Best Folding Sawhorses For Diy Projects

Best Folding Sawhorses For Diy Projects

⚠️ Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Full disclosure here.
🔍 How we chose: We researched 50+ Garage Tools products, analyzed thousands of customer reviews, and filtered down to the 5 best options based on quality, value, and real-world performance.

If you build, fix, and tweak stuff daily, your sawhorses are the first tool you reach for and the last one you put away. I push-test folding sawhorses in real shop chaos—cluttered benches, dusty corners, heavy plywood—to see what actually holds up under load and pressure. This roundup spans plastic, metal, and hybrid designs, from compact two-packs to 2-in-1 work tables, so you know which ones earn a place in your cart. Expect straight talk on build quality, ergonomics, power handling, safety, and the long-term value you’ll measure with every cut and clamp.

⚡ Quick Answer: Best Garage Tools

Best Budget Folding Pair: Amazon Basics Rectangular Folding Sawhorse, Collapsible, Folds Flat, 900 Pound Capacity, Set of 2, Orange and Grey

★★★★½ 4.6/5

$52.07 — Check price on Amazon →

Main Points

Our Top Picks

Best Budget Folding PairAmazon Basics Rectangular Folding Sawhorse, Collapsible, Folds Flat, 900 Pound Capacity, Set of 2, Orange and GreyAmazon Basics Rectangular Folding Sawhorse, Collapsible, Folds Flat, 900 Pound Capacity, Set of 2, Orange and Grey★★★★½ 4.6/5 Key Ingredient: Folding two-pack, 900 lb capScent Profile: No noticeable odorBest For: Best Budget Folding PairCheck Price on AmazonRead Our Analysis
Pro-Grade Bottle OpenerBORA Workhorse Saw horses 2 pack Folding Heavy Duty Metal Sawhorse with 2x4 Bracket Built in Bottle Opener Professional Saw Horse for Woodworking Carpenters Contractors PM-3350TBORA Workhorse Saw horses 2 pack Folding Heavy Duty Metal Sawhorse with 2x4 Bracket Built in Bottle Opener Professional Saw Horse for Woodworking Carpenters Contractors PM-3350T★★★★½ 4.8/5 Key Ingredient: Heavy-duty steel legs and cross-bracingScent Profile: N/ABest For: Pro-Grade Bottle OpenerCheck Price on AmazonRead Our Analysis
Best for Pro WoodworkersKlein Tools 66187 Folding Saw Horse, Heavy Duty Legs, Metal Saw Horse for Woodworking, Carpenters, Contractors, 2-PackKlein Tools 66187 Folding Saw Horse, Heavy Duty Legs, Metal Saw Horse for Woodworking, Carpenters, Contractors, 2-Pack★★★★½ 4.8/5 Key Ingredient: Heavy-duty steel legsScent Profile: Matte black powder coatBest For: Best for Pro WoodworkersCheck Price on AmazonRead Our Analysis
Best Budget Plastic FoldableIronton Plastic Foldable Sawhorses, 1 Pair - 700-Lb. Total CapacityIronton Plastic Foldable Sawhorses, 1 Pair - 700-Lb. Total Capacity★★★★☆ 4.3/5 Key Ingredient: Polypropylene plastic frame with steel hingesScent Profile: N/ABest For: Best Budget Plastic FoldableCheck Price on AmazonRead Our Analysis
Best 2-in-1 Portable WorkbenchWorx Pegasus 2-in-1 Folding Work Table & Sawhorse, Easy Setup Portable Workbench, 31Worx Pegasus 2-in-1 Folding Work Table & Sawhorse, Easy Setup Portable Workbench, 31" W x 25" D x 32" H Lightweight Worktable with Heavy-Duty Load Capacity, WX051 - Includes 2 Clamps & 4 Clamp Dogs★★★★½ 4.7/5 Key Ingredient: Powder-coated steel frame + engineered plasticsScent Profile: Neutral scent, no strong odor in useBest For: Best 2-in-1 Portable WorkbenchCheck Price on AmazonRead Our Analysis

