This is such an individual preference issue, but there are still a few factors that may help make a determination.
Fixed vs Mobile
First, let’s address the issue of fixed vs mobile. This is mainly about the choice of casters or leveling feet on a table. With some manufacturers, there’s no caster option because the tables are so heavy (often 2,500-3,500 lbs) that it’s not practical to roll them. Plus they can’t get casters that will even handle the table plus additional weight. However, with fabricated tables like the sort Texas Metal Works builds, the tables are fairly heavy, but they can still accommodate casters and have thousands of pounds of capacity left.
Certain manufacturers who offer casters also offer an option that adds leveling feet as well. So you don’t have to choose between a fixed or rolling table. You can have one that will roll when you need it to, and then you just put the leveling feet down when it’s in the position you want and convert it into a fixed table.
Incidentally, two observations:
- Fixed tables almost always accommodate more weight because casters are generally the weakest link. For example, Texas Metal Works’ casters will hold about 1,200 lbs each, but the leveling feet are rated at 4,000 lbs each.
- Something like 90%+ of the tables we sell have casters. It’s what everyone wants, because mobility is a huge benefit. That’s why we have our casters made to our own specs, and offer the best in the industry.
Modular Tables
As far as modular tables are concerned, if we compare them to something like Texas Metal Works’ Mod Blox, they offer configuration to allow for open spaces where you need them and solid surfaces where you need them. This tends to work best for things like vehicle chassis, fences, railings, and other projects where you need a portion of the workpiece suspended but the rest open for access.