Choosing a workbench for your workshop isn’t a complicated task if you already have an idea of what you need. But have you considered all the important factors? How will you use it? Who will be using it? And with what accessories? Let’s review the important criteria for choosing the best workbench for DIY projects so this essential device will serve you for long.

Mobility

If you have to move your work surface, choose a mobile bench with wheels from Dyco Ventures. Keep in mind that safety wheel locks aren’t sufficient to stabilize the bench for work involving force. You must find a compromise between sturdiness (load capacity) and weight, which can be a disadvantage when the bench needs to be moved.

Fixed benches are naturally more stable, support higher maximum loads, and can be fixed to the floor. What about basic models or simple workshop tables? They’re perfectly suited for basic work: lifting plants and other manual tasks.

Working Position

Fixed-height benches are usually best suited for sitting, as the ergonomics of the position are guaranteed by the chair.

Height-adjustable workbenches can be used in any working position. These benches usually take a few minutes to adjust using simple tools. Before purchasing, check the minimum and maximum height, as well as the adjustment options.

Foldable or with Drawers

If you want a bench that can be moved from one place to another and is also easy to assemble, saving space in your workshop, you may be interested in a folding bench.

However, if you need compartments to store and organize your work tools, we recommend choosing a workbench with drawers. You’ll be able to create your own personal workspace with all the materials you need and a place to store them as you work. Alternatively, you can also purchase your workbench separately and purchase the drawers separately.

The ultimate in ergonomics? A motorized workbench. A simple button allows you to adjust its height instantly (or almost instantly). Some models even have a multi-height memorization system.

The Price

The average price for a workbench ranges from $300 to $1000. Basic models for easy DIY projects can be found at $100-$200, but these are not very sturdy and are likely to miss storage compartments. Professional heavy-duty workbench models cost around $500-$1000. In the case of custom design and additional storage compartments (cabinets, drawers, lockers) under or / and above the bench, the price even goes higher.

Activity

There are three technical criteria to consider depending on the work to be performed on a workbench.

Maximum Load Supported

This is the main indicator of robustness. Up to 300 pounds for occasional or light use, from 1,500 to 2000 pounds for frequent work with heavy objects, and over 3000 pounds for intensive work (and if it hits hard!).

Countertop Material

• Solid beech: for heavy mechanical work since it is very resistant to impacts and heavy weights.
• Laminated beech: for mechanical and electromechanical work. Water-resistant up to 180 °F.
• Arphenol: Durable and easy to clean, this resin-coated wood is resistant to water, oil, grease, and even acid. It’s ideal for mechanical, metrological, and laboratory work, etc.
• Linoleum: For assembly, inspection, and laboratory work, linoleum is comfortable to the touch and easy to care for. It is resistant to most common liquids (solvents, oils).
• Polyrey: antistatic, thanks to the conductive laminated material that allows grounding, it is the essential solution for electronic work.
• Glasal: Its mineral coating (asbestos-cement with a glaze layer) resists soldering iron burns. It’s ideal for electronic or electrical work.
• Stainless steel: the king of hygiene for the agri-food and construction industry.

Integrated Storage Spaces

Much more than simple accessories, they must be adapted to your activity. Important elements to check:

• Size and number of compartments.
• The placement of boxes, drawers, and shelves: under the workbench, fixed vertically.
• The possible need for modularity: insterchangeable drawers, perforated panels.

The choice of modules with doors and drawers depends on their function:

• the weight of the objects and tools: on feet or on the base for heavier items or suspended for quick access;
• the locking requirements: a lock on each drawer (for example, for multiple users) or a central lock;
• the different functionalities, such as the ability to add labels, change the position of the modules with doors (and the opening direction of the doors), fully open drawers, etc.

Conclusion

When choosing a workbench for your DIY corner, one of the key factors to consider is the available space. Not all of us have a large workshop where we can afford to place any type of bench. Some work in a garage, others in a small room, or even on the balcony of their home. Whatever your situation, the workbench you choose should perfectly fit the dimensions of the space where you plan to work. Use the guide above to choose your perfect workbench to achieve excellent results in your DIY projects.