You’ll find the right portable benchtop vise balances jaw width, clamping force, and mounting flexibility for your specific tasks.
Mini models suit delicate jewelry work, while heavy-duty options handle metalworking and woodworking projects.
Key features include 360° swivel bases for repositioning, clamp-on or bolt-down mounting, hardened steel jaws, and replaceable protective covers.
Consider throat depth and maximum jaw opening when selecting for larger workpieces.
Understanding these specifications helps you match the vise to your workshop’s demands.
| Mini Bench Vise Clamp with 360° Swivel Base |  | Best For Jewelry | Jaw Width: 0–2.1 inches (adjustable) | Maximum Jaw Opening: 2.1 inches | Rotation/Swivel Base: 360° rotating base | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| PONY 4 Inch Heavy Duty Bench Vise |  | Best Overall | Jaw Width: 4 inches | Maximum Jaw Opening: 4 inches | Rotation/Swivel Base: 360° rotatable swivel base | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Bench Vise 4.5″ Heavy Duty Swivel Base |  | Best Value | Jaw Width: 4.5 inches | Maximum Jaw Opening: 3.3 inches | Rotation/Swivel Base: 270° swivel range | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Yost Vises COV-3 Clamp-On Vise 3 Inch Jaw |  | Budget-Friendly Pick | Jaw Width: 3 inches | Maximum Jaw Opening: 2.5 inches | Rotation/Swivel Base: Clamp-on (no swivel mentioned) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| WORKPRO Dual Jaws Table Vise 2.5″ & 1.5 |  | Most Versatile | Jaw Width: 2.5 inches (serrated) & 1.5 inches (smooth) | Maximum Jaw Opening: 2.5 inches (serrated) & 1.5 inches (smooth) | Rotation/Swivel Base: 360° swivel base and head | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Multi-Purpose Bench Vise 3.3″ with Swivel Base |  | Best For Beginners | Jaw Width: 3.3 inches | Maximum Jaw Opening: 2.5 inches | Rotation/Swivel Base: 360° swivel base | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Universal Table Vise 3 Inch with 360° Swivel Base |  | Most Popular | Jaw Width: 2.8 inches | Maximum Jaw Opening: 3 inches | Rotation/Swivel Base: 360° swivel base | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| WORKPRO 4-1/2″ Bench Vise with Swivel Base |  | Professional Grade | Jaw Width: 4.5 inches | Maximum Jaw Opening: 3.75 inches | Rotation/Swivel Base: 240° swivel locking base | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Dual-Purpose Universal Vise 3.3″ with 360° Swivel Base |  | Best Portability | Jaw Width: 3.3 inches | Maximum Jaw Opening: 2.5 inches | Rotation/Swivel Base: 360° swivel base | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| GOXAWEE Universal Bench Vise 3.15 Inch Table Clamp |  | Best For Crafts | Jaw Width: 3.15 inches (80 mm) | Maximum Jaw Opening: 3.15 inches (80 mm) | Rotation/Swivel Base: 360° swivel base | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Mini Bench Vise Clamp with 360° Swivel Base
If you’re tackling precision work on small objects—jewelry, watches, circuit boards, or delicate crafts—the Mini Bench Vise Clamp with 360° Swivel Base delivers the stability and control you’ll need without taking up workspace. This aluminum alloy vise features adjustable jaws that grip objects up to 2.1 inches, while removable clamping blocks accommodate round or irregular shapes. The 360° rotating base with strong suction keeps everything secure on smooth surfaces. Non-slip rubber pads protect delicate items from damage during work. Included tools—small pliers and a hexagonal screwdriver—enhance functionality. At just 7 ounces, portability makes it ideal for hobbyists and professionals alike.
