Aliexpress is a large online store with a varied selection of products, so in order to purchase a soldering iron from Aliexpress, you need to figure out exactly what aspects you should pay attention to.
WORKING AGAIN! TRENDSALE200 — 200 from 1500 RUR TRENDSALE700 — 700 from 7000 RUR
Friends, we have also put together a selection of more serious devices - soldering stations with and without a hair dryer , you will find by following the link, also in the selection - everything for soldering , there is everything for soldering and desoldering, and cleaning the soldering iron.
TOP 12 best soldering irons
Photo | Name | Rating | Price | |||
TOP 9 best models of soldering irons for home | ||||||
#1 | Pace PS90 | ⭐ 4.95 / 5 7 — votes | Find out the price | |||
#2 | Work's W30740 40 W (31040) | ⭐ 4.9 / 5 5 — votes | Find out the price | |||
#3 | Rexant 220V 25W 12-0121-1 | ⭐ 4.85 / 5 8 — votes | Find out the price | |||
#4 | Bison Expert 60W 55402-60-z01 | ⭐ 4.8 / 5 3 - votes | Find out the price | |||
#5 | Topex 200 W 44E031 | ⭐ 4.75 / 5 2 - votes | Find out the price | |||
#6 | Mega 60074 40 W | ⭐ 4.7 / 5 | Find out the price | |||
#7 | Bison Professional 40W 55413-40 | ⭐ 4.65 / 5 4 - votes | Find out the price | |||
#8 | Union PS2005-40 | ⭐ 4.6 / 5 3 - votes | Find out the price | |||
#9 | Mastertool 44-0006 | ⭐ 4.55 / 5 1 - voice | Find out the price | |||
TOP 3 best portable soldering irons | ||||||
#1 | Minidso TS100 | ⭐ 4.95 / 5 8 — votes | Find out the price | |||
#2 | Megeon 00100 | ⭐ 4.9 / 5 5 — votes | Find out the price | |||
#3 | Stayer Professional 55409 | ⭐ 4.85 / 5 | Find out the price |
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What to look for when buying a soldering iron
When buying a soldering iron, you need to pay attention to several parameters.
An electric soldering iron must be chosen based on the mobility of the device, power, availability of a station, functionality, and price of the equipment. You should also buy a device, looking at the material, tip shape, strength, temperature regulator. It is definitely recommended to study the top soldering irons.
Note! The danger comes not only from the high temperature, but also from possible voltage. To eliminate unnecessary risks before working with a soldering iron, you should have a multimeter or voltage tester in your tool case.
Soldering iron power
Power is the most important characteristic that is taken into account when choosing a specific hardware model. The temperature regime of heating the working surface directly depends on it.
To solder microcircuit elements, it is recommended to purchase an electric soldering iron with a power of 25 watts. When using a powerful electrical appliance, there is a risk of damage to the board or microcircuit. It is better to solder thick electrical wires using a 40-watt device.
Tip material and shape
The tip is created from copper with ceramics and nickel.
- Copper parts are used in electric models. They have optimal thermal conductivity, capacity and efficiency.
- Nickel ones do not burn during operation. They don't have to do the cleanup. Such tips are expensive and fragile.
- Ceramic parts are resistant to rust and conduct heat well. The disadvantages are cost and fragility.
The shape of the tips is cone-shaped, needle-shaped and rod-shaped. There is a screwdriver shape - the most comfortable to use, universal in structure. It promotes rapid heating of parts.
Temperature controller
The presence of a temperature regulator is an advantage of modern devices. They are priced high. They cost more than conventional devices, but can replace a couple of electrical appliances. It is convenient to work with the equipment by soldering parts of different thicknesses. Reducing the temperature regime is advisable for thin wires.
Handle material
The handle of the electric soldering iron is made from a material resistant to high temperatures. As a rule, the handle is made of wood. Models with wooden handles are quite lightweight. They are not able to deteriorate when heated.
You can also find devices on sale that have ebonite or polypropylene handles. They are heavy and sometimes slip in the hand.
