Last Updated on May 2022
Did you know that a high-quality welding table can improve workplace safety and efficiency? A bench provides a stable and flat surface at a comfortable height and may even feature things like guide rails, corner clamps, and tool storage holes to enhance job accuracy and save you time.
Low-quality models don’t offer the same stability and adjustability as high-end products, and they typically don’t provide high value in terms of safety, leveling, and lifespan. Using a worktop that lasts a lifetime and that complements your trade can be incredibly rewarding and can even save you money over the long run.
Finding a counter that meets your needs might be a challenge, however, and it is hard to tell if you are choosing the right one. There are many different products available, each with unique features and benefits.
We did extensive research on product specifications, and we read hundreds of reviews to compile this buyers’ guide and make the decision easier for you. Keep reading to learn more.
| Product | Work Surface | Height | Stand-out Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 36 in. x 24 in. | 6-1/4 in. and 34 in. | Has 16mm holes evenly spaced in a 2in. x 2in. | |
| 29 in. x 29 in. | 48" folded and 35" unfolded | Good Portability | |
| 20 in. x 30 in. | 27 in. | Very Affordable | |
| 29 in. x 58 In. | 35 in. | Dust Tray | |
| 30 in. x 60 in. | 35 in. | Comes with many accessories for the ArcStation workbench | |
| 30 in. x 19-7/8 in. | 32-7/8 in. | Adjustable table angle with five positive stops |
4 Essential Functions Delivered in a Welding Bench
Squaring
Fusing two metal objects together at a right angle is a significant part of your activities. Squaring corners can be a challenge if you don’t have the proper equipment, however.
The squaring function is two-fold and consists of aligning items together in the correct position and clamping them down to ensure that they don’t move around while you work.
Welding tables with enough equipment will not only allow you to weld 90-degree corner joints but also cross joints, strapped joints, butt joints, lap joints, and edge joints.
Most tables are fitted with guide rails, tube frames, and clamp posts to secure the items in place and at a square angle next to each other to carry out a neat welding job.
Measuring
Taking consistent measurements is an integral part of any steelwork project to ensure adequate quality control. A template, inspection ruler, gauge, or other measuring equipment will allow you to determine the following:
- The size of the joints
- Joint width and height
- Bevel angle
- Convexity
A countertop that is fitted with measuring equipment will improve the reliability of your construction and prevent undercuts, craters, and lacking fusions.
Safety
Metal welding tables are crucial to ensuring a safe working environment. Metal tables, unlike wooden tops, reduce the risk for fire. You can also attach your work clamp to the bench so that the parts you place on the worktop are electronically connected to the surface. As a result, the work clamp and cable are out of your way while you weld.
Welding tables also improves safety by providing a stable working area that is at an appropriate level. If you don’t bend down to an uncomfortable position, you will be able to pay attention to the task at hand. For more information on appropriate safety gear, please see our [welding jacket buyers guide] to learn more.
Leveling
A level working surface is essential to ensure accuracy throughout your project. If your workstation is not level, you will encounter issues with calibration, inconsistencies with angle sizes and beveling, and, ultimately, poor welding results.
A high-quality welding table provides leveling and stability to solve these problems. If you have to move your table from place to place, adaptable feet will be the most effective way to keep the surface level in various settings.
The 6 Best Welding Work Surfaces Reviewed
Strong Hand Tools FixturePoint Table
Specifications
- 36in.L x 24in.W alloy steel tabletop is 4mm thick for strength and durability
- Has 16mm holes evenly spaced in a 2in. x 2in. grid pattern across the surface for complete flexibility in the setup of fixturing components
- Use in 6 1/4in. tabletop only, or attach the included leg frame for 34in. standing height
- For use with square stock applications
The FixturePoint from the Strong Hand Tools brand features a 36” x 24” alloy steel surface that is 4mm thick.
This welding table model has several high-end features that make it ideal for DIY-type projects and square stock applications. These include evenly spaced 16mm holes, user-friendly modular jigs and fixture table, a set of welding clamps, and a 28-piece start-up kit to allow for easy setup and use.
