Best Work Benches Buyers Guide

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Best Work Benches Buyers Guide

A workbench is arguably one of the most essential pieces of kit that you could purchase if you are planning on completing DIY jobs, woodwork or even gardening. Not having a workbench can leave you stuck working in your kitchen, on your dining room table, or worse trying to balance materials on walls or other surfaces (which is far from safe and definitely won’t leave you with a high quality finish!).

Without a workbench, you will have to pack up your jobs that you have started at the end of every day and probably get your home looking back in one piece too – whereas with a workbench you can leave a pending job waiting for you – along with the key tools you have been using too! Not only that, but some of the best workbenches are even going to come with space for you to store some of your favourite tools – keeping you organised on the job too!

Best Pick – Workbench With Double Shelf and Back Panel

Workbench With Double Shelf and Back Panel Indoor / Outdoor - Pressure Treated - Heavy Duty - Handmade Garage Workshop Work Table (6ft)
  • Arbor Garden Solutions are one of the UK's leading suppliers of industrial handmade wooden workbenches. We have a cost-effective standard range of Medium Duty, Heavy Duty, Super Heavy Duty, Mobile and With Lockable Cupboards. We specialise in bespoke custom workbenches to your sizes and your weight loadings.
  • Our high quality work benches are made from CLS C16 construction grade pressure treated timber 89mm x 38mm CLS Scandinavian softwood.
  • Our Benches are the perfect addition to your workshop, garage, shed or even a craft room.
  • Width 900mm to 3000mm x Height 900mm x Depth 640mm. Please note: Imperial measurements are for representative purposes. Workbenches will cut in metrics 4ft – 120cm, 5ft – 150cm, 6ft – 180cm and etc.
  • Assembly: The item will be delivered flat packed. This item is semi-assembled and only requires a screwdriver set to finish. Easy to follow instructions included with the 24-hour delivery notification email.

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Only Got 5 Minutes?

If you are sick of working from the corner or your garage, or using your garden wall as a workbench then this is the part of the article you need to be reading for a quick purchase. We have included the best work benches on the market at the moment and some of those key things that you need to think about before making your purchase.

Size

The size of your work bench is largely going to be dependent on the space that you have available. You want the biggest work bench that you are going to be able to get for the space that you have available, as this will allow you to complete bigger jobs or sometimes multiple jobs at once. However, you also don’t want a model that is too bulky as this can take away precious space from your workshop, garage or shed, which is the last thing you want if you are restricted in space.

We found that sizes ranged from around 50cm all the way up to just under a metre so it is worth checking for this before you make your purchase.

When looking at the size you always need to consider the height of your work bench. Not many workbenches are adjustable in height so it is crucial that you check the height is going to be suitable for your own height, otherwise you could find yourself in some uncomfortable working situations, resulting in a bad back or arm strain.

Material

There are three main groups of materials that you will find used for work benches; wood, plastic and metal.

  • Wood – a traditional workbench will be made from wood, so if you are wanting that classic and timeless look then it just HAS to be wood that you go for in our opinion. However there are some downsides to these benches, such as the ease at which they scratch and mark and the overall weight, which makes them very difficult to move around once in position! Although a wooden workbench won’t LOOK new for very long, it really will be able to stand the test of time providing it’s kept somewhere dry.
  • Metal – metal workbenches are strong and durable but definitely lighter than their wooden counterparts. You will also find that they are easier to look after and keep clean, so will look new for longer but they are at risk of becoming rusted overtime if they are not well maintained. Aluminium frames will be relatively light and also highly durable. However, if you are wanting a seriously strong frame then steel is going to be the best metal to go for!
  • Plastic – plastic workbenches are going to be the cheapest and lightest options available to you, plus there are portable models available for if you are short on space (more on this below). However plastic will often have a lower maximum load and damage easier if you are not careful – although they are incredibly easy to clean!

TOP TIP: If you are opting for a wooden work bench then we would recommend looking for one made of solid, dried wood which has been pretreated (providing you are happy to have a heavier model). This is the best way to ensure your work bench is going to last a long time!

Maximum Load

It is important to consider the maximum load that your work bench is able to hold – particularly if you know that you are going to be working with heavier and larger materials. More often than not any workbench is going to be able to handle standard DIY jobs but it is better to be safe than sorry!

