The Best Portable Workbenches Tested in 2024
Whether it’s for use as a stable work surface at a job site or to address a lack of room for a permanent shop, a portable workbench is an invaluable partner when working on a project.
These nifty assistants are capable of handling weights of up to 1,000 pounds, yet they’re light enough to carry from place to place. Portable workbenches serve as an extra set of hands, with clamping systems that hold lumber, metal pipes, and other materials firmly in place. When the job is over, these workbenches fold flat for easy transport and storage.
When shopping for a portable workbench, there are certain factors to consider before making a final purchase. And, to make the process of buying the best portable workbench even easier, we performed hands-on testing with several models. Some excelled, while others didn’t make the grade.
- BEST OVERALL: Worx Pegasus Folding Work Table & Sawhorse
- RUNNER-UP: Keter Jobmade Portable Work Bench and Miter Saw Table
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Black+Decker Workmate Portable Workbench
- BEST COMPACT: Worx WX066 Sidekick Portable Work Table
- BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Keter Folding Table Work Bench
- BEST FOR SANDING: DeWalt Express Folding Workbench
How We Tested the Best Portable Workbenches
Testing workbenches can be a lot of fun, and we did our best to truly put these models through the paces.
First, we assessed assembly and setup. We wanted to make sure that each bench was really as portable as it claims. We set them up, broke them down, and moved them around to assess their weight and ease of use. Next, we set them up and used each of them as a miter saw stand and grinding surface, assessing how stable they were with the saw running and our weight over the boards. Finally, we used the jaws or clamps to hold a workpiece in place, prying on the boards to see how well the clamps would hold. We even set up the biscuit joiner to test how well they hold pieces under force.
Between those tests, which replicate what a typical DIYer or contractor might put these workbenches through, we had a good idea of what they could offer.
Our Top Picks
The following products feature rugged construction, excellent clamping features, and compact designs that make them easy to carry or store. And, to make sure that we’re only suggesting the best portable workbenches, we performed hands-on testing with each of the following models. Find out which models are top-tier and which workbench didn’t make the cut.
Best Overall
Worx Pegasus Folding Work Table & Sawhorse
This Bob Vila Approved product carries our brand’s highest level of recommendation.
Bob Vila Approved recognizes the household and DIY products that impressed us most in our real-world testing and that exemplify core values of the Bob Vila brand, including craftsmanship, innovation, and value for the dollar. Winners of this designation come recommended by our professional review team and are personally approved by Bob Vila.
Product Specs
- Work surface dimensions: 31 inches long by 25 inches wide
- Materials: ABS plastic
- Weight: 30 pounds
What We Like
- No assembly is required at all; great for quick odd jobs or transporting if necessary
- Comes with built-in, high-quality clamps and dogs for reliability while in use
- Dual purpose; works as a sawhorse or a table
What We Don’t Like
- No built-in carry handle; can be awkward to transport
With its lightweight adjustability for various applications and sturdy build, the Pegasus from Worx is an excellent option for DIYers with space limitations or a pro working at a remote job site. This workbench, made of high-grade plastic with lockable legs, can support up to 300 pounds when in work table mode. A set of quick clamps and holding clamps that work with two T-strips integrated into the benchtop provide ample clamping power for large dimensional lumber.
True to its name, the Pegasus can fold its “wings” down, allowing it to morph into a sawhorse that can hold up to 1,000 pounds. The underside of this workbench features a small storage area for supplies or a power strip. When folded, this workbench measures just 5 inches thick, making it easy to throw into the back of a vehicle despite weighing 30 pounds.
First, let’s point out that the Pegasus requires absolutely zero assembly, and that’s an incredible benefit compared to other models. It was a breeze to set up and break down, and the sliding latches that secure the wings are a brilliant design. We also liked that it came with built-in clamps that store away under the wings (they were the best clamps in the test) and bench dogs to hold workpieces in place. We also liked that we were able to link this table to other Worx tables, providing a longer work surface. Also, popping the wings down to use this workbench as a sawhorse is a breeze. Our only complaint is that it should have a carrying handle at 30 pounds.
