Soldering station, simple and resistant

[marck120]

Hello, unfortunately I have a limited budget, I am looking for a soldering iron or a solid and robust soldering station that will last me for years, better if it has the simplest possible electronic components, I was aiming for analog models with the traditional linear transformer, the fewer complex electronic components they have inside and the more the risk of failure is reduced, of course the transformer must also be of quality otherwise it will break anyway.

At first I was oriented towards the hakko fx-888d, but it costs € 120, I wanted to spend less, even the Weller WE1010NA costs about € 130 on amazon, I created a small list but they are all Chinese brands, so as an alternative I was thinking of buying a quality soldering iron, is it a problem if they do not have temperature control ?

Obviously it is important that the tips cost little and are easily available.

The use is purely hobbyist, I have to solder some electrical components every now and then, capacitors, resistors etc.. and some electrical cables if it happens, not too thick obviously, for example these days I made a thermometer with an Arduino nano and I need to solder the pins of a SHT45 sensor.

Which model do you recommend ?

Soldering irons :

CXG E60WT E90WT
CXG 936d
MULTICOMP PRO MP740061
RS PRO 202-4536
Atten ST-2065D
Atten SA50
TQ-95-CE
Antex ER30
Ersa 30s 30w
JBC 30ST


---------------------------------------------

Soldering stations :

TENMA 21-10115 EU
RS PRO 202-4512
Tilswall
ELE-ATS1
ZD-931
ZD-929B
Lafayette SDD-9
Lafayette turtle
Fixpoint 51098
LS-450 digi
Aoyue 937+
Aoyue 3210
Aoyue 9378
YIHUA 926
YIHUA 937D
YIHUA 939D+
YIHUA 982
Yihua 948DB
STATION LF-389D
AIFEN-A3
Quicko T12-942
KSGER T12 STM32 V3.1S
ATTEN AT-989
ATTEN AT938D
ATTEN AT937A
ATTEN ST60
ATTEN ST80
SUGON T21   
SUGON-A9

[marck120]

Hi, I wrote a little summary just to have a point of reference, maybe the main choices are three, I choose a soldering station compatible with T12 tips or a station with 900M tips which are quite widespread, or I also evaluated the soldering stations compatible with C245/T245 tips.

From what I know the T12 tips were developed by Hakko also called T15 as well as the 900M then replaced by the T18 always by Hakko, and the C245 instead were developed by JBC, since the Chinese have copied this technology consequently almost all the low-cost stations that use this kind of tips are in fact of Chinese production

The T15s are not interchangeable with the T12s, they are shorter and have steps that prevent them from being mounted in a T12 handle.



Obviously the T12 and C245/T245 cartridge tips have superior performance and quality compared to the old 900M, the only problem is that most of the Chinese clones have a low construction quality.

The soldering stations that I found at an affordable price compatible with T12 tips are:

Axun T3A, Quicko/Quecoo, KSGER, Yihua 948DB, AIFEN A8, Bakon BK969D, GEEBOON TC20A, Bakon BK950D

The Yihua 948DB is also available on Amazon, as for construction quality is it superior compared to Aixun, Quicko, KSGER ?

Regarding Quicko or KSGER there is the advantage that the mini versions are available with the 24v power supply separately, so I could buy a quality 24v power supply separately, in case of problems it would be very simple to replace the power supply, what do you think ?


https://it.aliexpress.com/item/32857152188.html?spm=a2g0o.store_pc_allItems_or_groupList.0.0.1b744ff9Faj5JY&pdp_npi=4%40dis%21EUR%21%E2%82%AC%2040%2C41%21%E2%82%AC%2028 %2C29%21%21%2143.86%2130.71%21%40210385a817256920521122226e80c7%2165279967789%21sh %21IT%210%21X&gatewayAdapt=glo2ita

https://it.aliexpress.com/item/32843974498.html?pdp_npi=4%40dis%21EUR%21%E2%82%AC%2026%2C49%21%E2%82%AC%2026%2C49%21%21%2128.75 %2128.75%21%402103892f17257629964232661eef0a%2165143158715%21sh%21IT%210%21X&spm=a2g0o. store_pc_allItems_or_groupList.new_all_items_2007586013081.32843974498&gatewayAdapt=glo2ita

https://it.aliexpress.com/item/32839523934.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.main.11.7ebaVnxYVnxYuF&algo_pvid=4e4a7 e8e-ba54-4875-8afc-2aded311e1b0&algo_exp_id=4e4a7 e8e-ba54-4875-8afc-2aded311e1b0-5&pdp_npi=4%40dis%21EUR%2139.43%2131.14%21%21%2142.79%2133.79%21%40211b8c6217257631844993506e4a6c% 2110000002010599225%21sea%21IT%210%21ABX&curPageLogUid=mTC1T8obfhTW&utparam-url=scene%3Asearch%7Cquery_from%3A

Stations soldering irons C245/T245 :

YIHUA 982, AIFEN-A3, Aifen A9, SUGON-A9, SUGON T21, AiXun T320GVM T245, GEEBOON TC20A, 982-I, Aixun T3A, KSGER C245

The Aixun T420D has a linear transformer but it is too expensive.

