- 1. Hakko Digital Soldering Station
- 2. X-Tronic Digital Display Soldering Iron Station
- 3. Aoyue Variable Power Soldering Station
- 4. Schneider 5 to 50 Watt Soldering Station
- 5. Weller WLC100 Soldering Station
- 6. Vastar Soldering Iron
- 7. Preenex 3 in 1 Soldering ReWork Station
- 8. X-TRONIC All In One Hot Air Rework Soldering Iron Station
- 9. Walfront 936 Power Iron Soldering Station
- 10. TXINLEI 8586 Solder Station
- 11. Auroland Soldering Station
- 12. Yescom 937D 60W Soldering Station
- 13. Stahl Tools STSSVT Variable Temperature Soldering Iron Station
A soldering station is a device that has a handheld iron which is used to join different metal components together. It does this by injecting a filler metal into the created joint which is usually a permanent one. It is used in repairs of electronic devices such as mobile phones, computers and radio sets among many others. Today, soldering stations offer even more excellent services. Want to explore? Come with us as we review some of the best 15 soldering stations on the market today.
The Best Soldering Station
This Hakko FX888D-23BY Digital Soldering Station comes in a blend of blue and yellow colors. It is one of the current soldering stations on the market and features an improved system that increases the heater component on the thermal’s recovery rate by up to a whopping 30%. Thus, the level of productivity when using the conventional Hakko soldering station models shoots up to 30%. This Hakko FX888D-23BY Digital Soldering Station also utilizes the T18 series of soldering tips in its heat transmission from the soldering station to the components. This enables soldering to be done in a minimal set temperature to lower the level of impact that the thermal has on the parts being worked on. It also helps extend the lifespan of the hot tip by regulating oxidation. This soldering station again produces an additional 20 seconds thermal recovery rise time on the graph.
- Increased thermal recovery rate of 30%
- It is a digital soldering station
- Features T18 Soldering tips
- Features tip oxidation regulation mechanism
- Brand Hakko
- Model FX888D
- Weight 3.6 pounds
T18 Soldering tips regulates heat transferred unto components
Thermal recovery rate improves efficiency
Thermal tip is durable and long-lasting
Quite difficult to regulate
Manipulating the current temperature and temperature calibration can be confusing
Features only 2 control buttons
This X-Tronic Model #3020-XTS Digital Display Soldering Iron Station is a top-quality soldering iron station. It is a complete system that serves both the beginner and the professional. It has new and enhanced features that have been carefully crafted to give the utmost performance. It is of top quality and durability and promises to last longer than all soldering stations in its class.
As a digital soldering station, this product comes with a sizable LED screen that displays in blue. The screen can be adjusted to your preferred temperature display. An automatic cool-down function prevents any situation of overheating and a Celsius/Fahrenheit switch is also added. For a convenient user experience, this soldering station has a grip that is ergonomic in its make and made to resist heat. Again, it features a self-test technology which has an inbuilt full intelligence system to curb all issues regarding overloads, short circuits, and over temperature.
- Highly durable and of top quality
- Features the Proportional Integral Derivative(PID) technology system
- Automatic cool-down function
- Offers a self-test technology system
- Brand X-Tronic
- Model FBA_3020-XTS
- Weight 1 pounds
Features an easy to use Celsius/Fahrenheit switch
Includes a 10 minutes sleep timer
Features a blue LED screen
Sleep mode duration is not adjustable
Does not come with any European plug type
Does not support 220V power supply
For a great all-around values, this Aoyue 469 Variable Power 60 Watt Soldering Station has you covered. The product weighs 1.45 pounds and is a 60-watt power soldering station that runs on electricity. It has an easily removable tip design and is made of top quality ceramic material that traps heat as well as a heating range of temperature from 200°C to 480°C and runs on 110V power supply.
It also has a solder iron compartment holder to keep solder iron safely in between soldering works and a security measure to prevent any unintended incidental burns of any components or materials. This soldering station does not run on battery, but rather, it is solely powered by electricity. It is suitable for undertaking all your personal and commercial soldering tasks. It is easy to use the tool.