Reviewers especially liked the inclusive tool package and clamping fixtures for working with MRO parts. The FixturePoint is quite lightweight, but it is durable and easy to move around.
Pros
- Durable alloy work surface
- Flexible component fitting with 16mm holes
- Included leg frame offers a height of 34”
- Suitable for square stock applications
- Included clamps and 28-piece accessories kit
- Lightweight and mobile
Cons
- Not suitable for industrial applications
- The table is not manufactured in the US
ArcStation Workbench, Work Surface
Specifications
- Overall height: 48″ folded and 35″ unfolded
- Overall depth: 6″ folded
- Load capacity: 500 lbs
- Color: Blue
The ArcStation welding tables from the Miller Electric brand is foldable with a 29” x 29” working surface and a weight-bearing capacity of up to 500 lbs.
The ArcStation has several features that make it the perfect fit for professional tradespeople and hobbyists alike. These include foldable x-pattern legs, hidden casters for added mobility, and x-pattern clamp slots on the counter so you can clamp down material in any position on the table.
Owners of this model particularly love that it only weighs 75 lbs. They also enjoy its portability as well as the sturdiness and durability. Since it is foldable, it is easy to store and transport to a job site.
This model has no shelves, but it is compact and features a holder for a welding gun.
Pros
- Excellent value for the money
- Durable and reliable welding bench
- High load capacity of 500 lbs.
- Portable and compact
Cons
- No shelves or tool storage features
Strong Hand Tools Nomad Welding Table
Specifications
- Very Affordable
- Fully Adjustable
- Easily Movable
- Affordable, convenient welding and work table for the welding shop or home shop
- Three 1.1in.W x 22in.L slots in the tabletop
If quality and durability is a priority, look no further than the Nomad Welding Table from the Strong Hand Tools brand.
The Nomad welding tables have two casters and are entirely foldable for improved maneuverability. The counter has a surface area of 20” x 30” and three horizontal 1.1” x 22” clamps slots, allowing you to clamp down workpieces in any position.
If the surface area is too small, you can connect multiple welding tables with an extender to increase the working area to 12.5 square feet. The Nomad’s legs are also extendable, and you will be able to select the most comfortable height.
According to reviewers, the complete adjustability of this station is one of its key benefits. Although it is a bit difficult to level it completely, it is user-friendly and easy to assemble.
Pros
- High-quality, durable worktop
- Completely foldable and portable
- Height-adjustable legs
- Accommodates clamps in any position
Cons
- Difficult to level
- Tension handle nut design can be improved
Miller Electric Welding Station, 29” x 58” Dust Tray
Specifications
- Work Surface Width: 58″
- Work Surface Depth: 29″
- Work Surface Thickness: 3/8″
- Load Capacity: 1000 lb.
- Overall Height: 35″
- Adjustable Height: 34.5″ – 36″
- Construction: Steel Frame With Cross Bar
- Finish: Powder Coated
- Color: Blue
- Includes: Dust Tray
The distinguishing feature of the Miller Electric is its large 29” x 58” work station and load-bearing capacity of 1000 lbs. If you need a welding table for industrial or stationary applications, this one may be a viable option.
Miller Electric offers several features to make your life as a welder easier. These include an x-pattern slot arrangement on the one half of the work surface for multiple clamp-down positions, a dust tray to reduce your cleaning efforts, and a sturdy and durable frame with a cross-bar construction.
Commercial welders who have been using this model for some time are vocal about its longevity and high-quality components.
Pros
- Large welding surface
- X-pattern clamp slot arrangement
- Durable construction
- High load-bearing capacity of 1000 lbs.
Cons
- Limited portability
Miller 951413 60SX ArcStation Fully Loaded
Specifications
- 3/8 in. steel top
- Dust tray for easy cleanup
- 1 1/2 in. square tubing frame construction
- Lower shelf provides storage for tools, equipment, and materials
- Adjustable, leveling feet keep the welding table steady
- Approx. Size: 30 in. x 60 in.