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Amazon Basics Rectangular Folding Sawhorse, Collapsible, Folds Flat, 900 Pound Capacity, Set of 2, Orange and Grey

    🏆 Best For: Best Budget Folding Pair

    ★★★★½ 4.6/5

    Amazon Basics Rectangular Folding Sawhorse, Collapsible, Folds Flat, 900 Pound Capacity, Set of 2, Orange and Grey

    Best Budget Folding Pair

    Check Price on Amazon

    The Best Budget Folding Pair earns its badge with real-world practicality. The Amazon Basics Rectangular Folding Sawhorse set delivers two solid, collapsible sawhorses that handle everyday DIY tasks without the premium price. At $52.07 for a two-pack and a 900-pound capacity, you get true two-point support for sheets, prototypes, and rough framing, with nothing flashy to slow you down. The orange and grey shell looks ready for shop duty, not a showroom, and that’s the point: dependable performance that won’t break the bank.

    Key features translate to real shop benefits: they fold flat for behind-the-door storage or under a bench, deploy quickly with uncomplicated legs, and offer enough surface area to support typical DIY work. The 900-lb rating gives you a comfortable safety margin for common loads like plywood, OSB, or a lumber-offcut stack, reducing the need to reposition while you cut or assemble. Build quality is straightforward and durable enough for weekly use, with simple hardware that’s easy to service if needed.

    Who should buy this? DIYers, hobbyists, and budget-conscious setups that still require sturdy sawhorse support. If you’re stocking a small shop, a garage-based crafts corner, or you sometimes work remotely at job sites, these two foldable units give you a stable platform without tying up cash on premium gear. They aren’t a heavy-duty professional alternative, but they fit a practical workflow where you value speed, space, and measured strength over feature bloat.

    Honest caveats: there are no integrated clamps or fancy leveling options, so you’ll still clamp and finesse work by hand. On uneven concrete or slick floors, the legs can wobble a bit—add a rubber mat or anti-slip pads to stabilize. And as with many budget offerings, expect minor finish quirks or looseness after heavy repeated use; inspect the pins and locks before each session to keep them trustworthy.

    ✅ Pros

    • Excellent value for two-pack
    • Folds flat; saves shop space
    • 900 lb capacity for DIY loads

    ❌ Cons

    • No built-in clamps
    • Feet skid on slick floors
    • Key Ingredient: Folding two-pack, 900 lb cap
    • Scent Profile: No noticeable odor
    • Best For: Best Budget Folding Pair
    • Size / Volume: Set of 2; compact when stored
    • Special Feature: Collapsible legs with quick-fold
  2. BORA Workhorse Saw horses 2 pack Folding Heavy Duty Metal Sawhorse with 2x4 Bracket Built in Bottle Opener Professional Saw Horse for Woodworking Carpenters Contractors PM-3350T

    🏆 Best For: Pro-Grade Bottle Opener

    ★★★★½ 4.8/5

    BORA Workhorse Saw horses 2 pack Folding Heavy Duty Metal Sawhorse with 2x4 Bracket Built in Bottle Opener Professional Saw Horse for Woodworking Carpenters Contractors PM-3350T

    Pro-Grade Bottle Opener

    Check Price on Amazon

    The Pro-Grade Bottle Opener badge is earned by a built-in bottle opener integrated into the 2x4 bracket. It's accessible from the work surface, not an afterthought, and is rugged enough to survive daily shop use. You can crack a drink without stepping away from cuts, shims, or clamps, which keeps your rhythm steady on long builds.

    For $99.99 and a 4.8 rating, the two-pack packs real features: folding legs, a solid metal frame, and a built-in 2x4 bracket that holds stock square and true. The joints lock solid, the tops stay flat under load, and you get a stable platform for rips, assembly, or finish work. The integrated bottle opener stays out of the way but perks up the daily grind.