- Features an iron holder compartment
- Highly durable soldering station
- Easy to use with utmost user convenience
- Runs on electricity only
- Brand Aoyue
- Model AO469
- Weight 1.45 pounds
The easily removable iron tip
The heating mechanism provides greater efficiency
Built with a removable iron tip makeup
Only runs on electricity and does not support batteries
Package does not include solder
Not compatible with 220V power
The Schneider 5-50 Watt Soldering Station gets high praise for being a very compact and affordable tool that functions reliably for a long time. It’s ideal for handling sensitive and small electronic components inside your home electronics, small appliances, audio equipment, and more. It comes equipped with a lightweight, easy-to-handle, pencil-style soldering iron that features a comfortable foam grip. It also has variable temperature control that allows you to make precise adjustments. This model comes equipped with three tips and is capable of reaching a maximum temperature of 896 degrees Fahrenheit. It also has a respectable temperature stability range of plus or minus 3.6 degrees. It’s a decent option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly soldering station that’s great for occasional use.
- Pencil-style cushioned grip
- Variable temperature control
- Temperature stability plus or minus 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit
- Can reach a max temperature of 896 degrees Fahrenheit
- Brand Schneider
- Model 57364
- Weight 3.80 pounds
Easy to use
Ideal for smaller electronics
Affordable
Analog dial can be difficult to tune precisely
Doesn’t come with calibration tools
May not get hot enough to do certain jobs
As a leading brand in electronic products and soldering iron stations, Weller presents Weller WLC100 40-Watt Soldering Station. This is an analog soldering station that produces up to 900°F of temperature for all your soldering works. Plus the temperature levels are adjustable for all your different soldering needs. It provides a consistent temperature throughout your soldering period by use of the inbuilt Weller certified ST3 copper tip. An inbuilt iron stand is also included to accommodate the soldering iron in between soldering jobs.
It is an easy-to-use soldering station which features a power control feature with an adjustable power level of up to 40 watts from 5 watts. The solder tip is built to last long while producing maximum output. The tip has an iron coating with chromium and nickel which fights rusting and corrosion. This soldering station is ideal for soldering works on jewelry, crafts and small appliances among many others.
- It is an analog soldering station
- Soldering iron weighs light and has a foamy grip
- Approved by all safety standards
- Includes a soldering iron stand
- Brand Weller
- Model WLC100
- Weight 1 Pack
Weller certified ST3 provides consistent temperature level throughout soldering works
Soldering iron can be easily replaced
Easy to use pencil-like soldering iron
Not a digital soldering station
Bag or case not included in the purchase
Only works on electronic components
This Vastar Soldering Iron – Soldering Iron Station is an electric soldering iron. It comes in handy and portable to be easily carried and used in different places as and when the need be. The entire soldering station weighs 1.75 pounds and it is an analog soldering station that has a temperature regulator which can handle soldering works that require up to 480°C temperature. Also added is a control knob to regulate the power from five watts up to sixty watts.
This soldering station is easy to operate. It has a platform for the soldering iron to keep it in between the entire soldering period. Purchase of this product comes with a sponge to be used for cleaning dirt and residue and to prepare it for the next job. This is a perfect product for beginners as it is a very easy-to-use soldering station.
- Produces up to 480°C temperature
- It is an analogue soldering station
- Features a power control knob
- Highly efficient
- Brand Vastar
- Model VLY2-JKUS01
- Weight 1.75 pounds
Includes 5 different soldering tips.
Includes a cleaning sponge
User can regulate the power from five to sixty watts
Does not have an LED screen
Does not work at 220V of power supply
It only runs on electricity
If you’re in the market for a well-equipped soldering kit that does more, the Preenex 3 in 1 Soldering ReWork Station deserves your consideration. Not only is it a soldering station, but it’s also a convenient hot air gun. It comes equipped with 11 pieces, making it a comprehensive and well-designed choice suitable for almost any soldering job. This unit features fast warming between 200 and 480 degrees Celsius with an excellent temperature stability of plus or minus 1 degree Celsius.
The hot air gun is ergonomically designed and offers soft and consistent heat output thanks to its rotating wind tunnel and steady temperature. It’s equipped with four differently sized nozzles for precise heat delivery. The brushless fan allows for quiet and distraction-free operation. For some, the maximum achievable temperature may not be hot enough to reliably solder certain components.
