The Best Hand Grip Strength Trainers

by Hans / 23016 images / Pixabay

Whether you're trying for a new deadlift PR, gaming with your friends, or stretching multiple octaves while playing the piano, weak hands can plague us all. But rather than surrendering to the limitations of your grip, it might be time to invest in a hand strength trainer. Grip strengtheners have come a long way since the days of squeaky, spring-loaded clamps. To help you get a grip, we've rounded up some of the best products the internet has to offer. From traditional models that feature adjustable levels of resistance for all-in-one training to stress-ball sized silicone trainers, there's sure to be something that fits your flexing phalanges.

Basic Concepts Grip Strength Trainer

Get a Grip

This adjustable grip strength trainer from Basic Concepts is both affordable and effective.
Best Overall

Find on Amazon

If you’re in the market for a simple grip strength trainer, this adjustable model from Basic Concepts should be at the top of your list. Its durable plastic handles and rubber grips provide a comfortable training experience that can start with resistance as low as 11 pounds. Work toward the 132-pound maximum, or settle somewhere in the middle for regular maintenance. Try your hand — left or right — at strengthening different parts of your forearms and fingers by taking advantage of the versatile grip options. When you’re done, slide this strengthener into your office drawer for easy storage.

Pros:

  • Easily adjustable resistance from 11–132 pounds
  • Multiple grip options for working specific muscles
  • Plastic construction is durable but lightweight

Cons:

  • One size may not fit all hands

FitBeast Hand Grip Strengthener Workout Kit

Five-Pack from FitBeast

FitBeast includes five separate strength training tools in this well-rounded set.
Runner Up

Find on Amazon

Get your hands on FitBeast’s five-pack for some serious strengthening. The adjustable hand gripper has a resistance range of 22–132 pounds and a durable stainless steel spring for varied, long-lasting training. Reduce stress on the go using the soft silicone ball or ring, which can both be inconspicuously squeezed and stored. To target specific fingers, take advantage of the spring-loaded exerciser and resistance band. Keep all your tools together in the provided travel pouch, or store them separately around your space to spread out your strength training.

Pros:

  • Includes a hand gripper, silicone ball, silicone ring, hand exerciser, resistance band, and travel bag
  • Easily target specific fingers with hand exerciser or resistance band
  • Different tools provide varied strengthening opportunities
  • Tutorial videos included to assist with training

Cons:

  • Plastic construction of hand gripper and exerciser lacks durability

Peradix Hand Grip Strength Trainer

Take Your Eggs to Go

This set of three egg-shaped resistance balls can be slipped into your pocket or backpack for training on the go.
Most Portable

Find on Amazon

Though we don’t recommend strength training with even the hardest boiled eggs, we do suggest giving these egg-shaped strength trainer balls a squeeze. Thermoplastic rubber (TPR) makes for an odorless, safe, and easily washable construction that’s suitable for both adults and kids. For stress reduction or injury rehabilitation, start with the yellow egg for 15-kg resistance. Work your way up to the blue egg with 30-kg resistance, ideal for your average athlete. When you’re done training, give your eggs a rinse to prevent the accumulation of any unwanted grime, and slide them back into your backpack.

Pros:

  • Small size makes them portable and concealable
  • Three colors for three different resistances
  • TPR is odorless and washable

Cons:

  • 30-pound maximum resistance may not be enough for dedicated athletes or musicians

GD Iron Grip Strengthener

An Iron Grip

GD's strengthener features iron handles and a stainless steel spring for long-lasting training.
Most Durable

Find on Amazon

It’s all in the name with GD’s Iron Grip strengthener. The adjustable resistance boasts one of the highest ranges on our list from 55–176 pounds, ideal for those looking for an above-average training experience. Hand size shouldn’t be an issue thanks to the Iron Grip’s handles that can be easily modified. The all-metal construction features lightweight, hardened aluminum handles and steel springs to ensure a long-lasting training experience that won’t weigh you down. A noise-free closure means you can even train in silent spaces like libraries and offices. Say goodbye to squeaking and hello to peaking.

Pros:

  • Aluminum handles and steel springs are lightweight but durable
  • High range of resistance ideal for dedicated athletes, musicians, and trainers
  • Adjustable handle width for smaller hands

Cons:

  • Textured handle may cause calluses

Pnrskter Hand Grip Strengthener Set of 6

The Rehab Rings

Give these rings a squeeze if you're struggling to strengthen an injured hand, wrist, or forearm.
Best for Muscle Recovery

Find on Amazon

These rings may look like baby toys, but they certainly don’t play when it comes to strength training and rehabilitation. The tri-colored set of finger stretchers and hand grips features three levels of correlated resistance, green being the lowest (6.6-pound stretcher, 30-pound grip) and orange being the highest (11-pound stretcher, 50-pound grip). Top-quality silicone construction promises durability, even with frequent use and washing. Pnrskter paid special attention to the size of their stretchers’ finger holes, which should accommodate fingers of most sizes — even with inflamed joints.

Pros:

  • Set of 6 stretchers and grips for balanced training
  • Silicone construction is durable and washable
  • Straightforward use for easy rehab, even on the go

Cons:

  • Storage bag not included so pieces stay separate
  •  50-pound resistance may be outgrown quickly

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can benefit the most from hand grip strengthening? 

In short, anyone who frequently works with their hands. Grip strengthening is common for weightlifters, rock climbers, or other professional athletes, but its applications have a far wider reach than sports. Musicians, gamers, and coders often utilize grip tools to improve dexterity and avoid cramping. Those with injured hands, wrists, or forearms will also appreciate hand strengthening’s rehabilitation potential; finger stretchers specifically can help them regain control, strength, and range of motion.

Why can’t I just use a hard stress ball to strengthen my grip?

You can, but your progress will quickly stall. Stress balls are wonderful for fidgeting and relieving temporary anxiety, but you’ll soon grow tired of squeezing something with the same resistance level. Rather than committing to long sets of easy reps, you might consider making a small investment in an adjustable trainer that can serve as both a warm-up and a workout.

About the Author

Noah is a self-proclaimed avid media consumer, so he's always on the hunt for quality audio gear and the latest tech. That's why he hasn't picked a side in the Apple versus PC debate, since he's found great gear from both parties. With a Google phone in one hand and a MacBook Air in the other, Noah seeks to guide others towards quality tech.

Why Trust Us

With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.