PowerBlock Elite EXP 2020 vs Elite EXP USA | Detailed Comparison

When purchasing the Budget PowerBlock Elite Dumbbells, you encounter 2 types. The 2020 version and the latest USA version. Even if they both look similar, there are a lot of differences which we are going to discuss. If your decision is stuck as to which EXP Elite PowerBlock to buy, this is the only comparison you need.

Here is a quick answer to the most widely asked question,

Is PowerBlock Elite EXP USA Compatible with the 2020 Version?

No. Even if they look mostly similar, there are some minor changes in the design. This means if you have the old Stage 1 (50 lb) Elite model and you need Stage 2 or 3, you should buy the old Expansion kits only. The US-made Stage 2 and 3 are NOT compatible with the older Chinese-made PowerBlock.

PowerBlock Classic Model (Elite what we call) was ruling the entire Adjustable Dumbbell market for a long time. It was introduced in 1993 by Carl Towley from Minnesota. The design pretty much didn’t change over the years. Production was then shifted to China in 2005 due to low manufacturing costs. Now, post-COVID, most countries are trying to reduce their dependencies on China. Hence the new USA model evolved.

Note: The PowerBlock Elite EXP 2020 version is NOT available on the PowerBlock Official site. However, you can buy the 2020 version and its accessories from other Online Stores.

Now we shall discuss exactly what has changed and what hasn’t.

What Hasn’t Changed

The design factor is still the same as it was introduced 3 decades ago. The base variant is the same 5-50 lb model. Even the expandables are also 50-70 lb and 70-90 lbs.

Weight Increment remains the same at 2.5 lbs. Both the adder weights weigh 2.5 lbs same as the older model. The handle is enclosed as before.

The basic working mechanism is still the same. Both the 2020 and the USA models are EXP types (which means they are expandable). Stage 1, Stage 2, and Stage 3 in the 2020 model are renamed Elite 50, Elite 70, and Elite 90 in the US-made version.

Brand Warranty remains 5 Years.

Dimensional Changes

The Older 2020 version is Taller than the USA model by 0.25 inches. The Newer USA model is even more compact. Here are the Dimensions.

Since the dimensions of the Weight Blocks have changed, the Selector Pin’s design has also been altered. PowerBlock’s official website mentions the same ” Elite EXP pins will not work with Elite USA sets”.

Adder Weight Lock

In the newer USA model, the Dial Lock (which holds the adder weights in place) is mounted on the top. There are two positions to lock it (left or right). If the dial is set at mid position, the adder weights are free to remove.

In the Elite 2020 model, the Dial Lock is mounted on the side. To remove the adders, you need to expand the lock to its open position. When you place the handle back, the lock automatically closes. However, if your workout involves just the handle and adders without weight plates, i.e, 5 lb, 7.5 lb, and 10 lbs you must manually lock the dial.

Handle Design

I prefer a straight handle instead of a curved grip (contoured) for all my dumbbells. However, it’s a personal choice. The grip is straight in the USA model. However, there isn’t any kind of knurling. Maybe PowerBlocks decided not to provide knurling as there are wrist support bars.

Branding

The Country of Origin label on the PowerBlock Elite USA version is Punched on each weight block. Whereas the Elite 2020 version has a golden sticker that says “Made in China”.

Our Verdict

The only drawback with the USA model is that the Dial Lock is on the Top. It may create discomfort during workouts. Also, the lock needs to be manually switched back to the closed position. Whereas, in the 2020 model, it locks automatically when the handle is placed back into the weight block. Also, the lock lever won’t interfere with the wrist during workouts.

If you prefer a straight handle for your dumbbell, you can buy the USA version. Buying locally-made products can benefit the local economy.

The Elite 2020 version is also a Value for Money product. All expansion kits are available in local online stores. If you need Adjustable Dumbbells for cheap without compromising reliability, get the 2020 version.

Note: You can however use 2020-type expansion kits for the Elite-50 USA model. Technically they will fit. But as already mentioned above, the 2020 ones are 0.25″ larger in height, which immediately grabs viewers’ attention and they look odd. Hence, interchanging expansion kits is not advised.

Pricing

As of 24 June 2022, the PowerBlock Elite USA version is ONLY available on the PowerBlock Official website only. The rest of the online stores sell the 2020 version.

PowerBlock Elite USA model Pricing excluding Tax and Shipping costs

PowerBlock USA Elite 50 is priced at 419$
PowerBlock Elite USA Stage 2 (50-70 lb) at 189$
PowerBlock Elite USA Stage 3 (70-90 lb) at 189$
There isn’t any kind of discount if the PowerBlock is purchased along with Stage 2 and 3 kits.

PowerBlock Elite 2020 can be purchased from stores like Amazon, Walmart, Dicks Sporting Goods, etc.

PowerBlock Elite 2020 Base Model is priced at 359$
PowerBlock Elite 2020 Stage 2 (50-70 lb) at 179$
PowerBlock Elite 2020 Stage 3 (70-90 lb) at 179$

If you are looking to buy Dumbbells for your home gym, I suggest you read our article on Dumbbell Buying Guide.

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