Read the original post 11 Best Workbenches to Turn Your Garage Into A Great One on Full Gleam.
A garage workbench is an excellent tool to have in any garage. It will help to keep your garage organized. Have you ever needed to find a tool but can’t remember where you left them? Now you can store all of them neatly on the shelf and retrieving them is no longer a nightmare.
Aside from adequate shelving storage, a workbench will provide you with a sturdy top, perfect workspace for any DIY, small, and heavy-duty projects. Plus, a high-quality workbench is an excellent investment because it can serve you for years.
Now, if you’re looking to buy a garage workbench, you came to the right place. In this article, we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best workbench on the market right now. We’ve also put together a buying guide and FAQ to help you understand which factors to consider when getting the garage workbench that works best for you.
So, in this article, we’ll explore:
- The Best Garage Workbench in The Market
- Benefits of Using a Workbench
- What to Consider When Buying a Garage Workbench
- Types of Workbenches
- What Is the Best Material for a Workbench Top?
- What is the Best Height for a Workbench?
- What is the Best Wood for a Workbench Top?
- How to Build a Garage Workbench?
- How to Build a Workbench Along Garage Wall?
- How to Organize A Garage Workbench?
Also, we’ve written another great article about all the ‘must-have’ mechanic tools you should have in your garage. To learn more, head over to our Mechanic Tools article.
The Best Garage Workbench in The Market
If you’re not the type who likes to read through reviews but want to know which the best garage workbench quickly, then we’d like to recommend the above three best pick.
But, if you want to consider all the purchasing options carefully, there are many options you can choose. Here are some of the best workbench top for you to check out:
1. 2×4 Basics Custom Work Bench And Shelving System
- Lumber not included
- Includes 4 workbench legs, 6 shelf links
- Brackets made of heavy gauge structural...
- Customizable workbench and shelving
For some, the best workbench is the one that can carry heavy stuff and also has a great shelving system. This one from 2×4 basics is an excellent workbench to look into.
This product is highly customizable and includes four workbench legs and six shelf links. It has brackets made from sturdy heavy gauge structural resin.
You can build a workbench with a height of 36 inches, and each shelf you make can hold up to 1,000 pounds.
A big advantage of this design is it makes it relatively easy to produce a straight & level bench on the first try, since the pre-fab legs do much of the work for you. It’s also extremely flexible and customizable. – Amazon, Paul C
What’s more, this do-it-yourself product comes with easy-to-follow instructions. All you need is lumber, a powered screwdriver, and a saw.
Plus, you get a lifetime warranty.
2. Seville Classics UltraHD 12-Drawer Rolling Workbench
If a workbench with multiple drawers is what you want, this one from Seville Classics might just be what you’re looking for.
This workbench is made with an all-steel frame, so you know you’re getting a high-quality and heavy-duty product.
You get 12 awesome drawers that have rubber-padded liners, and it stainless steel cabinet with a lock. Its wheels are also durable, and 5 inches thick, two of which are locking.
The dimensions of this workbench are 72 inches width by 20 inches depth by 37.5 inches height, and it weighs 317 pounds.
What’s more, it has a beautiful silver finish that sure will look nice in your garage. And, it’s also one of the best portable workbenches in the market too.
3. Seville Classics UltraHD Lighted Workbench
- Crafted with Ultraguard stainless steel...
- The powder-coate finish defends your bench...
- The Lighted Workcenter includes the built-in...
- The unit features a vast pegboard (with 23...
Some people like working at night and need fluorescent light when inside their garage. If you’re one of those people, then this lighted work bench is one of the best garage workbenches for you.
It is made with a heavy-duty steel frame and stainless-steel drawers that are fingerprint-resistant. It also has a built-in fluorescent light and an easy-to-reach power strip.
A 23-hook pegboard also comes with this workbench, as well as a small cantilever shelf for storing your other work supplies.