There is quite a variation in the maximum load that your work bench will be able to hold depending on the style of work bench that you are looking at. Portable workbenches could be as little as 100kg whereas others can take upwards of 250kg.

Design

There are multiple design features in different workbenches to make them stand out from the crowd. These can be hard to choose between so we would recommend thinking about the types of tools that you use most regularly and the types of jobs that you complete.

Some workbenches have tall backs that allow you to hang tools that you use most regularly, which will make it much easier when you are swapping multiple times during jobs, plus provides a bit of a fence to help steady materials.

Other work benches will come with drawers underneath that allows you to store and organise your tools, whilst still having easy access to them whilst you are working. Some also have an assortment of both drawers and cupboards which allows you more flexibility in the tools that you can store.

If you frequently use large power tools such as circular saws or routers then look out for a workstation that can be transformed to accommodate these tools. This will allow them to be attached safely and securely when you are working! We even found some high end models that come with an emergency stop button which will cut off the electricity supply to your tool should you need it!

Best Budget – Heavy Duty Workbench

Work Bench Garage Metal Storage Shelving DIY Tools Heavy Duty Workbench Table Workshop Shed / 2 Shelves 90cm x 120cm x 60cm Black
  • Protective Rubber Feet: Our workbench is equipped with protective rubber feet that not only ensure stability but also prevent damage to your floor, making it ideal for various settings.
  • 100% Boltless Shelving: Experience hassle-free assembly with our innovative keyhole mechanism, allowing the workbench to be easily and securely put together without the need for bolts or nuts.
  • Customise Your Workspace: Choose from three appealing colours to match your workspace and personal style, adding a touch of aesthetics to your work environment.
  • Strong MDF Shelves: Two sturdy MDF shelves on the workbench can each hold an impressive 200kg of weight, providing ample space for tools, equipment, and materials, making it perfect for heavy-duty tasks.
  • Robust Steel Frame: Built to withstand rigorous use, the workbench features a high-quality steel frame, ensuring durability and reliability for various professional and DIY projects.

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Additional Work Bench Features

Now that you know the main things you need to consider before purchasing a work bench, here are some of those extra features worth considering…

  • Vices – It is worth considering whether you are going to need a vice to attach to your workbench (and from our experience you will at some point or another!). If so then make sure to choose a workbench that either comes with a vice attached or is the right built to allow for a vice to be attached. If you are wanting a workbench that will offer that extra security and strength then go for dual clamping cranks, as this will give you both more force and more versatility!
  • Folding vice workbenches – These are fantastic for if you are completing woodwork jobs regularly. The actual benches of the workbench are split into two parts that are brought together and apart by cranks. This means that the workbench itself becomes a large vice that can hold large materials whilst you are working.
  • Lockable drawers – If you choose a work bench with drawers then it may be worth paying the little bit extra for a model that has lockable drawers. This will help you to make sure that your tools are safe even when you are packed away, and could save you from having to purchase a toolbox too.
  • Easy to clean – This might sound like a small thing but look out for a workbench that doesn’t have lots of grooves, nooks and crannies! Smooth surfaces will be much easier to clean at the end of a working day, especially if you have been completing woodwork jobs involving a considerable amount of dust.
  • Light rail/light included – When working it is important to have the best visibility possible if you are wanting to complete the job you are working on to a high standard. This can be difficult in many workshops or garages that you are working in, so opting for a workbench with either a light included or a light rail so that one can be added is a great feature to look out for!

Portable Workbenches

If you know that you are going to need to be working in different places then it may be that a portable workbench is the right option for you. There are different ways in which a manufacturer may make their workbenches portable, so it is important to look into these to find the best for you.

Some come on large wheels with brakes which will allow you to move your workbench around your workshop, shed or garage depending on the job that you are completing. This offers you great flexibility in being able to move around the room and connect your workbench to other surfaces when you are working on bigger projects. However, these are usually found on larger workbenches, which means that although your workbench is going to be portable around that one room, it will be difficult for you to move it anywhere else other than this!

If that is going to be an issue for you and you need a workbench that can be used here, there or anywhere, then you are going to need a folding workbench. These are perfect for if you have limited space in your workshop or need to be able to “set up shop” in different locations. They can be folded away and stored when not in use, but will be sturdy and secure when you are working. The only issue with these models is that they do tend to be on smaller side and often have a lower weight load, meaning that they will not be up to the bigger tasks that you have planned. We found that most weight loads ranged from around 100kg up to 250kgs for these models.

