Dumbbells vs Barbells?

Question: I've heard from many sources that dumbbells provide a harder workout than a barbell because they require the use of stabilizer muscles that barbells don't and because a stronger side of the body can't compensate as much for weaker side. I've also heard that there is an "equivalent" in terms of difficulty - for example, that a person can bench press twice as much with a barbell as they can using dumbells, because dumbells are more difficult to lift.
Is this true? If so, is the 2-to-1 "equivalent" accurate?

Answers:
I've been using dumbells to build more symmetry in my body. It is true that it's a lot more difficult with dumbells but the fact that your stabilizers come into play, it makes for more complete workout. It's always good to add variety either by using barbells and dumbells in the same workout or on different days.

The 2-1 ratio is not true for me. I lift about 225lbs 8 times with a barbell, 85-90 lbs with dumbells.

Other Answers:
Dumbells are better than barbells because the focalise the workout on a specific muscle, where as a barbell works out a specific muscle GROUP.
As for the whole 2-1 deal. i don't know.

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