TOP 9 best models of soldering irons for home
No. 9 – Mastertool 44-0006
Mastertool 44-0006
A device with a modest power of 30 W, but easy to use. It is perfect for working with tiny parts and complex microcircuits, as it has a small cone-shaped tip.
This option has the so-called periodic heating type, it has power adjustment. Included with purchase is a stand. The handle is equipped with special ergonomic pads that ensure comfortable use. The power supply is from the mains, but the wire is short - only 1.2 m. But it is Euro-type, thick and durable.
Users note that the soldering iron is not bad, but will quickly require replacing the tip with a new one. It darkens and has poor quality overall. Otherwise, it’s a budget but decent option, which is suitable for infrequent non-professional use.
pros
- cheap
- convenient to use
- there is power adjustment
- ergonomic handle
- stand included
Minuses
- poor quality tip
Prices for soldering iron Mastertool 44-0006
Mastertool 44-0006
No. 8 - Soyuz PS2005-40
Soyuz PS2005-40
This is the cheapest soldering iron on the market, which, however, does not prevent it from being a good model that can be chosen for home use. Of course, it will not be suitable for those who constantly repair all sorts of microcircuits, but for periodic use it is a completely suitable model.
This device is used for soldering circuit boards, wires and a number of other small elements. Power - 40 W. The device runs on mains power and is not a portable model. The configuration is extremely simple - for example, there is no temperature switch. But the device perfectly melts solder with a cone-shaped tip (by the way, it is recommended to change it immediately after purchase for a better one). The handle is made of wood, does not heat up and is tactilely pleasant. The soldering iron is quite small in size.
pros
- cheap
- protective covering of the tip
- copes well with simple tasks
- suitable for home use
Minuses
- not suitable for regular use
- no thermostat
Prices for soldering iron Soyuz PS2005-40
Union PS2005-40
No. 7 – Bison Professional 40W 55413-40
Zubr Professional 40W 55413-40
This is a soldering iron from a well-known Russian manufacturer with moderate power. Its indicator is 40 W. The soldering iron is perfect for small and infrequent work; it can easily work with circuit boards.
The working part is in the shape of a cone, the handle is made of two-component material - rubber and plastic, very durable, non-slip. It is comfortable to hold in your hand during long-term painstaking work.
The tip is steel, which does not lose its properties for a long time. While storing the soldering iron, you can close it with the protective cap that comes with the kit.
Powered from the mains, and the cable is long enough, ensures comfortable use of the device. One of the disadvantages, like the model described above, is the lack of a thermostat.
pros
- Russian production
- low cost
- double electrical protection
- The list of components includes a stand and solder
- ergonomic handle
- strong sting
Minuses
- not suitable for constant use
- no thermostat
Prices for soldering iron Zubr Professional 40W 55413-40
Bison Professional 40W 55413-40
No. 6 - Mega 60074 40 W
Mega 60074 40 W
Option with a power of 40 W, having a unique stand shape and a second tip included. This soldering iron is very convenient to use due to its lightness and ergonomics.
In this option, a nichrome spiral is used as the heating part. It also transfers thermal energy to the soldering iron tip. The tip itself is narrowed, made of steel, allowing you to use the soldering iron when working with very small parts.
The list of components includes a metal stand, which ensures convenient use of the device. By the way, it has a very interesting design: it can be adjusted in height or fixed in one place on the desktop for even more comfortable use of the device - it will not just lie around on the table and get in the way. The handle is ergonomic, made of plastic, does not heat up.
pros
- saves energy
- convenient use
- sting included
- unique stand shape
- ergonomics
Minuses
- not detected
Prices for soldering iron Mega 60074 40 W
Mega 60074 40 W
No. 5 - Topex 200 W 44E031
Topex 200 W 44E031
An excellent soldering iron with high power, which is sold at an affordable price. But its build quality and operational efficiency are excellent. That is why many people choose it.
The operating temperature is 410 degrees. Warming up happens very quickly. A comfortable non-slip handle and a fairly long cord allow you to use this soldering iron comfortably. Device power - 200 W. By the way, there is a function for adjusting it.
