ZDNET’s key takeaways
- iFixit’s Smart Soldering Iron is available from iFixit, with prices starting at $80.
- This soldering iron has clearly been designed by people who know how to solder and what makes a good — and bad — soldering iron.
- I wish that the kit came with some spare tips for the soldering iron.
After securing a decent set of screwdrivers and perhaps some pliers, the next must-have item for many electronics repair enthusiasts is a quality soldering iron. There are several types to choose from, including AC, USB, and butane gas-powered models.
Also: Flipper Zero gets a big firmware upgrade, and some amazing new features
Your choice depends on your specific soldering needs. For those who work primarily at a bench, AC-powered units are ideal. For mobile soldering, however, USB-powered units are becoming increasingly popular.
Recently, I had the opportunity to test iFixit’s FixHub Smart Soldering Unit, and quite frankly, I was blown away by how good it was.
FixHub Smart Soldering Iron features:
- 100 watts of heat output
- Reaches soldering temperature in under five seconds
- Integrated accelerometer that automatically cools the iron when idle
- Compatible with any USB-C power delivery source
- An ergonomic design with a comfortable grip for extended use
Price: $249.95 from iFixit
FixHub Portable Soldering Station features:
- A 55-watt-hour battery, providing over eight hours of continuous soldering on a single charge
- A dual-port battery power supply that can run two irons simultaneously or charge a phone while you work
- A durable design with easy servicing and quick battery replacement
Price: $249.95 from iFixit
The comprehensive Power Series Soldering Toolkit includes additional tools and consumables, such as wire cutters, tweezers, a silicone work mat, a lead-free solder, and a desoldering wick, ensuring a professional soldering experience, and costs $299.95.
Having used numerous soldering irons over the years, I am genuinely impressed by the quality and attention to detail of the FixHub. From the soft, flexible cabling to the precision controls on the power pack, this soldering iron is clearly designed by people who understand their customers’ needs.
The high-quality silicone cable flows smoothly and doesn’t drag on the iron during use. Additionally, being silicone, the cable won’t melt if accidentally touched by a hot iron — a common occurrence!
The silicone cable is soft, flows easily, and is heat resistant.
Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET
The speed at which the iron heats up is remarkable. Switch it on, and it’s ready to use by the time you’ve counted to five. The soldering iron’s tip retains heat well (it has what is called high thermal mass), allowing for continuous soldering without waiting for reheating.
Also: The best electric screwdrivers: Expert tested
I also appreciate the safety features. The temperature indicator ring light clearly shows if the iron is hot, and the heat-resistant magnetic cap fits perfectly, staying securely in place.
If the ring isn’t blue, the iron is hot!
Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET
If you’ve ever been burned by an iron — as I have many times — you’ll understand the importance of these safety features.
The iron heats up in five seconds, but the handle remains cool.
Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET
ZDNET’s buying advice
While hot air stations are invaluable for handling small surface-mounted components and tasks like removing and reattaching charging ports, soldering irons still have a crucial place in any workshop or tool bag.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, the FixHub Smart Soldering Iron is an excellent choice. iFixit offers several configurations for this soldering kit.
The Smart Soldering Iron is priced at $79.95. The Portable Soldering Station, which includes the iron and battery pack, is $249.95. The Power Series Soldering Toolkit, which features the iron, battery pack, pliers, and all necessary tools for mobile soldering, is $295.95.
iFixit plans to begin shipping units on October 15 in the US, Canada, Australia, and Europe.