Another unit that can’t be missing from the shop of a person who likes wood-working is a benchtop planer. This tool will even salvage old planks that would otherwise need to be thrown out.
1. DeWalt 92796
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Specifications:
- Materials: Steel, Plastic
- Product Weight: 40 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 1,000 lbs.
- Working Surface: 18″ × 46″
- Working Height: 36″
- Adjustable Height:
- Uses: Tabletop
/Stand-Alone
- Features: 72 Holes, 6 Slots, Double Locking Legs, Cord Minder with Clips on 1 Leg, Ground Stud, Tool-Holding Ring, Heavy-duty Handle
- Warranty: Limited 3 Years
The product that will start this list is from none other than the popular power tool manufacturer DeWalt. This company brings forth a heavy-duty work table that will be able to aid you in your welding endeavors, and so much more.
Build & Adjustability
The whole body is a strong steel build, with plastic caps on the corners and each of the eight legs. The reason there are so many legs is that this model can be used both as a stand-alone, tall working station and as a tabletop with an 8-inch height. The stand-alone has an adjustable height thanks to the stoppers you can fit in the holes on the legs, and it can go from 29.25 inches up to 36 to suit as many users as possible. The whole structure comes to a total of 40 pounds in weight, making it sturdy and stable regardless of the activities it will take part in. If a lighter model is what you’re searching for, the second entry from this manufacturer – the DeWalt DWST11556 – comes at 23 pounds.
Capacity & Features
When it comes to its ability to hold heavy machinery and metals, the 92796 can withstand weights that add up to 1,000 pounds, giving you a sturdy piece to work with. The actual table surface comes to 46 inches in length and 18 in width and all around and over it there are 6 slots and 72 holes, ready to help you lock in the pieces you’re working with. Other helpful features include the possibility of locking in the legs when you are opening or folding the table, a cord minder on one of the legs, a ground stud, a ring to hold your tools, and a wide, thick steel handle on one side to grab onto when you’re moving the product around.
We got around testing the 92796 workbench from DeWalt at just the right moment, as I was eager to practice my beginner welding skills. Putting it together wasn’t too much of a hassle, but the whole thing is a bit heavy for a one-man job, so do with that information what you will. A detail I would add is that if you are confident in your legwork, you can choose to install the cord minder, but I found it looked too much like a tripping risk for me to do so. What I loved about it is the fact that I can fold it up and it doesn’t take away from its usability because I can still rest it on a tabletop that I’d prefer not to ruin thanks to its second pair of smaller feet. I didn’t use it that way though, but instead tried the different heights on the big legs. The tallest allowed me to work comfortably while standing, while the shortest was great when I needed to pull up a stool to sit on. Finally, after my first few attempts at welding together a wine rack from old horseshoes, the surface was still close to being impeccable, so I have no complaints.
Kevin Perry – Expert Reviewer and Product Tester
Pros:
- Capacity of 1,000 pounds
- Adjustable height
- Doubles as a tabletop
- Plenty of clamping holes and slots
- Sturdy steel construction
- Feature-rich
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with clamps
- The holes might have a different size to the standard one, therefore you will have to measure them and purchase specific gear
Verdict:
The 92796 can be a great addition to any welding enthusiast’s workshop as it comes prepared with a durable construction, a generous weight capacity, a large working surface, and many features that can prove helpful in various situations.
If you have loads of wood leftovers and are in a bind about what to do with them, consider adding an electric wood chipper to your arsenal to help you make this problem disappear into thousands of tiny pieces that can be used as mulch around the yard.
2. WORX Pegasus WX051
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Specifications:
- Materials: ABS, Steel
- Product Weight: 30 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs.
/1,000
- Working Surface: 31″ × 25″
- Working Height: 32″
- Adjustable Height:
- Uses: Sawhorse/Stand-Alone
- Features: 2 Removable Bar Clamps, 4 Clamp Pegs, 16 Holes, 6 Slots, Storage Tray, Built-In Measuring Guides, Non-Slip Feet, Link Locks
- Warranty: 3 Years
The embodiment of versatility, this table from Worx is a
2-in-1 product that doubles as a stand-alone and as a sawhorse, able to handle heavy weights of up to
300 pounds, respectively 1,000 pounds for the sawhorse. The transition between the two is simple; all you have to do is fold the two edges, thus exposing only the middle section that will eventually hold the wood planks for cutting.
