To do quality work, you need quality tools. But when you say, “portable,” quality is often one of the first things to go. Finding that quality portable workbench you need to get your job done well can be a hassle. So in this article we are reviewing five of the top selling workbenches to give you the inside information you need to choose the right portable work bench for your next job.
Lightweight Solutions
Some jobs are lighter work, or just smaller projects. You don’t want to have to haul your entire shop out to the site to get the easy stuff done. Check out these lightweight portable workbenches for your perfect solution.
1) The Wilmar Multi-Purpose Workbench:
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This lightweight workhorse will help you get the job done without breaking the bank. Standing at 31 inches tall, 23 and 7/8 inches long, and 25 inches wide, the Wilmar Multi-Purpose Workbench will support up to 200 pounds. It folds up for easy storage, and is outfitted with 4 bench dogs for the pesky, oddly shaped pieces. For extra practicality, the tabletop is printed with a grid, ruler, and protractor.
2) Black & Decker Workmate 125 Portable Work Bench:
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Supporting up to 350 pounds, this Black and Decker portable workbench redefines lightweight. Another great affordable solution, this bench is equipped with non-skid feet, stores easily by folding flat, and has jaws that can be angled to fit those oddly shaped pieces.
Heavy Lifters
Extended use and heavy projects require a workbench that can hold its own. Here are three portable work benches that compete for the heavy lifter title.
1) The Black & Decker Workmate 225 Portable Work Bench:
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With a 450 pound capacity, this Black and Decker portable work bench makes a great job site companion. It stands 30 inches tall, 24 inches long, and 6.8 inches wide. It can convert into a vise, sawhorse, or bench.
2) The Skil 3115-02 MPP X-Bench Workbench:
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Giving the Workmate 225 a run for its money with a 450 pound capacity, this Skil workbench includes a slide and lock system for clamping pieces in place, a solid MDF table, and it folds away for easy storage.
3) The Black & Decker Workmate 425 Portable Work Bench:
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Taking the heavy weight title with a capacity of 550 pounds, this Workmate bench is the ultimate portable workbench solution. It stands 29 inches tall, 29 inches long, and 9 inches wide. Its heavyweight steel design weighs in at 48 pounds. You can adjust the jaws independently with the one-handed clamp system. Also included are four swivel pegs, an extra block, and an additional insert that converts the vise into a workbench when you need extra room.
Whether you are looking to replaced old tools, or you are ready to extend your workforce, one of these portable workbench solutions may be the right choice for you. Match up your project needs with the bench specs provided here, and get on with what you do best: quality onsite work. It really is up to you to choose the best portable workbench that will suit your specific project needs.
For more info on other benches, check out our Top 5 DIY Garage work bench article. Another option is to look into making your own workbench by making, finding or buying some portable workbench plans. Portable work bench plans are a great way to go, but with a workbench costing as little as $30 USD, it will probably be cheaper to just buy one already made up.