The stations compatible with 900M tips with the linear power supply in my opinion are more resistant:

Atten AT938D, YIHUA 937D, YIHUA 939D+, YIHUA 939D+ III, ATTEN ST80

Instead the various Ningbo Zhongdi and Lafayette do not have the 900M tips but the technology is always that of the ceramic heating element that enters inside the tip, the tips and handles are easily available and have the linear transformer:

ZD-931, Lafayette SDD-9

Cartridge soldering stations with the linear power supply:

ATETOOL AE970, Quick ts1100, Quick ts1200, mechanic c211, Aixun T420D, WEMON T31, GVM H3, Best BST-933B, Jabe UD-1200 AiXun T413, WEP 982D

One of the few soldering stations with the linear transformer and cartridge tips that I have found is the ATETOOL AE970D, but it uses a T80 tip, it is a bit difficult to find.

The Quick ts1100 also uses cartridge tips, it should have the linear power supply inside but I am not sure, it is present instead on the Quick ts1200

Here's a complete summary:

Soldering Irons

    CXG E60WT E90WT
    Tips: 900M
   
    CXG 936d
    Tips: 900M

    CXG 900M soldering tip compatible with E60S/90S/110S/E60WT/E90WT
   -------------------------------------------------
    MULTICOMP PRO MP740061
    Tips: MULTICOMP PRO
    Tip: T900
    Manufacturer: ATTEN ST-2065D
   --------------------------------------------------
    RS PRO 202-4536
    Tip: RS PRO
    Manufacturer: ATTEN ST-2065D
    Tips: T900
   -----------------------------------------------------
    MINIWARE TS101
    Pinecil V2
    Tips: TS100 - Pine64
   -----------------------------------------------------
    Atten ST-2065D
    Atten SA50
    Tips: 900M
    ---------------------------------------------------
    TQ-95-CE
    Tips: GOOT TQ-77 RT series
    --------------------------------------------------
    Antex ER30
    Tips: ER30 series
    ---------------------------------------------------
    Ersa 30s 30w
    Tips: Ersa 832, 842, 852 series
   ---------------------------------------------------
    JBC 30ST
    Tips: JBC 30ST/40ST/SL2020/IN2100 series
    ---------------------------------------------------

Soldering Stations


Soldering Stations with Linear Transformer:

    TENMA 21-10115 EU
    RS PRO 202-4512
    Manufacturer: Atten AT938D
    Compatible Tips: 900M, RS PRO, TENMA
    ------------------------------------------------------
    ZD-931, ZD-929B, ZD-929B, Fixpoint 51098, Lafayette SDD-9, Fixpoint 51098, LS-450 digi, Transmedia ZLS2L, DURATOOL
    D00678, DURATOOL D00661
    Manufacturer: Ningbo Zhongdi-Lafayette
    Tips: ZD series (ZD-931, ZD-937, LS-450, LS-1000, SSD9, WS937, ZD929A, ZD929B, ZD929C, SSL-2, SSD-3)
    ------------------------------------------------------
    ELE-ATS1
    Manufacturer: ATETOOL AE970D
    Tips: T80
    Handle: AH809
   -----------------------------------------------------
    Aoyue 937+
    Handle: 907ESD

    Aoyue 9378
    Handle: B033-P
   
    Tips: 900M
   -----------------------------------------------------
    Yihua 936
    Handle: 907A

    YIHUA 937D
    Handle: 907A

    YIHUA 939D+
    Handle: YIHUA 907E

    YIHUA 939D+ III
    Handle: 816D
   
    Tips: 900M
   -----------------------------------------------------
    ATTEN AT80D
    Tips: 900M-T-I
    Handle: AP-80

    ATTEN AT938D
    Tips: 900M-T-B
    Handle: ATTEN AP-60

    ATTEN AT937A
    Tips: 900M-T-B
    Handle: ATTEN AP-50

    ATTEN ST80
    Tips: 900M
    Handle: ATTEN ST-80

    ATTEN AT-989D
    Tips: T900-B
    Handle: ATTEN AP-65A
   
    Tips: 900M/T900
    -----------------------------------------------------
    Atten ST-965
    Tips: T900
    Handle: ATTEN ST-965
    -----------------------------------------------------
    MULTICOMP PRO MP740261
    Manufacturer: Atten ST80
    Tips: MULTICOMP PRO
    Tips: 900M
    ------------------------------------------------------
    Tilswall
    Proprietary tip type
    -----------------------------------------------------
    Mechanic C211
    Handle: T210
    Tips: C211, C115
    -----------------------------------------------------
    Quick TS1100
    Handle: TSS30A
    Tips: 960 series, Quick 960
    -----------------------------------------------------
    AIXUN T420D
    Tips: C210, C115, C245
    Handle: T210, T115, T245
    -----------------------------------------------------
    WEMON T31
    Tips: C115 C210 C245
    Handle: WEMON T245, WEMON T210, WEMOM T115
    -------------------------------------------------------------
    GVM H3
    Tips: C210/C245/C115
    Handle: 210/T245/T115
    ------------------------------------------------------------
    Best BST-933B
    Tips: C245
    Handle: 2245-A BST
    ------------------------
    Jabe UD-1200
    Tips: C245
    Handle: 2245-A UD
    ------------------------
    WEP 982D
    Tips C245/C210
    Handle: WEP 616A, WEP 716A
    -------------------------------------
    AiXun T413
    Tips: C245/C225
    Handle: T245/T225

Soldering Stations with Switching Power Supply:


