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Best Soldering Irons for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best soldering irons for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: July 15th, 2024

🛠️Choosing the right soldering iron can be tricky with so many options out there. Whether you're a pro, a hobbyist, or just love DIY projects, having the right tool can make your work way easier. We've sifted through a ton of data to bring you the best soldering irons for 2024. From high-performance models to more wallet-friendly ones, we've got something for everyone.

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Overall Best: Weller WH60

The Weller WH60 tops our list for 2024, striking an impressive balance between performance, durability, and ease of use. This soldering iron is perfect for electronic repairs and complex soldering tasks, thanks to its quick heat-up time and stable temperature control. The adjustable temperature settings and a wide variety of available tips make it incredibly versatile, suitable for both beginners and seasoned professionals. Its ergonomic design stands out, offering comfort during extended use and significantly reducing fatigue. From our research, users appreciate its reliable performance and high-quality build, making it a top choice for anyone serious about their soldering.

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Runner-up: Hakko FX888D

Hakko USA FX888D29BY/P ESD-Safe Digital Soldering Station w/ FX8801 Soldering Iron and T18D16 Tip (Gold)

As our runner-up, the Hakko FX888D is renowned for its durability and outstanding performance. Featuring digital temperature control and multiple tip options, this soldering iron allows for precise and versatile work, making it suitable for a variety of applications. The sturdy build quality and established brand reputation have made it a favorite among both professional technicians and hobbyists. It also boasts consistent performance even during prolonged use, ensuring that it’s a solid investment for serious users. According to our research, users highlight its ease of use and reliability as key strengths.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$151.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Hakko FX888D Soldering Station? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How accurate is the temperature control on the Hakko FX888D29BY/P?

The Hakko FX888D29BY/P stands out for its reliable temperature control, which is a big plus for hobbyists and pros. The manufacturer says it lets you adjust the temperature from 120°F to 899°F (50°C to 480°C), and you can switch between Fahrenheit and Celsius on the digital display. What's really neat is that it keeps the temperature super steady within about 1.8°F (1°C) when you're in the 400°F to 899°F (200°C to 480°C) range. This precision is a lifesaver for those tricky soldering jobs. Based on our research, folks seem pretty happy with how quickly the FX888D heats up and recovers. This fast response is great for keeping things moving smoothly, and people mention that it hits the temperature you want and stays there solidly while you're working. The stand that comes with it—complete with a sponge and scrubber—also gets a thumbs-up as a safe, convenient place to rest your iron. A lot of users report that the station feels comfortable and durable. Its ergonomic design means you can use it for long periods without getting tired. Some folks mentioned that while the digital interface works well, it could be more intuitive, especially for newcomers. The default setting of 750°F suits most jobs, but getting used to navigating the controls takes a bit of time. Even though the station works great right from the start, some people have upgraded by swapping tips, like using one from an older model for better results. Overall, despite a few quirks, the Hakko FX888D is seen as a solid investment thanks to its precision and consistency—no wonder it's a popular choice for many soldering tasks.

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What is the temperature range of the Hakko FX888D29BY/P?

The Hakko FX888D-29BY/P can reach temperatures between 120 and 899 degrees Fahrenheit (or 50 to 480 degrees Celsius), according to the manufacturer's description. It’s got a pretty wide range, so it's useful for all sorts of soldering tasks. It also holds its temperature steady, within about 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit (1 degree Celsius), which is great when you're doing precise work. Our research shows the FX888D is well-received for its quick heat-up time—it gets to working temperature in under 30 seconds. That's faster than other models like some older [Wellers](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DWeller%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). The accuracy is impressive too, especially if you're using it with compatible [Hakko tips](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DHakko%2Btips%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which is really important for working with surface-mount technology components. One thing to be aware of is its digital interface. It's quite different from the older models that have dials, which makes it a bit tricky for some folks to navigate at first. Still, most people agree that it’s worth the learning curve because of the station’s solid performance and reliability. Overall, it's a pretty solid choice if you’re looking for both speed and precision in a soldering station, although it might take a bit of time to get used to operating the interface.

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How quickly does the Hakko FX888D29BY/P heat up?

The Hakko FX888D-29BY/P heats up pretty quickly, which is great. According to the manufacturer's claims, it has a temperature range from 120°F to 899°F. Based on our research, it stands out for reaching operating temperature in under 30 seconds. That's definitely faster compared to some other models, like the [Weller WLC100](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dweller%2bwlc100%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which might take closer to three minutes to heat up. This quick heat-up time is super handy when you're working on projects with temperature-sensitive parts or when you need to switch temperatures often. Plus, the quick recovery helps keep things running smoothly if you're working for a while. About the controls, it's got a digital display that shows temperatures in both Celsius and Fahrenheit, which makes it easier to manage. Some folks find the digital interface a bit less intuitive compared to traditional dial controls, but it shouldn't be too hard to get the hang of. Overall, it seems like a solid choice for both hobbyists and pros, offering fast heating and good temperature control. Just bear in mind a few quirks with the digital controls that some people have mentioned, but nothing that should be a deal-breaker.

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Budget Pick: Aoyue 936

YIHUA 939D+ Digital Soldering Station, 75W Equivalent with Precision Heat Control (392°F to 896°F) and Built-in Transformer. ESD Safe, Lead Free with °C/°F display (Black)

For those keeping an eye on the budget, the Aoyue 936 offers fantastic value without sacrificing quality. This soldering iron includes adjustable temperature control and a good range of wattage, making it suitable for various soldering tasks. While it might lack some of the advanced features found in higher-end models, it delivers consistent performance and reliability. It's an excellent choice for beginners or occasional users who need a dependable tool that won't break the bank. Our research indicates that users appreciate its sturdy build and ease of use, making it a top pick for those on a budget.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$59.99 at Amazon

Best Portable Option: Portasol Professional Gas Soldering Iron

Portasol Self Igniting Soldering Iron and Heat Tool Kit - PTLSP-1K

If portability is your priority, the Portasol Professional Gas Soldering Iron is an outstanding choice for on-the-go repairs. This gas-powered soldering iron heats up quickly and is versatile enough for different environments, making it ideal for fieldwork or travel. Its compact design and ease of refilling add to its convenience, providing a practical solution for professionals who require mobility and flexibility in their work. According to our research, users commend its reliable performance and portability, making it a valuable addition to any toolkit.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$118.36 at Amazon

Best for Hobbyists: Weller WLC200

Weller WLC200 80 Watt Hobby and Stained Glass Soldering Station

The Weller WLC200 is a fantastic option for hobbyists. Featuring adjustable wattage from 5 to 80 watts, this model allows for versatility across various project types. It strikes a balance between performance and affordability without compromising on quality. The ergonomic design and user-friendly features make it a favorite among DIY enthusiasts who enjoy tackling a wide range of soldering projects. Our research points out that users appreciate its adaptability and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for hobbyists looking to expand their toolset.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$99.99 at Amazon

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