This workbench has a powder-coated finish. Its dimensions are 48 inches length by 24 inches width by 65.5 inches height, and it weighs 113 pounds.
4. BenchPro Premium Table & Workbench
- Made here in North America
- 1,200 lb. Capacity
- 1 1/8" Thick Particleboard.
- 24"W x 48"L x 30"-36"H
If you’re looking for a work bench with a top made from particleboard, you might want to check out this one from Bench Pro.
It features a solid high-density particleboard top that is 1 and 1/8 inches thick. It also has powder-coated legs that can hold up to 1,200 pounds of equipment.
This is a really sturdy little workbench built with heavy metal legs and members. What I really like is that it had an adjustable height. – Amazon, T. Scott
The adjustable legs provide ergonomic comfort and increase your productivity. Not only that, this industrial-grade workbench meets many standards, including the NASI, BIFMA, DIN, and GSA.
You can also enjoy a 25-year unconditional warranty. You can also install additional accessories like shelve and lighting to make it more suitable for your needs. Accessory sold separately, though.
This workbench has the dimensions 24 inches depth by 48 inches length.
5. Goplus Bamboo Top Workbench
- 【Large Workspace and Leg Room】Equipped...
- 【Sturdy Construction】The top part of this...
- 【Natural Material Design】Made of natural...
- 【Multipurpose Table】The 1.5" thick solid...
Like the workstation above, the Goplus heavy-duty workbench provides you with a large workspace and legroom. What’s great about this work bench is that its tabletop is made of bamboo fiber, which is an environment-friendly material.
The structure is made of a steel-reinforced frame that allows it to support up to 1,500 pounds, which is equivalent to half of car weight. It also has four adjustable legs with a powder-coated finish to resist corrosion and scratch-resistant.
Its top is made from natural bamboo that is covered with UV protection oil-based paint, which is non-toxic and is smooth to touch.
You will be working on a large table when you get this workbench. It is also a multi-purpose table and can be used for a variety of projects, from DIY to auto repair.
It is also waterproof and easy to clean. The workbench has the dimensions, 65 inches length by 18 inches width by 39 inches height.
6. WORX Pegasus Multi-Function Work Table and Sawhorse
- Versatile worktable converts to a sawhorse or...
- Compact, foldable and lightweight for...
- Worktable supports up to 300 lbs., sawhorse...
- Includes two (2) Quick Clamps and four (4)...
Sometimes what you need is a multi-purpose and portable workbench that you can bring anywhere you’re working at, and that’s where this one from WORX comes in.
This workbench features a 31-inch by 25-inch surface that is capable of carrying up to 300 pounds and has a unique link-lock system that keeps it sturdy without buckling.
It also has quick clamps and clamps dogs that allow you to hold a variety of tools and materials securely.
This work bench is very versatile. You can use it for any small or big projects. Plus, the compact and lightweight design make it highly portable and easy to store.
One of the unique features of the Worx Pegasus is that you can connect two or more workbenches to create a larger workspace.
7. Seville Classics UltraGraphite Wood Top Workbench on Wheels
- Dimensions: 48 W x 24.7 D x 37.4 H Inches
- Polyurethane coated solid wooden top (48 x 24...
- UltraGraphite Wood Top Workbench on Wheels...
- Steel frame in graphite finish; The two steel...
Another excellent product from Seville Classics is this UltraGraphite Wood Top Workbench. It’s one of the best workbench tops for people that are looking for a smaller workstation.
It features a polyurethane-coated, solid wood top, and a steel frame that can support a weight capacity of 500 pounds. It also features industrial-strength powder-coated steel sliding drawers and built for durability.
The top is shiny and really sharp! The drawers open and close so well, very good quality. It also comes with liners! – Amazon, F. Weigel
Its drawers have ball bearing sliders; and this workbench has four wheels, two of which are locking.
It’s a definite workbench that can be used in both a household and commercial garage.
This workbench has the dimensions 48 inches width by 24.7 inches depth by 37.4 inches height.
