Stealth Chrome Adjustable Dumbbell Generations: What are the differences?

The main difference between Stealth Chrome Gen 5 and Gen 6 adjustable dumbbells is that Gen 6 adds adjustable bases, official upgrade packages and an improved selector system. Gen 6 continues a series of design improvements introduced across Gen 1 to Gen 5.

Stealth Chrome adjustable dumbbells have changed considerably since Generation 1. The core concept remains the same: rigid metal weight plates, precise 1.5kg increments and fast twist-to-select adjustment. Each new generation has addressed a specific area of the system, including plate durability, base serviceability, handle diameter, internal balance and upgradeability.

The most important compatibility point is simple. Current Chrome Edition upgrade packages are backwards compatible with Gen 4 and Gen 5 dumbbells. Gen 1, Gen 2 and Gen 3 are not compatible.

The easiest way to check if your Chrome Edition Dumbbell will be compatible with an upgrade package is by extending fully and seeing if it twists to 41.5kg. You can find instructions for how to check your set here.

If you are buying a new set, the current Stealth Chrome Adjustable Dumbbells Gen 6 combine the established all-metal plate design with an adjustable base and a personalisable route from 23.5kg to 32.5kg and 41.5kg per dumbbell.

Stealth Chrome dumbbell generations compared:What changed with each generation?

Gen 1: the original Chrome Edition

Generation 1 established the main Chrome Edition format. It used rigid metal weight plates, a twist-selection mechanism and a 37mm handle.

The principal issue associated with Gen 1 was the possibility of plates splitting along their joined sections. Resolving this was the primary engineering priority when Generation 2 was developed.

This is an important historical distinction. Plate splitting was associated with the first-generation design and is not a continuing problem across current Stealth Chrome adjustable dumbbells.

Gen 1 is not compatible with the current Chrome Edition upgrade packages.

Gen 2: redesigned plates and improved wear resistance

Generation 2 introduced a revised plate design that addressed the splitting issue found in some Gen 1 plates. We have not received any reports of this splitting issue in Chrome Edition plates from Gen 2 onwards.

The material used for the half-moon plates was also changed to make these components harder-wearing.

These changes focused on durability rather than altering the overall size or feel of the dumbbell. Gen 2 retained the 37mm handle and the original solid plastic base.

Gen 2 is not compatible with the current upgrade packages.

Gen 3: a modular and serviceable base

The main development from Gen 2 to Gen 3 was the base.

Earlier generations used a solid plastic base. Gen 3 introduced a modular design with individually replaceable components. This made the base more serviceable because damage to one section did not necessarily require replacement of the complete assembly.

The dumbbell retained its 37mm handle, while the redesigned base improved the long-term ownership and repair options surrounding the system.

Gen 3 remains outside the compatibility range for the current upgrade packages.

Gen 4: the change from a 37mm to a 34mm handle

Generation 4 changed the handle diameter from 37mm to 34mm.

The slimmer handle provides a more conventional dumbbell grip and can be easier to hold securely, particularly for people with smaller hands. It also established the handle format retained through Gen 5 and Gen 6.

Gen 4 is the earliest Chrome Edition generation compatible with the current upgrade packages. The packages are backwards compatible with Gen 4 and all subsequent Chrome generations.

Gen 5: smoother and better-balanced internals

The main change from Gen 4 to Gen 5 took place inside the dumbbell.

The internal rods were redesigned to make the mechanism smoother, better balanced and more optimised during weight selection and training. This improved the operation of the established Chrome system without changing its 34mm handle format.

Gen 5 remains compatible with the current Chrome upgrade packages.

Gen 6: adjustable bases and a personalisable upgrade route

Generation 6 develops both the adjustment system and the way customers choose their maximum weight.

The base is now adjustable, allowing you to tailor the fit while keeping the plates correctly aligned. The selector system has also been improved to provide smoother, more consistent operation.