    Aoyue 3210
    Handle: 907A
    Tips: 900M
    ----------------------------------------------------
    YIHUA 926
    Tips: 900-B-900M
    Non-removable handle
    ----------------------------------------------------
    YIHUA 939D+ III
    Handle: YIHUA 816D
    Tips: 900M
    ----------------------------------------------------
    Xytronic LF-389D
    Proprietary tip type
    ----------------------------------------------------
    AIFEN-A3
    Handles: T210/T245/T115
    Tips: C210/C245/C115
    ----------------------------------------------------
    Aixun T3A
    Tips: T12, 936, and T245
    Handles: T245/T12
    ----------------------------------------------------
    AiXun T320
    Tips: C210/C245
    Handles: T210 T245
    ----------------------------------------------------
    Quicko T12-942
    Tips: T12
    Handles: T12-907-T12-9501
    -----------------------------------------------------
    KSGER T12 STM32 V3.1S
    Tips: T12
    Handles: FX9501-T12 907
    -----------------------------------------------------
    KSGER C245
    Tips: C245
    Handle: T245
    ------------------------------------------------------
    Yihua 948DB
    Preciva 948DB+
    Tips: T12
    Handle: YIHUA 506A
    -----------------------------------------------------
    SUGON T21
    Tips: C210/C245/C470/C115
    Handle: T245
    -----------------------------------------------------
    AIFEN A8
    Handle/Tips: T12
    -----------------------------------------------------
    SUGON-A9
    Tips: C210/C245/C115
    Handles: T115/T210/T245
    -----------------------------------------------------
    Aifen A9
    Tips: C210/C245/C115
    Handles: T245/T210/T115
    -----------------------------------------------------
    YIHUA 982
    Tips: C210 and C245
    Handles: 616A/716A
    -----------------------------------------------------
    JCD T210
    Tips: C210
    Handle: T210
    --------------------------------------------------
    Bakon BK969D
    Tips: T12
    Handle: Bakon LF008
    --------------------------------------------------
    GVM T245
    Tips: C245
    Handle: T245
    -------------------------------------------------
    GEEBOON TC20A
    Tips C245/C210/C115/T12
    Handle: 115/210/245/T12
    -----------------------------------------------
    982-I
    Tips: С210/С245
    Handle: 706A/606A
    -----------------------------------------------
    Bakon BK950D
    Tips: T12/T13
    Handle: LF007

Which model do you think I should purchase ?

[tatel]

TL;DR

https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/stm32-oled-digital-soldering-station-for-t12-handle/

[BlackICE]

Hi, I wrote a little summary just to have a point of reference, maybe the main choices are three, I choose a soldering station compatible with T12 tips or a station with 900M tips which are quite widespread, or I also evaluated the soldering stations compatible with C245/T245 tips.

From what I know the T12 tips were developed by Hakko also called T15 as well as the 900M then replaced by the T18 always by Hakko, and the C245 instead were developed by JBC, since the Chinese have copied this technology consequently almost all the low-cost stations that use this kind of tips are in fact of Chinese production

The T15s are not interchangeable with the T12s, they are shorter and have steps that prevent them from being mounted in a T12 handle.

The T15 looks like a T12 to me.

check out the photos on this link.

https://hakkousa.com/t15-cf2-bevel-tip.html

[marck120]

@tatel
Hi, what does TL;DR mean ? Yes, I saw the thread you pointed me to, so do you recommend a T12 soldering station like KSGER or Quicko ?

@BlackICE
Hi, now in the photo I don't know if they made a mistake in indicating the tips, maybe the T15 indicated in the photo is a T12, in any case the T15 and T12 tips should be different.  Which soldering station do you recommend ?

[IanB]

Hello, unfortunately I have a limited budget, I am looking for a soldering iron or a solid and robust soldering station that will last me for years, better if it has the simplest possible electronic components, I was aiming for analog models with the traditional linear transformer, the fewer complex electronic components they have inside and the more the risk of failure is reduced, of course the transformer must also be of quality otherwise it will break anyway.

At first I was oriented towards the hakko fx-888d, but it costs € 120, I wanted to spend less, even the Weller WE1010NA costs about € 130 on amazon, I created a small list but they are all Chinese brands, so as an alternative I was thinking of buying a quality soldering iron, is it a problem if they do not have temperature control ?

Obviously it is important that the tips cost little and are easily available.

The use is purely hobbyist, I have to solder some electrical components every now and then, capacitors, resistors etc.. and some electrical cables if it happens, not too thick obviously, for example these days I made a thermometer with an Arduino nano and I need to solder the pins of a SHT45 sensor.

I would add this one to a shortlist, especially if you already use Ryobi 18 V tools and have the batteries:

https://www.amazon.com/RYOBI-Cordless-120-Watt-Soldering-Topper/dp/B0BQ1DCG1Q

It is very similar to the FX-888, and takes the same Hakko tips. It has temperature control with an analog dial (which I like). I find myself preferring it over other stations because there is no mains cord to get in the way or tether it to an outlet. Also, you can't beat the price.

The only downside is the cord on the solder pencil is not silicone, so it is a bit less flexible than others, but I don't find it much of a problem.

[themadhippy]

for your usage do you really need a station?Antex xs 25w or cs18w would do everything you need,plenty of tip choices,and it should last you for years,my antex iron is over 40 and apart from tips and 1 element(due to my stupidity) its still going strong and all the spares are still available.

[IanB]

I have an Antex 25 W iron, but I don't like it because of the lack of temperature control. The tip gets too hot and burns the flux.