The main disadvantage is Chinese production. However, online users don’t particularly complain about it. The device is ideal for soft soldering.
pros
- high power
- low price
- comfortable in using
- long cord
- power adjustment
Minuses
- Expensive
- manufacturer - China
Prices for soldering iron Topex 200 W 44E031
Topex 200 W 44E031
No. 4 – Bison Expert 60W 55402-60-z01
Bison Expert 60W 55402-60-z01
Many users consider this soldering iron to be the best if you need to work with circuit boards. Its power is already greater than most of the models reviewed and is equal to 60 W.
The handle of the holder, like the previous model, is made of two materials - plastic and rubber. It is comfortable and non-slip - the soldering iron will not fall out of your hands. The tip is wedge-shaped, made of copper, has a special coating that allows you to easily solder for a long time. Moreover, the quality of soldering is excellent. It is advisable to use lead-tin solder in the work.
The device comes with solder, a convenient stand and a special attachment for protection. The electrical cable that supplies power from the network is grounded, so even if the insulation is damaged, the soldering iron will not receive an electric shock. This is a reliable and durable soldering iron that will be useful for anyone in the household.
pros
- inexpensive
- made in Russia
- ground cable
- good equipment
- tip with special coating
- ergonomic handle
Minuses
- not detected
Prices for soldering iron Zubr Expert 60W 55402-60-z01
Bison Expert 60W 55402-60-z01
Reviews of soldering iron Zubr Expert 60W 55402-60-z01
No. 3 - Rexant 220V 25W 12-0121-1
Rexant 220V 25W 12-0121-1
A low-power miniature soldering iron that is suitable for working with radio elements. Very durable, reliable, ideal for both craftsmen and short-term home use, used when soldering small elements.
This model is equipped with a ceramic tip that heats up in a short time and lasts as long as possible - longer than standard options. The top of the tip is covered with tin, which ensures good tinning. Warming up to operating temperature occurs almost instantly.
The temperature-resistant thermoplastic handle does not heat up during operation. It is also equipped with anti-slip rubber pads.
Despite the low power, this soldering iron is chosen by many. The reason is simple - the high reliability of the device and its durability. Once you buy such a soldering iron, you can forget for a long time about the need to make such a purchase again.
pros
- high reliability
- ceramic tip
- fast heating
- comfortable handle
- suitable for working with radio elements
Minuses
- low power
Prices for soldering iron Rexant 220V 25W 12-0121-1
Rexant 220V 25W 12-0121-1
No. 2 - Work's W30740 40 W (31040)
Work's W30740 40 W (31040)
Soldering iron, perfect for home use. Buyers choose this model for its reliability, ease of use and low cost.
The power of this option is 40 W. The maximum heating is 400 degrees. The model quickly heats up to operating temperature - it only takes 5-10 minutes. It makes it possible to work with small and very small elements, ensuring high-quality soldering. The Long Life tip is made of copper and has a special protective coating. The device is comfortable to hold in the hand, the handle does not heat up while the device is in use.
Among the advantages, a durable thick electrical cable with double insulation, which is as safe as possible for humans, is also noted. By the way, they also highlight the beautiful design, although this is far from the main requirement for a working tool.
pros
- durable
- inexpensive
- double cable protection
- stylish design
- fast heating
- famous brand
Minuses
- manufacturer - China
Prices for soldering iron Work's W30740 40 W (31040)
Work's W30740 40 W (31040)
No. 1 - Pace PS90
Pace PS90
Model from America, universal and convenient for a wide variety of work. It is famous for its thermal stability, compatibility with various soldering stations and ease of use. It can be used to work with multi-layer boards using various soldering techniques.
This device has excellent heat dissipation and does not overheat thanks to its limited power of 51 W. This is also influenced by the special insulating winding of the structure. Included is a convenient stand.
The handle coating is antistatic, ensuring safe use of the soldering iron. The handle does not overheat during operation. However, it is not the most convenient for long-term use. However, this is a subjective aspect - some may find this handle optimal.
pros
- reliable option
- made in USA
- comfortable in using
- antistatic handle coating
- suitable for performing work of varying complexity
- doesn't overheat
Minuses
- the handle may seem uncomfortable
Prices for soldering iron Pace PS90
Pace PS90
⑧ Mypovos 8588D
Rating: 4.9 Price: from 3478.51 rub.
up to
4595.55 rub.
