portable workbench recommendation

Get a Workmate. Don't get anything that isn't a genuine Workmate, made by Black and Decker. The difference is enormous and there is _no_ comparable non-B&D product, not even the Wolf or Triton.

If you can find an old one, get a second-hand cast aluminium H-frame Workmate, not a modern welded steel one.

The "professional" models are second best. They're a little bigger, and they have plywood tops. Most other models have chipboad or MDF tops.

Swinging "vertical" jaws are a gimmick, as are chain-drive handles.

If you're in the UK, buy it on a Bank Holiday from B&Q. They usually have big loss-leaders on these items and the saving is worth having.