The 9 Best Soldering Irons for Beginners

If you have more than a passing interest in electronics, you’ll probably need a soldering iron at some point. Yes, you can get into some minor points with a breadboard, but if you want to truly get into DIY electronics, you’ll need a soldering iron.

There are soldering irons aimed at professionals that cost hundreds of dollars. Fortunately, you won’t need anything like that anytime soon, or likely ever. For most electronics projects, you’ll get by just fine with something much cheaper.

So, take a look at our list, and you’ll find the best soldering iron for electronics to get you started.

1. Weller WLC100

Weller WLC100 Weller WLC100 Buy Now On Amazon $33.96

Weller is a go-to name in soldering irons, and the 40-watt Weller WLC100 packs everything you need in one package. If you’re just looking for the basics, this model has them and more.

The WLC100 heats quickly and can get up to 400 Fahrenheit—ideal for basic electronics. It also works for jewelry and hobby models. This item features a Weller certified ST3 iron-plated tip which will last you plenty long enough. When it’s time to change tips, the WLC100 is compatible with ST solder tips.

Keeping your soldering iron clean is essential for long life, which is where the included reusable sponge comes in handy too.

2. Hakko FX888D

Hakko FX888D Hakko FX888D Buy Now On Amazon $95.00

If you’re looking for the precision of digital controls, the 70-watt Hakko FX888D is a great option. You’ll find the features of much higher-end soldering irons here alongside all the basic accessories you need.

Do you find yourself always using a few temperatures? The FX888D’s presets help you reach them quickly and easily. This, combined with the powerful heater, means you won’t find yourself waiting for the right temperature.

Not only is the FX888D full-featured, but it comes with a small footprint. This means you can keep your work area organized and the iron won’t take up space when you’re not using it.

3. X-Tronic Model #3020-XTS

X-Tronic Model #3020-XTS X-Tronic Model #3020-XTS Buy Now On Amazon $59.80

If you’re looking for a higher-wattage iron, but don’t need of a ton of features, try the X-Tronic Model #3020-XTS. This soldering iron packs 75 watts of power with a similar feature set to many of the mid-range models on this list.

One of the most important soldering iron considerations is safety. After all, you’re dealing with high temperatures, which can be dangerous. The X-Tronic Model #3020-XTS has you covered with safety features like a sleep timer and auto-cooldown. It also has a self-test function to check for short circuits and overloads.

4. Tabiger Soldering Iron Kit 60W

Tabiger Soldering Iron Kit 60W Tabiger Soldering Iron Kit 60W Buy Now On Amazon $9.81

It may be an affordable soldering iron, but the Tabiger Soldering Iron Kit doesn’t skimp on extras. Not only do you get a well-reviewed 60-watt soldering iron, but you get a whole load of accessories and additional features.

You don’t get a built-in stand, but there is still a stand included. The iron comes with five different tips, a desoldering pump, tweeze, a cleaning sponge, and solder. If you’re looking for everything you need to get started in one package, this is it.

5. Weller SP80NUS

Weller SP80NUS Weller SP80NUS Buy Now On Amazon $20.58

With the Weller SP80NUS, you don’t get everything included in WLC100. That said, you get double the wattage. You also get an included LED light to help you see what you’re working on.

The SP80NUS isn’t adjustable, but 80 watts is within the range of working on electronics, albeit at the top end. This model also includes and easy-change tip.

6. Vastar Soldering Iron Station

Vastar Soldering Iron Station - Father's Day Gift, Gift for Father's Day, Soldering Iron, Anti Static and Temperature Adjustable Vastar Soldering Iron Station - Father's Day Gift, Gift for Father's Day, Soldering Iron, Anti Static and Temperature Adjustable Buy Now On Amazon $29.99

The Vastar Soldering Iron Station comes in a familiar form factor, similar to other entries on this list. This particular model is adjustable from five watts all the way up to 60 watts, making it well suited to all manner of electronics projects.

In addition to the basics, this soldering station comes with five different tips. These include both round precision tips and chisel tips. Anti-static tweezers are also included, making your projects easier.

7. Aoyue 469

Aoyue 469 Aoyue 469 Buy Now On Amazon $29.99

Another 60-watt adjustable model, the Aoyue 469 also uses the classic form factor seen in many models on this list. The 469 stands out from the others on this list, as it comes equipped with a dual-color LED. This lets you easily visually monitor the temperature.

The Aoyue 469 only ships with one tip, but it is rechargeable and fits more than 50 different tips. The package features the soldering iron, stand, cleaning sponge, solder spool stand, and the user manual.

8. ANBES Soldering Iron Kit Electronics

ANBES Soldering Iron Kit Electronics ANBES Soldering Iron Kit Electronics Buy Now On Amazon $18.99

The ANBES Soldering Iron Kit is an electronics soldering kit electronics perfect for beginners. Not only do you get a 60-watt adjustable soldering iron, but also multiple tips as well as a range of accessories.

These accessories include; a support station, a desoldering pump, and a wire stripper and cutter. You also get tweezers and even two lengths of wire in case you run out in the middle of a project. You’ll be hard pressed to find another starter kit this complete.

9. TFLY 60W Soldering Iron Station

TFLY 60W Soldering Iron Station TFLY 60W Soldering Iron Station Buy Now On Amazon $36.98

The TFLY 60W Soldering Iron Station isn’t a digital soldering iron, but it certainly has the look. This is because of the sleek-looking blue LED that gives you a readout of the current temperature. You still turn a standard knob to set the power, but having an idea of the actual temperature is handy.

That’s not the only neat feature here. The TFLY features an intelligent sleep mode that turns off the iron after anywhere from five to 30 minutes. You don’t get the wealth of extras some kits have, but you do get five tips included.

The Best Soldering Iron for You

Plenty of the soldering on this list will last you well into your electronics hobby. Even as your skill progresses, you still may never need to buy another soldering iron. A few accessories and maybe a handful of alternate tips, and you’ll be good for a long time.

If you’re just getting started with electronics, then you may want to check out our list of beginner’s electronics skills you should know.

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