Stealth vs PowerBlock Adjustable Dumbbells: UK Comparison

The choice between Stealth and PowerBlock adjustable dumbbells depends on shape, adjustment method, weight progression and whether you need equipment immediately.

PowerBlock currently offers compact, block-shaped dumbbells reaching 45.4kg. The existing Stealth adjustable dumbbell range uses a conventional dumbbell format, but the forthcoming Stealth Bloc will introduce a magnetic selector pin, block-shaped construction and maximum weight of up to 60kg.

Once released, the Stealth Bloc will have the highest announced maximum weight in this comparison. PowerBlock remains the established option for buyers who want a block system immediately or value its current attachment ecosystem.

Assassin Goods sells Stealth equipment, so this is not an independent review. PowerBlock specifications are based on its current published UK product information. Details for the Stealth Bloc are limited to confirmed pre-release information and will need updating when the final product specification is published.

Stealth vs PowerBlock at a glance

The closest PowerBlock comparisons for serious UK home gym training are the Elite EXP and Pro 100 EXP.

Prices are excluded because promotions and available configurations can change. The Stealth Bloc is not yet available, so final pricing, dimensions, increments and purchase configurations should not be assumed.

How the adjustment systems differ

The current Stealth adjustable dumbbells use a twist-to-select mechanism.

The dumbbell sits in its storage base while the user rotates the handle to select the required weight. The selected plates lock to the handle when the dumbbell is lifted from the base.

This allows the user to move directly between the available settings without manually moving individual plates or selector pins.

PowerBlock uses a magnetic selector pin inserted into a colour-coded rail. The selected inner blocks lift from the surrounding weight stack. Smaller micro weights can be added to or removed from the handle to access intermediate settings.

The PowerBlock pin makes larger weight changes straightforward. However, reaching certain intermediate weights requires the user to remove the handle, open the micro-weight lock, add or remove the small weights and return the handle to the stack.

The forthcoming Stealth Bloc will also use a magnetic selector pin rather than the rotating handle found on the current Stealth range.

This means future comparisons should not describe all Stealth adjustable dumbbells as twist-to-select. Stealth will offer both adjustment formats:

1. Twist-to-select through the current Core, Black and Chrome systems
2. Magnetic pin selection through the forthcoming Stealth Bloc

The final weight sequence and adjustment process for the Stealth Bloc will need to be assessed once the complete specification is available.

Weight range comparison

Among the products currently available, the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP offers the highest capacity at 45.4kg per dumbbell.

It begins at 2.3kg and can be purchased or expanded through four capacity levels:

1. 18.1kg
2. 27.2kg
3. 36kg
4. 45.4kg

The PowerBlock Elite EXP is available at:

1. 22.7kg
2. 31.8kg
3. 40.8kg

The Stealth Black Edition and Stealth Chrome Gen 6 are available at:

1. 23.5kg
2. 32.5kg
3. 41.5kg

The Stealth Core Edition provides one complete 2kg to 40kg range rather than multiple capacity stages.

The forthcoming Stealth Bloc will extend the maximum Stealth capacity to 60kg per dumbbell. This is 14.6kg heavier than the maximum PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP.

The accurate conclusion is therefore:

1. PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP has the highest capacity among the currently available models in this comparison.
2. The Stealth Bloc will have the highest announced capacity once released.
3. The current Black and Chrome systems remain limited to 41.5kg.
4. The current Core system remains limited to 40kg.

Which provides better weight increments?

The Stealth Black Edition and Stealth Chrome Gen 6 use consistent 1.5kg increments.

This produces a straightforward metric progression:

4kg, 5.5kg, 7kg, 8.5kg and onwards.

The Stealth Core Edition uses consistent 2kg increments from 2kg to 40kg.

PowerBlock uses values derived from its original imperial design. The UK Elite EXP model includes settings such as 2.3kg, 3.4kg, 4.5kg, 6.8kg and 7.9kg. Differences between settings are generally around 1.1kg or 2.3kg.

PowerBlock can therefore provide smaller increases than the current Stealth range at certain points. The trade-off is a less intuitive sequence for someone who records all weight training in kilograms.

For example, logging a progression from 20kg to 21.5kg is simpler than moving between converted values such as 20.4kg and 21.5kg. This does not affect the resistance itself, but it can affect how easily training is programmed and recorded.

The weight increments for the Stealth Bloc have not yet been confirmed. It should not be declared the winner or loser for weight progression until its full list of selectable weights is available.

Why smaller increments matter

Smaller increases can be useful for exercises where adding weight becomes difficult before the target muscles are ready for a larger jump.