[tatel]

@tatel
I saw the thread you pointed me to, so do you recommend a T12 soldering station like KSGER or Quicko ?

Yep, I got a quicko and happy with it. Unfortunately they change models like mad. Most of them have now mcus unable to use that custom firmware, but I think there are a couple of quicko models that still have STM32, which is what you would want. One of them better than the other. There's also some KSGER.

Aixuns turned out to be not so good? I would get Quicko or KSGER with STM32 microcontroller any day of the week, specially if on a tight budget.

That custom firmware really makes it better. I would get a full station with a PSU inside. IIRC, some of these compact-DC only, have some problem with earthing? Your best way is to ask in that thread. They will have more up-to-date information than me.

Here's a link to an answer to similar question as yours, I think you'll find some answers there: https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/soldering-station-purchase-advice/msg4612993/#msg4612993

Here, at 16:30 you'll see the "coin test" between a 80W ksger with clone-and-original Hakko D52 tips, vs a couple different 120-130W competitors:

And here, you can watch what my quicko with D52 clone tip does after pumping PID parameters: if it doesn't work for you here (don't know why) it should work on YT

[BlackICE]

@tatel
Hi, what does TL;DR mean ? Yes, I saw the thread you pointed me to, so do you recommend a T12 soldering station like KSGER or Quicko ?

@BlackICE
Hi, now in the photo I don't know if they made a mistake in indicating the tips, maybe the T15 indicated in the photo is a T12, in any case the T15 and T12 tips should be different.  Which soldering station do you recommend ?

I have both a WE1010NA and KSGER T12. I like the KSGER much better. Heats up faster, a standby function this is useful, shorter hand to tip distance. However depending on the version you get it may not be "safe" without mods. I grounded the metal case, and moved the heatsink further away from the high voltage traces as some suggested.

The Weller's standby function is useless IMO, I have to press a button to wake it up. Always pisses me off when it sleeps. Also wakeup time is more than 30 seconds, whereas the KSGER is less than 10 secs.

I bought T15 tips from hakkousa.com and they look like what you show as a T12. These tips fit the KSGER handle I got.

[djsb]

I would save up and buy one of these

https://www.antex.co.uk/store/p/m12-w9wdk-mg96e-7bnxp-hke3z-ndrtm-cjw7g-cws4k-56tfy

Antex have been around for a LONG time. My first Soldering Iron was an Antex over 40 years ago. I now use a PACE MBT350.

[marck120]

Thanks everyone for the advice

@IanB

From what you explained to me, it uses hakko 900M tips, the soldering station seems excellent, the problem is that I don't use Ryobi tools, I should also buy the battery.

https://www.amazon.com/Reoben-Replacement-for-P2002-Battery/dp/B0CKW7CX84/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=36CNKP9KNM737&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.iUA5lCZMC549gGJgtCZoB4rhOyJp3NsT5PN5laiJs6OTC_ rzYWB0Oa2Oc_GYgXqeK3JVfGBysHA9WvGvfsHomuvyJVNZCahwF5xKXhfX9WjyGOFrz1vyCHXfTeM24SgbLoRQSGR6GuQZ4-3MT4wbbeTeyxV7MZYsDuo6vKcIktr7LBhbGnf39 GqGm53s4Oav_YNI2U2GsEvuISzVfkg5MFJ7r1xUGqG8B5h9ZxC0QhgaeA1eIRH2WQlnk_GTZpq4MSdnpQI5rvWpOQmVNuN4Vonl5jIRKftWHBs_VOs67n0.iaqWaeLn4O4xXf77xvwhzxf sE6s0dbtGUfM NRF10qs4&dib_tag=se&keywords=ryobi%2B18v%2Bbattery&qid=1726044859&sprefix=RYOBI%2B%2Caps%2C228&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1

Consider that I live in Italy on amazon.com I have about 18€ -20€ shipping

@a temahippy

Yes I also evaluated the pen soldering irons like the Antex xs 25w, Antex ER30, Ersa 30s, JBC 30ST etc.. the problem is that they do not have temperature control, I am afraid that the too high temperature will burn my components, for this reason they recommended a pen like the CXG E60WT E90WT that have temperature control, however I agree with you pen soldering irons have a simple construction and last for many years.

@tatel

The only QUICKO I found with the STM32 microcontroller is this one:

https://it.aliexpress.com/item/32803295956.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.main.1.458a2ff2E5wTkg&algo_pvid=fda4651e-eb44-4d01-b24b-914ea966f057&algo_exp_id=fda4651e-eb44-4d01-b24b-914ea966f057-0&pdp_npi=4%40dis%21EUR%2148.08%2138.40%21% 21%2151.83%2141.40%21%402103854017260437777681992e1cdf%2110000000955772946%21sea%21IT%210%21ABX&curPageLogUid=xS1R39QMDBwX&utparam-url=scene%3Asearch%7Cquery_from%3A

Personally I preferred to get it with the LED display :

 https://it.aliexpress.com/item/1005005741819569.html?spm=a2g0o.detail.pcDetailTopMoreOtherSeller.3.571bS27XS27X4h&gps-id=pcDetailTopMoreOtherSeller&scm=1007.40000.327270.0&scm_id=1007. 40000.327270.0&scm-url=1007.40000.327270.0&pvid=620b60e1-0c40-4f1d-98fd-4e8f61149669&_t=gps-id:pcDetailTopMoreOtherSeller,sc m-url:1007.40000.327270.0,pvid:620b60e1-0c40-4f1d-98fd-4e8f61149669,tpp_buckets:668%232846%238114%231999&pdp_npi=4%40dis%21EUR%2187.32 %2121.50%21%21%21670. 18%21165.01%21%40210384db17260438035147432e1cdc%2112000034179692199%21rec%21IT%21%21ABX&utparam-url=scene%3ApcDetailTopMoreOtherSeller%7Cquery_from%3A

I didn't know about the custom firmware, I thought the Quicko didn't have the grounding problem unlike the KSGER, which soldering station do you currently have ? You have several from what I understand, IIRC I don't understand what it means, however your soldering stations have an internal power supply.