Build & Accessories
The sturdy ABS surface comes with four bench pegs to fit in any of the 16 holes, and two quick clamps that secure the piece in position, and they remain attached even when you fold it into a sawhorse. The clamps can handle materials up to 18 inches in thickness, either horizontally or vertically. The frame is made of heavy-gauge steel covered in ABS, designed to withstand heavy loads without wobbling or collapsing which makes it incredibly resilient. The legs lock in place while the non-slip feet ensure they will remain steady on any ground.
Measurements & Features
Even though it’s such a solid structure, it will not be hard to maneuver, as it weighs only 25 pounds and it can fold down to a very compact size measuring just 5 inches in depth. When unfolded, it provides a generous workspace of 31 by 25 inches and a height of 32 inches to enable you to stand in a comfortable position. What’s more, the surface can be extended because it allows for 3 or more Worx tables of the same height to be connected to maximize the workspace. On the bottom, there is a storage shelf where you can conveniently keep your tools or a power extension, keeping everything you need within reach.
Pros:
- Included shelf for storage
- 2-in-1 design
- High weight capacity
- Only 5 inches in depth when folded
- Comes with 2 clamps and 4 pegs
- Can be linked with more Worx tables
Cons:
- No leg height adjustment
- Its storage tray isn’t as sturdy as expected
Verdict:
The Pegasus WX051 is a good choice due to the reliability of the manufacturer and the smart design that combines two tools in one. Moreover, it’s suitable for a long list of applications due to said convertible design and it’s easy to move around thanks to the plastic construction while remaining solid enough for heavy-duty tasks.
As you might be prone to sweating as you work, a fact which might attract bothersome bugs, you’ll need something to keep your workspace free of buzzing distractions. A bug zapper will ensure that you stay bite-free while also working without chemicals, to keep the air you breathe as clean as possible.
3. DeWalt DWST11556
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Specifications:
- Materials: ABS, Metal
- Product Weight: 23 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 1,000 lbs.
- Working Surface: 33.15″ × 23.63″
- Working Height: 31″
- Adjustable Height:
- Uses: Tabletop/Stand-Alone
- Features: 2 Handles, 31 Holes, 4 Slots
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime
If you’re looking for a large working surface, this second entry from DeWalt is your go-to table. The top surface is outsized, measuring
33.15 by 26.63 inches to be able to handle larger wood pieces and tools.
It’s made of tough ABS with durable steel legs, a combination that provides stability and resilience. The structure of the DWST11556 will be able to take heavy loads of up to
1,000 pounds, too, which only adds to its appeal. Besides, the entire assembly doesn’t weigh more than 23 pounds itself, so it can be easily transported when you fold it down. The opened height is
31 inches, enough to provide comfortable use. The distance between the legs is generous, an aspect that gives it enough stability for activities such as cutting, drilling, clamping, and more.
The top part has 31 holes drilled into it to make it compatible with DeWalt clamps with the help of which you’ll secure in place the pieces you’ll work with. There are also four slot spaces in the middle for convenience. The design encourages the user to fold and pick it up, as the legs fold inside and the table flips in two, reaching the shape of a suitcase. It’s fitted with two handles, one that lays flat along the length, and one that extends out on the width, which you can also use as a holder for certain tools. The last detail worth mentioning is the lifetime protection provided by the manufacturer, which lets you know that they stand behind their products.
Pros:
- Generous workspace
- It can fold in seconds
- Large maximum weight capacity
- Stable and solid structure, ideal for any job
- Can also be used as a tabletop
Cons:
- You need a very specific clamp size for the holes provided
- It’s a bit hard to open after folding it
- No height adjustment
Verdict:
The large weight capacity makes the DWST11556 a very interesting choice for customers, as it provides them with a large working surface for tasks like cutting or drilling that will require increased force.
