Compared two cheap tool stands side by side and one was way sturdier

I needed a stand for my bench grinder, so I picked up both a Ryobi and a Wen model from Home Depot to test. The Ryobi wobbled like crazy even with the grinder bolted on, but the Wen was solid as a rock for the same $60 price. I ended up returning the Ryobi the next day and kept the Wen on my bench for 6 months now. Anyone else notice big build quality gaps between budget brands?

2 comments

2 Comments

wendy_wilson21d ago

Oh and it's not just the wobble that gets me (which is bad enough), it's how they spread the weight differently. The Ryobi had those skinny little legs that felt like they'd fold if you sneezed near them, while the Wen had a wider base and the cross braces actually lined up with where the grinder sits. I noticed the Wen's welds were way cleaner too, like they actually cared about making it hold up over time instead of just selling you something that'll shake your tools apart.

rowanw3119d ago

Tbh I used to be a Ryobi loyalist on their power tools, but seeing them cheap out on stands like that has me rethinking things. Wen always seemed like the budget option you settle for, but your breakdown makes me realize they actually put thought into the design. Might have to grab one of those next time I'm at the store instead of just grabbing whatever's cheapest.