Kettlebells are all the rage. They’re a super versatile piece of fitness equipment, and much cheaper than giant machines. Adjustable kettlebells take that same value and versatility to a whole new level.
Adjustable kettlebells offer the functionality of a whole kettlebell set at only a fraction of the price. Most adjustable kettlebells feature at least 4 different weigh settings for maximum adaptability. Some even let you use your own standard weight plates for near endless possibilities.
We’ve analyzed hundreds of reviews, specs, features, promotional materials, and more to help you find the best adjustable kettlebell for your needs.
In this guide:
- The top 11 best adjustable kettlebells
- Benefits of adjustable kettlebells
- Adjustable kettlebell exercises
Quick Glance: 6 of 11 | ||
Best Overall: Titan Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell “This adjustable kettlebell is an excellent all-rounder for any fitness enthusiast.” | Check Price | |
Best Design: PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell “This is a sleek and simple adjustable kettlebell designed with efficiency in mind.” | Check Price | |
Beginner Pick: Empower Beginner Adjustable Kettlebell “This lightweight adjustable kettlebell is great for cardio work and beginner lifting.” | Check Price | |
Best Handle: Kettlebud Adjustable Kettlebell Handle “This military-grade cast aluminum adjustable kettle bell handle is one of the best you can buy.” | Check Price | |
Sandbag Kettlebell: Brute Force Adjustable Kettlebell “If you want maximum adjustability, this sandbag kettlebell can be filled to any weight up to 45 pounds.” | Check Price | |
Dumbbell Adapter: Kettle Gryp – Adjustable Kettlebell Weight Grip “The Kettle Gryp is a convenient, portable solution for turning any dumbbell into a kettlebell.” | Check Price |
Top 11 Adjustable Kettlebells
Best Overall
Titan Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell
Min Weight: 10 lb / 4.5 kg
Max Weight: 40 lb / 18.1 kg
Adjustable Levels: 7
Material: Cast iron
This is one of the best adjustable kettlebells for most people. Its total weight is 40 pounds, with 6 removable 5-pound plates that let you take the total down to 10 pounds. With a 10 to 40 pound range, there’s a little something for everyone.
The light grey paint may make the 5-pound plates look like plastic, but they’re far from it. These cast iron plates can be added and removed as needed, and shape nicely into a standard kettlebell form factor when assembled. The handle is similarly made from cast iron, though with a black powder coating to ensure better grip and durability.
A locking mechanism on the top of this adjustable kettlebell ensures that the weight plates won’t slip out while in use. When you need to adjust the weight, simply rotate the top counterclockwise to unlock them.
Note that your own weight plates won’t fit into this adjustable kettlebell. The included cast iron weight plates feature uniquely-designed cutouts that allow the plates to slide into the frame with minimal moving parts. If you want to use your own standard weight plates, take a look at the adjustable kettlebell handles below.
BOTTOM LINE
This adjustable kettlebell is an excellent all-rounder for any fitness enthusiast.
Pros
- Good maximum weight (40 lb)
- Solid cast iron material
- Convenient locking mechanism
- Traditional kettlebell shape
- Wide handle
Cons
- Plates are not drop-proof
- The bottom frame edge can be uncomfortable without any plates
Runner-Up Pick
Stamina X Adjustable Kettlebell
Min Weight: 16 lb / 7.3 kg
Max Weight: 36 lb / 16.3 kg
Adjustable Levels: 6
Material: Cast iron
This adjustable kettlebell was a close contender for our top pick. It has a respectable maximum weight of 36 pounds, which is plenty for most people, but may not be enough for some elite athletes. After removing all 5 of the included 4-pound weights, the handle itself is 16 pounds.
All the vital components of this adjustable kettlebell are made from solid cast iron. The cherry red plastic shell attached to the cast iron frame conceals the 4-pound plates inside while maintaining that traditional kettlebell shape.
Detaching the rubber cover on the side of the adjustable kettlebell reveals a pin-based locking mechanism. Simply place the pin in one of the 5 holes to lock in the corresponding amount of weight. Alternatively, take the pin out completely to only use the 16-pound frame and shell.
As with most other adjustable kettlebells, this one won’t work with your own weight plates. This cast iron plates included in this set are uniquely shaped for this kettlebell’s frame. If you want to use your own standard weight plates, take a look at the adjustable kettlebell handles below.