4. Keter 197283
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Specifications:
- Materials: Polypropylene Resin, Aluminum
- Product Weight: 27 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 1,000 lbs.
- Working Surface: 33.46″ × 21.65″
- Working Height: 29.75″
- Adjustable Height:
- Uses: Tabletop
/Stand-Alone
- Features: 2 Wood Clamps (12″), Weather-resistant, Sturdy Side Handle, Underside Storage, 6 Slots
- Warranty: 2 Years
To provide increased portability without sacrificing resilience to heavy loads, Keter used a combination of polypropylene resin and aluminum to create this next product. Hence,
the detachable legs are made of lightweight aluminum and they have anti-skid caps to prevent titling, while
the top surface is made of heavy-duty resin that is solid enough to allow you to place up to
1,000 pounds on it. It has generous dimensions, measuring a
33.46-inch long and 21.6-inch wide top surface with a 29.75-inch total height when set in the standing position. When folded down, it comes to only 4.4 inches in depth, making it very storage-friendly. The exclusive quick-opening system reduces the setup time to less than 30 seconds and turns it from a suitcase shape into an elaborate-looking worktop with two levels.
Since the 197283 is relatively lightweight for its size, at 27 pounds, and comes with a carrying handle, it won’t be hard to take it with you, and it will be seamless for any type of project. It is compatible with multiple tools that can be conveniently stored on the shelf beneath the upper surface. For added support, the manufacturer placed a few additional plastic pieces that connect the shelf and the tabletop, to ensure it won’t collapse when you start putting pressure on it. Furthermore, two 12-inch clamps come in the package, so you can secure a variety of working materials, from wood planks to pipes. The warranty period lasts for the first 2 years after the purchase. For those looking for a bench that also includes a vise, take a look at the BLACK+DECKER Workmate 425.
Pros:
- Quick opening system
- Two adjustable clamps
- Compact folding
- Large maximum weight capacity
Cons:
- You might catch your fingers when you’re folding it because of the locking speed
- The instruction manual might be trapped inside the folded table
Verdict:
The Keter 197283 is a heavy-duty table with a design that makes it highly stable, ideal for larger projects that require a generous and solid working surface.
You’ve decided that buying a workbench is your next course of action, but failed to consider whether or not you have a space to store it in? An outdoor storage shed will be able to free you of worry in no time, and it will also keep your belongings safe from the weather and even burglars.
5. BLACK+DECKER BDST11000
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Specifications:
- Materials: Steel, Bamboo Stalk
- Product Weight: 37.8 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 550 lbs.
- Working Surface: 40.95″ × 23.67″
- Working Height: 31.75″
- Adjustable Height:
- Uses: Stand-Alone/Vise
- Features: One-Handed Clamp System, Adjustable Jaws, 4 Adjustable Swivel Pegs, Integrated Measuring Guides, 33 Holes, Footrest
- Warranty: Limited 2 Years
With just one glance, you could tell that the BDST11000 from Black+Decker is a very solid and steady table, with a generous size for many tools and workpieces. It is composed of a top surface part measuring
40.95 by 23.67 inches which is made of a durable
bamboo stalk with an
integrated protractor, rulers, and a few instruction images to aid you in your carpentering or woodwork projects. This surface is capable of splitting into two, allowing you to fix a wood plank in the middle and use the incorporated swivel pegs to secure it in place. The adjustable jaws are work wonders when you have thick pieces of up to 24 inches that you need to handle. These design particularities enable this model to act as a vise, aspect which can be of great help, no matter what your preferred activity is.
The legs are solid steel, to ensure that the structure will be able to handle large weights of up to 550 pounds, and they provide a height of 31.75 inches. The combination of bamboo and steel adds a bit to its weight, reaching a total of 37.8 pounds, so it’s not the lightest tool to carry. Luckily, it has a foldable design that simplifies things. Other features include a footrest that maximizes stability, 33 drilled holes, and a warranty period of two years. A model that can withstand more weight is the WORX Pegasus WX051, which can hold up to 1,000 pounds.