- Jaw Width:0–2.1 inches (adjustable)
- Maximum Jaw Opening:2.1 inches
- Rotation/Swivel Base:360° rotating base
- Weight:7 oz (0.2 kg)
- Mounting Type:Suction cup base (smooth surfaces)
- Primary Application:Jewelry making, watch repair, soldering, electronics
- Additional Feature:Non-slip rubber pads included
- Additional Feature:Removable clamping blocks
- Additional Feature:Includes small pliers/screwdriver
PONY 4 Inch Heavy Duty Bench Vise
The Pony 4 Inch Heavy Duty Bench Vise stands out as an excellent choice for woodworkers and metalworkers who need serious clamping power without breaking the bank. You’ll appreciate its 4,400-pound clamping force, which handles demanding tasks like pipe cutting and metal shaping. The 360° swivel base lets you rotate your workpiece for better access and efficiency. Its ductile iron construction resists corrosion while withstanding heavy workloads. Built-in anvil surface supports forging and hammering work. Replaceable pipe jaws accommodate round materials effectively. The fully enclosed rear design keeps dust out of your workspace. At 16.33 pounds with solid engineering, this vise delivers professional-grade performance for serious workshops.
- Jaw Width:4 inches
- Maximum Jaw Opening:4 inches
- Rotation/Swivel Base:360° rotatable swivel base
- Weight:16.33 lbs
- Mounting Type:Bolt-down to workbench
- Primary Application:Woodworking, metalworking, drilling, pipe cutting
- Additional Feature:4,400 lbs clamping force
- Additional Feature:Built-in anvil surface
- Additional Feature:Replaceable pipe jaws
Bench Vise 4.5″ Heavy Duty Swivel Base
Woodworkers, DIY enthusiasts, and craftspeople who need reliable workholding without sacrificing workspace flexibility should seriously consider this 4.5″ bench vise. You’ll appreciate its 270-degree swivel capability, which lets you reposition your workpiece without re-clamping or moving your entire setup. The 2-in-1 mounting system offers genuine versatility—screw it permanently to your workbench or clamp it temporarily to the edge using the included base. Its multifunctional soft jaws protect delicate materials while maintaining secure grip strength. At thirteen pounds with high-strength forged steel construction, this vise handles heavy-duty applications reliably. The rust-resistant coating guarantees longevity in various workshop environments. You’re getting a straightforward, capable tool backed by a three-year replacement warranty for manufacturing defects.
- Jaw Width:4.5 inches
- Maximum Jaw Opening:3.3 inches
- Rotation/Swivel Base:270° swivel range
- Weight:13 lbs
- Mounting Type:2-in-1 (screwed or clamped)
- Primary Application:Woodworking, welding, DIY, model making, electronics
- Additional Feature:2-in-1 mounting versatility
- Additional Feature:Multifunctional soft jaws
- Additional Feature:3-year unconditional replacement warranty
Yost Vises COV-3 Clamp-On Vise 3 Inch Jaw
Yost Vises’ COV-3 Clamp-On Vise delivers versatile clamping power for home workshops, professional settings, and light-duty shop work. This compact 3-inch jaw vise mounts securely to benches or surfaces up to 2 inches thick, offering 2.5 inches of jaw opening and 1.625 inches of throat depth. Its gray iron casting construction with plated steel components guarantees durability across varied projects. The serrated jaws grip workpieces firmly without slipping. You’ll appreciate the straightforward operation: turn the handle clockwise to tighten, counterclockwise to release. Yost backs this model with a one-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support, making it a dependable choice for budget-conscious makers seeking reliable portable vising solutions.
- Jaw Width:3 inches
- Maximum Jaw Opening:2.5 inches
- Rotation/Swivel Base:Clamp-on (no swivel mentioned)
- Weight:Not specified
- Mounting Type:Clamp-on mount
- Primary Application:Light-duty home and shop use
- Additional Feature:30,000 PSI gray iron
- Additional Feature:Lifetime tech support included
- Additional Feature:Federal specification compliance
WORKPRO Dual Jaws Table Vise 2.5″ & 1.5
If you’re tackling diverse projects—from metalworking to golf club repairs—the Workpro Dual Jaws Table Vise brings together versatility and clamping power that sets it apart. You’ll appreciate its dual-jaw design: 2.5-inch serrated jaws for rough gripping and 1.5-inch smooth jaws for delicate work. The hardened carbon steel jaws deliver 660 pounds of clamping force, handling pipes and precision tasks effectively. Its 360-degree swivel base lets you access projects from any angle, while compact dimensions make it ideal for small workspaces. Installation’s straightforward—clamp or bolt down to your workbench using standard 1/4-20 bolts.
