Manual bar and tube benders require physical force to rotate a central die that bends metal angle, bar, and tube stock. The stock wraps onto the die and curves to a radius matching the die. Also known as manual rotary draw benders, they typically use smaller radius dies and bend thinner bars and tubes than electric benders. They accept compatible dies of different sizes to get larger or smaller bends. 

Electric bar and tube benders motorize their gear drive to rotate a central die that bends metal angle, bar, and tube stock. The stock wraps onto the die and curves to a radius matching the die. Also known as electric rotary draw benders, they produce smoother, more uniform bends and bend larger bars and tubes than manual benders. They accept compatible dies of different sizes to get larger or smaller bends.