If you repair electronics or make stained glass masterpieces, you will want to invest in the best soldering iron. For some projects, screwdrivers and hammers cannot get the job done. You need something that is going to create a strong bond.
After many hours of researching soldering irons, we have found some of the best soldering irons for DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists and professionals. In this list of 10 best soldering irons, you will find both corded and cordless.
Top 3 Picks for the Best Soldering Irons for 2024
Best Overall
Hakko FX888D-23BY Digital Soldering Station
The HAKKO FX-888D is a high-quality machine that is perfect for home and hobby use. It has a temperature range of up to 899∙F.
Premium Choice
Weller WE1010NA Digital Soldering Station
This iron was made for professionals and hobbyists. We think it is one of the best soldering irons on the market. It heats up fast and retains a temperature within 4 degrees.
Great Value
LDK Soldering Iron Kit
The LDK iron is a professional soldering iron that comes with everything you need to get started soldering.
What is a Soldering Iron?
A soldering iron is a tool that is used to melt solder. It has an insulated handle and a metal tip. The tip of the tool gets extremely hot. When it is held against solder, the solder turns into liquid that can then flow easily to join two pieces of metal.
This soldering tool is a tool that comes in handy for many tasks. It can be used in construction, crafting, auto repairs, the electrical trade, and DIY repairs.
How to Choose the Best Soldering Iron
All soldering irons are not the same. Before you go out and buy the first iron you see, look at the features. You will want to check:
- The Tip
Is the tip on the soldering iron replaceable? If so, does it come with the tips you need for your projects?
- Does it Have Temperature Control?
You will want to make sure you will be able to get the correct temperature out of the iron. Some soldering jobs require a high temperature. While others need a low temperature.
- What is the Wattage?
The wattage does not have anything to do with the temperature. What it does dictate is how fast the iron can heat up and how long it will hold a stable temperature. For most DIY home repairs, 40 watts will be enough. For larger projects, you will want an iron that has a higher wattage.
- Are the Accessories Included?
Buying accessories can get expensive. When looking for a good iron, check to see what comes with it. More than likely, you will want replaceable tips and a soldering station.
10 Best Soldering Irons for 2024
To make your buying decision easier, here is our list of the top 10 best soldering irons.
1. Weller SP40NKUS Soldering Welding Iron
Weller’s SP40NKUS iron provides high performance with the latest LED technology.
Why We Like the Weller Soldering Welding Iron
The Weller SP40NKUS iron has a round, soft-grip, non-slip handle design that makes it comfortable to use.
- 3 LEDs
The 3 LEDs make your work area bright, so you can have accurate application.
- Ribbed Grip
The ribbed grip provides comfort and reduces slippage.
- 7-Year Warranty
This iron is backed by an impressive 7-year limited warranty.
Pros and Cons of the Weller Soldering Welding Iron
Pros:
- 3 LEDs
- Triangular handle
- Co-molded
- Ribbed grip
- Easy tip change
- 7-Year Warranty
- Soft grip
- Includes 2 spare tips, wire, and solder aid tool
Cons:
- Temperature dial does not lock in place
- Tips wear out quickly
2. Vastar Soldering Iron Kit
The Vastar 60 watt iron is a great iron to have around to make small household repairs.
Why We Like the Vastar Soldering Kit
This is an inexpensive iron kit that can get all your small repairs done quickly.
- Easy to Operate
Simply plug it and let it heat up. You can adjust the temperature with the tun of a knob.
- 5 Tips
This iron comes with 5 tips. You do not have to buy them separately.
- Desoldering Pump
The desoldering pump makes it easy to remove any unwanted solder.
Pros and Cons of the Vastar Soldering Kit
Pros:
- Heats up Quickly
- Steel-pipe design
- Chip fixed resistor
- No soldering station is needed
- Five different tips
- Comes with desoldering pump
Cons:
- Temperature can vary
- Nut can break if not warmed up first
3. Choice 100W Soldering Welding Iron
The Choice 100W iron is perfect for stained glass and jewelry projects.