- Jaw Width:2.5 inches (serrated) & 1.5 inches (smooth)
- Maximum Jaw Opening:2.5 inches (serrated) & 1.5 inches (smooth)
- Rotation/Swivel Base:360° swivel base and head
- Weight:7.7 lbs
- Mounting Type:Clamp-on or bolt-down
- Primary Application:Pipes, tubes, woodworking, metalworking, DIY
- Additional Feature:Dual jaw configuration
- Additional Feature:660 lbs clamping force
- Additional Feature:Hardened carbon steel jaws
Multi-Purpose Bench Vise 3.3″ with Swivel Base
The Multi-Purpose Bench Vise 3.3″ with Swivel Base really shines for hobbyists and small-shop owners who need flexibility without sacrificing performance. You’ll appreciate its 360° swivel base, which lets you reposition your workpiece quickly for multi-angle tasks. The one-click clamping system eliminates tedious screw adjustments, tightening jaws instantly for precise holds. Its 2-in-1 mounting design means you can screw it permanently to your bench or clamp it temporarily onto tables up to 4″ thick. Hardened, textured jaws grip securely during woodworking, metalworking, and drilling. The compact cast-steel construction suits home workshops well, handling most DIY applications reliably.
- Jaw Width:3.3 inches
- Maximum Jaw Opening:2.5 inches
- Rotation/Swivel Base:360° swivel base
- Weight:Not specified
- Mounting Type:2-in-1 (screwed or clamped)
- Primary Application:Woodworking, drilling, cutting, gluing, metalworking
- Additional Feature:One-click positioning system
- Additional Feature:Supports 4″ table thickness
- Additional Feature:Hardened, engraved jaw texture
Universal Table Vise 3 Inch with 360° Swivel Base
For hobbyists and professionals tackling light-duty workshop projects, this portable benchtop vise delivers practical clamping solutions without requiring permanent installation. The 3-inch jaw opening accommodates various workpiece sizes, while the 360° swivel base lets you adjust clamping angles for ideal positioning. Cast steel construction with quenched jaws provides durability for woodworking, metalworking, and general handcrafts. The chrome-plated spindle operates smoothly, and included rubber protective covers shield delicate items. At 4.13 pounds, it clamps securely to most tables. With 4.4-star ratings from hundreds of users, this vise balances affordability with reliable performance for workshop enthusiasts seeking versatile, space-saving clamping.
- Jaw Width:2.8 inches
- Maximum Jaw Opening:3 inches
- Rotation/Swivel Base:360° swivel base
- Weight:4.13 lbs
- Mounting Type:Clamp-on mount
- Primary Application:Woodworking, metalworking, handcrafts, drilling, sawing
- Additional Feature:Rubber protective cover included
- Additional Feature:Chrome-plated spindle/nut
- Additional Feature:366 customer reviews (4.4★)
WORKPRO 4-1/2″ Bench Vise with Swivel Base
Woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts looking to take on pipe work, metalworking, or general clamping tasks will find their match with WORKPRO’s 4-1/2″ Bench Vise. This gray iron vise delivers impressive 2,204-pound clamping force, holding flat materials and pipes without slipping. Its 240-degree swivel base lets you position work at ideal angles for precision. The multi-jaw design accommodates various project types, from woodworking to plumbing. At 10.56 pounds, it’s portable yet sturdy enough for serious workshop use. With 4.6 stars from over 1,500 reviews, users consistently praise its reliability and ease of installation.
