7 best soldering irons

A soldering iron is a handheld tool used in soldering, which is a common technique in electronics, metalwork, and plumbing for joining two or more pieces of metal together using a filler material called solder. Here is some information about soldering irons and related equipment:

  1. Soldering Iron Basics:

    • A soldering iron typically consists of a heated metal tip and a handle.
    • The tip is heated to a specific temperature, which depends on the type of solder and the materials being joined.
    • Soldering irons are available in various wattages to accommodate different soldering tasks. Higher wattage irons can handle larger and thicker components.
  2. Types of Soldering Irons:

    • There are two main types of soldering irons: electric and butane-powered.
    • Electric soldering irons are the most common and are powered by electricity. They are suitable for precise electronic soldering tasks.
    • Butane-powered soldering irons are portable and can be used in situations where electricity is not readily available.They are often used in fieldwork and for larger soldering jobs.
  3. Temperature Control:

    • Many modern soldering irons come with temperature control features. This allows you to set the iron to the appropriate temperature for the specific solder and materials you are working with.
  4. Soldering Stations:

    • Soldering stations are advanced soldering setups that include a base station and a soldering iron.
    • They offer precise temperature control, safety features, and may have digital displays for monitoring temperature.
    • Soldering stations are commonly used in professional electronics work.
  5. Soldering Brazing Equipment:

    • Soldering and brazing are similar processes but differ in the temperature at which they operate. Brazing involves higher temperatures and typically uses a different type of filler material.
    • Brazing equipment includes torches and rods or wires made of materials like brass or bronze.
  6. Welding and Soldering:

    • Welding is a different process from soldering. Welding involves melting the base metals themselves to create a strong bond, whereas soldering uses a lower melting point filler material.
    • Welding equipment is typically much more powerful and is used for heavy-duty metal joining tasks.
  7. Tools Home Improvement:

    • Soldering irons and related equipment can be found in the "Tools & Home Improvement" section of many stores and online marketplaces.
    • They are essential tools for DIY enthusiasts, electricians, plumbers, and hobbyists.

Soldering irons and related equipment are indispensable tools in various industries and hobbies, enabling the creation and repair of electronic circuits, jewelry, plumbing systems, and more. Proper use and temperature control are essential to achieve clean and reliable solder joints.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best soldering irons on the market
  

Weller WE1010NA Digital Soldering Station

Weller

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Get it soldered. Weller introduces a new soldering station designed for vocational and professional uses. The we station is ready when you adjust switch it on and start soldering.

  • This unit is 40% more powerful than the two models it is replacing to help get your soldering job done faster
  • Easy to handle high performance 70W soldering iron with a heat-resistant silicon Cable for safe handling
  • Temperature stability (+/- 4⁰f, 2⁰c) and temperature lock protects tips and components, affording a consistently high quality process with repeatable soldering results
  • This unit is loaded with cutting edge features sun as intuitive navigation, a Standby mode and auto setback conserves energy and password-protection to Preserve settings
  • Includes: one We1 station 120V, one Wep70 tip retainer, one Wep70 iron, PH70 safety rest with sponge, and Eta tip 0.062”/1.6 millimeter screwdriver

User questions & answers

Question: Can i solder lead seems laps
Answer: Hakko headquarters are in Japan. http://www.hakko.com/english/company/profile/outline.html . But who knows where an individual product might be manufactured.
Question: Does this model have a fuse of on the primary side of the transformer
Answer: There are a number of authorized Hakko distributors. Look on the Hakko USA web site, make sure the one you select on Amazon is listed on there as a true Hakko distributor.
Question: Does this station worksbfrom 220 V supply
Answer: Why would you spend $100 to light a bong when you can buy a nice $20 butane torch or a $5 soldering iron if that's what you want to use. This soldering iron would be capable of heating to around 300C. That's more than enough heat to ignite a plant based material. Is it the best? Probably not. Is it safe to use a soldering iron to ignite plant based material? I don't know im not a doctor. The problem is that if you want to keep a tip that heats well then you need to keep solder on the tip or it will burn out and not transfer heat. TLDR: use a butane torch.
Question: Does this unit have a fuse in it
Answer: Accoding to the HakkoUSA website (under "where to buy"), ness electronics is listed as a retailer. Can't say if it's real or not, but that gives it a higher vote of confidence.Quick followup edit, I just took mine apart and confirmed it's real. Real stations use the R5F1007C chip. Fakes are known to use AVRs or PICs. Mine was purchased from ness electronics.

