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10 Best Pen Style Soldering Irons 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

The Original X-Tronic 3020-XTS • 75W Soldering Iron Station Kit • 2 Helping Hands • 5 Extra Tips • Roll of Solder • Brass Sponge & Flux • Tweezers • Solder Sucker • °C/°F Toggle & Sleep Features!

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,298
Temperature Control
Ergonomics and Comfort
Portability and Power Source

Most important from
4596 reviews

Temperature Control
The temperature control and 'hands' work really well, making it perfect for precise tasks.
Ergonomics and Comfort
The pen is made from comfortable, heat-resistant materials, preventing fatigue during prolonged use.
Portability and Power Source
The sleep mode is incredibly useful, automatically reactivating when you pick up the pen.

The X-Tronic 3020-XTS Soldering Iron Station is a robust and versatile tool designed for advanced to expert users. With 75 watts of power, it heats up quickly, reaching temperatures between 200°C and 480°C (392°F to 896°F) in less than 30 seconds. This makes it ideal for tasks requiring precise and consistent heat. The temperature control is sophisticated, featuring a Centigrade to Fahrenheit toggle and PID technology for accurate temperature maintenance. The ergonomic grip ensures comfort during prolonged use, and the 40-inch pliable cord provides flexibility without tangling, enhancing usability.

The kit includes five extra tips of various sizes, making it adaptable to different soldering needs, and the additional tools like tweezers and a solder sucker add great value. However, the unit's weight of 2.09 pounds might make portable use slightly cumbersome. It requires a standard power outlet, limiting on-the-go usage. The 10-minute sleep timer and ESD safety features add a layer of security and longevity to the product.

The X-Tronic 3020-XTS is an excellent choice for users looking for a reliable and comprehensive soldering solution, though it may be overkill for beginners or those who need a highly portable option.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,298
Temperature Control
Ergonomics and Comfort
Portability and Power Source

Most important from
4596 reviews

Temperature Control
The temperature control and 'hands' work really well, making it perfect for precise tasks.
Ergonomics and Comfort
The pen is made from comfortable, heat-resistant materials, preventing fatigue during prolonged use.
Portability and Power Source
The sleep mode is incredibly useful, automatically reactivating when you pick up the pen.
#2

Weller Super-Pro Self Igniting Cordless Butane Soldering Iron Kit | PSI100K

Rating
9.8
Power (Wattage)
Temperature Control
Tip Type and Size

Most important from
531 reviews

Power (Wattage)
Not a 250-watt equivalent, but still melts plumbing solder quickly and efficiently.
Temperature Control
This tool served well for 27 years, heating fast with reasonable gas use and excellent manual power control.
Tip Type and Size
A metal sheath for the tip would be useful to snuff out any flame when putting the iron away.
Portability and Power Source
Ideal for off-grid soldering, it's much easier to have in the drawer than setting up a full soldering station.

The Weller Super-Pro Self Igniting Cordless Butane Soldering Iron Kit (PSI100K) is a high-quality tool designed for demanding soldering jobs. With a power rating of 125 watts, it offers substantial heat output, reaching temperatures up to 580°C, which should be sufficient for most soldering tasks.

The cordless feature enhances portability, making it convenient for on-the-go repairs and projects, particularly in situations where a traditional power source may not be available. The ergonomic design of the soldering iron adds to its comfort and ease of use, allowing for prolonged operation without significant hand fatigue.

The included ceramic burner is known for its quick heating capabilities and durability, ensuring a consistent performance over time. Despite being a little dated in terms of its release (2006), the product holds strong in the market. Some users might find the lack of a digital temperature control a drawback, as precise temperature adjustments can be more challenging. Additionally, as it's a butane-powered tool, you'll need to regularly refill it, which could be seen as less convenient compared to electric models. This soldering iron is particularly well-suited for professionals who require a reliable and portable soldering solution.

