Translation guide
A sturdy table used for manual work, such as woodworking, metalworking, or crafting. In Japanese, the most common term is 作業台 (sagyōdai), but specific types have distinct names.
作業台
workbench (general)
A table used for various manual tasks, often in a workshop or garage.
The most general and widely understood term for a workbench. Suitable for woodworking, metalworking, assembly, and other tasks.
ガレージに作業台を設置した。
I set up a workbench in the garage.
作業台の上に工具を並べる。
I arrange tools on the workbench.
A loanword from English, often used in DIY contexts or when referring to Western-style workbenches. Less common than 作業台 but understood.
このワークベンチは組み立てが簡単だ。
This workbench is easy to assemble.
A specialized bench for woodworking, often with vises and dog holes.
Specifically a woodworking bench. Common in carpentry and hobbyist contexts.
木工台にバイスを取り付ける。
I attach a vise to the woodworking bench.
A more descriptive term: 'workbench for woodworking'. Used when clarity is needed.
木工用作業台をDIYで作った。
I built a woodworking workbench myself.
A heavy-duty bench for metalworking, often with a steel top.
A workbench for metalworking. 金工 means metalworking.
金工作業台は頑丈でなければならない。
A metalworking bench must be sturdy.
Literally 'ironworking bench', used in industrial settings.
工場の鉄工台で部品を加工する。
We process parts on the ironworking bench in the factory.
A bench for electronics, soldering, or small crafts, often with anti-static features.
A workbench for electronics work. Often includes anti-static mats and good lighting.
電子作業台には静電気防止マットを敷く。
I put an anti-static mat on the electronics workbench.
A hobby workbench, used for model building, crafts, etc.
ホビー作業台でプラモデルを作る。
I build plastic models on my hobby workbench.
A lightweight, often foldable bench for jobsites or small spaces.
A foldable workbench. Common in DIY and for those with limited space.
折りたたみ作業台は収納に便利だ。
A foldable workbench is convenient for storage.
A portable workbench, often used by contractors.
現場にポータブル作業台を持っていく。
I bring a portable workbench to the job site.
作業台 is for manual work and is usually sturdier and larger than a desk (机). A desk is for office or study tasks. Do not use 机 for a workbench unless it's a very light-duty crafting table.
ワークベンチ is a loanword and is understood, especially in DIY communities, but 作業台 is more natural in general Japanese. Use ワークベンチ when referring to a specific product name or in a very casual, modern context.