The Best Soldering Irons

Updated Dec 12, 2022

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Hack a Game Boy, assemble a mechanical keyboard, build a Raspberry Pi–powered drone—these are just a few of the projects that an inexpensive soldering iron enables. We think the X-Tronic Model 3020-XTS LED Soldering Station is the best for beginners and casual hobbyists because it performed similarly to irons that cost twice as much and had one of the fastest warm-up times of the soldering irons we tested.

X-Tronic Model 3020-XTS LED Soldering Station

The best soldering iron

The reliable X-Tronic heats up fast and offers a safe and sturdy stand, an ergonomic grip, and a digital temperature display—features you usually have to pay twice as much to get.

We recommend

Hakko FX-888D

If you solder frequently

Its quick heat-up time and temperature recovery, solid build, and polished aesthetic make this a go-to soldering iron for hobbyists who plan to solder often.

A better upgrade

Vastar Full Set 60W 110V Soldering Iron Kit

Lots of accessories at a low price

This model gets the job done and comes with extra tips and solder, but it lacks a stable soldering station.

Budget friendly

Hakko FH-300

If you need a stand

The Hakko FH-300 is heavy enough to be stable on a work surface and has a small footprint.