A shop press is the tool that makes seized bearings, stubborn bushings, and bent metal manageable. In the metal forming category, two GARVEE hydraulic presses stand out at very different price points: a 20-ton unit with two press plates and a 6/12/20-ton H-frame adjustable model. The right choice depends on whether you prioritize a fixed heavy-duty rating or maximum versatility for a smaller budget.
Quick Verdict
If you want the lowest entry point into a 20-ton-capable press and the security of a 5-year warranty, the 6/12/20 Ton model is the value pick. If you'd rather pay more for a dedicated 20-ton force with two plates included, the 20 Ton press is worth the premium.
Comparison at a Glance
| Feature | 20 Ton Hydraulic Shop Press with 2 Press Plates | 6/12/20 Ton Hydraulic Shop Press w/ Plates |
| Price | USD 169.19 | USD 90.29 |
| Color | Yellow | Black |
| Capacity | 20 Ton | 6/12/20 Ton |
| Frame | H-Frame | H-Frame |
| Worktable | Adjustable height | 0 to 24.8 inches |
Where Each Product Wins
The 20 Ton press wins when you want a fixed, single force rating and the convenience of having press plates included from the start. It also offers a documented 108-pound weight and a 57.09-inch length, giving you a clearer sense of the unit's physical presence before it arrives. The yellow powder coat is described as rust and corrosion resistant, which suits a garage workhorse.
The 6/12/20 Ton press wins on price and adjustability. It costs less upfront, and its worktable adjusts from 0 to 24.8 inches, which is a wider range than the generic "adjustable" claim on the 20-ton model. The 5-year warranty is a concrete advantage.
Product Notes
20 Ton Hydraulic Shop Press with 2 Press Plates
At $169.19, this press carries the higher price of the two. It gives you a fixed 20-ton rating that takes the guesswork out of force selection, and the two included press plates let you tackle bearings, bushings, and ball joints without buying extra accessories. The H-frame layout provides stable support, and the yellow powder coating is described as resistant to rust and corrosion. With a listed weight of 108 pounds and a 57.09-inch length, this is a substantial press for a home garage or professional shop. The adjustable table height helps position odd-shaped parts. The main drawback is the price premium over the alternative and the fact that you're locked into a single tonnage setting rather than a 6/12/20 range.
6/12/20 Ton Hydraulic Shop Press w/ Plates
For $90.29, this press delivers a lot of flexibility at a very approachable price. The 6/12/20 Ton designation means you can match the force to the task, from light bearing work to heavier forming jobs. It includes plates, an H-frame, and a worktable that adjusts from 0 to 24.8 inches, giving you plenty of room for different workpiece sizes. The black finish is simple and functional, and the 5-year warranty adds peace of mind. The multi-tonnage control does require a bit more thought than a fixed 20-ton press, so you'll need to understand which setting fits your job. That small learning curve is a minor trade-off for the cost savings and warranty coverage.
Final Choice by Use Case
For weekend DIYers and budget-minded home mechanics, the 6/12/20 Ton H-Frame Floor Adjustable Shop Press is the best value. You get 20-ton capability as part of a versatile range, a wider worktable adjustment, and a 5-year warranty for considerably less than the alternative. For busy workshops where a fixed 20-ton force and a heavier, well-documented press will see constant use, the 20 Ton Hydraulic Shop Press with 2 Press Plates justifies its higher price with a simple workload and included plates. Either way, you're adding an H-frame hydraulic press that can handle serious metal forming work.