- Compact 3 in 1 soldering station and hot air gun
- Equipped with 11 soldering iron heads
- Temperature levels from 200 to 480 degrees Celsius
- Temperature stability of plus or minus 1 degree Celsius
- Brand Preenex
- Model 853D
- Weight 103.81 ounces
Performs multiple functions
Different hot air tips allow for precise and concentrated air flow
Ergonomic and cushioned grip
May not get hot enough for certain jobs
Bulkier than some units
The New & Improved X-Tronic MODEL 5040-XR3 Soldering Iron Station is built with all the needed features as a hot air soldering station. In its package is an included hot air gun that is plug and plays and runs on 500 watts. The temperature range of this gun is from 100°C up to 480°C and the product features a soldering iron which is also plug-and-play.
A wet sponge is included for clearing all residue remains and preparing the soldering iron for the subsequent tasks ahead. An extra 9 soldering tips of different sizes and types provides a vast range of soldering options to cover your everyday soldering needs. This is a digital soldering station that allows the user complete control over it.
- Includes pinpoint tweezers
- It is a hot air soldering station
- Soldering tips approved by SGS and Rohs
- Comes with a wet sponge for cleaning residue remains
- Brand X-TRONIC
- Model 5040-XR3
- Weight 15 pounds
Comes with 10 different soldering tips
Includes a hot air blowing gun
Features a 5X standing lamp for easier magnifying
Does not produce consistent quality services
Blowing gun has no fuse
Requires a lot of set up space
The Walfront 936 Power Iron Soldering Station is a lightweight, straightforward soldering station without a lot of confusing bells and whistles. This model is equipped with a powerful and fast-heating all-copper transformer to give you reliable and consistent function. It features a rugged industrial-grade configuration with an easy-to-use analog dial.
We also like the intelligent cooling function this unit is equipped with that helps prolong its lifespan and protects the soldering iron from damage. The cord on the unit could stand to be a little longer. The analog dial doesn’t give you as precise temperature control as a digital interface, but tends to hold up better over time.
- Metal soldering iron with single tip and stand
- Analog temperature dial
- Industrial-grade components
- All-copper transformer
- Brand Walfront
- Model N/A
- Weight N/A
Straightforward and easy to use
Soldering iron is made of long-lasting, industrial-grade components
Affordable
Only includes one soldering tip
No digital temperature selection
Less consistent temperature range than some other models
This TXINLEI 8586 110V Solder Station is an SMD rework station. It comes with an assorted 12 pieces of soldering tips. This versatility provides a broader base of soldering works to be handled by this soldering station. It is built primarily from alloy metal and has a silicone coating which gives it a better look. It is an energy-saving station that uses minimal electricity and the hot gun runs on 700 watts of power while soldering iron runs on a minimum 60 watts of power. The hot gun has a temperature range of 100 to 450°C, whereas soldering iron’s temperature ranges from 200 to 480°C.
It gives the user full control over the entire station with its sensor switch which has been built into the handle. A handle grip automatically sends the system into operating mode and it switches into standby mode as soon as the handle is released.
- Includes 12 different soldering tips
- Features sensor switch in the handle grip
- 700 watts of power for hot gun and 60 watts for soldering iron
- It is a digital soldering station
- Brand TXINLEI
- Model 8586
- Weight 6 pounds
Has an added 12 pieces soldering tips
Saves electricity
Features a digital LED screen
A heat gun can be difficult to regulate
Does not support simultaneous use of soldering iron and hot air gun
Not an analog soldering station
The Auroland Soldering Station gets high praise for being a durably built and well thought-out soldering station that features an advanced Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) technology. It delivers fast and super consistent heat with its smart transformer and ceramic craft iron core. This unit can heat up to your desired temperature in under six seconds. It’s equipped with a lead-free and non-toxic soldering iron nozzle and a high temperature-resistant silicone wire for added longevity.
The 60-watt digital LED display allows you to achieve the most precise temperature selection. You also get five extra soldering tips and a 30-day money-back guarantee. This model also comes with a roll of lead-free tin wire included in your purchase. With a temperature range of only 140 to 392 degrees Fahrenheit, this unit doesn’t get as hot as some others, limiting its job applications in some instances. It’s also bulkier than some other units.
