The PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100 Adjustable Dumbbells are arguably the best experience that PowerBlock offers among all their different dumbbell models.
Model | Pros & Cons | Rating |
---|---|---|
Pros:
| Rated 4.8 out of 5 |
Not many people talk about commercial PowerBlock models. All the focus is on the residential models. So hopefully this review will help fill in the gaps and help you decide whether it’s worth it to buy a commercial PowerBlock model – specifically the PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100 in this case.
I’ve had these dumbbells for nearly two years, and I’ve also owned the now-discontinued residential 90 lb Pro EXP model for about 6.5 years. Plus, I’ve trained on my friend’s Elite series model multiple times in the past. So I have a lot to say about these and plenty of comparisons to make.
In this PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100 review, I’ll delve into the features, performance, ergonomics, and overall value of these dumbbells to help you decide if they’re the right fit for your home gym.
Table of Contents
PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100 Review Video
Watch my PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100 review video on YouTube:
Commercial vs Residential PowerBlocks
No Adder Weights = Cleaner Adjustments
One of the most significant distinguishing features of the Commercial Pro 100s, especially when compared to their residential counterparts like the Pro EXP models, is the absence of adder weights.
Instead of using small, removable handle weights for fine adjustments, these dumbbells use two distinct pairs of handles: one weighing 5 lbs and the other 10 lbs. This design allows for efficient 5-lb increments across the entire weight range. That’s essentially the same increments you’ll get on any typical fixed dumbbell sets.
While this means you forgo the ability to make 2.5-lb increments, I personally find this to be a non-issue in my day-to-day training. Five pounds is a small enough increment for most scenarios.
The primary benefit of this setup versus the adder weights is that you get a much faster and more straightforward adjustment process, eliminating the need to fiddle with small internal weights, which can be tedious and take a little extra time.
Smoother & Faster Adjustments
Adjusting the weight on the PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100s is pretty smooth and efficient.
Like all other PowerBlock dumbbell models, it uses a magnetic selectorized pin that is tethered to the first plate.
To change the weight, you simply insert this pin into the side rails of the desired weight block. For 10-lb increments, you only need to slide the pin to a different block. For 5-lb increments, you remove the pin, swap out the handle (from the 10-lb handle to the 5-lb handle, or vice versa), and then re-insert the pin.
Again, this adjustment system with dual handles is faster and smoother compared to the expandable residential models with adder weights.
There’s a handy color-coded weight guide decal on both sets of handles that shows you how much each dumbbell will weigh depending on which handle you’re using and which rail you select.
So, for example, if you select the green rail with the 10-lb handle, the dumbbell weighs 50 lbs. If you select the green rail with the 5-lb handle, it weighs 45 lbs.
The pin prongs are somewhat flexible, allowing for insertion at a slight angle without catching, a significant improvement over the (much) older PowerBlock versions that had rigid metal pins that required perfectly horizontal alignment.
The only quirk you may experience when inserting the pin is that it’s possible to accidentally put the pin in crooked, so you just have to be somewhat intentional with your placement.
Magnets built into the pin securely hold it in place against the block rails, preventing accidental disengagement during use.
Racking and Unracking is Effortless
I really appreciate the ease of racking and unracking with the PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100s.
Once the desired weight is selected, the dumbbell can be pulled out of the stack effortlessly; there’s no risk of it catching on the plates. Similarly, re-inserting the dumbbell back into the stack is forgiving, not requiring precise alignment.
This “ease-of-use” aspect contributes to a more fluid and efficient workout experience. Compared to something like my Snode adjustable dumbbells, where you have to be very precise, this is just more seamless and less frustrating.
Performance & Feel in Real Training
Exercises Where They Excel
The PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100s perform exceptionally well for a variety of exercises:
- Overhead Press & Bench Press: The flat plate surface and rounded urethane edges make them comfortable on my thighs, which is one of the issues I have with my Snode dumbbells.
- Lateral & Bent-Over Raises: The wedge-shaped handle design allows me ot prop the dumbbell against my wrist, giving better stability and leverage, allowing me to target my side and rear delts just a little bit better.
- Hammer Curls, One-Arm Rows & Others: These dumbbells are perfect on any exercises where it’s a simple up and down movement. The lack of any rotational movement means no subtle balance differences.
- Shrugs, Bulgarian Split Squats, Farmer’s Carries, Suitcase Carries: Any exercise where the dumbbell is primarily held in the hands statically is another area where these dumbbells shine.
Exercises With Minor Drawbacks
While versatile, some exercises may expose minor drawbacks related to the balance of the PowerBlocks:
- Supinating Curls: The rotational aspect of supinating curls can make the slight side-to-side imbalance of the dumbbells more noticeable.
