PowerBlock Elite 90 Review: Are These Worth $870?

The PowerBlock Elite 90 EXP is the adjustable dumbbell that serious lifters buy. Unlike the Bowflex 552 that maxes out at 52.5 lbs, these go all the way to 90 lbs per hand with the expansion kits. After 4 months of testing, here's our verdict.

Who Are These For?

If you're dumbbell pressing 50+ lbs, the Bowflex 552 is too light. The PowerBlock Elite 90 goes from 5 lbs (warm-ups) all the way to 90 lbs per dumbbell — enough for most intermediate and advanced lifters.

The Specs

The Pin Selection System

PowerBlock uses a pin-selection system (not a dial like Bowflex). You slide a pin into the desired weight plate level, then lift. It takes 1-2 seconds longer than a dial system, but it's proven more durable.

What We Love

What Could Be Better

PowerBlock 90 vs Bowflex 552

The Bowflex 552 is lighter, faster, and half the price. But it caps at 52.5 lbs and CANNOT be dropped. The PowerBlock 90 is heavier, more expensive, but goes to 90 lbs and tolerates drops.

Which to buy:

• Beginners / most people: Bowflex 552 (cheaper, faster, sufficient weight)
• Advanced lifters / drop-heavy workouts: PowerBlock Elite 90

4-Month Durability Report

• Pin system: Zero issues, still smooth
• Plate selection: No rattling or loose plates
• Urethane coating: Minor scuffs from daily use, no cracks
• Cage frame: Rock solid
• Any issues: Handle grip developed minor wear (cosmetic)

Who Should Buy These?

Buy them if:

• You're already dumbbell pressing 50+ lbs
• You need the ability to drop dumbbells safely
• You want a single adjustable system to replace all dumbbells
• You have $870 to spend on dumbbells

Skip them if:

• Your heaviest dumbbell work stays under 50 lbs (get Bowflex 552)
• You're on a budget (consider cheaper 50 lb adjustables)
• You don't actually need 90 lb dumbbells

Final Verdict

Rating: 4.5/5 — The PowerBlock Elite 90 is the best heavy-duty adjustable dumbbell available. It's expensive but offers genuine advantages over the Bowflex 552: heavier max weight, droppable, more durable. For advanced lifters, it's the right choice. For beginners, the Bowflex is still the better value.

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