Don't you recommend getting the Quicko with the external power supply ?

https://it.aliexpress.com/item/32857152188.html?spm=a2g0o.store_pc_allItems_or_groupList.0.0.1b744ff9Faj5JY&pdp_npi=4%40dis%21EUR%21%E2%82%AC%2040%2C41%21%E2%82%AC%2028 %20%2C29%21%21%2143.86%2130.71%21%40210385a817256920521122226e80c7%2165279967789%21sh%20%21IT%210%21X&gatewayAdapt=glo2ita

However, I have no alternatives to Quicko/KSGER ? With the stations compatible with the 900M tips there is a wide choice.

I forgot, on Amazon the YIHUA 948DB+ compatible with T12 tips is also available, what do you think ?

@BlackICE

In some models the ground wire seems to have been added:



https://it.aliexpress.com/item/32945257770.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.main.7.6e1573c66oBgEj&algo_pvid=910c4044-cb73- 4d1b-923f-3cd1e890c47b&aem_p4p_detail=202409110401193716280578838450000146553&algo_exp_id=910c4044-cb73-4d1b-923f-3cd1e890c47b-3&pdp _npi=4%40dis%21EUR%2166.65%2139.75 %21%21%2171.85%2142.86%21%40211b8f9717260524793183262e1d36%2110000000943747424%21sea%21IT%210%21ABX&curPageLogUid=UPpfJm07suqn&utparam-url =scene%3Asearch%7Cquery_from%3A&search_p4p_id=202409110401193716280578838450000146553_1

After many years still the grounding issue has not been completely solved, instead I have to find out how to move the heat sink further away from the high voltage tracks, instead the Quicko they say does not have this grounding problem. My fear is that the Quicko or the KSGER will last me a short time, the components with which the switching power supply or the control module is built I think are of low quality.

@djsb

Yes, Antex are quality products, the 760RWK unfortunately costs 200€, I didn't want to spend that much, however I was looking for a soldering station that would last me for many years, I was almost about to order the hakko fx-888d but then I regretted it because I think the stations with T12 tips perform better.

[IanB]

@IanB

From what you explained to me, it uses hakko 900M tips, the soldering station seems excellent, the problem is that I don't use Ryobi tools, I should also buy the battery.

Consider that I live in Italy on amazon.com I have about 18€ -20€ shipping

You are correct, you would need also to buy battery and charger. This would make sense if you used other Ryobi tools (they have quite a large range and there may be something else you like).

In Italy, I would not buy from Amazon.com, I would buy from a local distributor:

https://it.ryobitools.eu/elettroutensili/altro/saldare/rsi18/rsi18-0/

And to confirm, it uses T18 tips the same as the FX-888D.

[BrokenYugo]

The off brand T12, etc. stations are available with no internal PSU, just a DC barrel input on the back. That's as safe as whatever power supply you choose to use.

[themadhippy]

I am afraid that the too high temperature will burn my components,

In the years ive owned my antex i can count on zero fingers how many components ive destroyed from overheating.

[tatel]

The only QUICKO I found with the STM32 microcontroller is this one:

https://it.aliexpress.com/item/32803295956.html

Yep. It looks almost like mine with >100W internal PSU. Advertised with a real STM32, not a CKS clone. That's because of that custom firmware. For a little more than 40 bucks I wouldn't think too much. Price has dropped after COVID. I would get the set 7 ( which does not include mains cable, I guess you'll probably already have quite a bunch of IEC cables somewhere). Set 7 has the handle I use, and it seems to be considered the best one. Get chisel tips. Big D52 tip comes handy when good thermal transfer is needed.

I'm pretty sure there's at least another Quicko model with STM32, but perhaps not anymore? These guys change models like crazy. One of them would have a weak regulator or something like that IIRC?

Edit: Perhaps the good one is the 958?

Ask/read the custom firmware thread.

Personally I preferred to get it with the LED display :

https://it.aliexpress.com/item/1005005741819569.html

It's your money, do as you wish.

I didn't know about the custom firmware, I thought the Quicko didn't have the grounding problem unlike the KSGER, which soldering station do you currently have ? You have several from what I understand, IIRC I don't understand what it means, however your soldering stations have an internal power supply.

Don't you recommend getting the Quicko with the external power supply ?

https://it.aliexpress.com/item/32857152188.html

However, I have no alternatives to Quicko/KSGER ? With the stations compatible with the 900M tips there is a wide choice.

I forgot, on Amazon the YIHUA 948DB+ compatible with T12 tips is also available, what do you think ?

Well you asked for advice and I gave you my best answer. My only other soldering station was an old-school Yihua and I gave it to a 17 years old, son of a friend, after getting the quicko.