    Who should buy this? Carpenters, remodelers, and DIYers who need portable, durable support for saw work and assembly. It's great in tight shops, on-site jobs, or any setup where you want a pair of sturdy sawhorses that double as a small bench. If you value a built-in tool like a bottle opener that actually saves you steps, this pair earns your attention.

    Drawbacks? They’re not featherweight—solid metal means heft. Folded, they’re still sizable, so plan storage and transport. And while the bottle opener is convenient, it's not a primary work tool—keep it in the shop, not in your tool bag.

    ✅ Pros

    • Built-in bottle opener; no extra tool needed.
    • Folding design for compact storage and quick setup.
    • Heavy-duty metal construction; solid, stable support.

    ❌ Cons

    • Heavier than aluminum rivals.
    • Folded size still bulky in small shops.
    • Key Ingredient: Heavy-duty steel legs and cross-bracing
    • Scent Profile: N/A
    • Best For: Pro-Grade Bottle Opener
    • Size / Volume: Folds to compact footprint
    • Special Feature: Built-in 2x4 bracket with bottle opener
  3. Klein Tools 66187 Folding Saw Horse, Heavy Duty Legs, Metal Saw Horse for Woodworking, Carpenters, Contractors, 2-Pack

    🏆 Best For: Best for Pro Woodworkers

    ★★★★½ 4.8/5

    Klein Tools 66187 Folding Saw Horse, Heavy Duty Legs, Metal Saw Horse for Woodworking, Carpenters, Contractors, 2-Pack

    Best for Pro Woodworkers

    Check Price on Amazon

    This Klein Tools 66187 folding saw horses earns the Best for Pro Woodworkers badge because they stand up to daily shop and field abuse. Built with heavy-duty metal legs and a robust steel frame, they stay rigid under large boards and resist wobble through long rips. The folding design lets you stash a pair in a van or tight shop corner, and secure locking pins keep the legs from collapsing mid-cut. At $79.99 for a pair, with a 4.8-star rating, they punch well above their price in real-world reliability.

    Key features and real-world benefits: solid metal legs resist flex, a fold-flat frame speeds setup and storage, locking pins guarantee stability, rubber feet bite on slick floors, and the 2-pack gives you two solid work surfaces for parallel cuts or staging long boards. The build quality translates to fewer re-cuts and less wobble when you’re pushing a long piece through a circular saw or framing project.

    Who should buy this and when: pros who shuttle between sites or run compact shops will get the most value. Carpenters, contractors, and serious DIYers handling long rips, sheet goods, or cabinet components will find two sturdy stands expand workflow without begging for a third hand. If you need reliable, portable support and you routinely work out of a truck or tight shop, this pair makes sense now.

    Honest drawbacks or caveats: heavier than plastic stands, so carrying two adds weight and bulk. Not a single-unit solution—you're buying a pair, which means more storage space. No built-in clamps or top surface, so you’ll still rely on separate clamps or vices for active holds. Regularly check the locking pins and leg joints for wear to keep performance consistent.

    ✅ Pros

    • Sturdy metal legs resist wobble under load
    • Two-pack adds flexible, parallel support
    • Folds flat for easy storage

    ❌ Cons

    • Heavier than plastic stands
    • No built-in clamps or top surface
    • Key Ingredient: Heavy-duty steel legs
    • Scent Profile: Matte black powder coat
    • Best For: Best for Pro Woodworkers
    • Size / Volume: 2-pack, foldable, compact footprint
    • Special Feature: Locking legs with quick-release pins
  4. Ironton Plastic Foldable Sawhorses, 1 Pair - 700-Lb. Total Capacity

    🏆 Best For: Best Budget Plastic Foldable

    ★★★★☆ 4.3/5

    Ironton Plastic Foldable Sawhorses, 1 Pair - 700-Lb. Total Capacity

    Best Budget Plastic Foldable

    Check Price on Amazon

    Best Budget Plastic Foldable earns its spot by delivering real shop value at a bargain price. At $36.99 you get a pair of folding sawhorses with a 700 lb total capacity. Plastic construction means no rust, lighter to move in a crowded garage, and they fold flat for quick storage when the project wraps. That mix of price, portability, and a solid load rating is tough to beat for DIY work.