These include:

1. Shoulder presses
2. Lateral raises
3. Biceps curls
4. Triceps extensions
5. Incline dumbbell presses
6. Single-arm rows
7. Rehabilitation exercises

PowerBlock offers the smallest potential increase at approximately 1.1kg. The 1.5kg increments used by the Stealth Black Edition and Stealth Chrome Gen 6 are slightly larger but remain consistent across the complete range.

The right system depends on whether you value the smallest possible increase or the simplest consistent metric progression.

Stealth Chrome Gen 6 versus PowerBlock Elite EXP upgrades

The closest current comparison for staged upgrades remains the Stealth Chrome Gen 6 and PowerBlock Elite EXP.

Both allow buyers to begin with a lower capacity and add weight later.

Someone can begin with the 23.5kg Stealth Chrome Gen 6, upgrade it to 32.5kg and later extend it to 41.5kg without replacing the complete dumbbell.

PowerBlock Elite EXP follows a similar structure. Its 22.7kg base system can be expanded to 31.8kg and then 40.8kg using compatible expansion kits.

Neither system has an overwhelming advantage purely on upgradeability. Stealth offers a slightly higher capacity at each equivalent stage and consistent metric increments. PowerBlock provides smaller increases at certain settings and a wider established attachment ecosystem.

It has not yet been confirmed whether the Stealth Bloc will be sold through capacity stages or whether lower-capacity versions will be upgradeable to 60kg. The Chrome remains the confirmed upgradeable Stealth system until those details are published.

Is the Stealth Black Edition upgradeable?

No. The Stealth Black Edition is not part of the staged upgrade system.

Its 23.5kg, 32.5kg and 41.5kg versions are separate fixed-capacity configurations. Buyers should choose the maximum weight they expect to need over the product’s lifetime.

The advantage is a straightforward system with a durable black finish, tight plate tolerances and no need to manage future expansion-kit compatibility.

If staged upgrades are important, choose the Stealth Chrome Gen 6. Do not assume that the forthcoming Stealth Bloc will be upgradeable until its final specification confirms this.

Shape and exercise comfort

Stealth and PowerBlock can no longer be separated simply by describing one brand as conventional and the other as block-shaped.

The current Stealth Core Edition, Stealth Black Edition and Stealth Chrome Gen 6 follow a conventional dumbbell layout. The handle sits between circular weight plates, creating a familiar orientation for people who have trained with fixed dumbbells.

The forthcoming Stealth Bloc will use a block-shaped format.

PowerBlock uses rectangular weight blocks surrounding an internal handle. Its Elite EXP and Pro 100 EXP models have an open-handle design intended to improve wrist clearance, but the overall shape remains different from a conventional dumbbell.

Shape may affect exercises where the dumbbell passes close to the body, including:

1. Dumbbell curls
2. Goblet squats
3. Dumbbell pullovers
4. Triceps extensions
5. Front-rack lunges
6. Dumbbell cleans

Some people prefer the compact feeling of a nested block design. Others prefer the familiar movement and visual orientation of a conventional dumbbell.

The Stealth Bloc will provide another block-shaped option, but its precise handle clearance, balance and exercise feel should not be judged until final dimensions and production samples are available.

Dimensions at maximum weight

The maximum-capacity PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP measures 48.8cm long, 19.4cm wide and 19.6cm high.

The 41.5kg Stealth Black Edition and Stealth Chrome Gen 6 are approximately 44cm long, 19.5cm wide and 19.5cm high outside their bases.

The PowerBlock Elite EXP measures 41.3cm long, 15.2cm wide and 15.2cm high.

The Elite EXP is therefore the most compact of these existing heavy adjustable dumbbells by published external dimensions. The maximum Pro 100 EXP is longer than the existing 41.5kg Stealth systems because it carries an additional 3.9kg per dumbbell.

The current Stealth dumbbells become shorter when a lower-capacity configuration is selected. The 23.5kg versions are approximately 35.5cm long, while the 32.5kg versions are approximately 40cm long.

Dimensions for the 60kg Stealth Bloc have not yet been confirmed. Its greater capacity does not automatically mean it will be more compact or larger than the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP. That comparison should wait for final measurements.

Grip comparison

The Stealth Black Edition and Stealth Chrome Gen 6 use a 34mm diameter metal grip.

The PowerBlock Elite EXP uses a 38mm contoured TPR grip. This is thicker and softer than a conventional knurled metal handle.

The PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP is available with either a 38mm stainless-steel knurled grip or a softer TPR grip.

A thicker grip can feel comfortable during pressing and may increase forearm involvement. A narrower metal grip may feel more familiar during pulling exercises and provide a more direct connection to the dumbbell.

The grip dimensions and material for the Stealth Bloc have not yet been confirmed. A fair assessment will require the production grip diameter, handle length, material and available wrist clearance.