Pros:
- Sturdy materials
- Quick clamping system
- One-handed clamp maneuvering
- Clamps can be adjusted together or independently
- Doubles as a vise
Cons:
- Washers between the wood top and the bolts would’ve been beneficial to prevent dents and gouges
- Some customers have complained about the two boards not lining up perfectly
Verdict:
Due to its large dimensions, the BDST11000 is a great choice for large applications that involve big workpieces. Since it can be used as a vise, it provides extended versatility and it also turns out helpful for novice workers thanks to the clear writings and drawings on the wooden top surface.
6. BLACK+DECKER Workmate 425
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BLACK+DECKER Workmate 425
Specifications:
- Materials: Steel, Bamboo Stalk
- Product Weight: 42.5 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 500 lbs.
- Working Surface: 31.2″ × 28.86″
- Working Height: 30.3″
- Adjustable Height:
- Uses: Stand-Alone/Vise/Tabletop/Sawhorse
- Features: One-Handed Clamp System, Vise Clamps, Integrated Measuring Guides, Adjustable Swivel Pegs, Integrated Clamps, Footrest, 31 Holes
- Warranty: Limited 2 Years
A second entry from Black+Decker comes with
a steel frame that can support up to 500 pounds, while the
bamboo working area of 31.2 by 28.86 inches ensures you have enough room to go about your hobby. This worktop
doubles as a vice, turning the 425 into a useful 2-in-1 piece. Moreover, thanks to the clamping system which you can easily control with just one hand, you can modify the clamps together or individually for increased versatility in a wide range of projects. The adaptable swivel pegs are also fit for oddly-shaped pieces.
The flexibility of the design doesn’t stop with just the vise. This Workmate lets you flip half of its top surface to use it in multiple positions, whether you need to place the workpiece horizontally or vertically. The standard height is 30.3 inches, but it also has two adjustments to help it work as a sawhorse or a tabletop. The included clamps can provide you with 1-9/16 inches vertically, 7-1/2 inches in parallel or 19 inches in a parallel peg, and 30 inches diagonally. The brand stands behind the product for 2 years, covering repairs caused by manufacturing defects.
Pros:
- Adjustable swivel pegs
- One-handed adjustments
- Integrated footrest
- Multi-purpose use
Cons:
- Some customers say that the jaws do not close evenly all the way
- The plastic parts used in the clamping mechanism might not be as durable
Verdict:
Heavy loads are no match for this Black+Decker Workmate which can effortlessly take on any sort of project. The oversized dimensions extend its coverage area, so you can use it for any task in the workshop. It is indeed on the heavier side, but once folded, you will not have trouble moving or storing it away.
7. Keter 217679
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Specifications:
- Materials: Polypropylene Resin, Aluminum
- Product Weight: 28.7 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 700 lbs.
- Working Surface: 33.46” × 21.65”
- Working Height: 30.3”
- Adjustable Height:
- Uses: Tabletop
/Sawhorse/Miter Saw Stand/Stand-Alone
- Features: 2 Adjustable Clamps, Underside Storage, 3 Handles, 6 Slots
- Warranty: 2 Years
Similar in design to the previous Keter model, the 217679 has a smaller load capacity that comes down to
700 pounds, which compared to other options, is still a good catch and it will work great for woodworking purposes. It provides the same lightweight and stable structure which makes it suitable for a variety of projects.
The legs are made of aluminum and can be adjusted to three different heights, going from as low as 30.3 inches to as high as 34.2 inches. The
polypropylene resin work surface offers you a moderate amount of space, namely
21.65 by 29.75 inches.
You can use this table as is, or as a 4½-inch tabletop, a sawhorse, or a miter saw stand. Two adjustable holding clamps are included and you can add more if you need to. The surface also provides 6 slots for other add-ons, underside storage similar to that of the 197283, and three sturdy handles to grab onto. After accomplishing your task, you can fold it to a compact size and carry it wherever you need. The warranty provided covers 2 years, and you can benefit from covered repairs during this time.
