Crafting Your Workspace: The Ultimate Workbench Buying Guide
- Workbench Types: Choose based on tasks—options include packing, automotive, assembly, and lab benches.
- Material Options: Workbench tops come in wood, steel, phenolic resin, and more, each suited for specific tasks.
- Functionality: Consider standard duty, heavy duty, ESD, and ergonomic benches for specific needs.
- Size and Mobility: Match the size to your workspace, and decide if mobility is necessary.
Want to have a great day at work? Create an industrious workspace. With as much time as your workers spend at their stations, the proper workbench can be a key factor in workplace efficiency, productivity, and morale. A comfortable worker is a happy worker.
But which workbench is right for you? This comprehensive buyer's guide will work it all out for you. Whether you are looking for a simple garage work bench or an industrial workbench for heavy duty tasks, there are many different ways to shop for a workbench:
Shop by Type:
You’re at the very beginning of your process. Maybe you’re just realizing the folding table isn’t going to do the job anymore. But how do you even get started?
First, have you considered a pre-configured workbench? Take advantage of years of manufacturer and customer experience with a workbench designed for your specific tasks. Types of pre-configured benches include:
Packing and Shipping
Often offered with power outlets, lighting, peg board for tool and supply storage, drawers, and shelves, this type of workbench sets you up for success.
Automotive
Outfitted with drawers for organized tool storage and wheels for easy mobility, they help mechanics get their repairs and maintenance done quickly.
Assembly
Built for rugged durability and extra-long lengths, assembly desks provide larger work surfaces to ensure products won’t fall off the side or be hanging dangerously off the side or ends of the benchtop.
Food Service
Easy to clean, disinfect, and sanitize, food service benches are usually made of stainless steel and can withstand heavy daily use. Some are offered with matching integrated stainless steel sinks for improved usability.
Lab Workbenches
Featuring chemical-resistant bench tops and versatile options adding power and mobility, Lab Workbenches are specialized for advanced performance in challenging applications.
If a pre-configured workbench doesn’t provide that perfect fit, maybe a configurable workbench is the right choice. Flexible and customizable, you can build your perfect workbench from scratch!
Shop by Function:
What exactly do you need your workbench to do? Different workbenches work for different tasks. Check out these options:
Standard Duty Workbenches
A cost-effective solution for light to moderate workloads, these “workhorse” work benches still support heavy loads, making them a sturdy and reliable option for a wide range of tasks.
Heavy Duty Workbenches
With sturdy construction capable of supporting loads ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 pounds, these heavy hitters can be a little more versatile than their “extra” counterparts. Flexible for any heavy duty task.
Cabinet & Pedestal Workbenches
Offering a clean and organized workspace with clutter-free surfaces, an assortment of stationary workbenches, mobile cabinet workbenches, and pedestal workbenches are designed to maximize efficiency and storage in the workspace.
Stainless Steel Workbenches & Work Tables
Constructed from corrosion-resistant material, these options are ideal for sterile environments. Easy to clean and maintain, making them ideal for sterile and hygienic environments such as laboratories, cleanrooms, commercial kitchens, and medical facilities.
Packing Workbenches
Available in mobile and stationary options, all packing stations workbenches come with adjustable shelves and drawer space for maximum efficiency. Streamline your packaging and shipping processes with the right workspace.
ESD Workbenches
Engineered with static dissipative materials to prevent electrostatic discharge, these benches ensure your optimal protection for valuable electronic components. Equipped with built-in grounding mechanisms to prevent static buildup, they are ideal as mobile compact workstations for small electronics labs or as stationary large-scale assembly lines.
Ergonomic Workbenches
Adjustable and standing heights accommodate various users and tasks. Designed to reduce strain and fatigue during long work sessions.Commonly used in offices, laboratories, and assembly lines.
Extra Heavy Duty Workbenches
Built with robust frames and reinforced structures, these beasts can support exceptionally heavy loads, often exceeding 10,000 pounds, making them the perfect durable and long-lasting solution for manufacturing plants, automotive shops, and construction sites.
Automotive Workbenches
With locking drawers and adjustable shelving, parts and tools can be organized in an efficient and secure way. Options include durable work surfaces designed to resist automotive fluids and chemicals. Designed at comfortable heights for automotive repair tasks.
Welding Tables
Designed with materials and surfaces that can withstand high temperatures and welding sparks for a variety of applications including MIG, TIG, stick and more. Essential for keeping your welding space fire-resistant and safe.