- Smart temperature control soldering station
- Up to five assorted iron tips
- Digital LED display for precise temperature selection
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Brand Auroland
- Model N/A
- Weight 2.33 pounds
Features convenient onboard storage for extra soldering tips
ESD- and FCC-certified for safety
Includes a roll of free soldering wire
Bulkier than some other options
Maximum achievable temperature is lower than some models
Does not include a sleep mode sensor
The Yescom 937D 60W Soldering Station is a powerful and precise soldering iron that’s ideal for small electronic jobs like mobile phone, radio, or computer repair. It features a 70-watt soldering iron that can achieve temperatures ranging from 392 to 896 degrees Fahrenheit, which is pretty standard for this type of soldering iron design. This unit is also well-equipped with strategically placed air vents to allow for maximum cooling airflow that gives you efficient heat dispersion.
This soldering iron comes equipped with five extra soldering tips so that you always have the perfect tool for a variety of tasks. The digital display is bright and easy to see. This unit features a temperature stability of 2 degrees Celsius, which isn’t the best, but certainly good enough to efficiently and accurately complete most tasks. The cushioning on the grip could also be a little more substantial.
- 70-watt digital display soldering iron
- Features an ESD design to protect sensitive components
- Includes five extra soldering tips
- Temperature range from 392 to 896 degrees Fahrenheit
- Brand Yescom
- Model 937D
- Weight 3.75 pounds
The large LED screen is easy to see from afar
Extra tips give you the perfect tool for the job
Well-placed air vents allow for efficient heat dissipation
Doesn’t come with a warranty
No onboard storage for extra soldering tips
Temperature stability could be better
If you want a super affordable and straightforward soldering iron, check out the Stahl Tools STSSVT Variable Temperature Soldering Iron Station. This ultra-lightweight and compact soldering iron is perfect for occasional use or people on the go who need portability and a space-saving design. The analog dial and large on-off switch are all you need to be able to quickly and efficiently complete a small soldering job.
This unit is ETL-certified for safety and reliable performance. The soldering iron features a comfortable and easy-to-hold cushioned grip that’s good for extended periods of use. This model can only achieve temperatures between 302 and 842 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a slightly less versatile unit than most others on the market, but weighing in at under two pounds, you can easily take this soldering iron anywhere you want.
- Single unit analog soldering iron
- Adjustable between 5 and 40 watts
- Can achieve workable temps between 302 and 842 degrees Fahrenheit
- Bakelite-ringed holder keeps soldering iron safe, secure, and at the ready
- Brand Stahl Tools
- Model STSSVT
- Weight 1.75 pounds
Affordable
Super portable
Easy to use
Not as powerful as some others
Analog temperature adjustment is less precise than digital
Doesn’t include extra soldering tips
Best Soldering Station Buying Guide & FAQ
Things to Consider When Buying Soldering Station
Every accomplished DIYer will have the best soldering station in his toolbox. If you see yourself down this path, you might want to understand some variables you need to think about before buying a good soldering iron. Here are some of the more important ones.
- Temperature control
The idea of soldering is almost similar to welding where heat is applied to melt metal in an effort to bond two metal surfaces. As such, the key here is in the ability to regulate or control the amount of heat generated by the soldering iron.
Different models come with different temperature control mechanisms. The simplest entails controlling the range of temperatures upon which the element can be heated. This system will not allow the temperature to go outside this range. But, since it is a range of levels, it is not precise; fluctuations are always possible.
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There are also those that employ thermocoupling whereby the station circuitry monitors and constantly adjusts the temperature at the tip of the iron itself. Others come with an automated thermostat for more precise temperature control.
- Corded or cordless?
The soldering tools we listed above are all corded. But, there are cordless versions, too. The beauty of cordless irons is their versatility. The tip can be heated pretty quickly, too, often in a matter of 2-3 seconds. Cooling it down occurs in just a second. However, because of their design, cordless systems are only good for minor repairs. If you’re thinking of doing some major repairs or extensive work your best bet will still be corded devices.
- Type of soldering iron
There are 4 types of soldering tools available in the market today. There’s the soldering pencil, the soldering station, the soldering repair or rework station, and the soldering gun. We’ll have a more detailed discussion of these types in a latter section of this article.