- Weight Capacity: 1,000 lbs.
The Miller brand 951413 60SX ArcStation Fully Loaded is a turbocharged version of the ArcStation Workbench welding table listed above and offers a wide range of features and benefits to the DIY enthusiast and commercial welder.
The Fully Loaded has a load-bearing capacity of up to 1000 lbs. and has two metalworking surfaces. The left plate has an x-pattern clamp slot and a thickness of 1/16”. The sheet to the right has a thickness of 3/18”.
With the Fully Loaded, you get many high-value components, like adjustable feet, a vice, and welding gun holster. The model also features several storage solutions, including shelving, ball-bearing drawers, and a tool rack.
Reviewers particularly liked this product’s easy assembly and sturdy construction.
Pros
- Versatile welding tables
- Many add-on features including a vice
- Features several storage solutions
- Sturdy construction
- High value for money
- Casters for added portability
Cons
- Doesn’t feature a foldable design
Chicago Electric Adjustable Steel Welding Tables
Specifications
- Heavy duty steel surface is zinc plated to resist rust
- Table angle with five positive stops
- Retractable edge guides for use as a fence or for clamping
- Four table slots for clamping and heat reduction
- Reinforced trestle-style legs for maximum stability
The Chicago Electric offers ample adjustability for traveling steelworkers. These welding tables feature a heavy-duty 30” x 20” metal surface that is zinc plated to prevent corrosion and to prolong its lifespan.
The welding table is also fitted with retractable edge guides that you can use for clamping or squaring. There are also four clamping slots to secure workpieces in any position. Since this station is foldable, it is easy to transport and store.
According to reviews, the Chicago Electric is durable and easy to set up. Because it is fitted with reinforced trestle-style legs, this counter is also very sturdy.
Pros
- Compact and foldable
- Height adjustable
- Coated with zinc
- Suitable for traveling tradesmen
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty applications
Welding Bench Material
Carbon / Steel
One of the most significant considerations when selecting welding tables is the material of the working surface. Carbon steel tops are ideal for working with a wide range of metals, including mild steel.
A steel worktop is a must-have since wooden welding tables pose a fire hazard. You can also attach a welding clamp to the surface to connect the parts lying on the table electronically. Carbon steel is also affordable, as well as easy to maintain and repair.
Angle Iron
An angle iron is a critical component of any high-quality welding table frame. Angle irons are a metal piece with an L-shaped cross-section. The L-shape increases structural integrity and eliminates the possibility of flexing or bending.
Because of the L-shaped profile, an angle iron is also a suitable option for the welding table’s legs. Some surfaces have angle iron frames around the sides as edge guides.
Square Tubing
Square steel tubing is widely used in welding table construction — either as structural reinforcement or as a mounting point for fittings like a vice. Square tubing can also be used for surface frames or guide rails.
The square cross-section adds sufficient strength to the tube, and models featuring square tubing typically have a high load-bearing capacity. Square tubing is also widely regarded to be a better option for bench legs as they are sturdy and allows for easy height adjustment.
Welding Table Buyer’s Guide 2019
Construction Quality
As far as buying considerations are concerned, the quality of a welding table is perhaps the most significant.
High-end construction and quality materials will maximize performance and ensure the longest possible lifespan. It will also ensure that your bench is functional in terms of safety, leveling, squaring, and measuring.
Many welders attempt to save costs by compromising quality. However, you may have to replace your welding table prematurely because of defects or limited functionality. In the long-run, spending more on a high-quality model can save you in the long run.
Construction quality will also allow for easy and quick setup and user-friendly operation.
Size
When it comes to size, there are several considerations to keep in mind. At first glance, a large work surface may seem preferable. However, if you have to take your welding table with you from site to site, a more compact welding surface that you can fit in a vehicle may be more suitable for your needs.
Heavy-duty applications may require a larger worktop, especially in industrial or commercial settings. Additional fixtures like a vice, guide rails, or dust collectors may also need a substantial top-size.
