I just wrecked my old soldering iron and need a new one, Any budget recommendations? interested in something with variable power to handle small and big jobs, I prefer pen style irons.
Was thinking a Weller variable power soldering station, but are there other brands that are as good or better on a budget?
Soldering iron’s are one of those things that I just can’t bring myself to recommended the ‘budget’ option. The difference in usability between a cheap iron and a good one is night-and-day.
Over the years, I’ve had all of the major brands - and I mean all of them. Hands down, no question - the best iron to buy is a Metcal. A mid-range metcal iron will last you essentially forever.
Buy a Metcal. Buy a few different sized tips. Be Happy.
PPtk
Since I wanted a really budget solution, I chose a 936 “type” or “clone” soldering station. With 40 bucks, you have a soldering station with 60w? and plenty of HAKKO iron tips to use.
I bought it a week ago and I haven’t test it yet.
Someone recommended these "soldering stations" awhile back and I bookmarked them. I haven't bought one (yet).
-Garry
At school I used Xytronic stations, very similar to Weller and IMO every nit as good. I have a cheap POS Radio Shack station and am thinking of replacing it with a Xytronic.
May possibly pick this one up http://www.howardelectronics.com/xytronic/LF1600.html
I use the Weller battery operated one. Uses 2 AA. Works flawlessly with all DIY projects. I was skeptical at first but after several uses I will never go back to any other model, especially one with an electrical cord.
I recently bought this one (well the 230V version), takes replaceable tips and does the job fine for me.
Replaceable tips is definitely a necessity, they do get fouled up after awhile. For me I like having a more powerful iron because I also use it for car audio stuff using much larger wire etc. that needs the extra power.
Thanks for the recommendations, I will check them out