Go to the store Mypovos 8588D is a universal soldering station with a hair dryer, which can be used to repair and service various microcircuit elements. This model is highly functional, combines a soldering iron and a hot air gun, and has a built-in voltmeter and power supply. There are two LCD displays to display all the necessary data.
There is a built-in automatic cooling function, which extends the life of the heater and protects the device from overheating.
The operating temperature of the soldering iron is adjustable in the range from 100 to 480 degrees, so soldering is always very accurate. It takes a few minutes to heat up; the set temperature remains at the same level for a long time. The kit includes screwdrivers, tweezers, rosin, sponges and other things that may be required for soldering.
Advantages:
- ceramic heater;
- adjustable temperature;
- presence of transistor cooling;
- Spare blades included.
Buy on AliExpress.com
TOP 3 best portable soldering irons
We will also consider several models of portable soldering irons. These devices do not have a power cord, which means they are very convenient to use in certain conditions. You don’t have to depend on wires and power supply. Let's see which options users prefer.
No. 3 – Stayer Professional 55409
Stayer Professional 55409
This wireless option has very low power - only 8 W. But it is very easy to use, inexpensive and highly reliable.
The device heats up to operating temperature in just 15 seconds. After this time, its composite tip has a temperature of 380 degrees and is ready for soldering. By the way, 8 W is the maximum power, but the soldering iron can be switched to a power of only 4 W.
The handle is made of plastic, but it is of high quality and does not melt due to temperature. The tip is conical. Safety of use is ensured by the presence of protection against accidental activation. Power supply: 3 pinky batteries.
Upon purchase, the user receives a special protective cap for the tip and solder, as well as a convenient stand. The soldering quality is excellent. To put the device away for storage, after turning it off, you need to wait quite a bit for the device to cool down. The main disadvantage is Chinese production, which causes buyer distrust.
pros
- wireless
- battery powered
- comfortable in using
- power adjustment
- protection against accidental activation
- high-quality assembly
Minuses
- Chinese production
Prices for soldering iron Stayer Professional 55409
Stayer Professional 55409
Reviews of the Stayer Professional 55409 soldering iron
No. 2 - Megeon 00100
Megeon 00100
A small wireless soldering iron that has a USB output and a tiny display. It can be connected to a PC and configured according to your wishes. One of the few popular options with digital control.
The model has a lot of settings, and it is very convenient to use, adjusting it to suit you. The soldering iron is equipped with an OLED display, allowing you to easily navigate the settings and monitor the status of the device.
The tip is made of copper, but coated with a special material. Power - 50 W. Heating can vary between 100-400 degrees and occurs quickly. The dimensions of the device are small, and so is its weight, which means it is convenient to use in any situation. When the soldering iron is not in use, it goes into sleep mode. The package includes 7 additional tips, which need to be changed depending on the specifics of the work.
pros
- wireless
- there is USB
- easy to customize
- equipped with display
- heats up quickly
- good equipment
- light and compact
- Standby mode
Minuses
- discharges quickly
- Expensive
Prices for soldering iron Megeon 00100
Megeon 00100
No. 1 - Minidso TS100
Minidso TS100
Digital soldering iron with compact dimensions. The device is portable and can be used in a variety of settings. You can even program it if you wish.
The power of this model is 65 W, quite a lot for such a tiny soldering iron. It heats up quickly, and the temperature can vary between 100-400 degrees. The built-in accelerometer will automatically turn off the heating of the tip if the soldering iron is lying horizontally. The device is equipped with an OLED screen. Power supply from 12 V.
One of the main advantages is the low price. The model is also very compact and the size is more like a pen than a soldering iron. Included is an additional tip.
pros
- low cost
- wireless
- there is USB
- equipped with display
- heats up quickly
- high power
- light and compact
- accelerometer
Minuses
- not detected
Prices for Minidso TS100 soldering iron
Minidso TS100
Handle design
Having dealt with the technological parameters, we move on. The handle, its shape and, most importantly, the material are no less important than everything else. In essence, it is a plastic, wooden, or in rare cases, ebonite tube that the user of an electrical appliance holds onto. The main requirements for it are to insulate your hand from the heat of the soldering iron and electricity. Wood is classically used. It protects from excessive heat, does not melt and is comfortable to the tactile sensations. Plastic also performs all these functions, but you may come across low quality workmanship - the manufacturer, in order to save money, makes it from the wrong type of material - too fusible. As a result, the tip, together with the heating element and the metal tube containing them, becomes loose in the handle or falls out completely.