Read our full review: Worx Pegasus Folding Work Table & Sawhorse
Get the Worx Pegasus Folding Work Table & Sawhorse at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Worx.
Runner-Up
Keter Jobmade Portable Work Bench and Miter Saw Table
Product Specs
- Work surface dimensions: 34½ inches by 21¾ inches
- Materials: ABS plastic and aluminum
- Weight: 20 pounds
What We Like
- Lightweight design is easy to tote around a worksite or transport in a vehicle
- Space-saving, secure leg storage is great for tight spaces
- Keeps a sturdy hold on the saw during use
What We Don’t Like
- No squeeze clamps included; need to purchased separately
The portable Jobmade workbench from Keter offers a sturdy, lightweight design with integrated locks for legs and built-in tool storage. Boasting an integrated clamping system with four separate clamps, this portable workbench from Keter holds materials firmly in place so you can cut, drill, hammer, or assemble projects. The workbench surface includes two metal rails that receive 2-inch bar clamps, making it easy to clamp workpieces. Built-in leg stabilizers keep the table level and in place as you work.
This workbench uses durable resin construction for the worktop with sturdy aluminum legs, giving it a 1,000-pound capacity. Other features include
. This lightweight table also has the ability to collapse into a briefcase shape complete with a handle.
The Keter Jobmade Portable Work Bench was a breeze to use. The legs snapped up inside the table with a smart, space-saving design, and they lock in securely, making carrying this workbench by the handle drama-free. Also, the built-in storage box under the table is nice, but it’s the table clamps that we really liked as they were secure enough to hold a saw in place (though workpieces could benefit from squeeze clamps).
Get the Keter Jobmade Portable Workbench at Amazon.
Best Bang for the Buck
Black+Decker Workmate Portable Workbench
Product Specs
- Work surface dimensions: Adjustable, but a max of 24 inches by 13¾ inches
- Materials: Wood, metal, and plastic
- Weight: 15 pounds
What We Like
- Very lightweight and compact design; stores easily in small spaces or the trunk of a vehicle
- Once assembled, it’s easy to use; simple design is ideal for newcomers and professionals alike
- Built-in, warp-resistant vise jaws worked well under pressure
What We Don’t Like
- Assembly was a nightmare; lots of plastic parts to put together
With a large vice that can handle various shapes and sizes, the Black & Decker Workmate Portable Workbench is an excellent option for professionals and DIYers.
The Black & Decker Workmate has provided a mobile work surface for weekend warriors and pros alike since its debut in the 1970s. Much of its design remains the same today. The Workmate retains its classic foldable metal frame and wide-set legs, which create a rock-solid base. The hardwood work surface doubles as a sizable and versatile vice capable of gripping large pieces. With its rotating pegs and dual handle controls, the vice can be angled to grip irregular-shaped objects.
The Workmate’s benchtop features two height positions to suit a variety of projects. Its sturdy, heavy-gauge steel frame gives it a maximum capacity of 350 pounds, while rubber feet keep this workbench firmly in place. When the workday is over, this portable unit, weighing 15 pounds, folds flat for easy transport.
Let’s start out with our big complaint: Assembling this workbench was a nightmare, and quite a bit of the bench is plastic. But, once assembled, it actually worked really well. The built-in jaws were secure, and we liked that it was incredibly lightweight (just 14 pounds!). It’s probably not the most durable model on the list, but for the price, the Black & Decker Workmate has a lot to offer.
Get the Black+Decker Workmate at Amazon or Walmart.
Best Compact
Worx WX066 Sidekick Portable Work Table
Product Specs
- Work surface dimensions: 24 inches by 24 inches
- Materials: ABS plastic and steel
- Weight: 12.6 pounds
What We Like
- Surprisingly stable for the 12.6-pound weight; quality bench dogs are built-in
- Work surface full of measurements and references; ideal for most projects
- Can link to other Worx tables to create a larger work area
What We Don’t Like
- No squeeze clamps included; may not be ideal for some users’ preferences
This portable workbench from Worx weighs only 12.6 pounds, allowing users to carry it from workshop to yard for an outdoor project or throw it in the truck for a trip to the worksite.