8. HuskyTools Extra Deep 9-Drawer Mobile Workbench
- 46 in. x 24 in. solid wood top provides a...
- Drawer dimensions: top drawer: 41.5 in. W x...
- 19,650 cu. in. of storage, 36% more than 18...
- Internal keyed locking system (with 2...
Another metal work bench with lots of handy drawers is this one from HuskyTools. If you need a workbench that has extra-deep drawers, you should get this product.
This work bench is 24.5-inch deep, which creates 36% more storage capacity than traditional 18-inch deep units. The extra depth also means there is a much larger top to use as a work surface for all your projects. Btw, the top is made of solid wood.
HuskyTools work bench is made from a welded steel construction that has a rust-resistant, powder-coated finish, which is known to be durable as well.
Not only that it has numerous drawers of different sizes and depths so you could keep a variety of tools and accessories organized. Messy garage no more.
You also get two full-extension, ball-bearing drawers that can hold up to 100 pounds.
This workbench is exceptionally secure and has an internal keyed locking system. You can also make use of is integrated power strip and 2 USB ports.
9. COSCO 66721DKG1E Folding Workbench and Table
- Take this portable workbench on wheels...
- Compact and easily folds in seconds for...
- Heavy duty, made from steel, weight capacity...
- Two locking casters to keep it in place while...
If your garage has limited space, it’s hard to place a permanent workbench. You’ll need something portable and easy to keep when not in use like this folding workbench by Cosco.
The Cosco workbench is made with industrial-strength steel and has a weight capacity of up to 350 pounds. It also features an MDF top shelf and a bottom shelf. It also comes with wheels and can lock it in place with two locking casters.
The tabletop measured 51.4 inches length by 26.5 inches width by 34 inches height, which gave you ample working space that you can use for different projects like woodwork, crafts, and other garage activities.
What’s more, it can fold in seconds and be easily stored away. That’s the reason why it’s also highly portable.
10. Kreg KWS1000 Mobile Project Center
- Multiple work modes provide maximum...
- Folds down in seconds for work on the go, and...
- Hole pattern on tables accept bench dogs and...
- Built-in storage trays hold hardware and...
Another good folding workbench that we like to add to the list is this one from Kreg Projects. If portability is an important feature for you, then look into this one.
This workbench is very versatile and has multiple work modes that you can utilize. It can be a workbench, a sawhorse, an assembly table, and even a clamping station.
It has heavy-gauge steel legs that are both sturdy and stable. It even has hole patterns that can hold bench dogs and other accessories.
You can even add bench clamps, and the built-in tray provides more storage as well.
This workbench is also highly portable since it can open up and ready to use in seconds. You can even expand it by connecting it with another Kreg Mobile Project Center.
11. Keter Folding Compact Workbench
- DIMENSIONS: 33. 46" L x 21. 65" W x 29. 75" H
- ACCESSORIES: Includes two 12 inch Clamps
- WEIGHT CAPACITY: Work surface holds up to...
- PORTABILITY: Unique quick opening and folding...
If you’re looking for a portable and folding workbench that can hold up to 1000 pounds, then the Keter Folding Work Table is the one for you.
It is made from heavy-duty resin and has aluminum legs for better stability and durability. Its plastic base is crack-resistant, rust-resistant, dent-resistant, and does not fade or peel.
What’s more, you can use this workbench for a variety of activities, be it a home improvement to commercial projects. Its materials are also tough and weather-resistant so that you can work in any environment.
When not in use, this work bench can be folded and turn into a carrying case for that can be easily carried around and save space on storage.
This workbench has the dimensions 33.46 inches width by 21.65 inches depth by 29.75 inches height.
Buying Guide & FAQ
Benefits of Using a Workbench
So, if you’re wondering what are the benefits of using a work bench, well, here are some of the top benefits if you use one:
- Heavy Weight Capacity
This depends on the purpose of you getting a workbench. Some tables are made to withstand carrying heavy objects, while others, not so much.