- Cleans or other dynamic, rotating movements: While still doable, exercises involving dynamic rotation, or turning over of the dumbbells, might highlight the balance imperfections.
To be clear, while the PowerBlocks aren’t perfect for the aforementioned exercises, they’re still very doable.
Exercises You Can’t Really Do
Due to their unique cage-like design, some exercises are not practical or even possible with the PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100s:
- Overhead tricep extensions, dumbbell pullovers & goblet squats: The side rails of the PowerBlocks restrict proper hand placement and grip for these movements.
Balance & Ergonomics
Better Balance Than Residential PowerBlocks
I already mentioned that the Commercial Pro 100 dumbbells aren’t perfectly balanced.
However, they are significantly better balanced than the residential expandable PowerBlock models. This is because they do not incorporate adder weights. So the weight distribution in both pairs of swappable handles is more centered and consistent.
In the residential expandable models, the use of adder weights can lead to a bottom-heavy or even a lopsided feel, affecting the overall balance during lifts to a notable degree.
The absence of adder weights also contributes to a quieter lifting experience.
Still Not Perfectly Balanced Like Fixed Dumbbells
Despite the improved balance compared to residential models, the Commercial Pro 100s are still not perfectly balanced like traditional fixed dumbbells.
This is primarily due to a non-insignificant amount of weight being distributed in the side rails of the plates rather than solely at the ends.
This design can lead to a subtle side-to-side imbalance, which is most discernible during exercises involving rotation, such as supinating curls or cleans. However, this imbalance is generally considered “workable” and not extreme.
So, yes, you’ll notice a slight imbalance on certain exercises compared to fixed dumbbells. However, it’s not nearly as noticeable as on the residential PowerBlock models.
Handle Design & Grip Feel
Grip Specs
The PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100s come standard with 38mm stainless steel knurled handle grips. Even though the grip diameter is a bit thicker than a typical dumbbell, it’s not an issue for me. I appreciate the substantial feel. Even my wife, who has much smaller hands, has no complaints about the grip size.
There’s no TPR rubber option like with the residential Pro 100 EXP model, but frankly, I don’t know why anyone would want that, since knurled steel is far superior, at least in my opinion.
The knurling is medium in terms of intensity. It’s grippy without being aggressive. I rarely need to use chalk with these unless my hands are sweaty and I’m holding 80+ lbs. For a comparison, it’s ever so slightly more aggressive than the Snode dumbbells.
I’m a fan of the wedge-shaped handle opening. As I mentioned earlier, it gives me a natural place to brace the dumbbell on lateral raises, which helps stabilize the weight. On top of that, it gives me more range of motion inside the handle compared to a squared-off handle like the one on the PowerBlock Elite.
Noise Level
The PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100s are pretty quiet during regular use. This is largely due to the urethane-coated plates, which prevent metal-on-metal contact. The urethane also helps the plates fit together tightly, virtually eliminating rattling between them.
The noteworthy sound and movement come from a “clacking” of the handle within the blocks. You’ll hear this during explosive movements. It’s not unbearable, but it is noticeable. But when you’re doing regular tempo lifts, you won’t hear much at all.
Dumbbell Length
Urethane Adds Length
While there’s plenty to like about the urethane on the plates, the one thing I dislike about it increases the length of dumbbells. At its maximum weight of 100 lbs, the PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100 measures approximately 19 inches long.
This is much longer than a traditional fixed 100-lb fixed dumbbell. It’s also longer than the average adjustable dumbbell.
That said, it’s not the longest adjustable dumbbell on the market. For instance, at 80 lbs, the PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100 is about 16 inches long, while my Snode dumbbells (which max out at 80 lbs) are about 18.25 inches at the same weight.
Length Grows With Weight
While the long length at heavy weights isn’t something I like, it also isn’t something that actively hinders me during my training.
It’s also important to realize that with these adjustable dumbbells, their length increases as the selected weight increases. This means that any potential issues related to dumbbell length are more likely to become noticeable at heavier weights.
Build Quality & Durability
Long-Term Reputation
PowerBlock dumbbells have an excellent reputation for long-term durability and longevity within the home gym community. Many users report owning their PowerBlocks for 10 to 20 years or more with continued functionality.
The simple and elegant adjustment mechanism contributes to their enduring performance, as there are few complex parts to wear out or break down over time, provided they aren’t dropped or otherwise abused.
Personal Experience
My own experience reinforces PowerBlock’s positive reputation.
My PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100 set looks as close to new as you can get. No scratches on the rails or damage to the urethane. And everything is in working order.
Likewise, I’ve owned my older 90-lb Pro EXP set (also a urethane-coated model) for over six years, and it still functions like new, albeit with a bit more cosmetic wear.
Frame & Plate Design
The PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100s feature a couple of design elements that contribute to their overall build quality and durability:
- Urethane-coated plates: The urethane coating protects the underlying steel from scratching and potential oxidation. It also helps absorb impact from accidental (short) drops or setting them down a bit hard. Additionally, the rounded edges of the urethane-coated plates enhance comfort when resting the dumbbells on the thighs.
- Non-welded “flex” frame: Unique to the Pro Series dumbbells (both commercial and residential), the weight block frames have a “flex” design where each end can move somewhat side to side independently. This flexibility allows the frame to “give” slightly upon impact, effectively absorbing force and making the dumbbell much more resistant to deformation or damage from drops or other impacts compared to traditional welded designs. But again, you shouldn’t be dropping or abusing these on purpose.
A Note About Urethane
I should mention that some people don’t like the use of urethane with the flex design because the rails go straight through pure urethane tabs, with the worry being that the urethane could fail.
I have seen a couple of reports of this on the much older U-Series models, though most of those cases involved misuse or storing the dumbbells outdoors, or buying second-hand where the usage history is unknown.
I also know that Power Block bolstered their urethane sourcing and quality control process after sunsetting the U-Series and before the original Pro Series models came out.
Personally, I’m not worried about this since both of my urethane models have shown no signs of wear. Plus, I know these are the same sets used in high-end athletic facilities around the world.
Of course, if you’re still concerned, you can always go with the Power Block Elite model, which has all-steel plates with welded rails.
Storage Rack
The PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100 comes standard with a storage rack/stand. You can choose either the Pro Rack Stand or the Pro Max Stand.
Pro Rack Stand
I have the Pro Rack Stand. It features a top shelf for both the dumbbells and the second set of handles (i.e. the 5-lb or 10-lb pair not currently in the dumbbells), with slots to conveniently organize all the handles and dumbbells.
It also has a bottom shelf for additional accessories. I personally put my Pro 100 Kettlebell handles there.
The stand is constructed from powder-coated steel with textured surfaces on both shelves, along with a front lip, to prevent dumbbells and accessories from sliding off. It is sturdy and stable and provides a solid, functional storage solution. The only drawback is that it lacks wheels for mobility.
Pro Max Rack
For an additional cost of approximately $150, you can opt for the Pro Max Stand.
It is a little bit wider and deeper than the Pro Rack Stand, as it can also fit the larger PowerBlock Commercial Pro 125 and 175 dumbbell sets.
However, I’d say the key differentiator of the Pro Max Stand is the inclusion of wheels, allowing you to move your dumbbells around the gym.
If I could do it again, I’d probably get this rack just so I could have the wheels since having a mobile dumbbell stand is such a convenient feature for my personal training preferences.
Self-Contained Design
A notable advantage of the PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100s (and all other PowerBlock dumbbell models) compared to all other adjustable dumbbells on the market is that they’re self-contained.
That is, you don’t need to return the dumbbells to a cradle for weight adjustment. You can adjust the weight directly on the floor, on a bench, or wherever you are training – so long as it’s on a flat surface.
This feature is incredibly useful for:
- Drop sets: Allowing for quick weight changes without interrupting your flow.
- Outdoor training: They’re portable for workouts at a park or other outdoor locations.
- Personal trainers: They’re a popular choice for trainers who need to bring equipment to clients’ homes, as they are easily transportable and adaptable to various environments.
- Training in different areas of a home gym: Offering the flexibility to adjust weights even if you move away from the main rack.
Furthermore, you can even take a specific weight range (e.g. 10 to 50 pounds) with you and adjust within that range anywhere – leaving the rest of the plates behind.
Aesthetics
The PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100s have a distinct aesthetic that does not resemble a traditional fixed dumbbell. Their square plates and exposed side rails give them a unique look that has become iconic and instantly recognizable to anyone familiar with gym equipment.
Similarly, the “feel” of these dumbbells differs slightly from traditional fixed dumbbells, primarily due to the minor balance imperfections discussed earlier.
However, for most users, this is largely an aesthetic and psychological distinction rather than a significant performance impediment. If you’re like me, you’ll adapt quickly to their feel.
I should also mention the obvious — That my dumbbells have my logo on the ends, which I think looks awesome.
Just know PowerBlock doesn’t offer custom designs on their site, though you may be able to get this done if you contact them directly. But it will certainly be an upcharge.