Now regarding the form. There are only two types of manufacturing - pistol grip and regular. The first is more common for pulse and induction soldering irons. This type of handle itself can accommodate all the components of the device, including the power supply. As for the usual one, it is used everywhere, in all other cases.
The design of the soldering iron and the principle of its operation
A soldering iron is a relatively small hand-held tool that is used for tinning and soldering various elements. The device is used to heat workpieces, melt solder and flux. What the tool is useful for:
- Tinning is a process that involves applying a thin layer of molten tin to the surface of metal products. It is needed to prepare elements for soldering or to protect their surface from corrosion.
- Soldering is a process that allows you to obtain a strong and permanent connection between several parts.
Solder POS60 TR 0.5mm
Solder is molten metal that is used during soldering. It is inserted between two parts connected to each other. As a rule, its melting point is lower than that of the elements being joined. Typically these are alloys of copper, nickel, tin, lead, silver, etc. There are also non-metallic compounds.
Flux is a substance that is used to remove oxides from elements being soldered together. It also allows the solder to spread better and protects the soldering site from environmental influences. Can be either organic or inorganic.
In short, taking into account all of the above, we can conclude that soldering is not an easy task. Although anyone can master this procedure. But the main operating element in this whole process is the soldering iron.
Table. Basic elements of a soldering iron.
Element | Description and characteristics |
Sting | The main element, a continuation of the rod (more on that later). This is the working part, which is directly involved in the soldering or tinning process. Heating occurs due to flame or electricity, depending on the type of soldering iron. It is usually made of copper as one of the easiest materials to clean from carbon deposits. Usually coated with protective compounds or alloys that extend service life. |
Heater | The element that heats the tip. This is where the conversion of electricity into heat occurs. The tip at maximum heating can have a temperature of several hundred degrees. |
Kernel | A metal casing, inside of which the heater is located, and the tip is also attached to it. On the other side there is a handle that allows you to hold the soldering iron. The rod conducts heat well. |
Holder | This is exactly the same wooden or plastic handle that you need to hold the soldering iron while working. Made from wood or plastic. The holder does not conduct heat and should not heat up while the soldering iron is in use. The wooden option is best. |
Wire for connecting to the network | If the soldering iron is not portable, then it receives power from the network through the power cord. It is best if it is as long as possible - it will be more convenient to work. Also, the wire must be flexible and at the same time durable. |
Soldering iron with a comfortable wooden handle
On a note! Soldering irons can also have additional structural elements - for example, temperature and power regulators. But this is optional.
After the soldering iron is plugged in (and we are talking about electric options now), the heater heats up, then the heat is transferred to the tip. The latter is heating up and ready to go. Next, you need to use solder, that is, melt it and use it to connect the parts to be soldered together. When the solder hardens, a strong, permanent connection will be formed.
Types of soldering irons
Depending on the type of heater, soldering irons are divided into electric and gas.
- Gas is used for soldering wires in so-called distribution boxes. It is autonomous, does not require power supply, and can be used as a hair dryer for heat shrinking materials. But when working with microcircuits, such a device is inconvenient to use. In addition, when gas burns, harmful substances are released into the environment, which cannot be breathed for a long time - it is dangerous to health.
- Electric soldering irons work by connecting to the network or using autonomous power sources. They are used specifically for soldering wires and microcircuits - the main thing is that there is a power source.
In turn, electric soldering irons are divided into several types. More about them below.
EPSN or nichrome soldering iron, also called a spiral soldering iron, is a device that has a durable and practical type of heater, which is also cheap. The heater in this case is a thin wire made of nichrome, a special nickel-based alloy. Main advantages: low cost, unpretentiousness, ease of repair. But such a soldering iron takes a relatively long time to heat up. In addition, most models cannot be used in intensive mode. But for home use, such a soldering iron is the best option.