Product features

Gets your soldering job done faster

Digital 70W soldering station, 40% more powerful than the well-known WES/WESD stations. This allows the iron to heat up faster and provides a faster recovery time-- gets the job done quicker with more efficiency and precision.

Easy to handle performance iron

High performance 70W soldering iron with an ergonomic handle and easy toolless tip change solution.

Light weight pencil style with a co-molded grip.

New and improved safety rest has additional support so the iron is stored securely in place between uses.

Intuitive navigation

State-of-the-art housing with front panel power switch for easy access.

Easy-to-read LCD screen with 3 push buttons providing easy temperature control, a front switch for easy on/off, and intuitive navigation through all new SW features.

Easy tip change and low total cost of ownership

Change hot tips out by hand by twisting the plastic knurled nut on the soldering pencil without an additional tool.

The soldering set and the genuine Weller ET series tips provide the best performance and have an extraordinary lifetime.

Choose from a wide selection of existing high quality, affordable, genuine Weller ET Tips. Here's where the station starts to pay for itself.

WE Soldering Station

The WE1010NA includes: one digital soldering power unit (WE1), one soldering iron (WEP70), one safety rest (PH70), and one ET soldering tip.

The digital soldering power unit and soldering iron are ESD safe and have received a certificate of compliance for electrical safety (UL and CE).

The WE1010NA is recommended for easy professional soldering jobs, PCBs, electronic kits, education, radio-controlled devices, indoor lightening, low-voltage wiring, and cable assembling.

Acceptable applications are hobby models, small appliances, small engines, repairs, crafts, audio systems, and electrical.

Weller W100PG Weller Farenheit Heavy Duty Soldering Iron with CT6F7 Tip, 100 Watt, 700 Degree

Weller

Based on 568 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Weller W100PG heavy duty soldering iron is perfect for DIY or professional jobs. The 3 standard tips provide a range of Fahrenheit temperatures meant for any job with quick efficiency. Ultra-portable, the soldering iron allows you to move from workspace-to-workspace without skipping a beat.

  • Safe - the soldering iron uses industry leading Weller closed-loop method of controlling maximum tip temperature to protect yourself and your workstation from over temperature and is ul and cul listed
  • Temperature - the soldering iron temperature is controlled by 3 different tips including 600 degrees Fahrenheit, 700 degrees Fahrenheit, and 800 degrees Fahrenheit ensuring you can complete any job
  • Efficient - standard heat up time for the 700 degree Fahrenheit tip is a quick 110 seconds with its nichrome wound heating element allowing you to get more work done in a shorter amount of time
  • Portable - the soldering iron uses a portable line voltage iron meaning not base is required allowing you more freedom
  • Money back guarantee - if, for whatever reason, you are not 100 percent satisfied with your purchase just return the device and we will refund your purchase

User questions & answers

Question: What is the difference between this iron and the weller w100p-3? looked at the specs for both and can't seem to find any difference except for price
Answer: Hi Carolyn S.,The W100PG has a 2-wire grounding and the W100P3 has a 3-wire grounding.
Question: Is this compatible with the inland mini phaser
Answer: No. This temp controller documentation says: "Use with any non tip-controlled irons". W100PG is a tip controlled iron @ 700F. 600F and 800F tips are also available. The phaser is not necessary....use thedifferent tips for more control. Liz Renee, Glass Artist and Director of Nartique Glass, Casselberry, FL
Question: How do i change the tip on this iron
Answer: Make sure the iron is off and unplugged first of all. The end where the soldering tip is held unscrews and you change the tip that way
Question: What power source does this soldering iron use? 110volts or 220volts
Answer: 110: this is a good soldering iron, is doing the job for me just beginning stained glass projects, but has no temperature control on it. My next one will have one. Have fun with your craft!