- Jaw Width:4.5 inches
- Maximum Jaw Opening:3.75 inches
- Rotation/Swivel Base:240° swivel locking base
- Weight:10.56 lbs
- Mounting Type:Bolt-down installation
- Primary Application:Woodworking, pipe work, general clamping
- Additional Feature:2,204 lbs clamping force
- Additional Feature:Large integrated anvil area
- Additional Feature:240-degree swivel locking base
Dual-Purpose Universal Vise 3.3″ with 360° Swivel Base
A Universal Vise 3.3″ with 360° swivel base works great for hobbyists and professionals who need versatility without complexity. This dual-purpose vise features a one-click quick-release button, allowing you to clamp workpieces rapidly without tedious screw-turning. The 360° swivel base lets you adjust your work to multiple angles, making drilling, gluing, and sawing markedly easier. You’ll appreciate the smooth guide rail for effortless operation. Its high-grade cast steel construction with hardened jaws delivers reliable grip strength. The compact 3.3″ jaw width handles most general tasks well, though heavier metalworking projects might need additional support.
- Jaw Width:3.3 inches
- Maximum Jaw Opening:2.5 inches
- Rotation/Swivel Base:360° swivel base
- Weight:Not specified
- Mounting Type:2-in-1 (screwed or clamped)
- Primary Application:Woodworking, metalworking, drilling, gluing, sanding
- Additional Feature:One-click quick-release positioning
- Additional Feature:Hardened, hammered jaw design
- Additional Feature:Surface-sprayed durability coating
GOXAWEE Universal Bench Vise 3.15 Inch Table Clamp
The GOXAWEE Universal Bench Vise opens up possibilities for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts tackling small projects at home. This 3.15-inch table clamp features a 360° swivel base, letting you adjust clamping angles for woodworking, cutting, or grinding tasks. The cast steel construction holds materials stably while the supplied rubber blanket protects fragile objects from scratches and your workbench from damage. Its anti-slip texture prevents slipping during use. Installation’s straightforward—just clamp it to your table and start working. Weighing 1.85 kg with a 62mm clamp thickness capacity, it’s genuinely compact yet functional for small DIY jobs.
- Jaw Width:3.15 inches (80 mm)
- Maximum Jaw Opening:3.15 inches (80 mm)
- Rotation/Swivel Base:360° swivel base
- Weight:1.85 kg (4.08 lbs)
- Mounting Type:Clamp-on circular base
- Primary Application:Woodworking, cutting, grinding, polishing, crafts, sculpting
- Additional Feature:Supplied rubber blanket protection
- Additional Feature:Anti-slip texture grip design
- Additional Feature:Ideal for craft/hobby use
Factors to Consider When Choosing Portable Benchtop Vises for Workshops
You’ll want to evaluate several key characteristics when selecting a Portable Benchtop Vise that matches your workshop needs and project requirements. Consider the jaw width—which determines what size materials you can hold—alongside the opening capacity, mounting options, and the vise’s clamping force, since these factors directly affect both functionality and versatility. You should also examine the material construction and whether a swivel base feature would benefit your specific work, as these elements influence durability, longevity, and ease of repositioning during projects.
Jaw Width and Opening
Jaw width and opening
Selecting the right jaw width and opening capacity makes all the difference when picking out a Portable Benchtop Vise. Jaw width typically ranges from 2.5″ to 4.5″ on smaller benchtop models, and wider jaws provide better support for larger workpieces. You’ll want to check the maximum jaw opening—usually between 2″ and 3.75″—to make sure it accommodates your thickest materials or assemblies. Consider how throat depth relates to jaw width, since deeper throats let you position longer items further from the bench edge. Balance these features carefully: larger jaws and wider openings increase weight and take up more space, while compact designs improve portability for hobbyists and mobile workshops.