Woodworking Workbenches
Let the sawdust fly with these woodworking benches, available with clamping options and steel frame and reinforced gauge steel tops for the perfect artisan workspace.
Portable Workbenches
Popular among contractors, DIY enthusiasts and tradespeople, these space-saving collapsible benches are lightweight and compact for easy transportation. Make use of limited space without maximizing storage needs.
Shop by Options:
You have chosen what type of workbench you want. Now, it’s time to hone in on the features of that particular bench. Again, the options can be overwhelming, so let’s break it down:
Top Material:
Workbench tops come in a variety of materials, wood, steel, plastic/laminate, phenolic resin, stainless steel, shop top, and ESD surfaces, each of which lends itself to different types of work. Determining what types of tasks you’ll be working on at your new workbench is the first step in figuring out what type of surface material you should choose.
Wood
Wood workbench surfaces are some of the strongest available and are built to withstand marring, heat exposure, and impacts, all of which makes them ideal for the heavy-duty needs and requirements of industrial work environments. The dense grain of this durable surface is also resistant to the dents and scratches that often accompany vises and clamps, a must-have on nearly all workbenches.
Wood tops can be narrowed down further by type of wood: maple, cherry, walnut & birch are each ideal for all-purpose work, including assembly, repair, and maintenance. While these wood surfaces are beautiful, they are also built to take beating.
A popular choice like the butcher block is a durable hardwood top. Easy to care for and cost effective, these tops are perfect for just about any job. If full wood isn’t ideal, a shop top is made up of clear lumber edge bands combined with high-density particleboard, sealed with a catalyzed finish for liquid resistance.
Phenolic Resins
Phenolic resin workbench tops provide a chemical-resistant work surface for labs, medical facilities, schools, and more. Non-flammable, and non-absorbent making them great for heavy lab use. Workbenches are impact resistant for superior strength.
Steel
Steel workbench tops are the most durable in the market and built to hold up to years of heavy use. If your work is of the heavy-duty variety, steel is likely the best option. Strong welds and underside reinforcements provide increased weight capacities. Unlike wood, steel won’t splinter or crack, so if you anticipate needing your workbench to withstand a pounding, steel is a good alternative.
Steel is also the best choice if you’re planning to work with solvents or oil, as it is resistant to both types of spillage. Likewise, a steel top can make a fine surface for projects that involve cutting since unlike wood surfaces, it is nearly impossible to cut through. You can also find pressed wood over steel tops, which can sometimes give you the benefits of each. When cleanliness is a priority (like in food prep), you may want to opt for a stainless steel option.
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)
If your work environment involves working with electricity of any kind, your main focus should be to invest in a workbench surface designed to fit that specific need. ESD (electrostatic discharge) surfaces are designed to help dissipate electric static, rather than letting it build up. The laminate top is comprised of materials that reduce voltage generation and creates a workspace that is safe from electro-static discharge (ESD).This helps reduce, if not altogether eliminate, shocks to people, charged devices, and machines.
ESD workbenches are also built to withstand tough environments and are designed to perform best in assembly-based, industrial settings. ESD workbenches can be used for assembly, packaging, and repair stations as well for working with sensitive electronic equipment. While ESD surfaces definitely have specific benefits, they also have specific uses. ESD workbenches are more of a specialty surface. If you’re looking for something for general use, wood is also a good nonconductive material and can work for home-based projects.
Plastic Laminate
If you’re looking for something a bit less intense and aren’t anticipating a lot of wear and tear, a laminate or plastic workbench top will likely suffice. Plastic and laminate workbench tops are affordable, lightweight, and non-conductive, so they are perfect for working on electrical appliances. However, those same qualities make them less effective for heavy-duty projects. High-pressure plastic laminate over a wood-core produces a durable, easy-to-clean bench top. The scratch-resistant, smooth surface is resistant to chemicals and solvents, ideal surfaces if you’re working in a lab setting.
While plastic and laminate workbenches are sturdy, they aren’t built to withhold heavy duty weight as with wood or steel workbenches and aren’t nearly as durable. Whether completely plastic/laminate or encased particleboard core - which is designed to withstand light to medium use - plastic and laminate workbenches are mostly designed for everyday, casual use.
While this type of surface isn’t designed to withstand intense wear and tear, the laminate coating does offer protection against scratches and stains. If you plan on projects including light assembly, packaging, or office use, you will be more than happy with a plastic laminate work surface.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel workbench tops are easy to clean, disinfect, and sanitize, making them perfect for food preparation.