PowerBlock attachments versus the Stealth range

PowerBlock currently has a clear advantage in attachment compatibility.

Compatible PowerBlock handles can convert selected dumbbells into other training tools, including:

1. A straight bar
2. An EZ curl bar
3. An adjustable kettlebell

This can be valuable in a small home gym where one weight stack needs to serve several purposes.

Stealth currently focuses more directly on dedicated adjustable dumbbells. Separate Stealth adjustable kettlebells are available, but the current dumbbells do not convert into a barbell or kettlebell using replacement handles.

PowerBlock is therefore the stronger established choice if attachment compatibility is central to your home gym plan.

Attachment compatibility for the Stealth Bloc has not yet been confirmed. Its magnetic selector pin and block-shaped format should not be taken as evidence that it will accept alternative handles or bar attachments.

Warranty, repairs and replacement parts

Both brands provide warranty cover and replacement-part support, although their systems differ.

Existing Stealth dumbbells include a standard 2-year warranty. Assassin Goods also offers:

1. Replacement parts available directly through the store
2. A repair service for Stealth adjustable dumbbells
3. An optional lifetime warranty upgrade
4. Full serviceability, allowing individual components to be repaired or replaced

This means damage to a serviceable component does not automatically require the complete dumbbell to be discarded.

The lifetime warranty is an optional upgrade. It should not be confused with the standard 2-year warranty, and all warranty claims remain subject to the applicable terms and exclusions.

PowerBlock advertises a five-year limited residential warranty for the Elite EXP and Pro 100 EXP. Its detailed UK warranty is component-specific.

PowerBlock’s published UK terms provide:

1. Five years for the handle assembly
2. Five years for weight plate weldments
3. One year for weight plates
4. One year for the selector pin
5. One year for the tether cord
6. One year for micro weights

The headline warranty should therefore not be interpreted as identical five-year cover for every component.

PowerBlock also sells replacement parts. Buyers must identify the exact model because selector pins, expansion kits, handles and attachments are not universally interchangeable across every PowerBlock generation.

The standard warranty, lifetime warranty eligibility, repair terms and replacement-part coverage for the Stealth Bloc should be confirmed when it launches. Existing Stealth support should not automatically be applied to an unreleased product without final terms.

Which is better for beginners?

The Stealth Core Edition has the lowest confirmed starting weight at 2kg, followed by PowerBlock at 2.3kg.

The Stealth Black Edition and Stealth Chrome Gen 6 begin at 4kg.

For a beginner who needs very light weights, the Stealth Core Edition or PowerBlock may be more suitable.

For someone who expects to progress and wants to spread the cost, the 23.5kg Stealth Chrome Gen 6 provides a confirmed route to 32.5kg and then 41.5kg.

The Stealth Bloc should not yet be recommended specifically for beginners because its starting weight and increments have not been announced. Its 60kg maximum suggests a strong heavy-training focus, but maximum capacity alone does not determine beginner suitability.

Which is better for heavy lifting?

The forthcoming Stealth Bloc has the highest announced capacity in this comparison at up to 60kg per dumbbell.

Among currently available models, the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP remains the heaviest at 45.4kg.

The current maximum capacities are:

The additional 14.6kg offered by the Stealth Bloc over the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP could be significant for heavy rows, presses, split squats and Romanian deadlifts.

However, heavy lifters should not consider maximum weight in isolation. They should also compare:

1. Starting weight
2. Available increments
3. Dumbbell dimensions
4. Grip diameter
5. Handle clearance
6. Plate security
7. Exercise balance
8. Storage requirements
9. Warranty coverage
10. Repairability
11. Drop rating and its conditions
12. Whether the system can be upgraded

Several of these specifications remain unconfirmed for the Stealth Bloc. Its 60kg capacity gives it a clear announced advantage in maximum weight, but a complete verdict should wait for the final production specification.

Which should you choose?

Choose the Stealth Core Edition if:

1. You want a complete 2kg to 40kg pair.
2. You prefer simple 2kg metric increments.
3. You want conventional dumbbell handling.
4. You do not need an upgradeable capacity.
5. You value repair servicing and replacement parts from a UK supplier.

Choose the Stealth Black Edition if:

1. You want consistent 1.5kg increments.
2. You prefer a conventional dumbbell shape.
3. You want a durable black finish.
4. You know whether you need 23.5kg, 32.5kg or 41.5kg.
5. You do not need to upgrade the maximum capacity later.

Choose the Stealth Chrome Gen 6 if:

1. You want to begin at 23.5kg and upgrade later.
2. You want a final capacity of 41.5kg.
3. You prefer consistent metric increments.
4. You want twist-to-select adjustment.
5. You prefer a conventional dumbbell format.