BOTTOM LINE
This is a great adjustable kettlebell for retaining that traditional shape no matter the weight level.
Pros
- Good maximum weight (36 lb)
- Solid cast iron material
- Convenient locking mechanism
- Traditional kettlebell shape
- Wide handle
- Comes with base pad to protect flooring
Cons
- Slightly high minimum weight (16 lb)
- The plastic shell likely wouldn’t survive a high drop (although some reviewers on Amazon simply removed the shell entirely)
Best Design
PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell (Newer Model)
Min Weight: 18 lb / 8.2 kg
Max Weight: 35 lb / 15.9 kg
Adjustable Levels: 4
Material: Steel
Although this adjustable kettlebell may not sport that traditional kettlebell shape, it’s an incredibly well-designed product. The total package is 35 pounds, with 3 removable blocks of varying weight. You can set it to 35, 26, or 22 pounds, or use the handle alone at 18 pounds.
Both the handle itself and the weight blocks within are made of solid steel, giving the entire Powerblock unit a really sturdy feel. The handle and exterior are coated in a matte textured finish, providing enough grip for even the sweatiest workout sessions.
The weight adjustment system is incredibly simple. A steel pin can be magnetically locked into any of the three holes, or simply removed entirely. And the handle on the pin features a low-profile contour to ensure it doesn’t get in the way of your workouts.
BOTTOM LINE
This is a sleek and simple adjustable kettlebell designed with efficiency in mind.
Pros
- Good maximum weight (35 lb)
- Solid steel construction
- Convenient locking pin
- Wide handle
Cons
- A little bit of clanking noise when in use
- Fairly narrow weight range (18 to 35 lb)
Budget Pick
PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell Block (Older Model)
Min Weight: 5 lb / 2.3 kg
Max Weight: 20 lb / 9.1 kg
Adjustable Levels: 5
Material: Iron
As you may have guessed based on the name, this adjustable kettlebell is from the same line as the PowerBlock kettlebell featured above. This is the older model with a slightly clunkier design, but a lower price point.
This older rendition of the PowerBlock has a slightly narrower weight range, reaching a maximum weight of 20 pounds. Removing each of the weight blocks one by one drops the total down to 16, 12, 8, then 5 pounds. This is one of the lightest minimum weights you can find, which makes it ideal for cardio work.
The weight system for this adjustable kettlebell is similar to the newer PowerBlock, though perhaps not as refined. A tethered bar with two sturdy prongs is used to lock in any of the weight blocks via a crossbar. While adjustments are quick and easy, the design makes the kettlebell a little clunky.
BOTTOM LINE
A little less refined and lower priced, this is a good budget alternative to the newer PowerBlock.
Pros
- Lower price point
- Convenient locking mechanism
- Wide handle
Cons
- A little bit of clanking noise when in use
- Fairly narrow weight range (5 to 20 lb)
Something Familiar
Kettlebell Kings Black Adjustable Kettlebell
Min Weight: 10 lb / 4.5 kg
Max Weight: 40 lb / 18.1 kg
Adjustable Levels: 7
Material: Cast iron
If you have a keen eye, you may notice that this adjustable kettlebell is quite is quite similar to another. And that’s because it’s essentially the same as our top pick listed above, but with a few minor cosmetic differences.
Most notably, this adjustable dumbbell features a much more attractive color scheme. As we noted with Titan Fitness’ version of this dumbbell, the light grey paint makes their weight plates look a little like plastic. These solid black plates look much sleeker, and blend with the handle and frame much better.
Other than aesthetics, the specs are the same. The handle itself is 10 pounds, and 6 different 5-pound plates can be added up to 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40 pounds. It’s similarly made of solid cast iron and features a convenient quick-lock mechanism on the top.
BOTTOM LINE
With the same specs as our top pick and a more attractive aesthetic, you can’t go wrong with this option.
Pros
- Good maximum weight (40 lb)
- Solid cast iron material
- Convenient locking mechanism
- Traditional kettlebell shape
- Wide handle
- Attractive color scheme
Cons
- Plates are not drop-proof
- The bottom frame edge is uncomfortable without any plates
Best Beginner Pick
Empower Beginner Adjustable Kettlebell
Min Weight: 5 lb / 2.3 kg
Max Weight: 12 lb / 5.4 kg
Adjustable Levels: 3
Material: Soft-touch plastic shell
This velvety adjustable kettlebell is geared toward beginners. It features three weight levels at 5, 8, and 12 pounds, making it ideal for cardio workouts and beginner lifting. And its sleek, cool-blue design is complemented by a competitively low price.