Pros:
- Provides a storage shelf for smaller tools
- Two included clamps
- Height-adjustable
- Weight capacity of 700 pounds
Cons:
- The clamps need to be removed in order to fold the table
- The legs don’t lock when they are in the folded position
Verdict:
Most woodworkers want a portable unit like the 217679 that is light and can be transported without a hassle. The aluminum and resin combination is good for portability purposes and the load capacity offers plenty of room.
8. WEN WB2322T
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Specifications:
- Materials: Steel, Aluminum, Plastic
- Product Weight: 27.5 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 220 lbs.
- Working Surface: 24″ × 11.75″
- Working Height: 41″
- Adjustable Height:
- Uses: Stand-Alone/Vise/Beveled Stand
- Features: Quick-Release Foot Pedal for Height, Collapsible Design, 8 Onboard Clamps, 4 Non-Slip Angled Feet, 2 Independent Hand Cranks, Protractor & Ruler (22″) on Tabletop, Beveling Top with 4 Stops
- Warranty: 2 Years
WEN comes with a piece that is both compact and versatile, with a beveling ability that can prove useful in several situations. Its build is a steel and aluminum combination, with a few plastic details.
The frame is the steel-made part to be able to provide stability and durability, and the top surface is cast aluminum to make for a resistant working space while still cutting down on the overall weight of the product. Compared to what we’ve presented on the list so far, the WB2322T is designed for smaller jobs, as
it can only hold 220 pounds and it provides a surface of 24 by 11.75 inches which can be extended to 24 by 19 inches when used as a vise. On the aluminum, you will also find a 22-inch ruler and a protractor with both imperial and metric markings.
When using it as a stand-alone, you can set it at a maximum height of 41 inches, but thanks to the adjustable feet, you can bring it down to as low as 29 inches. This adjustment can be made with the help of the foot pedal with quick release. To help you out even more, the package includes 8 clamps that can hold widths of up to 8 inches and 4 stoppers. Other features include non-slip paddings on the feet, 2 hand cranks that can be adjusted independently, and a 2-year warranty.
Pros:
- Adjustable height
- Metric and imperial measurement markings
- Versatile use
- Included clamps and stoppers
Cons:
- The angle adjustment can be tricky for one person to handle
- Customers have complained about the holding power of the clamps
Verdict:
The WEN WB2322T proves to be a highly useful, versatile tool for those who like to engage in smaller professional or DIY jobs.
9. WORX Sidekick WX066
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Specifications:
- Materials: ABS, Steel
- Product Weight: 13 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs.
- Working Surface: 24″ × 24″
- Working Height: 32″
- Adjustable Height:
- Uses: Stand-Alone
- Features: Non-Slip Feet, 2 Link Locks, 4 Clamp Pegs, 24 Holes, Side Handles
- Warranty: 30 Days
The deal with portable workbenches is to be lightweight, yet stable enough to prevent collapsing while handling heavy tools. Both are assets that you will find in this small, budget-friendly Worx model.
At only 13 pounds, it’s capable of holding up to 300 pounds without compromising on stability as long as you set it up on relatively level ground. It has an interesting design that makes it incredibly easy to fold and store away, as the
non-slip metal legs extend to provide steadiness and detach once your job is done, making relocation a breeze. Said detached legs will then go inside the table that can fold in two, and you’ll be provided with one
sturdy handle once the two side handles combine, allowing you to grab and lift it effortlessly.
The top surface is made of durable ABS, which also adds to its lightweight design, and it provides a square surface measuring 24 by 24 inches, with a leg-provided height of 32 inches. With this detail, it can be jointed with other Worx tables, including the Pegasus, as they have the same height. The included link locks will help you secure the tables in place, should you need larger working space. Don’t let the portability and ease of use confuse you, because the WX066 is solid enough to withstand many types of activities without wobbling an inch. Plus, it comes with 4 clamp pegs and 24 pre-drilled holes that will aid with keeping your project in place. A drawback we couldn’t outlook is the short warranty that only lasts for 30 days, the shortest in the field.