Why We Like the Choice Soldering Welding Iron:
You can tackle tough projects with this 100 watt iron.
- 100 Watt
If you create stained glass projects, you want a powerful iron. This iron can stay hot for a long time.
- 1000 Degrees Fahrenheit
This iron can get hot and take on large, tough projects.
- Easy to Use
The design of the Choice 100W iron is simple. There is not anything difficult about it.
Pros and Cons of the Choice Soldering Welding Iron:
Pros:
- 100 Watts
- Heats up to 1000 degrees F
Cons:
- Must be used with a temperature control
- Extra tips are sold separately
4. Portasol 11280240 Pro Piezo 75 Watt Butane Powered Soldering Iron
The Portasol Butane Powered Iron is constructed from DuPont materials that are designed to prevent deterioration and increase durability.
Why We Like the Portasol Pro Piezo
You can use this iron anywhere since you are not restricted by a cord.
- Cordless
You are not restricted by a cord. This soldering iron uses butane.
- 60 Minute Run Time
You can get 60 minutes of run time before you must refill the iron.
- Heats up Quickly
This thing is ready to use in as little as 30 seconds.
Pros and Cons of the Portasol Pro Piezo
Pros:
- Click-to-ignite
- No cords
- 60-minute run time
- Ready to use in 30 seconds
- Adjustable temperature control
- 10 Second refill time
- Hot air and soldering capabilities
Cons:
- Some people have issues with the hot air nozzle
- Can have issues igniting
5. Weller P2KC Professional Self-igniting Cordless Soldering Iron Kit
The Weller P2KC Professional Iron is lightweight, compact and cordless. It is operated with butane and can be used as both a soldering and hot air tool.
Why We Like the Weller P2KC
It does not require electricity. Instead, the iron is operated with butane. It can be used as both a soldering and hot air tool. And with the optional flame tip, you can use it as a mini torch.
- Automatic cut-off switch
Once the cap is replaced, the automatic cut-off switch is activated.
- Optional PPT12 Flame Tip
If you purchase the optional PPT12 flame tip, you can also use this iron as a mini torch.
- Push Button
This iron can be ignited with the simple push of a button.
Pros and Cons of the Weller P2KC
Pros:
- lightweight
- Compact design
- Cordless
- Soldering and hot air tool
- Ready to use in 40 seconds
- 1 hour of continuous use
- Refills in less than 20 seconds
- Automatic cut-off switch
Cons:
- Instructions are hard to understand
- Electronic ignition can fail
6. Hakko FX888D-23BY Digital Soldering Station
This high-quality soldering iron will make all your soldering projects a breeze.
Why We Like the Hakko Digital Soldering Station
The HAKKO FX-888D is one of the best soldering irons for home and hobby use. It has a temperature range of up to 899∙F.
- Digital Temperature Control
With the digital temperature control, there is no guessing at what temperature you are getting. And you do not have to worry about hitting any dials while you are using it.
- Sponge and Cleaning Wire
The soldering iron stand comes with a sponge and cleaning wire to clean the tip off.
- 5 Different Preset Temperatures
You can preset 5 different temperatures.
Pros and Cons of the Hakko Digital Soldering Station
Pros:
- Temperature range of up to 899∙F
- Ergonomic hand piece
- Ceramic heating element
- Adjustable display
- Allows for 5 different preset temperatures
- Sponge and cleaning wire
Cons:
- Price
- Looks cheap
- Station can move around
7. Weller WLC100 40-Watt Soldering Station
If you are looking for a basic iron that is reliable and affordable, the Weller WLC100 may be just what you are looking for.
Why We Like the Weller WLC100
This iron can be adjusted from 5 watts to 40 watts. It should be powerful enough to handle most of your home repairs and crafting needs.
- Variable Power Control
The variable power control dial can adjust the power from 5 watts to 40 watts for better accuracy.
- Cushioned Foam Grip
The cushioned foam grip offers comfort for prolonged use.