Mounting and Installation
Mounting and installation
Since mounting method determines both portability and stability, it’s worth understanding what options suit your workshop best. You’ll find vises offering clamp-on or bolt-down modes, each with distinct advantages. Clamp-On models grip table edges up to about 4 inches thick, making them highly portable and ideal for temporary setups. Bolt-Down versions require predrilled holes but provide superior permanent stability. Check whether your vise includes mounting hardware and what fastener sizes it needs, typically 1/4–20 bolts. Base rotation capability matters too—look for 360° swivel or 240–270° range with reliable locking mechanisms. Consider rubber pads and protective features that safeguard your work surface while preventing slippage on smooth or uneven benches. Removable bases offer flexibility; permanent bolting assures durability.
Clamping Force Capacity
Clamping force capacity
Once you’ve got your vise mounted securely, the clamping force capacity becomes your next critical consideration. Measured in pounds or kilograms, this specification determines how much compressive load your vise can apply without slipping the workpiece. You’ll want to match the clamping capacity to your intended tasks—soft materials and precision work require far less force than metalworking or drilling operations. Higher clamping forces demand sturdier construction using forged or cast iron with hardened jaws to prevent deformation. However, excessive force can damage delicate workpieces, so consider vises with replaceable jaw covers and variable tightening control. Wider jaws distribute force over larger areas, reducing localized pressure and protecting your work from unnecessary damage.
Material and Durability
Material and durability
The materials your Vise is made from directly determine how well it’ll perform over years of workshop use. You’ll want high-strength options like ductile iron, forged steel, or cast steel for superior tensile strength and resistance to deformation under heavy loads. Hardened and quenched jaws—typically in the 52–58 HRC hardness range—resist wear better than untreated steel, maintaining gripping accuracy longer. Check for corrosion-resistant finishes and materials with good ductility to extend service life in humid environments. Heavier, well-braced bodies made from forged or thick-cast sections withstand higher clamp forces without cracking. Additionally, verify that replaceable wear parts like screws, guide rods, and jaw inserts are available, simplifying maintenance and extending your vise’s overall durability.
Swivel Base Functionality
Swivel Base Functionality
When you’re working on projects from different angles, a swivel base transforms your vise from a fixed tool into a genuinely versatile workstation companion. You’ll rotate the vise 270° to 360° without unclamping your workpiece, saving time on repetitive repositioning tasks.
Lock bolts secure your chosen angle, resisting torque from filing, hammering, or turning operations. You’ve got two main options: quick-release detents for rapid adjustments, or fully threaded bolts for maximum rigidity and vibration resistance during demanding work.
Consider your setup carefully. Clamp-on bases offer portability for different workbenches, while bolt-down designs provide permanent stability. Wide mounting footprints distribute lateral forces effectively, preventing wobbling under load. Check maximum table thickness compatibility to make certain your vise performs reliably when swiveling under pressure.
Weight and Portability
Weight and portability
While a sturdy swivel base keeps your workpiece locked in place, the vise itself needs to fit your actual working situation. Lighter vises—around 0.2 to 2 kilograms—move easily between locations and fit snugly in toolbags. Heavier models, ranging from 5 to 7+ kilograms, deliver superior stability and vibration resistance but sacrifice portability.
Your frequency of movement determines the right balance. Permanent bench installations benefit from heavier units that minimize movement during demanding tasks. However, if you’re working across multiple job sites, prioritize compact vises under 5 pounds with clamp-on or removable bases.
Consider which features matter most: thicker cast bodies and built-in anvils enhance stability but add significant weight. Measure dimensions carefully to make certain your vise fits storage containers and transport constraints. Match the vise’s specifications directly to your workflow patterns.
Conclusion
You’ve now explored ten reliable portable benchtop vises, each offering distinct advantages for your workshop needs. Remember, “measure twice, cut once”—similarly, choose wisely by matching jaw size, swivel capability, and clamping mechanism to your projects. Consider your budget, available space, and primary materials you’ll work with. Whether you need heavy-duty performance or lightweight portability, you’ll find a vise that enhances your craftsmanship and productivity markedly.