Both the handle itself and the two weighted plates are made with a soft-touch plastic material, making the entire kettlebell pleasant to the touch. And the weighted portions themselves lock on very easily. With a simple twist, they can lock or unlock with an audible click.
As a little bonus, this adjustable kettlebell comes with a workout DVD. It has received quite a few good reviews on Amazon, so if you still have a DVD player, it’s a convenient way to step up your game.
BOTTOM LINE
This lightweight adjustable kettlebell is great for cardio work and beginner lifting.
Pros
- Lightweight for cardio and beginner lifting
- Soft-touch material
- Easy locking system
Cons
- Likely too light for advanced athletes
Top 5 Adjustable Kettlebell Handles
Kettlebell handles are a fantastic alternative to your standard adjustable kettlebell. By locking in a few plates of your own, you can set the right amount weight for whatever your workout requires.
Here are the three best adjustable kettlebells handles and two that are a little more unique.
Best Adjustable Kettlebell Handle
Kettlebud Adjustable Kettlebell Handle
Min Weight: 4 lb / 1.8 kg
Max Weight: At least 80 lb / 36.3 kg
Adjustable Levels: Any 1-inch plate combo
Materials: Cast aluminum & hardened steel
This is one of the best adjustable kettlebell handles you can get. It’s priced well, it’s made of military-grade cast aluminum, and features hardened steel quick-release pins for easily swapping weight plates.
The steel quick-release pins are the magic behind this adjustable kettlebell handle. First, lock one of the pins into the top hole on the handle’s body. After loading up your own standard 1-inch weight plates (which aren’t included), you slide the bottom pin through the first visible hole to lock everything into place.
This is one of the most intuitive adjustable kettlebell handles available. And with a maximum weighted load of 80 pounds, it’s sure to meet the needs of even the most elite athletes.
BOTTOM LINE
This military-grade cast aluminum adjustable kettle bell handle is one of the best you can buy.
Pros
- Fantastic maximum weight with plates (80+ lb)
- Solid military-grade aluminum
- Quick-lock pins
- Fits standard 1-inch plates
- Wide handle
Cons
- Need to separately buy standard weight plates
- Bare plates can be uncomfortable resting against your body
Runner-Up Adjustable Kettlebell Handle
Apex Heavy-Duty Adjustable Kettlebell Handle
Min Weight: 20 lb / 9.1 kg
Max Weight: 50 lb / 22.7 kg with plates
Adjustable Levels: Any 1-inch plate combo
Materials: Solid cast iron
This adjustable kettlebell handle was a close runner-up for our top pick. And let’s avoid any confusion right off the bat: this is only a handle—no weights included. Those discs in the pictures that appear to be weighted plates are only spacers, weighing very little at all.
But those spacers are a fantastic feature. By unscrewing the bottom locking pin, you let all the spacers and the bottom plate loose. After lining up your preferred selection of standard 1-inch weight plates (not included), if the stack isn’t tall enough, you can add some spacer to maintain your desired height. This lets the whole assembly maintain a kettlebell shape at practically any weight.
Any weight 50 pounds or under, that is. While this adjustable kettlebell handle is capable of fitting more than 50 pounds of standard plates, the manufacturer recommends loading up no more than 50 pounds total, including the 20-pound handle and frame.
With a solid cast iron structure and sleek, textured powder coating, this is an incredibly reliable and versatile addition to any workout regiment.
BOTTOM LINE
This handle comes with spacers to conveniently lock in any combo of standard weight plates.
Pros
- Good maximum weight with plates (50 lb)
- Solid cast iron
- Convenient spacer plates
- Fits standard 1-inch plates
- Wide handle
Cons
- Need to separately buy standard weight plates
- Setup is a little tricky
- Bare plates can be uncomfortable resting against your body
Budget Adjustable Kettlebell Handle
NewMe Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell Handle
Min Weight: 6 lb / 2.7 kg
Max Weight: At least 100 lb / 34 kg
Adjustable Levels: Any 1-inch plate combo
Materials: Steel
If you’re on a budget, this adjustable kettlebell handle is an excellent pick. Its design is a little simpler than the above two, but it gets the job done.
The handle and body are made of solid steel with a sleek finish to ensure long-lasting durability. And the handle itself is quite large, leaving plenty of room for booth hands.