TOP TIP: If you are opting for a portable, folding workbench then make sure you check reviews for how fast your workbench will be to set up. Some have fantastic design features that allow you to simply click the workbench into place but others are much more complicated than that!

If it is definitely a portable workbench that you are after, then why not check out our Portable Workbench Buyers Guide.

Best of the Rest

Keter Folding Work Table, Black, 85x55x75.5 cm
  • Portable and lightweight work table with integrated handle for easy transportation with a unique quick-opening system
  • Folding design to save storage space.
  • 12'' clamps that can be installed both horizontally and vertically, to suit almost any job.
  • Large work surface that holds up to 453kg
  • No assembly required and only 30 seconds to set up and use.

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Dirty Pro Tools™ 45" Professional Heavy Duty Workbench with Ball Bearing Slides Draws
  • truly professional Heavy duty Workbench,
  • 1 piece smooth top board , Wood work surface: Dimension: 113.8(Width) x 57.7 cm(Depth)
  • 45 kg drawer capacity make it useful for large heavy tools
  • Pegboard for easy tool storage is supplied with hooks for hanging tools
  • weight 50 kgs

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Workbench With Double Shelf Indoor/Outdoor - Pressure Treated - Heavy Duty - Handmade Garage Workshop Work Table (6ft)
  • Arbor Garden Solutions are one of the UK's leading suppliers of industrial handmade wooden workbenches. We have a cost-effective standard range of Medium Duty, Heavy Duty, Super Heavy Duty, Mobile and With Lockable Cupboards. We specialise in bespoke custom workbenches to your sizes and your weight loadings.
  • Our high quality work benches are made from CLS C16 construction grade pressure treated timber 89mm x 38mm CLS Scandinavian softwood.
  • Our Benches are the perfect addition to your workshop, garage, shed or even a craft room.
  • Width 900mm to 3000mm x Height 900mm x Depth 640mm. Please note: Imperial measurements are for representative purposes. Workbenches will cut in metrics 4ft – 120cm, 5ft – 150cm, 6ft – 180cm and etc.
  • Assembly: The item will be delivered flat packed. This item is semi-assembled and only requires a screwdriver set to finish. Easy to follow instructions included with the 24-hour delivery notification email.

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Frequently Asked Questions

What warranty can I get with a work bench?
Some of the best workbenches actually come with a lifetime guarantee, so you can be sure that it is going to stand the test of time! Other models largely come with between a 5 and 10 year warranty, which is still more than reasonable as your workbench is likely to last longer than this if it is well looked after! Just be sure to check the terms of the warranty as some aren’t covered for anything that classes as commercial use!

Can you use a workbench when welding?
Yes you can, providing you are careful about the type of material work bench that you opt for. It is important not to purchase a workbench with a galvanised top if you are going to be using your work bench for welding but otherwise you should be ok.

Do all workbenches come with levelling feet?
No, so this is something that it is important to check for before purchasing. Levelling feet will enable you to adjust the height of the individual legs of your workbench so that you can make sure there is no movement when working. This is a fantastic feature but doesn’t come with all models, particularly portable workbenches so it is important to check for it!

Is a wooden workbench practical?

There are many pros and cons to wooden workbenches. They are the traditional material choice for a good reason – wood is going to be strong and incredibly long lasting so you won’t need to worry about replacing it any time soon. The only real downside is that the workbench top isn’t going to stay looking new for long. Wood is going to be much harder to remove marks and stains from, and will scratch easier than other materials – but personally we think this adds to the effect!

  • Performance
  • Features
  • Ergonomics
  • Value
About Thomas Paxton 368 Articles
Hey there, I'm Thomas Paxton, your Tool Guru with a Twist! I've been knee-deep in the world of tools since I was a little tinkerer in my dad's shed. Now, I'm running my own website where I share my passion for tools and gardening products through buyers guides and insightful tips. I've got the knowledge and experience to break down complex concepts into simple, easy-to-understand language. I purchased Tools Review from Mike Jones at the start of 2023, he has done a sterling job of building the site and I hope I can continue in his success! When I'm not writing guides, you'll find me in my garden or garage, putting my skills to work and pushing the boundaries of creativity. So, whether you're a pro or just starting out, join me on this adventure, and let's conquer DIY projects together!

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