What’s better – dumbbells or machines?
Machines are great for beginners as they assist with maintaining proper form. They also allow the more advanced to lift heavier weight more safely. Some machines even allow for greater range of motion than others.
Unlike machines, where the movement is fixed, free weights allow you to work in any range of motion you’d like. This requires you to work against gravity and use your core to stabilize yourself. Free weights include any weight you can pick up and move around, such as dumbbells, barbells, and kettlebells.
So while there is no right answer, they both have their place, try to get a variety in your workout routines. Don’t do only free weights and don’t do only machines.
Sources: vitamin shoppe