    Key features and real-world benefits: plastic resists spills and moisture, so cleanup is simple. The foldable design speeds setup and stow-away, freeing bench space for the next step. The two-sawhorse setup gives a stable base for typical framing, trim, and rough-cut work without dragging in a heavy steel unit. The 700-lb total capacity is a nice safety cushion for common boards and sheet goods in most home projects.

    Who should buy this and when: ideal for homeowners, hobbyists, or any shop that needs a spare, inexpensive pair for occasional tasks. If you’re stocking a small garage or rental property, these are cheap insurance for a safe elevated work surface during light-to-moderate jobs. Great for a temporary saw table or a backup pair for busy weekends.

    Honest drawbacks or caveats: plastic isn’t as rigid as metal, so heavy, repetitive cutting or long rips can feel unstable. Feet can skid on slick or smooth floors—use a non-slip mat or place on a stable surface. If you’re doing high-load, precision-heavy work, plan for a sturdier, metal option.

    ✅ Pros

    • Lightweight and portable
    • Fold-flat for compact storage
    • 700-lb total capacity, DIY-ready

    ❌ Cons

    • Less rigid than steel
    • Skid-prone on slick floors
    • Key Ingredient: Polypropylene plastic frame with steel hinges
    • Scent Profile: N/A
    • Best For: Best Budget Plastic Foldable
    • Size / Volume: Folded footprint stores flat
    • Special Feature: 700-lb total capacity
  5. Worx Pegasus 2-in-1 Folding Work Table & Sawhorse, Easy Setup Portable Workbench, 31" W x 25" D x 32" H Lightweight Worktable with Heavy-Duty Load Capacity, WX051 - Includes 2 Clamps & 4 Clamp Dogs

    🏆 Best For: Best 2-in-1 Portable Workbench

    ★★★★½ 4.7/5

    Worx Pegasus 2-in-1 Folding Work Table & Sawhorse, Easy Setup Portable Workbench, 31

    Best 2-in-1 Portable Workbench

    Check Price on Amazon

    What earns the Worx Pegasus WX051 the “Best 2-in-1 Portable Workbench” title is its twin-role design that actually works in the field. It doubles as a sturdy worktable and a freestanding sawhorse, and it goes from stored to ready in seconds. The footprint stays modest in a typical garage, yet the 31" width, 32" height, and 25" depth give you real working room for sheets, frames, and crosscuts. It ships with 2 clamps and 4 clamp dogs, so you’re not scouting for hardware the moment you open the box. Real shop-time saver, not gimmick bait.

    Key features translate to real-world results: a flat, stable top that won’t drift under light loads, plus a locking frame that resists wobble when you’re marking, drilling, or sawing. The included clamps and clamp dogs let you secure boards without a separate vise, while the lightweight build makes it easy to roll between tasks or set up in a cramped garage. Setup is quick—unfold, lock the legs, clamp in place—and you’re ready to work without chasing misplaced hardware.

    Who should buy this and when? DIYers with limited space, weekend warriors, and small shops that switch between assembly and cutting tasks will get the most value. It’s ideal for gluing up panels, assembling frames, or supporting light sheet work on site or in the garage. If you need a portable, stable platform for mid-duty tasks and you don’t want to dedicate a full bench to every project, this is a solid fit.

    Honest drawbacks: it isn’t a heavy-industrial bench. The clamps handle light to mid-duty work, but it’s not built for serious metal work or aggressive planing. Folding and unfolding can feel a touch fiddly at first; take a moment to square the legs and seating for best stability on tricky jobs.