Accessories
Pro 100 Kettlebell Handle
The Pro 100 Kettlebell Handle is the best accessory for the PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100 dumbbells, in my opinion.
It represents a significant improvement over older versions, primarily because of its rotating handle, which can turn 90 degrees. This rotation allows you to orient the long side of the dumbbell blocks as needed.
An example of where this is most useful is on kettlebell swings. You can rotate the handle so that you can use heavy weight without the plates hitting your legs, which would happen on the older version of the kettlebell handle.
Exercises where the Pro 100 Kettlebell Handle excels include:
- Kettlebell swings
- Bent-over or incline chest-supported rows
- Single-leg RDLs
- Farmer walks and suitcase carries
- Russian twists and shrugs
However, there are some classic kettlebell movements where it’s not a great tool:
- Not suitable for goblet squats: The design makes it uncomfortable to do goblet squats at anything other than light weights. The plates push your hands way out from your chest, and if you rotate the handle, your arms are forced to flare out.
- Less ideal for cleans or presses at heavy loads: The rails can press uncomfortably against the forearms.
It’s important to note that this accessory is sold as a single handle at a current cost of $149. So if you want to have a pair of them like me, you’ll need to budget for about $300.
Pro 100 EZ Curl & Straight Bar Attachments
I don’t recommend the Pro 100 Straight Bar and Pro 100 EZ Curl Bar attachments unless you are specifically aiming to stay within the PowerBlock ecosystem for your home gym and have insufficient space for a full Olympic barbell setup.
While I don’t own these specific bar attachments, I do own the older versions, and their designs are almost identical. So I know that they have a couple of big issues:
- Clunky adjustment: They can be cumbersome to adjust, requiring precise spacing of the blocks to fit the bar.
- Off-balance: The balance issues are amplified when putting the dumbbells on the end of a barbell, unless it’s for strictly up and down movements.
While they can “do the trick” for very basic needs, a traditional Olympic bar and plates are far superior if it’s at all an option.
Price & Value
Not the Best Value — But Maybe the Best Experience
The PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100 adjustable dumbbells cost $1649 with the Pro Rack and $1809 with the Pro Max Rack.
Are they the best value? Simply put – No.
The residential Pro 100 EXP model at $1196 and the Elite 90 model at $867 are much better values since you get most of the functionality at significantly lower prices.
But are the Commercial Pro 100s the best experience Power Block offers? I’d say – Yes.
The other contender for that would be the Commercial Pro 125 / 175 model, which obviously goes much heavier – up to a whopping 175 lbs per hand. And, funnily enough, it’s actually shorter in length, though it’s much bulkier in terms of height and width.
The major issue, though, with the Commercial Pro 125/175 is that its smallest increment is 7.5 lbs. That’s a pretty big jump, even for relatively strong lifters.
Overall Rating
PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100 Adjustable Dumbbells
The PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100 is a heavy-duty adjustable dumbbell set with a weight range of 5 to 100 lbs per hand in 5-lb increments. It features two swappable handles (5 lb and 10 lb), urethane-coated steel plates, and a tethered magnetic pin system for fast and secure adjustments. Its enclosed cage design offers superior durability and racking ease, while the wedge-shaped steel grip provides a stable and comfortable hold. Designed for commercial and advanced home gym use, it delivers a premium feel, better balance than residential PowerBlocks, and a self-contained design that allows adjustment anywhere. No cradle required.
Pros
- Swappable handles instead of adder weights
- Better balanced than residential PowerBlocks
- Knurled steel 38mm handle grips
- Durable, quiet urethane-coated plates
- Reliable & quick adjustment mechanism
- Easy racking & unracking
- Self-contained; no cradle required
- Rack/stand included (2 options)
Cons
- Still some imbalance on curls/rotational lifts
- Can't grasp dumbbell ends with two hands
- Slight shift of handle block on explosive reps
- Relatively long 19" length at 100 lbs
- Much higher price than residential PowerBlocks
Final Verdict
So here’s my take: If you want the best Power Block experience and don’t need more than 100 lbs per hand, then buy the Commercial Pro 100.
If you want the best bang for your buck PowerBlock model, go with the residential Pro 100 EXP or Elite USA 90. And if you need a lot more weight, then it would make sense to get the Commercial Pro 125 or 175 set.
Whichever model you choose, you’ll have a fast and reliable adjustable dumbbell set. After all, there’s a reason Power Block has kept the same basic design for over thirty years now.
If you decide to pick one of these up, you can use my affiliate link below to help support King of the Gym at no extra cost to you:
Buy Now – PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100 Adjustable Dumbbells »