Pros:
- Detachable legs for simple storage
- Clamp pegs included
- Easy to maneuver
- Despite its looks, it can hold up to 300 pounds
- It can be linked to other tables with the same height
Cons:
- If you’re not careful, you can catch your fingers when folding it
- The folded position of the legs can be cumbersome
Verdict:
A smaller option, ideal for use in confined spaces, the WX066 provides increased portability due to the small weight and the slim plastic and steel combination. It can hold a decent amount of weight and it remains extremely stable thanks to the leg design that ensures it won’t tilt on level surfaces.
10. Finether Folding Bench
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Specifications:
- Materials: Steel, MDF
- Product Weight: 9 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 330 lbs.
- Working Surface: 22″ × 24″
- Working Height: 29.9″
- Adjustable Height:
- Uses: Sawhorse/Stand-Alone/Stool/Vise
- Features: Ruler & Protractor, 4 Detachable Swivel Pegs, Non-Slip Angled Feet, Integrated Tool Racks, Adjustable Jaws, 12 Holes on Each Side
- Warranty: 1 Year
Finether brings forward another multifunctional model that can be used for many purposes, including repairing, DIY projects, and woodworking.
The 22 by 24-inch working surface includes a ruler and a protractor, swivel pegs which are four in number and can also be detached, and bottom racks that you can use to keep small tools near you. The design is simple, very similar to a sawhorse, which is why it can be used as one. It also doubles as a
vise, if you need to tighten a plank in place for cutting, drilling, or sanding, or even as a
stool if you need to sit down for a moment. While it doesn’t include clamps, you can attach your own, as the top has
12 drilled holes to fit them.
Its steel and MDF build can sustain up to 330 pounds, so it can be engaged in small to moderate projects if needed. The solid legs help it remain stable under increased force but also minimize the overall weight of the product, making it easily portable at only 9 pounds. Its 30-inch height folds without hassle, turning to 36 inches in length remaining with only 6 inches in width, so it can be leaned beside a wall or placed behind a cabinet in the workshop.
Pros:
- Easy opening system
- Extremely lightweight
- Compact and easy fold-away
- Versatile use
Cons:
- Customers have complained about the clarity of the instruction manual
- Not as resistant to heavy weights as other options
Verdict:
This model from Finether can be used for many small to moderate jobs, as the slim design makes it versatile enough to handle drilling, cutting, or sanding. It’s not the sturdiest out there, but it can fit the needs of beginners who are not on the lookout for hard-wearing tools.
11. POWERTEC MT4006
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Specifications:
- Materials: Steel, Bamboo
- Product Weight: 10.78 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 220 lbs.
- Working Surface: 23⅞” × 13″
- Working Height: 32″
- Adjustable Height:
- Uses: Sawhorse/Vise/Stand-Alone
- Features: 4 Bench Pegs, 24 Holes, Calibrated Lines & Protractor, Storage Rack, Non-Marring Feet
- Warranty: 1 Year
Our last pick follows the same slim design, but this one is ideal for even smaller jobs that don’t imply heavy loads, as it can only hold
220 pounds. The legs of the MT4006 are made of
solid steel while the top part is
bamboo wood, with
24 pre-drilled holes to fit the four package-included swivel pegs and a surface-imprinted ruler and protractor to aid you in obtaining precise cuts. When joined together, the two pieces offer a
23⅞ by 13-inch workspace, and the height provided by the non-marring legs comes to
32 inches. Overall, this Powertec model comes to a weight of almost 11 pounds, making it easy to carry, store, or relocate.
Storage Rack
1 Year
As previously mentioned, the top part comprises two bamboo pieces, which means that the unit can double as a vise, and thanks to its compact size, you can also turn it into a sawhorse. The manufacturer thought it would be helpful if you could keep some of your tools within reach, so two bottom racks were added to give you plenty of space for smaller ones, such as pliers, screwdrivers, and so on. The warranty window lasts for 1 year, which is a fair trade for the price.
Pros:
- Versatile
- Very well priced
- The material is environmentally sustainable
- Swivel pegs included
- Great instruction manual
Cons:
- The work area is not very wide
- It can’t fold as flat as other models
- The leg height isn’t adjustable
Verdict:
The MT4006 is a very slim and light model, being one of the easiest to transport from this list. The weight capacity is reasonable and you will be able to depend on this product whenever you have to engage in smaller jobs.