Weller SP80NUS 80-Watts LED Soldering Iron

Weller

Based on 815 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Brings the light! High performance consumer soldering iron with the latest LED technology.Delivers light to the application while working.

  • High-Performance LED Soldering Iron - 80 Watts, up to 900-DegreeF
  • Three 5mm high temperature long-life LEDs at 25 Lumens/ft² for superior soldering accuracy and application illumination
  • Co-molded soft grip ribbed handle design for maximum comfort and reduced slipage
  • Triangular area for maximum of tip control. Round handle for ease of tip rotation
  • Package Includes: Iron with MT620, 10mm tip, iron stand, user manual

User questions & answers

Question: Will this cut glass? I need it to cut thru the top 2/3 of wine bottles
Answer: I didn't know you could cut glass with soldering irons but apparently you can haha. I Googled it "soldering iron to cut glass" haha. This should work just fine for you but it depends how thick the glass is. Wine bottles are thick, it may work but probably take while.
Question: Has anyone used this for soldering lipo battery connectors on 10 awg and 12 awg wire? Will it heat up fast enough to do that
Answer: I have never used it in a LIPO application, but I have soldered 8 AWG copper wire to 1/4" copper ring terminals and it worked just fine. an 80W soldering iron is pretty hot. It will be difficult to find electric irons with more wattage.
Question: what is the irons shaft hole diameter...wondering if it could fit a 5mm wide (not long) tip
Answer: Hi Michael, Inside diameter is 10.41mm plus/minus 5%.
Question: Will this work for soldering 0 gauge wire
Answer: Weller SP80NUS Medium Duty Corded Soldering Iron, 120 V, 80 W, 3/8 inFor hobby work, stained glass and minor repairs. Stainless steel barrel with heat and impact resistant handle. Includes soldering iron rest and No.MT20, 3/8" diameter, replaceable nickel-plated copper tip that develops 900 degrees Fahrenheit. 9-3/4"L, 120 Volts, 80 watts, 50/60 Hz. U.L. Listed.

Hakko FX601-02 Adjustable Temperature Controlled Soldering Iron, 67 Watts

Hakko

Based on 626 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Hakko FX601-02 is the next generation of variable temperature-controlled soldering irons. It is ideal for soldering applications that require mobility or a long reach, such as soldering solar panels, etc. The extremely lightweight, ergonomic handpiece allows you to solder for long periods of time without hand fatigue. The soldering iron also features a convenient temperature adjustment dial in the handpiece that allows the user to select their optimal soldering temperature, and the advanced electronic controls and efficient ceramic heater provide accuracy and stability that rival older Hakko stick irons.

User questions & answers

Question: Any seller that sends to Mexico
Answer: Yes.... go to HakkoUSA.com lookup FX 601 and under accessories there are two types available. This model plus one with a sponge.
Question: can anyone tell me what size tip is included? Thanks
Answer: It holds my TS100 with no issues. Very pleased with this purchase.
Question: Is the shank diameter of the replaceable tip 6.5mm (i.e. Hakko 900M compatible, i.e. the one with good replacement options
Answer: Not sure...cause i have a hakko 936..but it should.
Question: What temp for stained glass, copper foil
Answer: A good chisel tip is perfect for through hole work. However, they can sometimes be too large for smaller component surface mount (SMT) work. I use the curved tips mainly for SMT work. However, they can work for through-hole as well with a little practice. Hope this helps. - Trenton

Weller WLC100 40-Watt Soldering Station

Weller

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This 40 watt Soldering Station from Weller features a quality lightweight pencil iron and a cushioned foam grip with replaceable heating element. This product is ideal for hobbyist, DIY enthusiasts and students.

