As one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of industrial workbenches, packing benches, and conveyor systems, Spaceguard understands the importance of choosing the right equipment for your workplace.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore the differences between industrial workbenches vs industrial workstations, helping you make an informed decision for your specific requirements.
What are Industrial Workbenches?
Industrial workbenches are solid, durable workbenches designed for heavy-duty use in industrial environments. They’re typically used in workshops, warehouses, and factories/manufacturing facilities for tasks such as assembly, packing, maintenance, and repair work.
Other types of workbenches include heavy duty workbenches, cantilever workbenches, and bespoke workbenches with storage options.
What are Industrial Workstations?
Industrial workstations are more specialised work areas that often include additional features such as integrated equipment, ergonomic design elements, and task-specific accessories. They’re commonly used in industries such as electronics manufacturing, laboratory work, and quality control. Apart from standard industrial desks and workstations, ESD, conveyor, and IT workstations are also available.
Workbench vs Workstation: Main Differences at a Glance
| Industrial Workbenches | Industrial Workstations | |
| Design | Simple design focused on strength and durability | Complex design based on specific task |
| Load capacities |
| Averages 500kg UDL |
| Versatility | High versatility (general purpose) | Less versatile (designed for specific functions) |
| Materials | Steel frame with various worktop options | Steel frame with various worktop options |
| Customisation | Depends on manufacturer | Depends on manufacturer |
| Mobility | Mobility achieved through castors | Mobility achieved through castors |
| Industries | Manufacturing, automotive, warehousing, DIY and home use | Electronics, laboratories, clean rooms, quality control |
How Do Industrial Workbenches vs Industrial Workstations Differ?
Design
Industrial workbenches are typically simpler in design, focusing on strength and durability. They often feature:
- A sturdy frame, usually made of square tube steel and finished with an epoxy powder coating
- A heavy-duty worktop that can withstand high loads (minimum of 500kg UDL)
- Optional lower shelf or storage options like cupboards or drawers
- Levelling feet for uneven floors
Industrial workstations tend to have more complex designs tailored to specific tasks:
- Ergonomic features such as height adjustable worktops
- Integrated equipment like monitors, lighting, or power supplies
- Specialised storage solutions, such as small parts storage bins or louvre panels
- Modular design for easy customisation and reconfiguration
Load Capacities
Industrial workbenches can support significant loads ranging between 200 – 5000 kg depending on the application. In comparison, industrial workstations can have lower load capacities, as they’re designed for more specialised tasks.
However, they still offer support for most industrial applications with capacities averaging 500kg UDL, depending on the specific model and configuration.
Versatility
In the versatility column, industrial workbenches score higher. As general-purpose workbenches, they’re highly versatile and can be used for a wide range of applications in workshops, warehouses, and manufacturing environments.
While industrial workstations may be less versatile, they excel in their intended applications and can often be customised to meet specific requirements. For example, ESD workstations are tailored for electronics manufacturing, while packing benches are optimised for efficient packing and shipping operations.
Materials
Industrial workbenches and workstations are constructed from similar materials like steel frames (often powder-coated for durability). Worktops are made from materials such as:
- Laminate
- Plywood
- MDF
- Beech
- Steel
- Rubber
- Polyethylene
Customisation
The level of customisation will depend on who manufactures the bench or station. Some manufacturers offer standard sizes, while others like Spaceguard make workbenches and workstations according to your specifications. Customisation options include:
- Choice of worktop materials and sizes
- Various storage, electrical, and IT configurations (drawers, cupboards, shelves, lighting, sockets, monitor mounting)
- Addition of accessories like louvre panels or tool rails
- Custom paint colours to match your branding or environment
Mobility
While many industrial workbenches are designed to be stationary, you can find mobile workbench options:
- Workbenches with heavy-duty castors for easy movement
- Trolley-style workbenches for maximum mobility
- Locking castors for stability when in use
Industrial workstations can also be designed for mobility, depending on the application:
- Some models come with built-in castors for easy relocation
- Lighter weight designs for increased portability
- Modular systems that can be easily disassembled and moved
Industries
| Industrial Workbenches | Industrial Workstations |
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How Do You Choose Between Industrial Workbench vs Industrial Workstation?
Equipping your industrial space with the right work surface can make a big difference in efficiency and safety. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide between an industrial workbench and workstation:
- Consider the work – What tasks will happen there? Assembly lines might need workstations with integrated features, while repairs might be fine with a simple workbench.
- Weight capacity – How much weight will the surface support? Heavy machinery demands a solid workbench, while you can complete lighter tasks on a standard workstation.
- Space constraints – How much room do you have? If the space is tricky, find a manufacturer that can design and produce a custom bench or station.
- Specialisation needs – Do you need specific features? Workstations can integrate equipment like monitors or electrical panels.
- Future flexibility – Will your needs change? Workstations with modular components might be better if you anticipate expansion or reconfiguration.
Making the Right Choice With Spaceguard
Understanding the differences between industrial workbenches and industrial workstations can help you optimise your workplace efficiency and productivity. Whether you need a heavy duty workbench for general use or a specialised workstation for specific tasks, Spaceguard offers a wide range of options to suit your needs.
To find the perfect workbench or workstation for your industrial environment, browse our extensive product range or contact our expert team. We’re here to help you choose the best solution for your specific requirements and ensure you get the durable, high-quality equipment your business deserves.