Workbenches

The Best Workbench Buying Guide

What Is a Workbench Primarily Used For?

Workbenches are tables, often with a wood top, that are used for completing manual work, such as electronics assembly and wiring, woodworking, jewelry making or repair, metalworking, gardening, art, lab work and more.

From serious woodworkers to homeowners with jobs to do around the house, workbenches are extremely handy. Sam's Club has both stationary and portable workbenches at members-only prices.

Who needs a workbench?

Anyone who works with their hands will find a great workbench makes all the difference. Jewelry makers and watchmakers and repair workers use workbenches designed for up-close and small-scale work. Metal workers and woodworkers require larger spaces to craft, refine and assemble their finished pieces.

There are even small, collapsible workbenches that can be put to a variety of general purposes and are great for small home workshops and garages. Find your favorite workbench at Sam's Club and get started on those projects today.

What Different Types of Workbenches Are There?

• Workbench Tables: Sam's Club offers a number of workbench table styles that'll help you get the job done.
• Workbenches with Pegboard: These workbench styles offer a vertical pegboard surface that's great for storage and placing tools out of the way while you work.
• Workbench with Cabinets: If you need additional storage space for materials and tools, a workbench with cabinets is a great choice.
• Wall-mounted Workbenches: To save space in a tight or confined area, choose a wall-mounted workbench with a fold-up design and pegboard backing.
• Portable Workbenches: You may need a mobile workbench that can fit into a number of different areas in your workshop or garage. If so, a portable workbench is a great choice.
• Rolling Workbenches: Alternatively, workbenches on casters or wheels can help you make efficient use of your available workspace, letting you reconfigure the area whenever you want.

What Size Workbench Do You Need?

The dimensions, shape and exact features of the workbench depend on what tasks it's meant for. Jewelry and watchmaking workbenches are relatively small and compact compared to the woodworking benches designed for building doors and other large items.

• Height: The height of your workbench is probably the most important consideration. Your bench's work surface should be tall enough to let you get the job done without causing physical discomfort or awkward positioning.
• Width: Workbenches come in a variety of widths to accommodate a range of project types. Make sure you get a bench with enough surface area to allow full range of movement for your work. If you're working with long wood boards or metal tubing, consider a workbench or work table that is 6 to 8 feet long, with a vise near one end.
• Depth: A home-based workbench should be about 2 or 3 feet deep. Smaller and lighter jobs should consider a 2 foot bench because the work will happen on the foot nearest to the operator, while heavier jobs with large beams or sheets may need deeper space for larger objects and balance. Having a bench that is 3 feet deep might make access to items and tools on the other side difficult. But you could also build into the workbench large table tools and guides.

Measure the space where you'll be positioning your workbench and always check the stated dimensions of a workbench carefully before you buy.

How Much Do Workbenches Cost?

What price ranges will get me what features?

Workbenches come with additional features that help you get the most out of your work areas.

LED lights and strips ensure there's plenty of light available for your project. Power strips offer up to nine outlets, so you always have plenty of electricity for all of your power tools. Workbenches with adjustable heights let you choose the proper height for your comfort and size, reducing fatigue and strain on your back during extended periods of time.

You can also choose from bamboo, laminate and stainless steel workbenches.

SamsClub.com has members-only pricing on workbenches with a variety of features, so you can find the best value for your specific needs.

Where can I buy a good workbench on a budget?

Sam's Club and SamsClub.com have a wide variety of workbenches, in differing styles and with a variety of dimensions to accommodate most needs.

What to Consider When Buying A Workbench

• Materials (Wood, Plastic, Steel): The materials used to build the workbench can affect its appearance as well as the weight, feel, and working surface.
• Sturdiness: You'll want to make sure the workbench will withstand the pressure and movement of the work you plan to do there.
• Adjustable Height: If you might use your workbench both standing and sitting down, or if multiple people may be using the workbench, then you'll want to look for a model that can be adjusted for height.
• Shelving: Some models include shelves, which adds storage capabilities and helps keep your workspace tidy.
• Cabinets: For added storage space, look for a model that includes cabinets or drawers.
• Pegboard: Many people find that a pegboard backing on a workbench adds useful space for organization and visible tool storage.
• Options for add-ons: Some workbenches offer future add-on possibilities, which mean your workbench can grow with your needs.
• Home or commercial: Specific workbench models might be more suited for home use or conversely for use in a commercial shop. Make sure you're getting the right style for your intended use.

What Brands of Workbenches Does Sam's Club Sell?

At Sam's Club, you can find workbenches from a number of highly respected and popular brands. We offer the following brands at SamsClub.com:

• Seville Classics
• Gladiator
• Muscle Rack
• Seville Classics UltraHD
• Keter
• Lifetime
• Member's Mark
• Seville Classics UltraHD
• WORX

FAQ - Workbenches

How high should my workbench be?

Height is probably the most important feature to consider when selecting your workbench. If the height isn't right for the work you plan to do, it can make the workbench less useful, or even an obstacle. Bench height is usually not very adjustable, so it's important to get this right.

For example, if you're working with hand tools, a lower bench will allow you to work over the pieces more efficiently, from above. Some experts suggest measuring the proper height for this type of bench by first standing up straight with your arms hanging loosely by your sides. Ask a friend to measure from the floor to the middle knuckles of your hand. This height should represent the optimal distance to work with your hand tools. Look for a bench that's within a few inches of this measurement.

Look for a bench that's higher if you work primarily with power tools. This will give you the best angle to operate the tools safely without placing too much strain on your knees, shoulders and lower back.

How should I organize and clean my workbench?

The exact configuration of your workbench really depends on your own preferences and how you plan to work with the bench. However, you can generally make the most efficient use of your workbench space by following a few simple tips:

• Add pegboard backing, or choose a workbench that comes with pegboard, to store your tools and supplies. You'll be able to see everything at a glance and never have to hunt for the right tool again.
• If you work with small parts and supplies, invest in a bench with component drawers that let you sort and store those tiny materials so that they'll be easier to find quickly.
• Use bungee cords or rope to corral all your tape or wire spools together for easier access.
• Keep your workspace clean and tidy. Put away all your tools where they belong after use, and sweep up around the workspace when you're through for the day.

What's the difference between a mobile and a stationary workbench?

Stationary workbenches come in a variety of sizes, ranging from small workbench models that fit in garages to larger models that stand up to tougher, commercial projects. Some heavy-duty workbenches come with pegboards to provide a simple way to organize tools and keep work areas tidy. Other choices provide wall-mounting options and cabinets that let you put projects and supplies away when not in use.

Mobile or portable workbenches include wheels that let you position your bench wherever you want. Some of these workbenches include several drawers for keeping the tools and parts you need within easy reach. Others provide a simple table with one or more shelves in a lightweight design. A foldable workbench lets you transport your workspace easily so you always have a sturdy surface for projects outside of your garage or shop.