I got my station a few years ago, so speaking from memory. Don't quote me. My model isn't manufactured anymore. I didn't have any problem whatsoever. I'm still using it. Not a heavy use, but it didn't died suddenly a few days after purchase because there's some weak component in it.

Of course, you are free to pick your poison. Of course, you probably won't be able to find your ideal soldering station. Of course, some compromise will be necessary.

But, again, you should read/ask on the custom firmware thread.The guys in that thread will have much more up-to-date information. Do your homework.

[marck120]

@tatel

Thanks for the information

Yes, I have some IEC cables at home, it's not a problem, yes as you advised me the best handle should be the blue 907 or 9501, which is made of aluminum alloy I think.

However it's true, the models change continuously, I don't understand anything anymore either, it's not easy for me, consider that I'm translating everything with google, some things are not very clear to me.

As you advised me I ask in the discussion that they indicated to me to understand which version I should buy, yes this user purchased the Quicko T12-958

https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/stm32-oled-digital-soldering-station-for-t12-handle/msg5580607/#msg5580607

Exactly I was also evaluating other alternatives, even if as they already told me the best solution is a T12 station, then this firmware should improve performance as you showed me in the video.

In the end I settle for a simple soldering station, the important thing is that it is robust built with quality components, the control module and the power supply are easily replaceable ? on aliexpress I see that there are all the spare parts.





The other T12 station I was telling you about is this one :

 https://www.amazon.it/Preciva-presetati-visualizzazione-Termostatica-Intelligente/dp/B0CB3VS9JD/ref=sr_1_5?crid=15XVSDSSCCUTR&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sr-40lgtdEvX436i3XXGKjUlrqONnWCt6fknppicwAMsoHYNB2W23 tDK29BcUlrQS6J4TGEU97DIO2lelxtpZ18tWxmjuuhfM12ka1BFKM_qNgcxdGUP5NRVphnUxrNG_XiTIJFpMyj1DYK-T3 yJUCqPL0wrViyoA6Z8VVHEkex2IKMSsjbuG2Iy4itDPBaVvtzNV4O8mkHa_RcfckkZVPtLZH01LrVlAxTBCx8-shEt7BpC80EP6bHEpmIv0GsDvIxlTItGRLpQ_WHXhem43-WQ5pLxGyIgobpqKSHtZM 0.Yaejdn85Uekok5qfGEpJikz7h8RhB-Nv-YW9BCy_YP0&dib_tag=se&keywords=soldering+station+t12&qid=1726051782&sprefix=station+t12%2Caps%2C146&sr=8-5

@IanB

Unfortunately, as I said, I don't have other Ryobi products, buying the whole kit would cost too much, however, it's also on amazon.it:

https://www.amazon.it/Ryobi-RSI18-0-Precisione-Temperatura-Impugnatura/dp/B0BNLZBB23/ref=asc_df_B0BNLZBB23/?tag=googshopit-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=700872326089&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2640631158150375716&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt= &hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9203511&hvtargid=pla-1945229076891&psc=1&mcid=e1ffb481a5ad3b1e9d2f6fe28594d4cb&gad_source=1

The problem is that the battery is enough dear :

https://www.amazon.it/Ibanti-Soposizione-Batteria-RB18L50-Indicatore/dp/B0CW2Z91KL/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=3TC3ZWP3PMSRZ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.5P0fRzdHAIPvymkZaCHGrSzumkuXRALtUk5TQpd3EoB1N -8Ulke ef_vHRCeJD6WaqTZ_WuHXAlsYfDrz6Pp_SVaDPIPpJoyIs0k9-8KoeuI8wUv1CCdbqCpXnI-1ZjJ1gp-MKhB6A4p86M5rLJolMZdPo_4eCWS970FV3NkcnetawNkBWx2HmtpJMim3I 2TUG6xARUBHa0vfDuKWPv8HQyljg2mFY6jW82_zzR3gurBRZ8rRRz cNIF5tqWb1zXEkS1uZCcTCWgoRwc5iPGOswrqtsp3wbL7LdSeWPnZBvKI.CvPVJcd_8dtKfo8oenFrejRQgCWWtXlnVjFXkUyd7ro&dib_tag=se&keywords=ryobi+battery+18v&qid=172610197 5&sprefix=Ryobi%2Caps%2C221&sr=8-2-sp ons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1#customerReviews https://www.amazon.it/dp/B092JG3NBF?m=A11IL2PNWYJU7H&utm_campaign=manufacturer&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=click2buy&utm_term=ryobi

https://www.amazon.it/dp/B092JG3NBF?m=A11IL2PNWYJU7H&utm_campaign=manufacturer&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=click2buy&utm_term=ryobi