Design of a nichrome soldering iron
A ceramic soldering iron is more expensive, but it has a higher level of fragility and requires careful handling. But this option heats up very quickly and lasts longer than the nichrome one. The heater in this case is made of ceramic. These soldering irons may be small in size, but still have high power. They can withstand significant loads. The main thing is to protect them from falls and impacts.
On a note! Ceramic soldering irons are not produced by all brands, and they are not as easy to find in the store as regular nichrome ones.
There are also pseudo-ceramic versions of devices on sale. In fact, they are the same nichrome ones, but have a ceramic insulator. That is, a nichrome spiral is put on a ceramic rod, and the outside of the structure is closed with a ceramic tube. In the original, the heater is a single system with resistors soldered into ceramics.
On a note! You can distinguish ceramics from pseudoceramics when purchasing. The latter have a rounded end part, and there are four channels inside the heater. In the original, the film heater in the thickness of the ceramic is visible through the light. Well, the price, of course, for the pseudo-option will be low.
Ceramic heater design
The pulse soldering iron also features a high heating rate. It is ideal for working with microcircuits and boards. It is expensive and is usually bought by experienced craftsmen. The pulse soldering iron heats up only when the start button is pressed. It is suitable for short-term work. As a rule, it has the shape of the letter “L”.
Pulse soldering iron
An induction soldering iron is the most modern option, which has a unique heating principle. Here, a high-frequency magnetic field created by an induction coil is applied to the heater. Inside the device there is a ferromagnetic core, which heats up and then transfers thermal energy to the tip. This option can automatically maintain the desired temperature level, does not waste a lot of energy, and heats evenly. The disadvantages include the high cost and the need to select a specific type of tip.
The design of the heating element of an induction soldering iron
On a note! In addition to conventional soldering irons, there are also so-called soldering stations. They allow you to solder microcircuits faster and better. This is an ideal option for those who use a soldering iron constantly.
Soldering station MEGEON 00207
We will separately highlight wireless and USB soldering irons. The first ones are autonomous and run on batteries. As a rule, they do not have high power, but are very convenient when it is not possible to use a standard wired device (for example, when there is a power outage). USB soldering irons are also portable; they can be connected to the cigarette lighter in your car. They heat up quickly, are compact, but also usually have low power.
A hammer soldering iron, also called a butt iron, is heavy and massive and is used for tinning. It has a long handle to be as safe as possible for humans. Among the hammer ones, there are such popular models as Zubr Professional 200W 55301-200 and Ersa-550 Ersa 550MD. Both work from the mains, have high power, and are ideal for heavy soldering of large-sized elements.
Ceramic
If we consider a real ceramic soldering iron, then its heating element will be made of ceramic, but modern manufacturers usually simply replace the insulator with a ceramic one. In the original design this will not happen, since the entire rod that heats up is made of several components that are molded into each other.
It is very important to choose an original tool, which differs visually in its internals, as well as at a higher price. The advantages of such devices are faster heating, high power, longer service life and durability under high loads.
But the disadvantages include high cost, frequent fakes, thrifty attitude, since ceramics tend to break from impacts, as well as the impossibility of using non-original tips.
Parameters for choosing electric soldering irons
Let's look at the main characteristics of soldering irons that need to be taken into account when choosing a device.
One of the main tasks is the correct choice of soldering iron power. Here you need to understand what work needs to be done using the device. As a rule, the more powerful the model, the more multifunctional and reliable it is. But often there is no point in buying too powerful options for household purposes.
Soldering iron PP 220V 80W plastic handle EPSN
The choice of power is very important. If you work for a long time with a weak device, the processed contacts overheat. And if you use an overly powerful device, you can burn all the elements as soon as you touch them. This may destroy the electrical appliance being repaired.
Important! If the power is selected incorrectly, then soldering will take a long time. Also, the quality of soldering may be poor. The larger the tip size of the device, the higher the power must be, otherwise heating the tip will be too ineffective.