A high-grade yet lightweight plastic benchtop holds up to abuse. Steel metal legs with rubber feet provide a sturdy nonslip base that can hold up to 300 pounds. The benchtop features four pegs to allow for easy clamping and handy guides molded into the surface for taking measurements. True to its name, two Sidekicks can link together to make a larger table or be connected to Worx’s larger Pegasus portable workbench.
The Worx Sidekick quickly became one of our favorite models in the test. First, we liked that despite an unorthodox two-piece (legs and work surface) design, it was easy to set up and quite stable. Also, the work surface is full of measurements and references for better workflow. We also like that we could link this to other Worx tables and that the included bench dogs were of the highest quality in the bunch. Our only moan is that this model doesn’t come with or receive squeeze clamps.
Get the Worx Sidekick at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
Best Heavy-Duty
Keter Folding Table Work Bench
Product Specs
- Work surface dimensions: 21½ inches by 33½ inches
- Materials: ABS plastic and aluminum
- Weight: 27 pounds (though it might feel a little heavier)
What We Like
- Heavy-duty weight capacity; can hold up to 1,000 pounds of material
- Very easy to set up; takes just 30 seconds to unfold
- Built-in clamps and shelf for ample storage and versatility
- Sturdy, compact design can be folded down into a 4.4-inch thick unit
What We Don’t Like
- Guides for clamps are a bit finicky; may not have the durability of some comparable options
For heavy-duty jobs, a workbench that can endure the rigors of a pro job site while still being lightweight enough to transport is a must. This portable workbench from Keter weighs just 27 pounds, yet it boasts an impressive 1,000-pound weight capacity, making it an excellent option for professional job sites.
This formidable workbench features heavy-duty resin construction and aluminum legs that provide plenty of strength. Two 12-inch clamps secure material to the workbench, which features an ample worktop of 33 inches by 22 inches. When the job is complete, it folds into a 4.5-inch-thick flat suitcase shape, complete with an ergonomic handle for easy transport.
We need to come clean about something: We’ve been using this workbench for everything from camera gear to a saw stand for a while now, and if it didn’t fit the “heavy-duty” award so well, it might’ve been our best overall. This table features a 1,000-pound weight capacity yet is very easy to set up, with legs that stow away inside. We liked the built-in clamps and the lower shelf for its convenience, but the compact design also makes it easy to stow away. The biggest benefit is that it’s rock-solid in use, despite not having nonslip feet. If there’s room for improvement, it’s that the clamp guides aren’t as smooth or easy to use as we’d like.
Get the Keter Folding Table Work Bench at Amazon or Walmart.
Best for Sanding
DeWalt Express Folding Workbench
Product Specs
- Work surface dimensions: 33 inches by 24 inches
- Materials: ABS plastic and steel
- Weight: 25 pounds
What We Like
- Sturdy construction can hold up to 1,000 pounds of materials and tools
- Very easy to set up; great for quick DIY projects or job sites
- Lots of holes for clamps, dogs, and cleaning the surface
What We Don’t Like
- Not quite as stable as we’d like
- No clamps or dogs included with purchase
While most workbenches feature complicated tracks for squeeze clamps or bench dogs, this model from DeWalt takes a more streamlined approach. While being capable of handling up to 1,000 pounds, it also has several holes that serve as well for sawdust management as they do clamps and bench dogs. Made from ABS plastic and steel, this model unfolds and sets up quickly, and the 33-by-24-inch work surface offers plenty of room for work.
During testing, we noticed a few things. First, this is truly a heavy-duty model from a brand we know and trust. Also, it’s lightweight and easy to set up, and clearing the work surface of sawdust and shavings is as simple