- Size and shape of tip
The tip of soldering irons can be interchanged, often depending on the type of project you’re working on. These come in various sizes and shapes so if the device already comes with a variety of tips, you’re almost guaranteed optimum versatility. If not, you might want to check the iron’s compatibility with standard tips. Examples of tip shapes include tapered, pyramid, fine conical, and chisel. Also, the material with which the tip is made should also be considered. Copper, nickel, and chrome are preferred since they’re more durable than others.
- Wattage
Most DIYers work with systems with lower wattage, typically in the range of 15 to 35. Professionals max out at 60 watts, although it is not unusual to see a few working with 70 or even 75 watts. The thing here is that you cannot use too much wattage in the heater as you can easily lose control of the temperature settings. If you’re working with highly sensitive electronics, you’ll be better off with lower wattage devices. Going with 60 watts is always a safer bet especially if it also has an excellent temperature control mechanism for fine tuning your temperature requirements.
Benefits of Using a Soldering Station
A good soldering station operates at a much lower temperature compared to welding, allowing you to work a lot safer on your project. This also has the added benefit of not warping or melting the metals that you are trying to join together since the heat that you are applying is enough to melt the soldering substrate, but not the metal surfaces being joined. As such, you get to retain the original shape and size of your items regardless of how many times you make a mistake.
The solder also allows for the flow of electricity between connectors. There are no breaks that may adversely affect the full functionality of the circuitry. At least, when you join connectors on an electrical component, you’re guaranteed that it will work. The other good thing about this is that you can actually make multiple connections.
A soldering station also helps you organize your workstation. Rather than having several soldering tools to accomplish your task, you will have everything you need in one nifty platform that is also stable and sturdy enough.
Soldering Station Maintenance
Maintaining the integrity of your soldering iron station is crucial to ensuring its optimum functionality. One of the most important, albeit often overlooked aspects of soldering station maintenance, is the choice of solder. High quality solder should be used as this doesn’t contain impurities that can adversely affect the tip’s ability to transfer heat because of the accumulation of these impurities.
Occasionally cleaning the tips with a wet sponge also helps ensure proper functioning. Wiping it very frequently can also lead to failure, however. It should be remembered that the soldering iron tip is quite hot and the wet sponge usually cold. Heating the tip leads to its expansion while cooling it will contract it. Very frequent cleaning of the tip is like inducing frequent expansion and contraction of the metallic tip.
You should also avoid, as much as possible, exposing the tip of your soldering iron to flux. The reaction can be likened to that of oxidation which can damage the tip of your iron over time. Also, don’t ever make the mistake of using sandpaper or any other abrasive material to clean your iron.
After every use, it is important to clean the tip with the wet sponge. Before turning your machine off, make sure to apply good quality solder throughout the entire surface of the tip and then wipe it off. This effectively re-tins your iron tip which serves as its protection against corrosion. Then you can turn off the machine.
There are instances when you need to use another size or shape of tip. Just make sure that, if you’re replacing the tip, it sits securely in the barrel of the soldering iron.
Types of Soldering Irons
We said that there are 4 types of soldering irons in the market today. Each one has its own uses so learning what each of these is for is crucial to determining the kind of soldering iron you need to buy.
- Soldering pencil
These are very simple devices that come with a pencil-like handle with metal tips with which to transfer heat to the solder. These are inexpensive and are perfect for DIY projects. However, if your project requires precision temperature control, a soldering pencil should be the last thing you’ll use as it doesn’t come with temperature controls. You’ll most likely ruin your project if you do.
- Soldering station
Like the products in this list of the best soldering station, you have a soldering pencil connected to a power station that comes with a variety of technical features. The power station comes integrated with temperature control modules as well as a number of safety features like auto-sleep and auto-shutoff mechanisms. This is perfect for a variety of projects since precision temperature control can be achieved.
- Soldering rework or repair system
These are high-end platforms that feature not only a soldering station (pencil and power station), but also additional tools needed in the repair or rework of certain items. These can come with a hot air gun, thermo tweezers, and de-soldering gun. Since you’ve got a wide range of tools in one complete setup, these are naturally more expensive and are best reserved for manufacturing facilities and/or industries.