If you know you’ll be handling heavy parts and equipment, make sure to get a durable workbench which has a high weight capacity.
It’s always safe to go with a garage workbench that can hold up more weight so you can work with larger items or heavier project without fearing the work bench will break. The only downside of such workbenches is that it’s usually heavy.
- Dedicated Work Space
When working on projects like automotive, some processes are easier done while sitting down or away from your actual car. For example, cleaning spark plugs and whatnot.
A workbench helps you stay on track and being efficient. You can do all the small, detailed stuff on a dedicated workspace where you can have all the tools needed to get the job done place near to you.
Plus, you won’t need to borrow the kitchen table anymore since you already have one in the garage.
- Storage Unit
Some workbenches have built-in storage systems. That means you can maximize all the drawers and cabinets all you need.
A workbench like this is perfect, especially if you don’t have much space in your garage to place a tool cabinet. You can store small, loose parts, mechanic tools, and even power tools in your workbench.
What to Consider When Buying a Garage Workbench
Just like any other product, there are several features that you should keep in mind when buying a garage workbench.
Below are a few features to consider when choosing your workbench:
- Weight Capacity
Like what was said above, work tables and benches are made with different weight capacities in mind. The general idea here is that the higher the weight capacity, the heavier the workbench will become. Luckily, most workbenches come with wheels attached underneath for portability just like wheel dollies.
It’s a good idea to think ahead and know if you’re going to be handling large and heavy equipment. If so, make sure to get a workbench with high weight-bearing.
Some workbenches can hold anything from about a thousand pounds to as high as three thousand. Averagely, a car weight about 3,000 pounds.
It is also a good idea to check what kind of worktop and frame is used to build your workbench. Rugged steel is an excellent material for high weight-bearing workbenches.
- Height Adjustability
There is no right height when it comes to workbenches. It really depends on your own height and what you’re going to use it for.
Some of the workbenches sold in the market today have fixed heights and are inexpensive. This type is excellent for most construction projects. For work like sanding or cutting, a lower workbench (six inches below your shirt cuff) is better.
If you mostly work with assembly and repair projects, get one that is six inches above your shirt cuff.
Now, it doesn’t make sense to get all these three types of workbenches. So, if you want a workbench that you can conveniently use for all kinds of work, then get a workbench that has adjustable heights feature.
- Durability
Durability is another crucial feature that makes a good workbench. From time to time, you might need to work with heavy parts/objects. You will want a workbench with a solid, thick top that can withstand heavy-duty activities like sawing and hammering.
It’s crucial that the workbench you’re getting can hold steadily when you place things on top of it and can withstand the pressure of heavy weight items. The last thing you want is the tabletop breaks, and things fall onto your feet.
- Lights
Some workbenches come with integrated lights, while others do not. Having lights near your work area is helpful, especially if your garage is dark or if you like working at night. What’s more, workbenches that have lights also have a power strip which is also useful.
Types of Workbenches
If you intend to have a workspace just to do small to medium DIY projects or repairs, a simple garage workbench is all you need.
But there are different kinds of workbenches depending on the type of work you’ll be doing most often. Here are three types of workbenches that you might encounter while buying:
- Garage Workbench
Garage workbenches are the standard designed workbenches and are probably the most common type you can easily buy them from your local store
They are usually used for home repair and other carpentry projects. This type of workbench can also come with drawers and a shelving system. Some example of garage workbenches is:
– Stand-Alone. Simple design and come with a heavy-duty tabletop but lack of any kind of storage space.
– Foldable. Usually compact in design, highly portable, excellent for tiny garages or bring along to work sites.
– With Storage. Comes with different kinds of storage solutions like shelves, pegboards, drawers, and the like. Best to place it in the garage and it’s quite heavy.
- Industrial Workbench
Industrial workbenches are like the regular workbenches, except they are designed to be sturdier and longer-lasting. They also come in bigger sizes. Normally home garage won’t fit them.
