Searching the best portable folding workbench? Then your search is over.
I have compiled a list of top workbench reviews that are worth taking a look at this year.
Top 7 Best Portable Workbenches
Here’s a list of our top pick portable workbenches that are on the market today. Scroll down below to read a more detail review on each model.
- Keter folding work station – In our opinion, this is best workbench of the bunch. This was based on price, value for money and the feedback gathered from real users.
- Workmate WM1000 – One of the latest workbenches from the world renowned Workmate series. Ended up number 2 on our list because of the price tag, other than that a real solid workbench.
- WORX Pegasus Multi-Function Work Table – A model that has become very popular over the last few years and rightly so. Solid plastic construction that can be joined together and at a great price point too.
- Black & Decker WM425 Workmate Workbench – Another heavy duty workbench which gives a flat surface rather than the clamping style. A cheaper version compared to the WM1000
- Workmate WM125 – Looking for something on a budget? Then this lightweight workbench is your choice.
- Black & Decker WM225 Workmate Workbench – A slight improvement on the WM125 and at a greater cost which can take an extra 100 lbs of weight.
- Performance Tool W54025 Workbench – An entry level clamping bench for those really strapped for cash.
Portable Workbench Reviews
1. Keter Folding Work Station Workbench
Features
- Extendable legs from 30.3″ to 34.2″
- Quick opening system
- Sturdy carrying handle
- Includes two adjustable holding clamps
- Strong resin construction
- Adjustable version can has a weight limit of 700lbs
- Non-adjustable version can has a weight limit of 1000lbs
- 2 year warranty
The good
Very portable and easy to hold, simply and quick set up, second shelving is very handy to place tools on, very sturdy for placing power tools on to.
The bad
No place to store the clamps included, users have noted that the legs do not clamp firm when folded which creates a rattle, users also mentioned that the adjustable version does not offer a great range of height increments.
Our pick of the bunch has to be both of the Keter portable workbenches. The main characteristic of these models is that they fold into a very compact case which you can store in tight places anywhere around the house.
The price difference is due to the adjustable version has extendable legs which give the table more height when required. This allows for an extra 6 inches, in 2-inch increments.
2. Black & Decker WM1000 Workmate Workbench
Features
- Max load of 550lb
- Robust steel frame
- 670 x 450mm solid bamboo plate
- Quick-clamping mechanism
- One hand quick folding
- Easy to carry
- Weighs about 40lbs
- 2 year warranty
The good
New workmate model, easy transportation and versatile storage options, set up is straight forward – comes half assembled, very solid design, speed crank is handy.
The bad
Price, people over 6’5″ may find themselves hunching over, does not have the vertical & horizontal clamping like the WM425, crank belt has been known to slip off occasionally.
Overall this portable workbench is both sturdy and compact. The work surface is made of bamboo and you can turn it into a clamping mechanism when the project requires it.
It is a highly versatile work table which allows for a wide range of projects to be carried out with great ease. It has a reliable structure and a solid built. It really deserves the heavy duty feature as it allows ample projects to be done.
3. WORX Pegasus Multi-Function Work Table
Features
- 300lb max load as worktable
- 1000lb max load as a workhorse
- Connects to additional models to extend
- Includes 4 clamp dogs & 2 quick clamps
- Quick-clamping mechanism
- Easy to carry light weight design
- Weighs about 28lbs
- 3 year warranty
The good
Very highly rated, ABS plastic is thick and feels durable, can be used as either a worktable or a sawhorse, can raise both sides independently, small tool storage areas are handy and makes great value.
The bad
You cannot clamp any clamp as the underside is not flat, Black and Decker dogs/pegs will not fit these holes, some comments made that it may not be suitable for professional everyday use.
4. Black & Decker WM425 Workmate Workbench
Features
- Max load of 550lb
- Heavyweight steel design
- One-handed clamp system
- Quick-clamping mechanism
- Vertical clamping
- Includes four swivel pegs, extra block, and vise-to-workbench converter insert
- Easy to carry
- Weighs about 40lbs
- 2 year warranty
The good
Strong solid design, vertical clamping vise is great for wider pieces of wood, large working space, easy store and transport
The bad
Price, users noted the assembly instructions are not clear – took them a little longer to assemble. Reviewers complain that the moving of production from the US or Canada to China equaled a decrease in quality.