- Soldering gun
This is a pistol-shaped soldering tool with a built-in transformer that will reduce AC power to a much lower voltage. A single-turn secondary winding further reduces the current to a much lower resistance that is then transmitted to the copper wire tip. A trigger-style switch activates the mechanism. This has the advantage of quick heating time. Sadly, there’s a chance that too much heat can be generated. As such this should not be used on very sensitive electronic components like circuit boards.
Using Your Soldering Iron for the First Time
One of the advantages of using soldering irons is that they’re relatively easy to use. It is important to think of your safety if this is your first time to use one. Safety glasses and protective gloves are a must. Working in a well-ventilated area is also important as the rosin fumes can be quite toxic when inhaled.
Assemble your soldering iron station beforehand. Plug your iron and turn the machine on. Adjust the iron’s temperature to the desired setting. Dampen the sponge with water, but not soaking wet. After about a minute or two, try touching the iron tip onto the damp sponge. If you see steam coming off, then you’re good to go. If not, your tip isn’t hot enough yet. You may need to wait a few more minutes. You can also try wetting the sponge some more especially if it has already dried out.
Once everything’s ready, wipe the iron tip on the sponge. Now get your solder and briefly touch it to both sides of the iron tip. This is called ‘tinning’ which effectively improves conductivity. It also allows for easier and faster soldering.
Don’t forget to clean the tip after every one or two connections by dipping it in the wet sponge, making sure that there is no solder that remains and then tinning it again for another round of soldering.
Best Soldering Station FAQ:
Soldering is the process of creating a bond or joining two items by melting a material known as solder. The solder is typically placed on a very hot object before this is applied to the joint that needs to be bonded together. The melted solder then cools and solidifies, forming a bond and creating the perfect connection.
Professionals typically work with an entire range of temperatures when soldering. However, there is a growing body of knowledge suggesting that the optimum soldering temperature for lead-free processes is at 662 degrees Fahrenheit or about 350 degrees Celsius.
There are a number of advantages when working with lower temperatures compared to higher ones when soldering. First, there is a much lower risk of oxidation giving the iron tips durability while also improving the wettability and cleanability of the soldering iron tip. This also helps guarantee greater efficiency in heat transfers. Second, it prevents the direct burning of the flux right on the tip. Instead, the flux is activated while soldering. This helps minimize, if not completely eliminate, one of the perennial problems of DIYers turning their tips into charcoal black. This also helps retain the tip’s wettability. Third, it is much better and safer to work with lower temperatures especially when soldering sensitive electronics like PCBs and the like. Low-temperature soldering helps reduce the risk of excessive heat transfers so sensitive components don’t get easily damaged. Lastly, the whole process of soldering allows for the optimization of quality since there is better control of the temperature. This helps minimize if not eliminate scraps and reworks.
Studies show that the optimum soldering temperature upon which the system can be placed on sleep mode is 220 degrees Celsius or 428degrees Fahrenheit. It is established that oxidation is kept at a bare minimum at this temperature level, keeping the integrity of the tips and allowing for more efficient heat transfer. The same temperature also allows for faster ramping of the working temperature so you can almost immediately resume work.
Advanced soldering stations already come with high-tech circuitry and microprocessors that they do not require any form of calibration. If your system doesn’t come with such microprocessors, you may check in your owner’s manual the specific instructions on how to recalibrate your soldering iron station.
Our Top Pick for Best Soldering Iron
The Hakko FX888D-23BY Digital Soldering Station narrowly edged the other contenders in our list of the best soldering station. It comes with excellent temperature control, which allows for more precise management of heat transfer through its tips. It also features a fantastic thermal recovery heater output, which is, on average, around 30 percent higher than its competitors’. The stable and sturdy platform plus the unique arrangement of the different soldering tools like the station’s power supply, iron, iron holder, sponge, and waterless cleaner all make the Hakko an ideal piece to have on one’s workstation. Moreover, it is reasonably and affordably priced.
Picking the best soldering station can be tricky as there are quite a number of variables to think about. The good news is that you can always use the guidelines we’ve shared to help you zero-in on the system that is just right for your needs.
Sources:
- Temperature Controlled Soldering Stations – Test ElectronicForU
- What to Consider when Buying a Soldering Iron Kit – DoItYourself
- How to Use a Soldering Iron: A Beginner’s Guide – How-to-Geek