The Top Soldering Irons in 2023

Soldering irons, extensively utilized by electricians, engineers, jewelers, metal smiths, hobbyists, and DIY enthusiasts, serve various purposes. They are particularly effective for fastening wires and (re)connecting electronic components on PCBs. Below, we present the top-ranked soldering irons that cater to the majority of your requirements.

Pinecil Smart Mini Portable Soldering Iron (Version 2)

Best Soldering Iron Overall See at Pine64

Plusivo Soldering Iron Kit

Best Budget Soldering Iron $18 at Amazon

Meakest Premium Soldering Iron Kit

Best Soldering Iron for Beginners $23 at Amazon

Craftsman V20 Cordless Soldering Iron

Best Cordless Soldering Iron $49 at Amazon

X-Tronic 3020-XTS Soldering Iron Station

Best Soldering Station $55 at Amazon

What to Look for in a Soldering Iron

In addition to the expected heat levels, there are several important factors to consider when searching for the ideal soldering iron. It is important to evaluate the specific projects you plan on undertaking using the soldering iron to determine the appropriate wattage, temperature, and budget required for your soldering endeavors.

The wattage of a soldering iron indicates its heating and cooling speed, and is a crucial factor. Generally, higher wattage results in faster heating and longer heat retention. The soldering irons in this collection have wattages ranging from 60 to 88.

Moreover, temperature control is an important aspect to consider. Soldering irons equipped with temperature control enable adjustments for varying project requirements. In contrast, soldering irons lacking temperature control are only suitable for a limited range of tasks.

Unlike soldering irons with fixed tips, soldering irons with removable tips allow you to easily replace them when they become worn, damaged, or oxidized. Defective tips or decreased effectiveness of cleaning and tinning are also indications that it's time for a replacement.

When shopping for a good soldering iron, it is important to consider the wattage, temperature control, and the quality of the tip. In this discussion, all the soldering irons mentioned possess sufficient wattage, temperature control features, and the convenience of removable tips. In addition, they are designed ergonomically with anti-skid and heat-resistant handles.

The product recommendations provided by How-To Geek originate from our team of experts who have assisted in over one billion gadget repairs. Our recommendations are solely based on thorough research and our vast knowledge in the field. We do not accept any form of payment for endorsing or reviewing products. For more information, please refer to our Read More section.

Best Soldering Iron Overall: Pinecil Smart Mini Portable Soldering Iron (Version 2)

Pinecil

The PINE64 Pinecil Smart Mini Portable Soldering Iron (version 2) stands out as one of the top-notch soldering irons you can find. It boasts a polycarbonate shell encasing a durable stainless steel core, and its feather-light weight of only 28 grams adds to its convenience. With a remarkable power rating of 88 watts, it quickly heats up in a mere 6 seconds, allowing you to start your soldering tasks in no time. Moreover, its temperature range spans from 212 to 752 degrees Fahrenheit, providing versatility for various soldering needs.

Temperature adjustments are effortless with the user-friendly buttons and the clear readouts provided by the 0.69-inch OLED display. The Pinecil, Version 2, can be powered through either a USB-C port (with PD and QC 3.0 support) or a barrel DC jack. It ensures safe heating as it requires the pressing of the + button before starting, even when it is connected to a power source. Moreover, if you happen to forget to disconnect it, the Pinecil has an auto-standby function to prevent any mishaps and cools down rapidly.

Pinecil Smart Mini Portable Soldering Iron (Version 2)

Best Soldering Iron Overall: The Pinecil Smart Mini Portable Soldering Iron (version 2) is a highly acclaimed open-source soldering iron with excellent temperature control. It is known for its lightweight design and quick heating capabilities. Check it out at Pine64.

Best Budget Soldering Iron: Plusivo Soldering Iron Kit

Plusivo

While the Pinecil 2 is frequently on sale, it remains slightly more expensive than other soldering irons in this selection. For those on a budget, we recommend the Plusivo Soldering Iron Kit. This comprehensive kit includes 23 different accessories, such as a wire cutter, desoldering pump, tweezers, and even a mini PCB and carrying bag.

The Plusivo Soldering Iron Kit includes a soldering iron stand and holder for safe placement, a sponge for cleaning, and replaceable iron tips. With a power rating of 60 watts, it is equipped with a temperature control knob that ranges from 392 to 842 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. With its comprehensive features and affordable price tag, this kit is an absolute steal.

Best Budget Soldering Iron$18 $30 Save $12 The Plusivo Soldering Iron Kit is a robust 23-in-1 soldering kit that is both budget-friendly and practical for various soldering projects.

$18 at Amazon

Best Soldering Iron for Beginners: MEAKEST Premium Soldering Iron Kit

MEAKEST

If you are a beginner in soldering and you are looking for a soldering iron that is suitable for beginners, the MEAKEST Premium Soldering Iron Kit is the perfect choice. This soldering iron kit is not only well-constructed and neatly packaged, but it also includes a set of 12 indispensable soldering accessories that will assist you in getting started.