@BrokenYugo

Yes, for this reason I was wondering if it is better to buy the soldering station with the internal or external power supply, with the external power supply I can choose a 24v power supply of my choice, if the external power supply is damaged it is very easy to replace it, with the internal power supply it is more complicated, I do not know if they are all compatible, like this one for example :

https://www.amazon.it/ARCELI-Modulo-alimentazione-switching-85-265V/dp/B09DYG9NSM/ref=sr_1_13?crid=38KVUEX9NQZEO&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.8NSh4wMEv1zPaHPYh1vGdfobDBtHGlY4PBKZMUBeOI3-Xh6zLJ AC7BXXBdgZGgsksDuwvM0Y5-6jWRXT8r-mZTurpPlEG2bglRE3vxzgMuT21yCmCgN3JfKNxbdNxpY5AqaLOgm_6TbBs2fIOcE4E7gGfQwkSpLjArD 88Nd4plmrPDLcfdr6nqHYk2kafrSiJKIXM3e9gxD75uh4BD-con5ClFWB6nEYaRLdX9U-LIEv6Iwgv0y8ZCx8sHPIo2v8-RHlvX4vzbIYgw_vc_TR5V82vaFqkbgaBijm4vCm9n4.jH8-eQMq WDil58-43uuxem2JHKmWVPC-LyaoIkEQM4E&dib_tag=se&keywords=power supply+switching+24%20V&qid=1726036981&sprefix=power supply+switching+%2Caps%2C118&sr=8-13

Required a specific power supply I think ?

https://it.aliexpress.com/item/32834572016.html?spm=a2g0o.store_pc_home.promoteRecommendProducts_6404659.32834572016&gatewayAdapt=glo2ita

https://it.aliexpress.com/item/4000577553855.html?spm=a2g0o.imagesearchproductlist.main.1.eed7aniyaniyAz&pdp_npi=4%40dis%21EUR%2110.83%215.26%21%21%2111.68%215.68%21%40210384b217261042155595247e1d08%2110000003287685729%21sea%21IT%210%21ABX&curPageLogUid=84m4XyfkeMOM&utparam-url=scene%3Aimage_search%7Cquery_from%3Apc_web_image_search



I also believe the control module is easily replaceable ?





https://it.aliexpress.com/item/1005006123580979.html?spm=a2g0o.imagesearchproductlist.main.5.2ebeHgRcHgRclC&pdp_npi=4%40dis%21EUR%2138.71%2121.29%21%21%21297.08%21163.39%21%40211b61a417261084337192408eeb4e%2112000035859677259%21sea%21IT%210%21ABX&curPageLogUid=VPXvQQxYUX7H&utparam-url=scene%3Aimage_search%7Cquery_from%3Apc_web_image_search

https://it.aliexpress.com/item/1005007254831521.html?spm=a2g0o.imagesearchproductlist.main.1.6268BZvQBZvQgY&pdp_npi=4%40dis%21EUR%2145.40%2115.89%21%21%21348.43%21121.95%21%40211b61a417261086515643703eeb4e%2112000039962617071%21sea%21IT%210%21ABX&curPageLogUid=PlKRubC00M9o&utparam-url=scene%3Aimage_search%7Cquery_from%3Apc_web_image_search

https://it.aliexpress.com/item/1005003484054987.html?aff_fcid=1d2ad070c0a440459ff657789a25568f-1726114584379-00136-_DnF8jxD&tt=CPS_NORMAL&aff_fsk=_DnF8jxD&aff_platform=shareComponent-detail&sk=_DnF8jxD&aff_trace_key=1d2ad070c0a440459ff657789a25568f-1726114584379-00136-_DnF8jxD&terminal_id=f2b834e050b64fe1bb7f725b8e49d615&afSmartRedirect=y

@themadhippy

As soon as I choose the soldering iron to start I have to solder the pins of a SHT45 sensor, it is very delicate, an excessive temperature could damage some components, I made a thermometer with Arduino nano and a ST7735 display

[tatel]

@tatel

Yes, I have some IEC cables at home, it's not a problem, yes as you advised me the best handle should be the blue 907 or 9501, which is made of aluminum alloy I think.

9501 is what I got and it's plastic. Aluminum ones get too hot in the hand, someone said...

I would get 958 station and some tips. I don't think anybody could get more bang for €50 nowadays.

But, to make it work really well, you'll need also something like this (it worked for me better than the Haako FG-100 clone, which had not much quality, even the thermocouples it came with were difficult to put in it)

https://es.aliexpress.com/item/32882463397.html

And, of course, the thermocouples for it. Get a whole bunch, you'll need it. The ones that came with the FG-100 clone were utter crap, they were either mad from the beginning or behave like crazy after just a few measurements. Then I got more from AliExpress that were bad too. Others have reported the same, see:

https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/stm32-oled-digital-soldering-station-for-t12-handle/msg3616632/#msg3616632

Fortunately EBay seller gloriadiy has better. Still clones I think, still cheap, but good enough:

https://www.ebay.es/itm/261905476277
https://www.ebay.es/itm/253107022572

So, you'd be really going further than €50, but still well under €100, and I think its well worth the money. Of course, YMMV

Good luck

[David Hess]

The least expensive temperature controlled iron that I would trust is the Weller 60 watt pencil iron.  The W61 version runs on 240VAC.

https://www.amazon.it/WELLER-005-61-036-W61-Soldering/dp/B003A69N5E/

[thm_w]

I would consider the Yihua 982 T245 station $63, or possibly the Geenboon T20A as these are both advertised as being properly grounded.
Or one of the T12's if you really want to save money.

Anyone suggesting a non temperature controlled iron is hopeless.

If you are lacking funds I can help you out.

[themadhippy]

Anyone suggesting a non temperature controlled iron is hopeless.