Rating
9.8
Power (Wattage)
Temperature Control
Tip Type and Size

Most important from
531 reviews

Power (Wattage)
Not a 250-watt equivalent, but still melts plumbing solder quickly and efficiently.
Temperature Control
This tool served well for 27 years, heating fast with reasonable gas use and excellent manual power control.
Tip Type and Size
A metal sheath for the tip would be useful to snuff out any flame when putting the iron away.
Portability and Power Source
Ideal for off-grid soldering, it's much easier to have in the drawer than setting up a full soldering station.
#3

NEIKO 40421A Wireless Soldering Kit, Mini USB Rechargeable Solder Iron Pen, Rapid Heat 356-750°F (180-400°C) Electrical Soldering Kit, LED, 4V Lithium-Ion Battery, Cordless Soldering Iron Kit

Rating
9.7
Portability and Power Source

Most important from
16153 reviews

Portability and Power Source
Convenient and easy to use with USB-C and battery power, though inconsistent heat and limited battery life may not suit daily use.

The NEIKO 40421A Wireless Soldering Kit offers a portable and cordless solution for a variety of soldering tasks, making it ideal for metal workers, electricians, jewelers, and DIY enthusiasts. With its lightweight and ergonomic design, this soldering iron ensures comfort and precision during use. The conical tip is suitable for detailed work, and the 12-second heat-up time is a convenience for quick tasks. The temperature range of 356-750°F (180-400°C) allows for versatility in different applications.

It lacks precise temperature control, which might be a drawback for more intricate tasks requiring specific heat settings. The 4V lithium-ion battery provides a decent run time of up to two hours, and the LED work light is a useful feature for low-light conditions. On the downside, the limited 4-watt power may not be sufficient for heavier-duty soldering, and the 3-hour charging time could be inconvenient for frequent use.

Despite these limitations, its cordless design and included accessories such as the stand, tweezers, and cleaning sponge make it a practical choice for users needing mobility and ease of use in their soldering projects.

Rating
9.7
Portability and Power Source

Most important from
16153 reviews

Portability and Power Source
Convenient and easy to use with USB-C and battery power, though inconsistent heat and limited battery life may not suit daily use.

Buying Guide for the Best Pen Style Soldering Irons

Choosing the right pen-style soldering iron can make a significant difference in your soldering projects, whether you're working on electronics, jewelry, or small repairs. The key is to understand the various specifications and how they align with your specific needs. Here are the main specs to consider when selecting a pen-style soldering iron.
Power (Wattage)Power, measured in watts, determines how quickly the soldering iron heats up and how well it maintains its temperature. Higher wattage irons (40-60 watts) heat up faster and are better for larger projects or continuous use, while lower wattage irons (20-40 watts) are suitable for smaller, delicate tasks. Choose a wattage based on the size and type of your projects; for intricate electronics, lower wattage is often sufficient, whereas for more demanding tasks, higher wattage is preferable.
Temperature ControlTemperature control allows you to adjust the heat of the soldering iron to suit different types of solder and components. Some soldering irons come with fixed temperatures, while others offer adjustable settings. Adjustable temperature control is crucial for precision work, as different solders and materials require different temperatures. If you work with a variety of materials, opt for a soldering iron with adjustable temperature settings to ensure versatility and precision.
Tip Type and SizeThe tip of the soldering iron is the part that makes contact with the solder and the workpiece. Tips come in various shapes and sizes, such as conical, chisel, and needlepoint. The choice of tip depends on the nature of your work; fine tips are ideal for detailed electronics work, while broader tips are better for larger components or general-purpose soldering. Consider the type of projects you will be working on and select a tip that matches your needs for precision and efficiency.
Ergonomics and ComfortErgonomics and comfort are important for prolonged use. A pen-style soldering iron should be lightweight and have a comfortable grip to prevent hand fatigue. Look for features like a cushioned handle or a balanced design that makes it easy to maneuver. If you plan to use the soldering iron for extended periods, prioritize comfort to ensure a better user experience and reduce the risk of strain.
Heating Element TypeThe heating element is the component that generates heat in the soldering iron. Common types include ceramic and nichrome. Ceramic heating elements typically offer faster heat-up times and better temperature stability, making them ideal for precision work. Nichrome elements are durable and provide consistent performance. Choose a heating element based on your need for quick heat-up and stable temperature control, especially if you require precise and consistent soldering.
Portability and Power SourcePortability and power source are important if you need to use the soldering iron in different locations. Some pen-style soldering irons are corded, while others are cordless and battery-operated. Cordless models offer greater flexibility and are convenient for fieldwork or situations where a power outlet is not readily available. Consider where you will be using the soldering iron and choose a model that offers the right balance of portability and power source convenience.

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