Portable Workbench Safety Tips
Now that you have (or planning on getting) a new product that can help you around your workshop, here are a few tips that can help you use it as safely as possible:
Set it up correctly
Although for some models the set-up part might seem straightforward, it can be very easy to overlook one or two details that can have your table collapsing the moment you put something on it. Check each binding, each screw, and any other piece that might be loose or popped out of place before you begin using it.
Place it on level ground
While some models can adapt when the floor is uneven, for most, it’s better to set them up on a level ground. This is especially necessary when you’re working with heavier objects that once placed on the top can cause the bench to tip or fall over completely. When working with it outdoors, if possible, try adding a weight to each leg to keep it from moving. You can also do this if you have no other option than to work on an uneven floor. As long as the weights are 100% stable and they balance each other out, you can continue doing your job.
Don’t rely too heavily on one side
One mistake that most people make is adding to much weight only on one side of the bench, which can go wrong in two ways:
- It starts tipping, and ultimately falls to the ground
- The weighted side snaps off
Try to keep the pressure as even as possible throughout the surface of the workbench.
Don’t exceed the weight capacity
This mistake is another one that can lead to the table snapping or breaking. The weight limit is mentioned for a reason, and that reason is that the manufacturer is not responsible if you add more weight to it than it can carry. Another thing that can happen is that it doesn’t break immediately, but it cracks, and the next time you try to use it, it collapses under the slightest pressure. That can be extremely dangerous if you’re working with tools such as saws or drills.
Don’t use power tools directly on its surface
The bench’s main purpose is to hold your tools and materials, not to withstand cutting, sawing, drilling, welding, and other similar activities. You should only use it to prop or hold your materials in place while you process them on the outer side. If you damage the surface too much, the product will ultimately become unusable or it will, again, break down.
Optional Tips
- If it is adjustable: Make sure that the position you set it to is properly fixed in place to avoid having it slip around as you work. Usually, adjustments are made by rotating or snapping certain components in different directions, which can easily be overlooked if they are loose.
- If it has a vise: Make sure that you don’t leave it too loose or overtighten it. If the vise is too loose, the materials can slip out during the process, and if it is too tightened, the materials can snap from the pressure. Both outcomes can lead to either damaged products or an injury sustained by the user.
- If it’s made of metal: Make sure that there’s no water on the floor nearby and no exposed wires either. This combination can lead to electrocution in no time.
- If it’s made of plastic or wood: Don’t use welding tools or tools that can produce sparks or high heat, as these can cause the wood to catch on fire or the plastic to melt. Both can lead to injury on the user’s part as well.
Buying Guide
To ensure that you purchase the right model for you, you have to pay attention to certain features. Some companies add unnecessary features to their items because they want to add additional fees. Thus, we have a guideline with the features that you should look for:
Stability
- You want a stable table that ensures that you can handle heavy power tools and loads safely. Thus, non-slip feet are extremely important and it’s even better if they have a notable distance between them. You want to ensure that the table doesn’t skid whilst you are cutting or sawing through a material. In addition to this, you also want to ensure that the model you are looking at is made from heavy-duty materials.
Clamping Holes
- This detail will ensure that you have the possibility of tightly securing the materials you are working with into place, to prevent them from slipping and causing accidents. Check the specifications and see if your preferred model can offer you enough options, as you want to ensure that you are doing everything accurately. In addition to this, if you want to save time and energy, you need this feature whenever you drill or manipulate wood.
Work Surface
- This is another important feature which you will benefit from. The larger the surface is, the more space you have so you will work better and easier. You will be able to safely engage in any activity that requires larger tools and pieces, as you will be having everything at hand.
Foldability
- Even though the title says are portable, this doesn’t necessarily mean that every model is lightweight or completely compact. You need to ensure that you’ll be able to carry or have enough space to store it when it’s folded, so you need to pay attention to the specified measurements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a portable workbench used for?