To attach weight, simply unscrew the bottom clamp and slide on your desired combination of weighted plates. The manufacturer offers no maximum recommended weight, but reviews indicate success with loading up to 100 pounds. Once your standard 1-inch plates (not included) are loaded, simply tighten up the bottom clamp to keep everything from moving.
BOTTOM LINE
This is a fantastic budget pick for anyone in the market for an adjustable kettlebell handle.
Pros
- Excellent price
- Fantastic maximum weight with plates (100+ lb)
- Solid steel
- Fits standard 1-inch plates
- Extra large handle
Cons
- Need to separately buy standard weight plates
- At heavier weights, the handle can be uncomfortable
- Bare plates can be uncomfortable resting against your body
Best Adjustable Sandbag Kettlebell
Brute Force Kettlebells – Adjustable Kettlebell (For Sand)
Min Weight: Under 1 lb / 0.5 kg
Max Weight: 45 lb / 20.4 kg (needs sand)
Adjustable Levels: Unlimited
Materials: Mil-Spec Cordura & Ballistic Nylon
This adjustable kettlebell is a little different. It’s in its own category, and since it doesn’t include any weight, we’ve placed it in this section. It’s a sand kettlebell, which means the weight is adjusted by adding or removing sand. That may sound risky, but this thing is built tough.
The outermost later is made from durable military-spec cordura. While cordura is technically a brand, it’s most often used to refer to its sturdy nylon-cotton hybrid material. A separate, finer inner lining helps to ensure the sand stays where it belongs. And the spill-proof HDPE stiffener and zipper help to keep everything locked inside.
For handling, the anti-microbial rubble handle is molded with a slight contour to maximize comfort, with ridges to improve grip. And it’s all attached to the body with triple-reinforced box X stitching to ensure everything stays in place.
Note that this adjustable kettlebell does not come with sand. Tube sand or play sand from a hardware store both work great.
BOTTOM LINE
If you want maximum adjustability, this sandbag kettlebell can be filled to any weight up to 45 pounds.
Pros
- Good maximum weight (45 lb)
- Super heavy-duty construction
- Limitless adjustability
- Lower price than most adjustable dumbbells
Cons
- Need to get your own sand
Best Adjustable Kettlebell Handle for Dumbbells
Kettle Gryp – Adjustable Kettlebell Weight Grip
Min Weight: Under 1 lb / 0.5 kg
Max Weight: 55 lb / 25 kg (needs dumbbells)
Adjustable Levels: Any dumbbell up to 55 lb
Materials: High-impact ABS plastic
This adjustable kettlebell handle is notable because it’s so unique and versatile. The ingenious design allows you to sneak in some kettlebell work no matter where you travel, as long as you can get your hands on some dumbbells.
The way the Kettle Gryp works is really simple. Simply unlatch a clasp, open up the body, place a dumbbell into the opening, and latch it closed. The firm, rubbery opening can clasp onto almost any dumbbell, making it super adaptable.
The manufacturers recommend loading this adjustable kettlebell with no more than 55 pounds. Users have reported using it with as much as 75 pounds, but it’s best to stick with the manufacturer’s recommendations to be safe.
BOTTOM LINE
The Kettle Gryp is a convenient, portable solution for turning any dumbbell into a kettlebell.
Pros
- Excellent price
- Good maximum dumbbell weight (55 lb)
- Fits most dumbbells
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Won’t fit larger dumbbell handles
Plates
If you choose an adjustable kettlebell handle, you’ll need some weight plates. The three regular handles featured above fit these standard 1-inch weight plates.
(Note that 2-inch Olympic plates, such as you would find in your average gym, will not fit these adjustable kettlebell handles.)
Best Standard Weight Plates
Benefits of Adjustable Kettlebells
Why choose an adjustable kettlebell? Here are a few of some of the most notable benefits.
- Versatility
Kettlebells are already an incredibly useful fitness tool, rivaled perhaps only by the dumbbell itself. They’re useful for a whole slew of different exercises—and exercise types. From cardio to weightlifting to CrossFit, there’s something for everyone.
Adjustable kettlebells take this to the next level. They provide the versatility of an entire set of adjustable kettlebells in a fraction of the space. Instead of needing a range of kettlebells from 10 to 50 pounds, a single adjustable variation will do the trick.
