Soldering irons are mostly used for connecting electronics, though they have become more versatile of late. Having one in your toolbox for artistic expression and electronic emergencies is probably a good idea, so we went on the hunt for the best one for you. Our favorites are listed below.
Anbes soldering iron kit
Everything you need to start
The kind of kit that comes with the Anbes soldering iron is perfect if you are a first-timer. With around 15 pieces, including different heads and a small tube of solder, the Anbes has everything you need to get started.
With an adjustable temperature range of 200C - 400C (390F - 750F), the Anbes iron is suitable for any job you can throw at it, making it our top pick for you.
TBBSC 60W 110V soldering iron
The best iron is the one you own
It's always good to consider a budget option if you are unlikely to be using your soldering iron every day or week. Having one available is often more important than what it can do. This particular budget iron comes 6 interchangeable heads for other soldering tasks. This makes it a great choice if you are looking to work with other materials, not just solder.
Milwaukee M12 soldering iron
Batteries not included
Having a wire-free soldering iron is something you don't know you need until you've used one. When you need to solder on-site instead of at a table, having that freedom to move around is amazing. The Milwaukee M12 also has an adjustable head that allows you far more flexibility. You will need to buy a battery for this if you don't have Milwaukee products already, though. This is just the bare bones tool.
Lexivon butane soldering iron
A portable soldering set
Butane soldering irons have been around a long time and are a great portable solution. This set by Lexivon has the iron and several accessories to help you in your soldering mission. The heavy-duty carry case helps to keep everything safe and secure as well. The larger tank available on this iron lets you work harder, for longer.
SainSmart ToolPAC PRO32
A truly portable iron
USB soldering irons are relatively new and tend to be small in size. The advantage of them is their extreme portability though. Because the iron can be charged in a USB plug from a laptop it can be charged anywhere. This is especially helpful if you are at a convention where you need to make repairs to your cosplay electronics quickly. It doesn't lack for heating either; it is adjustable from 100C all the way up to 400C.
Kaisi heat insulation silicone repair mat
The perfect companion to soldering
An organized workspace is a happy workspace. This heat proof silicone mat is custom designed to make your soldering life easier. With special slots and groves built-in, the mat makes it easier to keep all your components in the right place, ready to be installed.
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Soldering irons are an incredibly versatile tool and one you should have, if at all possible. I use mine for many different tasks, from electronics, to wood-burning and there are uses — especially in the maker community — that I wouldn't have dreamed of. For a versatile first-timers kit, the Anbes soldering iron has everything you need to start.
I've found the SainSmart ToolPAC PRO32 is especially helpful for those in the cosplay scene. Having this charged and available at conventions means you can fix the electronics problems that always occur just before you hit the show floor. It's an excellent buy.