Shop Top
Shop tops have clear lumber edge bands that are faced on two sides with high-density particleboard, sealed with a catalyzed finish for liquid resistance. Protects against static build up and won’t warp or split.
Bases
Depending on your workspace, you may need workbenches that adjust in work surface height. Ask yourself: does a fixed height serve my needs best? Or do I need flexibility of adjustable height? Some options:
Fixed Flare Legs
This is the standard duty stationary option. The strong punched flare leg design allows the legs to be bolted to the floor for permanent installation and extra rigidity. Features knockouts for electrical outlets.
Adjustable Height C-Channel Legs
These are the perfect choice for an adjustable height to meet your workplace needs. These legs also have knockouts for electrical outlets but they also feature multiple holes on the fronts and backs of the uprights. This means flexible and stronger tool mounting options.
Adjustable Square Tube Frames
Despite being adjustable, these heavy duty adjustable frames are capable of withstanding up to 5,000lbs.
Type of Adjustment
If adjustable benches seem to be the need, the next question is: do I need electric or manual adjustment?
Manual
Manual adjustments allow changing height with riveted and punched-out tabs for height desired. Ideal for when a semi-permanent height is necessary to fit to a workspace.
Hand crank
Use a classic hand crank to raise and lower the work surface height. Ideal for when a few different heights are needed.
Electric
Electric powered benches switch up and down easily. Perfect for when flexibility is the key need in height.
Mobility:
How much movement do you need? Decide now or later! A mobile workbench equipped with swivel casters is perfect for easily moving your workbench around your workspace. Standard Duty, Heavy Duty, Cabinet or Packing options move as your work demands. Conversely, a shop stand gives you the option to have casters added later to make your workbench mobile. With constantly shifting work demands, a mobile workbench could be the perfect solution.
Size:
The size of your workbench is crucial. Consider your available space and the type of projects. Whether you need a compact folding workbench or a spacious woodworking bench, finding the right size is essential for efficiency. Be sure to compare dimensions of different models, taking into account height, width, and depth to ensure the model is the right size for your needs. With widths ranging from 48” to 216”, you can configure the size, shape, and height of your workbench customized to any environment. With adjustable height workbenches, you can adapt as your needs change.
Weight Capacity:
Ensure that your chosen workbench can handle the load you intend to place on it. Workbenches fulfill different roles in different industries and facilities… or even within the same facility! Global Industrial offers three different capacity workbench types:
- Standard Duty: Perfect for the majority of daily uses. A cost efficient way of bringing organization to your workflow with no corners cut.
- Heavy Duty: Built with heavier gauge materials and handle weights of up to 5000 lbs. A good balance between strength and flexibility.
- Extra Heavy Duty: Designed for the biggest jobs and heaviest equipment to support weights of up to 10,000 lbs. Additionally you may want to consider a mobile workbench or a pedestal workbench that both offer sturdy options, while providing flexibility with mobility, or storage.
Shop for Complementary Products:
In addition to the workbench itself, operational efficiency can be enhanced by some key complementary parts and accessories:
Bench Tops & Accessories
Replacement or additional bench tops for workbench customization are available in several materials, including wood, laminate, and steel. Also, accessories like bench vises, tool racks, and lighting are key to enhancing functionality.
Equipment Stands
Used to elevate machinery or equipment to a comfortable working height, these stands are commonly found in manufacturing and industrial settings.
Machine Tables
Essential in machine shops and manufacturing facilities, they provide a stable and level surface for heavy machinery and equipment.
Shop Desks
Combining storage and workspace, shop desks are perfect for administrative tasks, order processing, and organization in various settings, including warehouses and workshops. May include built-in electrical outlets or cable management options.
Shop Stands
Versatile for use in garages, workshops, and job sites as temporary workstations or supports for tools and equipment, shop stands are portable and lightweight for easy movement.
Anti-Fatigue Mats
Practical solutions for enhancing workplace comfort and safety by reducing fatigue and providing a supportive surface for employees who stand for extended periods. They offer excellent traction, preventing slips and falls in dry environments.
Task Stools
Office and task stools provide durable, ergonomic seating options, sometimes specifically designed for tasks like drafting, shops, and more.
Shelving
Steel, plastic, aluminum and many more options help you maximize your storage capacity in any working environment.
Overwhelmed with all your workbench options? Don’t worry! The Global Industrial team is always happy to walk you through your particular needs and concerns. When you have the right workbench, you’re working it right!
For more information, check out all of Global Industrial’s workbenches and shop desks.
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