BowFlex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell Review 2026

BowFlex SelectTech 840 Review: Is This Adjustable Kettlebell Worth It?

The BowFlex SelectTech 840 is an adjustable kettlebell built for home-gym users who want several training weights without storing a full rack of kettlebells. It replaces six kettlebells in one unit and adjusts from 8 to 40 lb (3.5 to 18 kg) using a dial on top of the bell.

Quick Verdict

Best for: home-gym users, beginners through intermediate lifters, and anyone who wants a broad kettlebell weight range in a compact footprint.

Skip it if: you frequently drop kettlebells, prioritize traditional competition-style ergonomics, or need weights above 40 lb for heavy strength work.

Overall: The BowFlex SelectTech 840 is one of the more convenient adjustable kettlebells for space-saving strength training. Its dial system is fast and the six weight settings cover many common exercises, but the bulky body, shallow handle area, and plastic components make it feel different from a traditional cast-iron kettlebell.

BowFlex SelectTech 840 at a Glance

• Six weight settings: 8, 12, 20, 25, 35, and 40 lb
• Metric settings: 3.5, 5.5, 9, 11, 16, and 18 kg
• Dial-based weight selection
• Replaces six individual kettlebells
• Dimensions: approximately 8.8 x 7 x 12.5 inches
• Compatible with kettlebell-focused JRNY workouts

How the SelectTech Dial System Works

The kettlebell sits in a small base tray. Turning the top dial changes which internal plates lock into the kettlebell body, allowing you to move between six preset weights. This makes it easy to use a lighter setting for presses or Turkish get-ups and a heavier setting for swings, squats, and deadlifts without owning multiple bells.

Build Quality and Ergonomics

The BowFlex SelectTech 840 uses a steel handle with a reinforced outer housing around the internal plates. The design keeps the overall kettlebell shape fairly consistent as the weight changes, which is useful for repeatable movement patterns.

The main ergonomic trade-off is bulk. Independent testing has noted that the body feels larger than a traditional kettlebell, while the space between the handle and top dial can feel cramped during front-rack work, cleans, or snatches. Some rattling from the internal plates is also possible during dynamic exercises.

What Exercises Can You Do With It?

• Kettlebell swings
• Goblet squats
• Deadlifts
• Rows
• Overhead presses
• Reverse lunges
• Farmer carries and suitcase carries
• Turkish get-ups
• Clean and press variations

Pros and Cons

Who Is the BowFlex SelectTech 840 Best For?

This kettlebell is particularly well suited to people training at home who want to minimize equipment clutter. The 8–40 lb range gives beginners room to learn technique while still providing enough resistance for many intermediate strength and conditioning exercises.

It also makes sense for apartment users, small home gyms, and people who perform mixed workouts where different movements require different loads.

Who Should Avoid It?

Advanced kettlebell athletes who routinely train above 40 lb will likely outgrow the available resistance. It is also a weaker fit for people who practice high-volume snatches or cleans and prefer the compact dimensions and smooth rack position of a traditional kettlebell.

Because BowFlex warns against dropping the unit, it is not the right choice for training styles where weights are regularly released onto the floor.

BowFlex SelectTech 840 vs. REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell

The BowFlex focuses on fast dial-based adjustments and six preset weights. The REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell uses a more traditional-looking steel design with removable internal plates. BowFlex is the better fit if fast weight changes are your priority; REP may appeal more if you prefer a simpler kettlebell profile and a less appliance-like appearance.

BowFlex SelectTech 840 vs. Fixed Kettlebells

Fixed kettlebells are simpler, more durable, and immediately ready for use. The BowFlex wins on space efficiency because one unit replaces six separate weights. The trade-off is that a fixed bell generally feels more natural for cleans, snatches, and rack-position exercises, and there is no adjustment mechanism to protect.

Limitations to Know Before Buying

• The 8, 12, 20, 25, 35, and 40 lb steps leave relatively large jumps between some settings.
• The bulky shell can feel awkward during rack-position exercises.
• The handle area can feel cramped for larger hands.
• The adjustment dial may feel stiff.
• The unit should not be dropped like a traditional solid-metal kettlebell.
• The maximum resistance is 40 lb.

Final Verdict

The BowFlex SelectTech 840 is a practical adjustable kettlebell for people who value convenience and space savings more than traditional kettlebell feel. Six weight settings make it versatile enough for swings, squats, presses, carries, and general conditioning, and the dial system makes load changes straightforward.

Its main compromises are ergonomics, uneven weight jumps, and the need to treat the adjustment mechanism more carefully than a fixed cast-iron bell. For a compact home gym, however, it remains a strong all-in-one option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the BowFlex SelectTech 840 weigh?

It adjusts through six settings: 8, 12, 20, 25, 35, and 40 lb, equivalent to approximately 3.5, 5.5, 9, 11, 16, and 18 kg.

How many kettlebells does the BowFlex SelectTech 840 replace?

It replaces six separate kettlebells within its 8–40 lb adjustment range.

Can you do kettlebell swings with the BowFlex SelectTech 840?

Yes. Swings are one of the main exercises this adjustable kettlebell is designed to support. Select an appropriate weight and confirm the dial is fully engaged before lifting the unit from its base.

Can you drop the BowFlex SelectTech 840?

No. BowFlex and independent reviewers caution against dropping the kettlebell because the adjustment mechanism and outer components can be damaged.

Is the BowFlex SelectTech 840 good for beginners?

Yes. The lower 8- and 12-lb settings make it accessible for many beginners, while the heavier settings allow progression as strength improves.

Related Reads

• REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell Review
• TRX Suspension Trainer Review: Is It Worth It in 2026?
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• Best Wellness Products

References

• BowFlex — SelectTech 840 Kettlebell product specifications
• Men’s Fitness — BowFlex SelectTech 840 review