The optimal power rating for a home soldering iron is 25-40 W. For simple microcircuits, a device with a power of up to 10 W is suitable. Models over 60 W and up to 100 W are used for soldering wires. And very powerful soldering irons with a power of more than 100 W are used only for specific work such as soldering radiators.
Another important characteristic is voltage. Those devices that operate from the network are usually powered by 220 Volts. There are also models operating at voltages of 6, 12, 36 Volts. The optimal solution for the home is a 220 Volt model.
Size matters. It usually depends on power - the more powerful the device, the larger it is. All small soldering irons cannot boast of great power.
Then you need to evaluate the shape of the sting. It also needs to be selected based on the work being performed - each option uses its own tip shape. It can be wedge-shaped, rod-shaped, cone-shaped, needle-shaped.
Soldering iron tip shapes
Important! Not all soldering iron models allow the use of different replaceable tips. If this is important, then before purchasing you need to check whether the selected model has such a function.
As for the material of the sting, this is also one of the most important indicators. The most common are copper options. There are also ceramic and coated copper ones. We talked about them above and will not go into detail here. Choose the tip material depending on your budget, the work being performed and personal preferences.
If we talk about the handle, it is best to buy a soldering iron with a wooden handle. Wood has low thermal conductivity and is relatively inexpensive. You can also opt for a soldering iron with an ebonite handle. The most common options have a plastic handle. Here it is important to choose a heat-resistant option that does not heat up much during operation of the device. It is also desirable that the plastic have rubber pads - then the soldering iron will be more comfortable to hold, and it is unlikely to unexpectedly slip out of your hands. This means the risk of injury is reduced.
Soldering iron with a plastic handle but rubber grips
If any additional functions and capabilities are important to you, then check whether the selected model has them. This could be a power regulator, temperature regulator, the ability to change the tip, and so on. Here you can also evaluate the complete set of the product: the presence of a stand, a protective cap, replaceable tips, etc.
As for the power cord, it must be flexible, soft and long, otherwise it will be difficult to work with a soldering iron. It is also desirable that the cable be grounded and double insulated to provide a high level of protection against electric shock.
The longer the cord, the less dependent you are on the proximity of the outlet to your workplace
The best manufacturers of electric soldering irons - which company to choose
A few words about the manufacturers. The more famous the brand, the better. Then you have a better chance of buying a reliable model that will last a long time. Although, however, inexpensive soldering irons from little-known brands may not be the worst either.
The durability and reliability of a soldering iron will largely depend on who made it
Among the most popular manufacturers are the following:
- Kolner is a Russian brand that produces various power tools. But the assembly and production of devices are carried out in China - this has made the finished product cheaper.
- Wert produces reliable and compact products. As a rule, all produced models are recommended for use in domestic conditions.
- Proconnect makes tools and cables. The products are adapted to the conditions of Russia.
- Rexant is a brand with a long history that you can trust. In addition to power tools, it also produces cables.
- Dremel is one of the oldest companies. Produces various power tools. The brand is known in many countries.
- Topex is a company from Poland. Produces various power tools.
Nichrome
Nichrome filament is commonly used in electric soldering irons. This thread is usually made of nickel, since this material has high heat resistance. In standard devices, this thread envelops the body, the center of which is the rod. To insulate the heater, mica plates and fiberglass cloth are used.
The advantages include affordability, ease of operation and the ability to repair. Disadvantages include the duration of heating and fragility during intensive work, which takes a long time.
Popular vote
Which soldering iron do you recommend or is your priority?
Pace PS90
15.22 % ( 7 )
Work's W30740 40 W (31040)
10.87 % ( 5 )
Rexant 220V 25W 12-0121-1
17.39 % ( 8 )
Bison Expert 60W 55402-60-z01
6.52 % ( 3 )
Topex 200 W 44E031
4.35 % ( 2 )
Mega 60074 40 W
0.00 % ( 0 )
Bison Professional 40W 55413-40
8.70 % ( 4 )
Union PS2005-40
6.52 % ( 3 )
Mastertool 44-0006
2.17 % ( 1 )
Minidso TS100
17.39 % ( 8 )
Megeon 00100
10.87 % ( 5 )