The Black & Decker WM425 Workmate folding workbench is on the higher end in terms of price, however, the good thing about the Black & Decker WM425 is that you can use the top as a vice or as a workstation, as the jaws are wide enough to allow it.
It is the perfect mix between a space saving item and fantastic features that let you work on bigger projects. This takes the model out of the hobby and novice categories and justifies the price.
5. Black & Decker WM125 Workmate Workbench
Features
- Max load of 350 lb
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Easy to carry
- Compact & lightweight
- Durable steel frame
- Weighs about 17.8 lbs
- 2 year warranty
The good
Excellent value, very light, quick assembly – comes 90% assembled, perfect for the home/ casual DIY’er.
The bad
Small working surface, not recommended for larger jobs / more frequent jobs.
The Black & Decker WM125 Workmate would be our runner up choice as it makes excellent all round value. It is a different type of workbench, compared to the Keter, as it has adjustable jaws to grip whatever item you are working on. The best thing about this model is that it allows you to work on things vertically as well.
Although the manufacturer labelled it as heavy duty folding workbench, reviewers have contradicted this claim and only recommend it for light to medium duty type of work.
This may not be the pick of a handyman working on a whole house project, however, it is still pretty good for people with specific needs, hobbies, and small projects. Yet it is recommended as being suitable for novices even by experienced reviewers.
6. Black & Decker WM225 Workmate Workbench
Features
- Max load of 450 lb
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Easy to carry
- Compact & lightweight
- Durable steel frame
- Includes four vise attachments
- Weighs about 28 lbs
- 2 year warranty
The good
Easy to use, solid design, very hand vise and bench dogs, perfect for the home/ casual DIY’er.
The bad
Small working surface, many users of the older models state the quality is as good, not recommended for larger jobs / more frequent jobs
The WM225 Workmate workbench is mid-priced that is meant to be step up from the WM125 model. It is convenient to use, of good quality, solid built, and light weight. This is a product good for both DIY beginners.
7. Performance Tool W54025 Portable Workbench
Features
- Max load of 200 lb
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Easy to carry
- Compact & lightweight
- One-handed clamp system
- Jaws can be angled
- Weighs about 18 lbs
- 1 year warranty
The good
Excellent value, easy to assemble, sturdy, great bench for light work, perfect for the home/ casual DIY’er.
The bad
Small working surface, printed measurements fade pretty quickly, instructions not great, not recommended for larger jobs / more frequent jobs.
An alternative to the WM125 is the Performance Tool W54025 portable workbench. This is a reliable workbench; it is foldable, and it is sold a low price point.
As far as built goes, this is a minimum requirement, minimum investment workbench. It does its job with basics like stamped metal and plastic parts. It is good for the money you pay for it and nothing more. This is a simple case of what you see is what you get.
Conclusion
It is no longer wise to choose a portable workbench you want to work on intensively based on one factor alone. This factor may be the brand you trust in, a price you expect to reflect a model’s specifications or the quality of the work table as resulting from its build.
The best way to pick a workbench is to choose a mix of specs you decide on, starting from your needs. Keter has put some great products on the market, yet Black & Decker, with their famous Workmate, are still a name to be reckoned with and their jawed grips are a great feature. The performance is a segment in itself, offering the basic product for a decent price.
You can look at this purchase as an investment, or you can see it as a trial. The good news is that you have a lot to choose from in all areas. You have a wide price range – $ 30 – $ 150, a wide weight load range – 200 pounds to 1000 pounds, different folding mechanisms and different clamping systems at your disposal.
The important thing is to know what you are looking for and you will find the perfect match for you.
Resources
- https://www.keter.com/en/folding-work-table-ex
- http://www.wilmarcorp.com/item.aspx?iid=7042
- https://www.blackanddecker.com/en-us/products/power-tools/project-solutions/workbenches/workmate-1000-portable-work-center-and-vise/bdst11000
- https://www.blackanddecker.com/en-us/products/power-tools/project-solutions/workbenches/workmate-p425-portable-project-center-and-vise/wm425
FYI. The keeter has cutouts on the lower level to store the clamps that are included with the bench.
Bought mine with adjustable legs for $39 at SAMs Club on sale. Regular price is $57. Can’t beat it for the price.