 20 25, 27.5, 30, 35, 37.5, 40, 45, 47.5, 50, 55, 57.5, 60, 65, 67.5, 70, 75, 77.5, 80, 87.5, 90 lbs | 10 years |
The PowerBlock dumbbells are renown for their innovative, quick adjustment system, which makes them perfect for various workouts that require dumbbells of different weights, such as P90X. They’re perfect for home use as they don’t take a lot of space, and they’re considerably sturdier than other adjustable dumbbells.
So far, PowerBlock has released several series. However, the one that so far benefits almost exclusively from 5-star reviews, is the Elite series. That’s because this series features all-metal plates, and it’s made in the U.S.
In this post, we’ll address the PowerBlock Elite 90 lbs dumbbell set, in other words, the PB-EL-90.
Technical Details and Specifications
- Dimensions: 16L x 6W x 6H inches (40.6L x 15.2W x 15.2H cm)
- Weight range: 5 to 90 lbs (2.26 to 40.8 kg) each
- Weight increments: 5, 7.5, 10,15, 17.5, 20 25, 27.5, 30, 35, 37.5, 40, 45, 47.5, 50, 55, 57.5, 60, 65, 67.5, 70, 75, 77.5, 80, 87.5, 90 lbs.
- Warranty: 10 years
Overall construction
Due to the specific adjustment system, the PowerBlock 90 lbs dumbbells feature quite a different construction than most dumbbells. They basically consist of a core (or handle) and 8 sets of weights, each pair being connected via two metallic rods on each side. The handle 
consists of 5 bars, connecting two heavy duty plastic boards, to which the weights attach. The inner bar of the handle assembly is actually the main grip of the dumbbell, featuring a rubberized coating, and offering excellent comfort. The bars on the exterior of the handle, or the “wrist supports” as they’re called, can also be used to hold the dumbbells for various exercises. For example, in you’re going to do overhead triceps exercises using one dumbbell, you should hold it from the outer bars.
As opposed to the newer Urethane series, the weight plates and the rods connecting them, are made of steel on the Elite Powerblocks. The connection points are precision-welded, giving the dumbbells a lot of sturdiness. Each plate assembly is painted with a durable black enamel with a glossy finish, which gives the dumbbells quite a sleek aspect. The rods connecting the plates are color coded, matching the weight table on the handle.
When it comes to their size, the PowerBlock Elite 90 dumbbells are rather large when at full weight. With all the weight plates attached, they’re 16″ (40.6 cm) long, and 6″ (15.2 cm) wide. This being said, some exercises may be a little awkward, when using the dumbbells at their full weight. But on the other hand, if you’re going to use lower weight settings, their size progressively decreases, as the handle is much smaller than for the Bowflex or Bayou dumbbells.
Adjustment system and increments
When it comes to the adjustment system, the weight plates are stacked together, and attach to the main handle via a heavy-duty polyurethane pin. Now this pin, although it’s not metallic, it’s quite durable, elastic not brittle like most plastics, and can actually support more weight 
than 90 lbs.
Each dumbbells can reach a maximum weight of 90 lbs (40.8 kg). The following adjustment increments are available: 5, 7.5, 10, 15, 17.5, 20, 25, 27.5, 30, 35, 37.5, 40, 45, 47.5, 50, 55, 57.5, 60, 65, 67.5, 70, 75, 77.5, 80, 85, 87.5, 90 lbs (2.26, 3.4, 4.5, 6.8, 7.9, 9.0, 11.3, 12.4, 13.6, 15.8, 17.0, 18.1, 20.4, 21.5, 22.6, 24.9, 26.0, 27.2, 29.4, 30.6, 31.7, 34, 35.1, 36.2, 38.5, 39.6, 40.8 kg)
Each plate assembly is color coded, thus in order to select a specific weight range, you will have to insert the pin onto the apposite bar. The weight ranges are specified on the handle.
Two 2.5 lbs (1.13 kg) metallic cylinders are supplied with these weights. These are meant to be inserted within the main handle in order to modify each dumbbell’s weight by 2.5 or 5 lbs. For example, the empty handle weighs 5 lbs (2.26 kg). With one cylinder inserted, you’ll get a 7.5 lbs (3.5 kg) dumbbell, and with both cylinders in, you’ll have a full weight of the handle of 10 lbs (4.5 kg). Or, if you’re going to insert the pin onto the green bar for example, without any cylinders one dumbbell will weigh 45 lbs (20.4 kg), with one cylinder in it will weigh 47.5 lbs (21.5 kg) and with both in it will be 50 lbs (22.6 kg).
These dumbbells feature a safety system consisting on a dial lock, with “Open / Closed” settings. In order to add or remove the weight cylinders from the handle, you will have to move the lock to “Open”. Also, before beginning any exercise, make sure that the dial is set on “Close”.
In case you’re wondering, there are no accessories supplied with these free weights. However, there is the option of a custom stand for them.
The Pros
- Quickly adjustable, great for exercise programs that require dumbbells of different weights, such as P90X;
- Extensive weight range, which makes them great for users of all levels;
- Space-saving design, each PowerBlock 90 replacing 28 fixed dumbbells;
- Extremely safe locking mechanism, despite the fact it includes plastic parts;
- Ergonomic handle, offering a secure grip, also preventing the formation of blisters;
- Durable, all-steel plates, precision welded to their connecting rods;
- Sleek design, solid enamel finish;
- Excellent warranty.
The Cons
- Expansion kit no longer available;
- At full weight, they’re rather bulky, bigger than fixed, hex dumbbells;
- Users with extremely large hands and wrists may find the interior of the handle assembly a bit narrow for maximum comfort.
Final Word
The PowerBlock Elite 90 are adjustable dumbbells which offer superior sturdiness, versatility, being also space-savvy, as they replace 28 sets of fixed dumbbells. They’re highly reliable free weights, one of the reasons they come with a 10-year warranty. In fact, these are some of the best adjustable dumbbells that you can find at the moment, despite the fact that the Elite series is not a new one. And finally, even though they’re not exactly affordable free weights, considering what they offer, their overall value matches the price.