Generally, these products are used to act as a helping hand in instances where you might not have tabletops, such as an open-field construction site. They are easy to carry and they can handle large amounts of weight to hold power tools and other workpieces.
How do you open a folding workbench?
Not all models have the same opening mechanism, therefore it would be appropriate to read the instruction manual before trying to set it up. Some have pop-pin locks, some need to be unfolded and have their legs attached, and so on.
How do you use a circular saw with a workbench?
Unless the product you choose is specifically designed to handle a circular saw, you could add two slim, long, and even pieces of wood horizontally, and then add two thin, and even, wood boards vertically, leaving enough space for the saw in between. Clamp those pieces in place securely and then fit the piece you need to cut between your table and the thin boards you’ve added. Then you can start cutting.
How much overhang should a workbench top have?
Try to get one that has 4 inches of overhang all around. The reason for this is because you might need to use clamps and you need enough space to be able to install them.
How thick should a workbench top be?
You should look for a top part with a 3 to 4-inch thickness at the very least.
How tall should a workbench be?
There is no standard height for these products. The most common range you might find is between 28 and 40 inches.
How thick should dog holes be?
The standard for these holes is either a ¾-inch or a 1-inch size.
Conclusion
Every DIY worker should own a workbench that is comprehensive and easy to handle. So, what’s better than a portable model that’s both easy to put together and carry? Based on your needs, our team has chosen and evaluated the best-selling pieces on the market that can suit all your requirements. Hoping that our article helped you figure out what you need, a final decision is all that remains. Even so, let’s quickly review the best alternatives one last time:
Best Portable Workbench for Sale:
DeWalt 92796
The best choice of them all is definitely the DeWalt 92796, as it comes with an extremely durable and reliable heavy-gauge steel build to get you through any project, from DIYs all the way to demanding welding jobs. If you don’t have enough floor space and you need to protect your permanent benches, it can also fold into a tabletop, but as a stand-alone, it can hold up to 1,000 pounds, it has height-adjustable legs, plenty of clamping holes, and other useful features that will surely win your heart.
Editor’s Choice:
WORX Pegasus WX051
Those who work in the field are aware of the prestige of the tools designed by Worx, so it comes as no surprise that this bench ranked as the favorite in our top. It’s a highly resilient option, built of steel and plastic to ensure effortless portability while providing enough support for heavy loads. When used as a workbench, it can sustain 300 pounds, and when used as a sawhorse, it carries no less than 1,000 pounds for the bulkiest of DIY projects. Its outsized dimensions promote it as an ideal choice for professionals in need of a solid and long-lasting piece of equipment.
Best Portable Workbench for the Money:
WORX Sidekick WX066
Any good tool that provides the most advantages for its price can be considered a real deal, and this one is no exception. It’s almost half of what similar models cost, but this doesn’t take away any of its reliability or durability. The materials chosen for the construction are premium quality so they can sustain medium-size loads for a variety of jobs. It’s compact, so you won’t have to struggle to find a place for it, and it immediately folds down for effortless storage and relocation.
Best Portable Workbench with Vise:
BLACK+DECKER Workmate 425
While this manufacturer has already gained popularity when it comes to power tools, it scores great points with this portable bench that will turn out more than helpful for any handyman. Made of superior quality bamboo and steel, it remains easily portable, a key aspect to have in mind, while also being supportive enough for 500-pound loads. The top part is expandable, so it can double as a vise whenever required, thus increasing its versatility. The included swivel pegs will keep in place the pieces you work with and you can always add the number of clamps you need to safely secure any object thanks to the pre-drilled holes.
Best Portable Workbench for Woodworking:
Keter 217679
For woodworking and repairs, we suggest considering this model as it’s suitable for pairing with a multitude of woodworking tools like saws, drills, even routers. It’s a versatile table that can take on various DIY jobs, so it’s great for any garage or workshop. Even though it has a sturdy design, it’s lightweight and portable, to easily carry with you anywhere needed. Many tools can be attached to it and it can hold wood planks of various lengths and thicknesses, so it’s up for any task.