Industrial workbenches are a better fit if you’re going to work on more heavy-duty projects since they are great at withstanding heavy weight.
Most industrial workbenches are made with durable materials like steel.
- Electronic Workbench
Electronic workbench is used by people who commonly work with electronic devices. It is outfitted with special modifications like more electrical outlets and a master power switch to help you with your electronic projects.
- DIY Workbench
As the name suggests, you can build your own work bench. It’s quite easy if you’re skilled in carpentry and it’s not that expensive to DIY one too.
The advantage of building your own work bench is that you can design and customize it whichever way you want.
Check out this video on how to build a simple work bench that cost $60 in less than an hour:
What Is the Best Material for a Workbench Top?
The tabletop is an integral part of your workbench since you will be doing most of your work on it. So, make sure you get the material that works best for your projects.
To determine the best material for a workbench top will depend on your workbench’s purpose. Here are a few common tops to choose from:
- Wood
Wood is one of the most common yet strongest and is an excellent material for any tabletop. They are designed to withstand high impacts, heat exposure, and marring.
Wooden workbench tops are perfect for multi-purpose projects, including assembly and repair. The most common type of wood used in workbenches is thick maple.
- Plastic/Laminate
If you’re looking for a lightweight workbench top, then you’d probably like plastic or laminate better. They are also non-conductive, which makes them great for when you’re working on electrical projects.
Laminate coatings last a long time and can protect your workbench from stains and scratches as well.
- Steel
If durability is your main concern, there’s no better workbench top than steel. It is the most durable and sturdiest material used for workbench tops. Steel workbench tops are also known to last through years, even with constant heavy use.
- Particleboard
Another common workbench top material is made from tiny wood particles that were pressure-bonded together.
They are perfect for light to medium projects that don’t require heavy equipment. Most tops made from particleboard are also coated with laminate which makes them easy to clean.
What is the Best Height for a Workbench?
Like what was said above, there is no right height when it comes to workbenches.
The best workbench height depends on how tall you are and for what purpose you’re going to use your workbench for.
As a rule of thumb, though, the standard height of a workbench is thirty-four inches. Let this be a guide for when you’re out buying your own.
If you’re not sure what height works best for you or you want a workbench that can adapt to different jobs, it might be better to get a garage workbench that has an adjustable height.
To learn more about how to choose the right workbench for your height, watch this video:
What is the Best Wood for a Workbench Top?
If you decided to go with a wood top work bench, do you know which type of wood is the best for the tabletop?
Well, there are a few types of wood option. But the kind of wood you choose is depending on your budget and the kind of work you’d be using your workbench for.
So, instead of telling you what the best is, here are some common wood types used for workbench tops:
- Soft Wood: Relatively inexpensive, keeps items safe, easily dented, durable enough.
- Hard Wood: Expensive, highly durable, does splinter, seasonally expands and contracts which might create cracks.
- Plywood: Relatively inexpensive, durable, unaffected by seasonal humidity, not perfectly flat, durable enough.
- Medium-Density Fibreboard (MDF): Relatively inexpensive, unaffected by seasonal humidity, flatter than plywood, durable enough.
Most of the workbenches you find selling in the store is made with plywood or MDF due to lower cost. But for durability, hardwood is better but costly.
So, now you see, which type of wood you select for the workbench top does depend on your budget.
How to Build a Garage Workbench?
If you want to save your money, you can make your own garage workbench. It’s actually inexpensive to build one, and there are many DIY articles and videos on building a work bench.
However, it requires a lot of effort and time to build one, though.
To help you determine whether you’d rather DIY your workbench or not, here are ten steps you need to go through to build a work bench. But these steps are just a summary. For more details, watch the video below.
- Step 1: Determine your Dimensions.
Make sure to measure your workspace. Determine your desired length, width, and height in accordance with the measurements of your workspace.
- Step 2: Choose your Workbench Top.
