The Best Portable Folding Workbenches for 2022
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Best Portable Folding Workbench
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These versatile workbenches are a must-have for woodworkers, DIY enthusiasts, carpenters, and home mechanics. To help you select which one is best for you, I have outlined the various features below along with a list of the best portable folding workbenches currently available.
UPDATED: March 31, 2022.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the Worx WX051 Pegasus because it features a compact, lightweight design that includes a sawhorse, two quick clamps, and folds down to just five inches thick.
Here of some features and components to be aware of when selecting a model of workbench:
Materials
Traditionally portable workbenches were constructed with a steel structure and legs with a wooden top (such as bamboo). However, modern workbenches commonly use a form of polypropylene resin along with a steel or aluminum structure. The use of resin components offers the best of both worlds because it has the benefit of being lightweight but also strong and sturdy.
Versatility
Another advancement in the world of workbenches is the ability to convert the table into other helpful equipment. Some models over the ability to configure it into a sawhorse, dolly, floor creeper, or scaffold platform. This can offer the benefit of not having to buy this other equipment but also not having to store them somewhere.
Clamping
The ability to clamp materials to the tabletop is an essential feature of a workbench. Some models will include clamps that slot into the surface, making for a complete package. Otherwise, any standard bar clamps will help to secure a workpiece to the top.
Another clamping method that some models utilize is separating the top surface in half. This forms two jaws that can be cranked open and closed. This allows for a project to be held securely between the jaws or with pegs inserted into holes in the top.
Load Capacity
The load capacity is simply how much weight the workbench can support. This can vary widely depending on the design and materials. The standard rating is around 500 pounds but it also can be as low as 200 pounds or 1000+ pounds. It is important to know the weight of the tools (such as a sliding miter saw) or projects you will be putting on top, to find one with the appropriate rating.
Note that for combination models the load capacity will be different for the workbench versus the sawhorse.
Portability
One of the major benefits of these workbenches is the ability to fold them up into a compact form. This compact design allows for easy transport and allows you to easily bring your work table with you wherever it is needed. Check the product information to see the thickness when folded as this is another key component to its ultimate portability.
In addition to carrying it around, folding offers the ability to reduce the required storage area in your garage or shed.
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Table Size
The dimensions of the tabletop are an important factor to consider. The larger the area of the table the easier it will be to work with big workpieces. However, given these are portable, the larger table translates to a larger object to transport. Depending on your typical project and your need to move it from place to place will determine the best size for you.
Table Height
Some models offer the ability to adjust the height of the tabletop either through moveable or folding legs. This can be helpful when switching between projects. For example, if you are placing a miter saw on top you may want the table lower to account for the thickness of the base. Having a lower surface can be beneficial when working over a workpiece. Conversely, a higher table surface can help to reduce back strain when working.
Weight
Another aspect of portability is the weight of the workbench. Obviously the heavier the workbench the more difficult it will be to move around. However, often more robust materials are used for higher load capacities which will result in a heavier table. This is a tradeoff you will need to consider between portability and capacity.
Now, on to the individual products. Each unit included below has been assigned a key feature that makes it particularly noteworthy and has been broken down according to its essential functions to help you make an informed selection.
So here is my list of The Best Portable Folding Workbenches for 2022.
Enjoy!
Best Overall: WORX WX051 Pegasus Portable Folding Workbench
The WORX WX051 Pegasus table converts to a sawhorse or workbench quickly and easily.
Features a compact, foldable and lightweight design for easy transport and storage
Equipped with a worktable that supports up to 300 pounds.
Features a sawhorse that supports up to 1,000 pounds.
Includes leg locks for additional safety.
Includes two quick clamps and four clamp dogs to secure a variety of workpieces.
Tabletop measures 31 inches by 25 inches, which is equivalent to 725 square inches.
Folds down to just five inches thick.
Features a height of 32 inches and weighs 30 pounds.
Runner-up: Kreg KWS1000 Portable Folding Workbench
The Kreg KWS1000 features a large 27.5" by 31.5" work surface and 360° access.
Equipped with locking table supports that includes easy-release tabs.
Features a hole pattern to accept Kreg bench dogs and other accessories.
Includes a bench clamp with “automaxx” clamps that operate both vertically and horizontally.
Equipped with built-in storage trays hold hardware and other parts.
Constructed with heavy-gauge steel legs provide a solid foundation.
Folds down in seconds for work on the go and easy storage.
Expandable by pairing with a second Kreg workbench.
Best Load Capacity: Keter Portable Folding Workbench
The Keter Folding table is built from polypropylene resin for a durable, long-lasting design.
Equipped with steel legs for both durability and stability.
Supports up to 1000 pounds.
Features a 33.46-inch by 21.65-inch work surface.
Quickly folds to a compact size for storage and transport.
Includes a carrying handle.
Must-have Accessory:
Don’t forget the clamps.
Best Versatility: WORKPRO W082050A Portable Folding Workbench
The WORKPRO W082050A features a unique design that can convert into a dolly or a floor creeper.
Equipped with a reversible top that features one side with an anti-skid grid surface and the other with just a flat surface.
Features a folding design for easy transport and storage.
Equipped with telescopic legs with three different height settings.
Features tool mounts and storage compartments for a range of accessories.
Equipped with non-slip feet for stability and to reduce scratching on flooring.
Supports up to 330 pounds.
Best Platform Design: X-Tra Hand 2-in-1 Portable Folding Workbench
The X-Tra Hand table features a workbench and optional platform configuration with a 500-pound load capacity.
Features a large 39.8 in. by 18.8 in. wood surface.
Equipped with high-impact polypropylene decking.
Constructed with extendable aluminum legs and a steel frame.
Equipped with a built-in handle allows for easy transport.
Features a fully extended 31.6-inch height.
Includes a utility tray and V-groove for pipes.
Best Value: Black & Decker WM425-A Portable Folding Workbench
The Black & Decker WM425-A features a one-handed clamping system.
Includes adjustable swivel pegs to secure a range of material shapes and sizes.
Features adjustable jaws and vertical clamping.
Constructed from a heavy-gauge steel frame.
Equipped with a dual height adjustment.
Features a folding design for compact storage.
Supports up to 550 pounds.
Best Compact Design: WORX WX066 Portable Folding Workbench
The WORX WX066 supports up to 300 pounds and includes metal legs for durability.
Features leg feet that reduce the incidence of slippage.
Features a collapsible design for easy and convenient storage and transport.
Offers a lightweight design at just 14 pounds.
Best 4-in-1: Disston 30140 Portable Folding Workbench
The Disston 30140 features a workbench, scaffold, dolly, and floor creeper.
Features a 37.5 inch by 18.3-inch large working surface.
Offers a 500-pound load capacity.
Includes a built-in power strip and accessory storage.
Weighs 32 pounds for easy maneuverability and carrying.
Includes a carrying handle for easy transport.
Best For Small Projects: Performance Tool W54025 Portable Folding Workbench
The Performance Tool W54025 features a folding design for compact storage.
Equipped with a grid, ruler, and protractor marked on the tabletop.
Includes a one-handed clamp system for independent jaw adjustment.
Features jaws resist warping and can be angled to fit a range of workpieces.
Offers a 200-pound working load.
Best Budget Option: Black & Decker WM125 Portable Folding Workbench
The Black and Decker WM125 wights only 15 pounds for easy moving.
Supports up to 350 pounds.
Features dual clamp cranks and four swivel pegs that can be angled.
Equipped with jaws that resist swelling and warping over time.
Includes non-skid feet to prevent sliding or marring floor surfaces.
Folds flat for compact storage and transport.
I hope this list of the best portable folding workbenches was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