The Weller WLC100 Soldering Station includes everything you need to start using solder to join metals and create efficient, electrical connections. Designed with the hobbyist and the do-it-yourself enthusiast in mind, this kit features a high-quality, lightweight pencil iron with variable power control, a cushioned foam grip with a replaceable heating element, and a safety guard iron holder. And it’s from Weller, the world leader in soldering since 1945.

  • High performance analog soldering station produces up to 900° F to handle many soldering projects
  • Variable power control dial adjusts power from 5 watts to 40 watts for accuracy
  • Quality, lightweight pencil iron with cushioned foam grip provides extended comfort during long term soldering projects
  • Includes: a Weller certified ST3 iron plated tip for long life and consistent performance, a built in soldering holder to safely rest your pencil, and a cleaning sponge to remove unwanted residue from soldering for next time use
  • UL Listed: Tested and meets independent safety standards

User questions & answers

Question: How long does it take to heat up enough to work with
Answer: Yes it is ESD Safe.Regards,SashaCustomer Service TechX-Tronic International, Inc.
Question: could i swithc out the iron and plug a differnt soldering iron in if i wanted
Answer: As the rest of our customers answered, it comes with one soldering tip.Extra tips of all sizes/styles are available on our website at www.XTronicUSA.comI might also note that Hakko & Aoyue tips are interchangeable with X-Tronic unitsRegards,SashaCustomer Service TechX-Tronic International, Inc.
Question: Details say you can adjust the iron from 5 to 40 watts. What range is that in F degrees
Answer: X-Tronic products are made at our factory in China with our inspectors over at our factory, but no parts of them are made in the USA.It would be nice if it was possible, but we have costed it out three times in the past 9 years and the retail prices would be three times what they are now.Regards,SashaCustomer Service TechX-Tronic International, Inc.
Question: How often do the tips need to be replaced? my radioshack 40 watt iron was always melting tips
Answer: I use tips that fit hakko 900 sub series

Product features

Analog Station

Capable of producing temperatures up to 900°F to handle many soldering projects. The station includes a Weller certified ST3 iron-plated copper tip to help keep the temperature consistent while making soldering joints.

Easy-to-Adjust Variable Power Controls

The WLC100 features a variable power control that lets you accurately adjust the power level from 5 watts to 40 watts with a simple turn of the knob. This allows you to choose the precise setting for each unique job that you tackle, confirming proper power for the application.

Durable Pencil Iron

Lightweight pencil iron features a cushioned foam grip-handle, ensuring you can work comfortably.

ST Solder Tip Compatibility

Weller ST tips are constructed of solid copper and are plated with iron as well as nickel and chromium to protect against corrosion and solder creep, helping to ensure that your tools perform reliably over time.

WLC Variable Power Control Soldering Station

The WL100 includes: one variable control soldering station with built-in safety stand and cleaning sponge (WLC 100), one soldering pencil (SPG40), and one ST soldering tip (ST3).

The WLC100 is acceptable for use on audio equipment, crafts, hobby models, jewelry, small appliances, and home electronics.

Hakko FX888D-23BY Digital Soldering Station FX-888D FX-888 (blue & yellow)

Hakko

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Reliable digital technology by HAKKO – Introducing the HAKKO FX-888D Excellent thermal recovery Heater output has been increased by 30% compared to that of the conventional models HAKKO 936·937. Also FX-888D delivers excellent thermal recovery by using T18 series tips for their terrific heat conductivity. This allows soldering at a lower set temperature and reducing the thermal impact on components as well as tip oxidation that can shorten tip life. Thermal recovery graph Rise time to 350Degree C is 20 seconds faster and tip temperature drop is reduced during continuous work.

