Basic Workbench
Basic workbenches are solid table tops placed over a four-legged frame. They have a minimal design, though some come with a drawer or shelf underneath. If you rarely use your workbench, a basic workbench will suffice. They are available in wood, steel and plastic.
Workbench Cabinets
Workbench cabinets are wood or steel tabletops supported by a steel frame. The standout feature of these benches is the storage provision. Drawers are the most common, but some come with shelves. Workbench cabinets are a good option for those who have a lot of tools or need their supplies to be neatly contained. They save you the trouble of purchasing separate storage.
Rolling Workbench
A functional garage bench idea, rolling workbenches are basic workbenches with attached casters. The bench can be moved around in the garage and the wheels can be locked to remain in place. If you need the flexibility to work in the garage or outdoors, rolling benches will serve you well. Keep in mind that rolling benches tend to have lower weight limits because heavy loads would put too much pressure on the casters.
Portable Workbench
Portable benches are benches that can be folded up. They are normally much smaller than other benches as they are designed for temporary use. This space-saving design comes in plastic or plywood. Portable benches are a good idea if the tool bench needs to be carried to a different location.
Pegboard Workbench
These workbenches have a large pegboard attached above the tabletop. A regular DIY-er would need all their tools handy and a pegboard keeps everything in arms reach. A useful mechanic workbench idea, they can hold all your small hand tools. Accessories like shelves and baskets can also be added for storing things like cans or nails.
Wall-Mounted Workbench
Wall-mounted workbenches are shelves that are folded up against the wall. They can be pulled down flat when needed and folded up again. If you have a car parked in your garage, these are very useful as they don’t take up any floor space.
Ready-made Workbench
These are pre-assembled workbenches that can be purchased anywhere, making them a great garage workbench idea. They have extra gadgets and features like power sockets, LED lights, drawers and casters. Ready-made workbenches mostly come in steel or wood, with steel offering more strength and stability. Steel tops are great for spills and scratches but can be slippery and harder to customize. Wood tops are good for clamping and absorbing vibrations but can be damaged by heavy use. Plastic workbenches are lightweight and portable but not ideal for heavy-duty tasks.
DIY Workbench
What’s a better idea for a garage workbench than making one yourself? A DIY bench allows you to customize the size, features, and materials to perfectly suit your needs and budget. Wood is the go-to material for DIY’s. Size is entirely dependent on the floor space you have. Standard workbench height is 32-36 inches for standing use. For those who are taller or shorter than average, a custom height workbench would be required.
Ready-To-Assemble Workbench
Ready-to-assemble workbenches are premade parts that need to be assembled at home. The most popular ones are steel, wood or a combination of both. Ready-to-assemble workbenches come with all the features and gadgets of a ready-made workbench, but at a lower price point. Most of these workbenches allow you to adjust the height so you can work standing or sitting. This will be a two person task, given the weight of the bench.
These amazing garage workbench ideas are designed to elevate your garage into an ideal workshop. The ideal bench is the right size for your projects, sturdy enough for tasks, and offers the main features you need like storage or lights. Remember, choose based on your space, needs, load and budget.