The Meakest Premium Soldering Iron Kit offers a superior solution for all your soldering needs. Equipped with a 60-watt soldering iron featuring a rapid heating ceramic heater, this kit ensures quick and efficient soldering. The inclusion of solder suckers and tweezers further enhances its functionality. With solder wire and soldering paste provided, you'll have everything you need to create strong and reliable connections. The kit also features an iron stand and five replacement tips, all neatly stored in a sleek carrying case. Temperature control ranging from 392 to 842 degrees Fahrenheit allows for precise adjustments, while the convenient on/off switch enhances power management and safety. Rest assured, the

Meakest Premium Soldering Iron Kit is a reliable and versatile choice for both amateurs and professionals alike.

$30, now only $23 at Amazon - save $7 on the MEAKEST Premium Soldering Iron Kit, the perfect selection for beginners looking for an affordable yet high-quality soldering iron starter kit.

Best Cordless Soldering Iron: CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Soldering Iron

CRAFTSMAN

For enhanced convenience and freedom of movement, we suggest opting for the CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Soldering Iron. This exceptional soldering iron boasts a four-inch cord, allowing for greater mobility and flexibility. Say goodbye to the hassle of lugging around a cord when working on site.

Powered by a 20-volt battery, the

Craftsman V20 Cordless Soldering Iron offers a peak runtime of 45 minutes per charge. This versatile tool is compatible with CRAFTSMAN’s V20 range of batteries and chargers (sold separately). It features temperature control ranging from 400 to 900 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for various applications, including electrical, wood burning, or metal works.

Get the CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Soldering Iron for enhanced flexibility and mobility. It includes a long-lasting battery that provides up to 45 minutes of runtime with each charge. Available for $49 on Amazon.

Best Soldering Station: X-Tronic 3020-XTS Soldering Station

X-Tronic

The X-Tronic 3020-XTS Soldering Station is the ideal choice if you desire a comprehensive soldering station. It is regarded as one of the top soldering stations available, suitable for individuals at every skill level. This convenient 75-watt soldering station (60 watts for iron and 15 watts for soldering iron motherboard) is equipped with two helping hands, allowing you to effortlessly solder while PCBs are securely propped up.

The X-Tronic 3020-XTS Soldering Iron Station offers a wide temperature control range from 194 to 896 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing for precise soldering operations. The convenient Centigrade to Fahrenheit toggle switch, along with the blue LED readout on the temperature display, makes it easy to monitor and adjust the desired temperature.

This soldering iron heats up quickly, saving you valuable time during your projects. Additionally, it includes a useful 10-minute sleep timer feature for added safety when the iron is not in use.

In terms of accessories, the X-Tronic 3020-XTS comes with a silicone mat for a stable work surface, a side mount solder roll holder for easy access, a brass sponge tip cleaner to keep your soldering iron in top condition, and a wet sponge to clean the soldering tip.

With its impressive temperature range, rapid heat-up time, and practical accessories, the X-Tronic 3020-XTS Soldering Iron Station is a versatile and reliable tool for all your soldering needs.

The X-Tronic 3020-XTS Soldering Iron Station is highly regarded as one of the top soldering stations available. Suitable for both beginners and experienced users, it includes a robust iron and all the necessary soldering accessories. Currently available for $55 on Amazon.

FAQ

How hot does a soldering iron get?

What do you use a soldering iron for?

The melting point of solder is 365 degrees Fahrenheit, so an ideal soldering iron should exceed this temperature. In this roundup, the soldering irons have a temperature range between 192 and 896 degrees Fahrenheit.

A soldering iron is a versatile tool utilized by a variety of professionals, such as electricians, DIY-ers, and hobbyists. Electricians rely on soldering irons to mend electronics and electrical equipment, whereas jewelers utilize them for embellishing jewelry.

Are soldering iron tips interchangeable?

Not all soldering irons come with removable tips. However, the soldering irons featured in this collection all offer the advantage of removable tips. In fact, some even provide up to five additional replacement tips at no extra cost. It is essential to replace soldering iron tips when they become worn, degraded, or oxidized. By having replaceable tips, you can avoid the inconvenience and expense of purchasing a new soldering iron every time.

How do I clean a soldering iron?

To clean a soldering iron effectively and remove any solder residue from the tips, simply ensure the iron is powered off and cooled. It is recommended to wait at least an hour before proceeding. Then, use a damp cloth or rubbing alcohol to thoroughly wipe the iron until it is completely free of solder.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I am excited about the latest advancements in soldering irons. The top soldering irons in 2023 offer precision, versatility, and convenience, making them ideal for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

The Pinecil Smart Mini Portable Soldering Iron (Version 2) is particularly impressive, with its quick heat-up time, wide temperature range, and user-friendly interface. I appreciate the fact that it can be powered through either a USB-C port or a barrel DC jack, making it compatible with a variety of power sources. The auto-standby function is also a thoughtful addition, preventing accidents and saving energy.

Overall, I believe that the top soldering irons in 2023 are a great investment for anyone interested in electronics, DIY projects, or jewelry making. With their advanced features and ergonomic designs, these tools make it easy to achieve professional-quality results.