Weight
Weight is significant if portability is a requirement. You don’t need a lightweight table for set and forget setups. You can even anchor your table to the ground for added stability.
If you operate in different locations, however, heavyweight welding tables can soon be a source of frustration. Welders who require portability should also consider foldable models. If your bench is on the heavy side, wheels can add some portability.
Movement
When you work, you want minimal movement to ensure stability. The thickness, length, and structural strength of the bench legs play an integral part in stabilizing your welding table. Even if the feet are securely anchored to the ground, there may still be movement as the result of swaying.
If the top is big and bulky, make sure that that the legs can carry the weight, especially when they are fully extended.
Height
Height is a crucial buying consideration. If the work surface height is not appropriate, you will not be able to work comfortably and safely. A worktop that is too low will cause you to hunch over, which can result in back pain.
The most effective solution is to select a table that offers complete adjustability, so you can work efficiently while sitting or standing. Legs made from square tubing are the most suitable for optimal adjustability.
Motion Variation
Always try to select welding tables that allow for 360-degree movement around the working surface so you can work on pieces of all shapes and sizes. X-pattern or horizontal clamping slots will enable you to secure workpieces to the bench in any position and ensure that you are not limited while working.
Optimal motion variation will allow you to weld several joint types comfortably, including cross joints and edge joints.
Price Point Expectations
Over $1,000
Bench features differ at specific price points. At $1,000 or more, you can expect value in the form of multiple functionalities. For example, you might find a surface that you can use for welding as well as plasma cutting and grinding projects.
Higher-priced welding tables typically also feature add-on storage solutions for tools, welding equipment, and protective clothing. For example, your bench may have a welding gun holder for added convenience.
Most welding tables over $1,000 are suitable for industrial applications. They have high load-bearing capacities of 1,000 lbs. or more, and you will be able to carry out heavy-duty welding jobs on these surfaces.
Under $500
If you need a counter for DIY applications or smaller projects, the chances are that you don’t have to spend more than $500. Models at this price point typically offer portability, easy storage, and economical use of space.
Even if you are shopping in this price range, don’t compromise on quality. Products like the Nomad from Strong Hand Tools, for example, can provide much value for many years, despite having a relatively low price tag.
The working surfaces of welding tables at this price point are, generally speaking, smaller than tables over $1,000.
Work Counter Accessories
Table Vice
A table vice is perfect for securing a workpiece in place and carrying out a neat welding job. However, on welding tables with small surface areas, a vice can take up too much space and reduce your efficiency. If the vice’s jaws reach the height of your chest, it is also too high to allow for practical use.
C-clamps
C-clamps are a viable and versatile alternative to a bench vice, as you can clamp down an item anywhere on your table, providing that you have clamp slots that are big enough for your c-clamps. You can also use c-clamps to secure workpieces for many different joint types.
Corner Clamps
This type of clamp is ideal for welding corner joints. If you want to fuse two pieces of metal at a right angle, there is no better option than a corner clamp. There are many different types of corner clamps, and they don’t fasten to the work surface.
Conclusion
A welding table is essential for all steelworkers who value precision, safety, accuracy, comfort, and a level working surface.
There are many welding tables available. If you are looking for a model under $500, we recommend the Nomad from Strong Hand Tools. However, if you prefer a heavy-duty worktop and are willing to spend more than $1,000, consider the Miller 951413 60SX ArcStation Fully Loaded with its ample storage solutions and add-on features.
Before selecting a welding table, consider the weight and other portability requirements, the size of your working surface, and the ideal height. Construction quality is always a crucial consideration, even if you purchase a worktop on the lower end of the price spectrum.
Your welding table can also feature accessories that can make life easier for you, including a vice and clamps to weld different joint types.
Recommended Reading:
Disclosure: We make a small commission from Amazon whenever you purchase products following our links (at no additional cost to you). This will never affect our evaluation of products. You can find our full disclosure here.