User questions & answers

Question: In what country is Hakko FX888D-23BY manufactured
Answer: Thanks for your contact. Yes, this stud finder sensor can be used on the plaster wall. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us: [email protected]
Question: Since the chinese have flooded the market with fake hakko soldering stations, how can we tell if this is a fake or not
Answer: Thanks for your question. Yes, this stud finder wall scanner can be used on your ceilings. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us: [email protected]
Question: Can I use this to smolder dry herb in a bong
Answer: unfortunately it is made in China. I have only used it once but seemed to work good.
Question: Real or fake? i've heard many of the hakko fx888ds sold through amazon are knock offs. anyone buy from ness electronics
Answer: I can only tell you that it worked through dry wall and It did recognize the wood studs around a door. And it worked exactly as described. I suspect that it will work through plaster, but I have no plaster in my house. I looked for the studs around the door to make sure that it worked.

Weller WLC200 80 Watt Hobby and Stained Glass Soldering Station

Weller

Based on 430 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Weller designed the WLC200 from the ground-up to deliver a complete and simple process for soldering, especially for stained glass projects. This soldering station combines adjustable, powerful heat with ease-of-use features to handle any consumer soldering project.

From the Manufacturer

Weller's stained glass 80-Watt soldering station. Includes an 80-Watt soldering iron that is lightweight with a cushioned foam grip. Soldering iron also has a replaceable 3/8-Inch iron tip. In addition, the unit comes with a soldering station that includes a safety guard iron holder, sponge tip cleaning pad, On/Off switch with "power-on" indicator light and a variable power control from 5 to 80-Watt.

  • Adjustable power range from 5 watts to 80 watts provides the variable, controlled temperature needed for a range of hobbyist jobs
  • Includes station base, SPG80 lightweight pencil soldering iron ideal for midsize work, 3/8” chisel tip, pencil iron holder, and cleaning sponge
  • The fully removable soldering iron and replaceable heating element let you upgrade or customize your station
  • Produces up to 900° F of controllable, reliable heat fast and recovers that heat quickly to keep your workflow efficient
  • Comes with 3/8” Chisel Tip (MTG20) and compatible with the MTG21 1/4" chisel tip and MTG22 .375” cone tip Weller pencil soldering iron tips
  • Sponge built into the base unit can be used to keep tip clean and extend the part’s life

User questions & answers

Question: Can I get a fine point tip for the 80-watt station to do fine electronics work
Answer: this welding tool will take 15 seconds to heat up
Question: Can i use this for circuit boards? Is it stained glass only
Answer: Sorry cant be used for fixing Metal Jewelry. Most soldering irons or guns are used for soldering electrical wires together, which requires less heat. The Max temperature of our solder iron toll is 842 Fahrenheit, dont get hot eought to melt large jewelry metals.
Question: What is the temp range? I want to melt Alumaloy rods that melts at
Answer: My hubby bought it but honestly it’s a bit small- better for a woman
Question: what size tip comes with the unit
Answer: DSW, The Shoe Dept, Lyst, Tredsey, Nike Outlets...just to name a few

Product features

Adjustable Temperature Range

The 5 watt to 80 watt range of adjustable temperature heats the iron quickly and recovers that heat again after use, speeding up your workflow and making the long wait for a heating iron a thing of the past.

Complete Soldering Station and Quality Pencil Soldering Iron

This station comes complete with every accessory needed for a hobbyist’s mid-sized soldering needs; the Weller SPG80 lightweight pencil iron, a replaceable 3/8” chisel tip, an iron holder, and a cleaning sponge.

Reliable Chisel Tip and Replacement Tip Compatibility

The 3/8” Chisel tip that comes with this set is designed for stained glass applications and can be easily replaced. All Weller soldering tips are made from a copper core with iron, nickel, and chromium plating to protect against corrosion.

Performs a Range of Jobs

This station’s variable temperature can be set as low or high as the job requires, letting you solder a wide range of applications including stained glass, home electronics, jewelry, and hobby models.

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