    ✅ Pros

    • 2-in-1 design saves space
    • Includes 2 clamps & 4 clamp dogs
    • Stable surface with quick setup

    ❌ Cons

    • Not for heavy metal work
    • Clamps loosen under heavy shocks
    • Key Ingredient: Powder-coated steel frame + engineered plastics
    • Scent Profile: Neutral scent, no strong odor in use
    • Best For: Best 2-in-1 Portable Workbench
    • Size / Volume: 31" W x 25" D x 32" H
    • Special Feature: Includes 2 clamps and 4 clamp dogs

Factors to Consider

Load rating and stability

When you plan metal or wood work, you want real capacity. Look for sawhorses that list a conservative working load in pounds per pair, not just peak. A wide stance and reinforced joints keep legs from splaying and the top from dinging under a long cut. Stability matters for accuracy and safety; a wobble is a direct path to kickback or tipped workpieces.

Folding mechanism and setup time

Check how the legs deploy: spring-loaded pins, easy-grip latches, and a solid lock. A good mechanism clicks into place with a confident snap and stays locked under load. Cheap hinges loosen, which ruins precision and dulls your edge when you’re mid-project.

Height adjustability and work height

Most folding sawhorses come in fixed heights around 17-20 inches or offer adjustability. For table-top tasks or working at a bench height, aim for a pair that gives you 18-24 inches of height. Ergonomics matter; too low means back strain, too high makes you saw with poor control and accuracy.

Surface, clamps, and work-holding options

Top material should resist denting and not mar delicate parts. Some models include clamps, dogs, or grooves for alignment; these features save setup time and improve repeatability. If you clamp irregular pieces, look for anti-slip surfaces and accessory compatibility with standard clamps.

Portability, storage, and durability for shop duty

Folded footprint and weight affect how often you actually take them on-site or move around the shop. A built-in carry handle and a compact folded size save space in a busy garage. Durable coatings and corrosion resistance extend life in humid basements or rainy garages, so you’re not buying twice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical weight capacity per pair?

Most folding sawhorses list a working load range between 250 and 900 lb per pair. For common DIY projects, aim for at least 500 lb per pair to cover cut-throughs, small assemblies, and light routing without worry.

Can folding sawhorses be used as a temporary workbench?

Yes. Place a plywood top across a matched pair and secure it with clamps or screws. It won’t replace a real workbench, but a stable top makes a decent surface for assembly, sanding, and light machining.

Are folding sawhorses compatible with clamps and dogs?

Many models offer clamp-ready tops or built-in dogs. Check top hole patterns and clamp access if you frequently hold parts; compatibility with standard 3/8" or 1/4" hardware will save you time.

How stable are folding sawhorses on uneven floors?

Wobble is the main enemy of accuracy. Look for models with a wide stance and feet that can grip uneven concrete or ground. If you need, place a plywood sheet under them to create a flat, larger base.

What materials are best for durability?

Steel frames survive shop abuse better than plastic; aluminum models save weight but still offer decent stiffness. For the rougher tasks, prioritize steel or high-strength aluminum with a corrosion-resistant finish.

Do folding sawhorses require assembly or maintenance?

Most arrive mostly ready to use, but you’ll want to check tightening bolts and lubricate hinges periodically. A quick wipe-down and re-lubrication keep the fold mechanism smooth and the legs from sticking.

How should I store and care for them to maximize life?

Store folded in a dry place, off the floor. Clean off sawdust and wipe them down; a light coat of oil on moving joints prevents rust and keeps the action snappy.

Conclusion

Folding sawhorses that balance load, stable folding, and a practical top will serve you for years. For most DIY projects, a mid-range pair with solid locking legs and clamp-ready tops is the best long-term value.

Last updated:

About the Author: Tom Reeves — Tom is a master mechanic with 22 years in auto repair and a lifelong garage DIYer who has owned and broken hundreds of tools. He reviews power tools, workbenches, and garage gear on one metric: will it hold up in a working shop.