- Approachability
While some exercise equipment can be intimidating to approach, kettlebells are fairly easy to start using. They’re similar to dumbbells in that there are exercises for every level, from beginner to elite athlete. You can get started with something as simple as a 10-minute workout video.
Adjustable kettlebells are similarly even more approachable. Since you don’t have to invest in a whole set of kettlebells, it’s not as big of a leap to try them out. The Empower Beginner Adjustable Kettlebell is a great option for beginners wanting try some kettlebell workouts at home.
- Value
As mentioned, adjustable kettlebells are a fantastic value compared to traditional kettlebells. Whereas a whole set of kettlebells could run your multiple hundreds of dollars, their adjustable counterparts are much more inexpensive overall.
- Storage Space
Similarly, adjustable kettlebells are much easier to store than entire kettlebell sets. It only takes one little corner in a room or a closet to store an adjustable kettlebell, whereas a set can take up a whole wall—or at least a sizable portion of your home gym.
Adjustable Kettlebell Exercises
If you’re new to kettlebells, you’ll want some exercises! You’ll still want to do plenty of research to fill out your exercise repertoire, but here are a few to get you started.
5 Beginner Kettlebell Exercises
In this kettlebell exercise video, you’ll learn a few basic moves, including the iconic kettlebell swing. Here’s a rundown of the 5 exercises:
- Kettlebell deadlift
- Half Turkish getup
- Kettlebell halos
- Kettlebell squat press
- Kettlebell swings
Once you’re ready to move past those 5 kettlebell exercises, you’ll want some more options to start making your own workouts. You can take your kettlebell workouts to the next level with this video:
50 Kettlebell Exercises
This video is a treasure trove of kettlebell exercises. With over 50 demonstrated, there’s something for everyone. Among them you’ll find notable exercises like these:
- Several kettlebell lunges
- Different kettlebell rows
- Various kettlebell squats
- Plenty of kettlebell presses
- Lots of kettlebell deadlifts and cleans
- And a whole lot more
This video is a fantastic tool for fleshing out your adjustable kettlebell workout, but don’t be afraid to do more research on your own. Your kettlebell workouts are only limited by your creativity.
Summary
Adjustable kettlebells take all the advantages of regular kettlebells and pack them into a tiny form factor. They’re a fantastic fitness tool that takes up a fraction of the space at a fraction of the cost of a full set. Adjustable kettlebells are an excellent option for home gyms and professional gyms alike.
Equipped with the information from this buyers guide, you should be able to pick the best adjustable kettlebells for your needs.
Overview: Best Adjustable Kettlebells | ||
Best Overall: Titan Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell “This adjustable kettlebell is an excellent all-rounder for any fitness enthusiast.” | Check Price | |
Runner-Up: Stamina X Adjustable Kettlebell “This is a great adjustable kettlebell for retaining that traditional shape no matter the weight level.” | Check Price | |
Best Design: PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell (Newer Model) “This is a sleek and simple adjustable kettlebell designed with efficiency in mind.” | Check Price | |
Budget Pick: PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell Block (Older Model) “A little less refined and lower priced, this is a good budget alternative to the newer PowerBlock.” | Check Price | |
Familiar Pick: Kettlebell Kings Black Adjustable Kettlebell “With the same specs as our top pick and a more attractive aesthetic, you can’t go wrong with this option.” | Check Price | |
Beginner Pick: Empower Beginner Adjustable Kettlebell “This lightweight adjustable kettlebell is great for cardio work and beginner lifting.” | Check Price | |
Best Handle: Kettlebud Adjustable Kettlebell Handle “This military-grade cast aluminum adjustable kettle bell handle is one of the best you can buy.” | Check Price | |
Runner-Up Handle: Apex Heavy-Duty Adjustable Kettlebell Handle “This handle comes with spacers to conveniently lock in any combo of standard weight plates.” | Check Price | |
Budget Handle: NewMe Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell Handle “This is a fantastic budget pick for anyone in the market for an adjustable kettlebell handle.” | Check Price | |
Sandbag Kettlebell: Brute Force Adjustable Kettlebell “If you want maximum adjustability, this sandbag kettlebell can be filled to any weight up to 45 pounds.” | Check Price | |
Dumbbell Adapter: Kettle Gryp – Adjustable Kettlebell Weight Grip “The Kettle Gryp is a convenient, portable solution for turning any dumbbell into a kettlebell.” | Check Price |