Pick what kind of workbench top you want to install. It’s vital that you get a top that is sturdy and flat. Cut your chosen workbench top to fit your desired dimensions.
- Step 3: Cut your Workbench Legs.
Cut out four legs from 4×4 planks. To measure, the length of a leg should be the height you want minus your workbench top’s thickness.
- Step 4: Cut Leg Braces.
Cut four leg braces from 2×4 planks. To measure, the leg brace should be equal to the width of your workbench top minus the width of two 2×4 planks.
- Step 5: Combine Legs and Leg Braces.
Lay down two 4×4 legs parallel to each other, their distance equal to the length of the brace. Repeat on the other side.
- Step 6: Bolt in Top Leg Braces.
Use a 3/8-inch drill bit to drill two holes through the 2×4 and 4×4 planks. Make sure that the drill holes are diagonal from each other.
Slide in bolts and close them with washers. Use nuts to hold them in place. Repeat on the other side.
- Step 7: Bolt in Bottom Leg Braces.
Flip the leg pair and repeat the step above. However, raise the brace a few inches, so it doesn’t touch the floor.
- Step 8: Cut Supports.
Cut supports from 2×4 planks. To measure, each support is equal the length of your workbench top.
- Step 9: Bolt in Supports.
Lay both leg pairs down with the top braces facing away from each other. Place the support across the leg pairs and drill a hole, bolt it in, and repeat on the other side.
- Step 10: Attach Workbench Top.
Lay the workbench top in your newly built frame and drill holes through the supports. Bolt it in and secure it in place.
You probably realize by now that to DIY a work bench requires a lot of woodwork and carpentry skill. So, if you do not have the time or expertise, it’s better to buy one from the store.
But, if you still want to go down the DIY route, no problem. Just watch this video and learn how you can build a 2×4 workbench for under $100:
How to Build a Workbench Along Garage Wall?
If your garage doesn’t have a lot of space, a workbench that attached to the wall might be a better option for you. Unfortunately, we didn’t find any pre-made that available to buy off the shelf, so you’ll definitely need to DIY.
But good news! It’s just like making a regular workbench but with a few more special parts needed.
Like the workbench steps above, the first thing you need to determine is your desired dimensions. Make sure that the workbench comes up to a height that is comfortable for you.
Next is to measure the different parts of your workbench, like legs, the worktop, and the leg brace. You might also need to measure along your wall to know where you’d need to drill your holes in.
Supports can vary from what type of workbench you’ll make. If you’re making a stationary workbench, you can use the design of the support from the steps above.
A folding workbench, on the other hand, may need a different design of support. So make sure to know what type of workbench works for you the best before making one.
Here is an excellent video showing you how to build a folding workbench that attached along the wall. When not in use, you can fold it up to save space.
How to Organize A Garage Workbench?
Once you’ve decided on the type of workbench you’re going to get, the next step is to get the accessories and organizer that you will need to keep it organized.
These organizers are a necessity since an organized workbench provides better efficiency and performance than a messy one.
- Toolboxes
Toolboxes houses all your tools. It is a lightweight alternative to keeping all your different wrenches, screwdrivers, and other mechanic tools cataloged and easier to reach. Plus, they are a less expensive storage solution too.
- Pegboard
Vertical storage is perfect for the back of your workbench. Here you can hang your most-used tools so that you can conveniently reach for them anytime. You can also use it as extra shelving for your smaller parts.
- Auto Parts Storage
Working with cars will show you just how many odds and ends they have. With the many parts you deal with, it’s easy to lose some of them.
Having dedicated storage or toolbox for all your small and large auto parts can solve the problem. Just remember to organize accordingly so you can get them quickly at a glance.
- Stools
Not all your projects will require you to stand up, so a workbench stool is a definite must. Make sure to get a stool that you can sit in for an extended period.
Its height should also match well with you and workbench’s height. You should be able to work comfortably while sitting down.