- Sponge
The sponge allows you to clean off any residue, so the iron is ready for the next use.
Pros and Cons of the Weller WLC100
Pros:
- Analog
- Up to 900° F
- Variable power control
- Cushioned foam grip
- Built-in soldering holder
- Sponge
Cons:
- Not ergonomic
8. Sywon Full Set 60W 110V Electric Soldering Welding Iron Kit
This Sywon 60W Iron kit can satisfy all of your at home DIY soldering needs.
Why We Like the Sywon Soldering Station
This kit comes with everything you need. From the soldering iron to extra tips and a leather case.
- Heated Ceramic Technology
Thanks to the heated ceramic technology, this iron heats up quickly and maintains a stable temperature.
- Temperature Scale
The green-red temperature scale shows the temperature status of the soldering iron.
- Ventilation Holes
The iron has 4 ventilation holes which help the iron cool down fast.
Pros and Cons of the Sywon Soldering Station
Pros:
- Adjustable temperatures
- LED indicator
- Inner-heated ceramic technology
- Heat resistant material
- 6pcs of double-sided assist tools
- 2pcs anti-static tweezers
- Leather carrying case
- Portable soldering holder with cleaning sponge
Cons:
- Not as sturdy as other models
9. LDK Soldering Iron Kit
The LDK soldering iron is a professional soldering iron suitable for DIY repairs and electronic hobbyists.
Why We Like the LDR Iron
The LDK soldering is an inexpensive iron that comes with everything you need.
- 5 Iron Tips
You can complete various types of jobs with the 5 interchangeable tips.
- Price
You cannot beat the price of this iron.
- Inner-Heated Ceramic Technology
This iron is ready to use within two minutes.
Pros and Cons of the LDR Iron
Pros:
- 5 Iron tips
- Inner-heated ceramic technology
- Inexpensive
- Temperature range from 392-F to 842-F
- Additional accessories
Cons:
- Might not last long
- No station
10. Weller WE1010NA Digital Soldering Station
Weller has designed this soldering station for vocational and professional use.
Why We Like the Weller WE1010NA
This Weller iron is one of the best soldering irons. It heats up fast and retains a temperature within 4 degrees.
- Digital
Easy temperature control with the digital LCD display.
- Temperature Stability
Temperature stability will help to give you professional results. You will not have to deal with heating and cooling.
- Accessories
The kit includes one We1 station 120V, one Wep70 tip retainer, one Wep70 iron, PH70 safety rest with a sponge, and Eta tip 0.062inch/1.6 millimetre screwdriver.
Pros and Cons of the Weller WE1010NA
Pros:
- Heat-resistant silicon Cable
- Temperature stability
- Temperature lock
- Standby mode
- Auto setback
- Easy-to-read LCD screen
- Easy tip change
- Sponge
Cons:
- Price
Top 3 Picks for the Best Soldering Irons for 2024
Best Overall
Hakko FX888D-23BY Digital Soldering Station
The HAKKO FX-888D is a high-quality machine that is perfect for home and hobby use. It has a temperature range of up to 899∙F.
Premium Choice
Weller WE1010NA Digital Soldering Station
This iron was made for professionals and hobbyists. We think it is one of the best soldering irons on the market. It heats up fast and retains a temperature within 4 degrees.
Great Value
LDK Soldering Iron Kit
The LDK iron is a professional soldering iron that comes with everything you need to get started soldering.
To get the job done right, you need the right tool for the job. Do not buy any soldering iron you find. Only buy the best soldering iron.
It does not matter if you are making a small electrical repair or are creating a beautiful piece of stained glass, you need a good soldering iron. You want the finished results to last and look professional.
If you are looking to invest in a soldering iron, first decide what types of projects you are going to be working on. Don’t forget to share your experience on our Facebook Page.
When you have the right tool for the job, you will be able to finish your task efficiently. Having the best soldering iron will ensure you get an even, smooth and shiny bond.