Gen 6 begins with a pair offering 4kg to 23.5kg per dumbbell in 1.5kg increments. When more capacity is required, the official upgrade packages allow the system to grow:

1. Start with 4kg to 23.5kg and 14 settings per dumbbell.
2. Add the 23.5kg to 32.5kg upgrade package to reach 20 settings.
3. Add the 32.5kg to 41.5kg upgrade package to reach 26 settings.

Each stage adds six new 1.5kg settings. The required additional plates and longer adjustable bases are supplied as part of the relevant package.

This allows someone to begin with the capacity they need now and expand the same Chrome system as their strength develops. Buyers who already require more weight can also choose the appropriate Gen 6 configuration directly.

You can view the current configurations on the Stealth Chrome Adjustable Dumbbells Gen 6 product page.

Which Chrome generations can be upgraded?

Current Chrome upgrade packages are compatible with:

1. Generation 4
2. Generation 5
3. Generation 6

They are not compatible with:

1. Generation 1
2. Generation 2
3. Generation 3
4. Stealth Black Edition adjustable dumbbells
5. Stealth Core Edition adjustable dumbbells
6. Adjustable dumbbells from other manufacturers

The compatibility cut-off begins with Gen 4 because that generation introduced the 34mm handle configuration used by the later upgradeable system.

If you are uncertain which generation you own, contact Stealth support before ordering an upgrade package. Photographs of the handle, base and plates can help the team identify the correct version.

Did all Chrome generations have plate-splitting problems?

No. The plate-splitting issue related to the original Gen 1 plate design.

The plates were redesigned for Generation 2, and we have not received any reports of the same splitting issue from Gen 2 onwards. Current Gen 6 models are therefore several design generations removed from the original version.

This distinction matters when reading older discussions or troubleshooting information. A problem associated with Gen 1 should not automatically be applied to Gen 2, Gen 3, Gen 4, Gen 5 or Gen 6 equipment.

What has remained consistent?

Although each generation introduced targeted improvements, the Chrome Edition has continued to focus on:

1. Compact storage
2. Quick twist-to-select adjustment
3. Precise 1.5kg weight increments
4. A traditional chrome gym aesthetic
5. Serviceable components and long-term support

The changes have been evolutionary. Each generation has addressed a specific limitation or improved how the system feels, operates or can be maintained.

If an individual component needs attention, use the Genuine Replacement Parts hub or contact Stealth support for help identifying the correct part.

Which Stealth Chrome generation should you buy?

For a new purchase, Gen 6 is the current and most flexible version.

It combines the established Chrome Edition all-metal plate design with the 34mm knurled handle, optimised internal mechanism, improved selector system and adjustable bases. It also provides a clear route from 23.5kg to 32.5kg and 41.5kg.

Owners of Gen 4 and Gen 5 equipment do not necessarily need to replace their existing dumbbells. These generations are compatible with the current upgrade packages, subject to selecting the correct package and following the supplied installation guidance.

Owners of Gen 1, Gen 2 or Gen 3 should contact Stealth support before purchasing parts or considering a capacity change because these versions are not compatible with the current upgrade route.

To compare the wider range, visit the Stealth adjustable dumbbells collection or read our Best Adjustable Dumbbells UK buyer’s guide.

Frequently asked questions

Are Gen 5 Chrome dumbbells compatible with Gen 6 upgrade packages?

Yes. The Chrome upgrade packages are backwards compatible with Gen 5 and Gen 4 dumbbells.

Can Gen 3 Chrome dumbbells be upgraded?

No. The current upgrade packages are backwards compatible to Gen 4, but not Gen 3 or earlier models.

What was the first Chrome generation with a 34mm handle?

Gen 4 was the first Chrome Edition to change from the original 37mm handle to a slimmer 34mm handle.

When was the plate-splitting issue fixed?

The plates were redesigned for Gen 2. Assassin Goods has not received reports of the Gen 1 splitting issue in any Chrome Edition from Gen 2 onwards.

What is new in Stealth Chrome Gen 6?

Gen 6 introduces improved adjustable bases, a more refined selector system and an official upgrade route from 23.5kg to 32.5kg and then 41.5kg per dumbbell.