Consider waiting for the Stealth Bloc if:

1. You need more than 45.4kg per dumbbell.
2. You want a maximum capacity of up to 60kg.
3. You prefer a block-shaped adjustable dumbbell.
4. You want a magnetic selector pin.
5. You are willing to wait for confirmed dimensions, increments, pricing and warranty terms.

Choose PowerBlock Elite EXP if:

1. You want a compact rectangular design now.
2. You want to begin at 22.7kg and upgrade to 40.8kg.
3. You want access to compatible bar and handle attachments.
4. You are comfortable using a selector pin and converted kilogram settings.

Choose PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP if:

1. You need up to 45.4kg immediately.
2. You want a choice of knurled or TPR grips.
3. You plan to use compatible barbell or kettlebell attachments.
4. You want an established block-shaped adjustable dumbbell.
5. You do not need the forthcoming 60kg Stealth capacity.

Final verdict

PowerBlock remains a credible and established adjustable dumbbell system. The Elite EXP is compact and expandable, while the Pro 100 EXP currently provides the highest capacity available to buy within this comparison. Its attachment ecosystem is a genuine advantage for people trying to create several training tools from one weight stack.

The current Stealth adjustable dumbbell range provides a different experience. Its conventional dumbbell format, twist-to-select mechanism and cleaner metric progressions may feel more familiar during ordinary weight training.

The Stealth Core Edition provides a complete 2kg to 40kg range. The Stealth Black Edition offers 1.5kg increments and fixed capacities reaching 41.5kg. The Stealth Chrome Gen 6 is the closest current alternative to an expandable PowerBlock, progressing from 23.5kg to 32.5kg and then 41.5kg.

The forthcoming Stealth Bloc changes the comparison. It will give Stealth a block-shaped magnetic-pin system and a maximum capacity of up to 60kg. This moves Stealth beyond PowerBlock’s current 45.4kg maximum while giving buyers a choice between conventional and block-shaped Stealth dumbbells.

Choose PowerBlock if you want an established block-shaped system immediately, require its current attachments or prefer its existing selector-pin format.

Choose an existing Stealth system if you want conventional dumbbell handling, straightforward kilogram settings, twist adjustment, full serviceability and direct UK repair support.

Consider waiting for the Stealth Bloc if maximum weight is the priority and you want a magnetic-pin block dumbbell reaching up to 60kg.

Frequently asked questions

Are Stealth adjustable dumbbells heavier than PowerBlock?

The forthcoming Stealth Bloc will reach up to 60kg per dumbbell, exceeding the 45.4kg maximum of the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP.

Among currently available models, PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP remains heavier than the existing 41.5kg Stealth Black Edition and Stealth Chrome Gen 6.

What is the Stealth Bloc?

The Stealth Bloc is a forthcoming block-shaped adjustable dumbbell from Stealth. It will use a magnetic selector pin and provide a maximum weight of up to 60kg per dumbbell.

Its starting weight, increments, dimensions, configurations, pricing and final warranty terms have not yet been announced.

Does the Stealth Bloc use a rotating handle?

No. The forthcoming Stealth Bloc will use a magnetic selector pin.

The existing Stealth Core Edition, Stealth Black Edition and Stealth Chrome Gen 6 use twist-to-select handles.

Are Stealth adjustable dumbbells upgradeable?

The Stealth Chrome Gen 6 can be upgraded from 23.5kg to 32.5kg and then 41.5kg.

The Stealth Black Edition and Stealth Core Edition are not capacity-upgradeable.

The upgrade route for the forthcoming Stealth Bloc has not yet been confirmed.

Are PowerBlock dumbbells upgradeable?

PowerBlock Elite EXP and Pro 100 EXP dumbbells can be expanded using compatible upgrade kits. Some other PowerBlock models have fixed maximum capacities, so buyers should confirm the exact model before ordering.

Which changes weight faster?

The current Stealth systems allow users to select an available weight by rotating the handle while the dumbbell is in its base.

PowerBlock uses a magnetic selector pin. Its main weight settings can be changed quickly, but some intermediate settings require micro weights to be removed from or inserted into the handle.

The forthcoming Stealth Bloc will use a magnetic selector pin. Its exact adjustment process and change speed should be assessed when the final production model is available.

Can Stealth or PowerBlock dumbbells be dropped?

The current Stealth Core Edition, Stealth Black Edition, Stealth Chrome Gen 6 and the PowerBlock models in this comparison should not be dropped.

The forthcoming Stealth Bloc is being developed as a droppable adjustable dumbbell. The final permitted drop height, approved flooring, warranty cover and exclusions should be confirmed when the product launches.

“Droppable” should not be interpreted as unlimited impact resistance. Always follow the final handling and warranty instructions supplied with the product.