Really? Ive used numerous irons over the years and will stick with my trusty antex for 99% of jobs,the 1% is dealt with by the gas blowtorch.plug it in wait a minute  and its ready to go,no fiddling setting the temperature,no annoying cool down when its put back in the stand and a decent thermal mass to just get on with it

[marck120]

@tatel

Thanks for the explanations and advice

The STM32 T12-958 is this, the other station I had indicated was the 951.

https://it.aliexpress.com/item/1005003064223657.html?pdp_npi=4%40dis%21EUR%2148.59%2148.59%21%21%2152.59%2152.59%21%4021410fef17255386460107085d0a20%2112000023729562229%21affd%21%21%21&dp=CjwKCAjwooq3BhB3EiwAYqYoEm4IvfrwsoOx9iJQH8r1x7_GFZIzUGdJhywnXGBJCATAIxS1bjgJ8hoCvLMQAvD_BwE&gclid=CjwKCAjwooq3BhB3EiwAYqYoEm4IvfrwsoOx9iJQH8r1x7_GFZIzUGdJhywnXGBJCATAIxS1bjgJ8hoCvLMQAvD_BwE&aff_fcid=c103af63ef7c435cbe3ad742c904d863-1726185074316-04518&aff_fsk&aff_platform=api-new-product-query&sk&aff_trace_key=c103af63ef7c435cbe3ad742c904d863-1726185074316-04518&terminal_id=f2b834e050b64fe1bb7f725b8e49d615&afSmartRedirect=y

Yes, thank you, I had forgotten that it is necessary to calibrate the soldering station to obtain the correct temperature.

Doing some research I also discovered that to load a possible firmware I also need a programmer.

https://www.amazon.it/Simulator-Programming-programmazione-Scaricatore-Emulatore/dp/B07H9XV2W2/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?__mk_it_IT=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=1S5WYCHMQI99Y&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.o1srzaofh8FZ8nHcQYuIT7co-97PmyqoVsT4V2DNhFmE-C-fjdVNiu6olWGAEHxkObbxXwZcTghOeNDjKLUCUgGV2F486MECc2cWd7I3fmtO2LNGnzunoEEYiL59ea66rd3kqsrFF-j-GEI92HD4euhStUXB6j7QoFS8lmJw2wmzkNs3wZmcTaDxW1LDlHXycueW-nuEnnYbMp03DLAxqnWzNVtzDcjyhQldudwJnK_tPSukwCDu1eQQeLs613IRYPO9BCk17aPPcJz87LHJJglrCBmqFmNXfB3gUnxV--E.Vubo2ORSCwEnkczXXLvMyxCMgQAjpFLcqRqN6Ojawr4&dib_tag=se&keywords=ST-Link+V2+stlink&qid=1726124747&sprefix=st-link+v2+stlink+%2Caps%2C565&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1

https://it.aliexpress.com/item/1005006734818599.html?src=google&src=google&albch=shopping&acnt=272-267-0231&isdl=y&slnk=&plac=&mtctp=&albbt=Google_7_shopping&aff_platform=google&aff_short_key=UneMJZVf&gclsrc=aw.ds&&albagn=888888&&ds_e_adid=&ds_e_matchtype=&ds_e_device=c&ds_e_network=x&ds_e_product_group_id=&ds_e_product_id=it1005006734818599&ds_e_product_merchant_id=5345619886&ds_e_product_country=IT&ds_e_product_language=it&ds_e_product_channel=online&ds_e_product_store_id=&ds_url_v=2&albcp=20730495829&albag=&isSmbAutoCall=false&needSmbHouyi=false&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwooq3BhB3EiwAYqYoEnvL2DGORtIq2w36I8acDROOvc1iuWSr2mwL1Uf1w9RcBL3bGBpRbBoCKEgQAvD_BwE

Among other things I also need the tin, they recommended the 63/37 tin, it is difficult to find quality tin at a good price, the one sold on aliexpress they say is of low quality.

I hope the supplied tips are of good quality.

@David Hess

Thanks for the advice, unfortunately the W61 is not exactly cheap, but I did not understand how the temperature is regulated, I looked at the photos of the soldering iron but I do not see anything to be able to set the temperature.

@thm_w

The GEEBOON TC20A seems the same as the Aixun T3A, it's not that they have the same problems.



Yes I had seen the Yihua 982, from what I read the c245 tips are considered superior to the T12, they are more performing and reach higher temperatures.

There are many soldering stations, it's not easy to choose, in my opinion in the end it's better to take the one with a simpler construction.

The various Quecoo or KSGER stations seem more easily repairable to me, for example on aliexpress you can find all the spare parts, control modules and power supplies, which are the two main components, this is just my thought, I don't know if the reasoning is right.

Here is a brief summary of the stations I had found:

The soldering stations that I found at an affordable price compatible with T12 tips are:

Axun T3A, Quicko/Quecoo, KSGER, Yihua 948DB, AIFEN A8, Bakon BK969D

Stations soldering irons C245/T245 :

YIHUA 982, AIFEN-A3, Aifen A9, SUGON-A9, SUGON T21, AiXun T320

[David Hess]

@David Hess

Thanks for the advice, unfortunately the W61 is not exactly cheap, but I did not understand how the temperature is regulated, I looked at the photos of the soldering iron but I do not see anything to be able to set the temperature.

The iron uses the Weller Magnastat system for temperature control. There is a switch and magnet in the handle which shuts off the heater once the Curie point is reached for the material in the tip, so the temperature is changed by swapping tips, which are readily available and inexpensive.

You said you were looking for a simple reliable system of temperature control, and it does not get any simpler than this.  These irons typically last decades, and replacement parts are readily available.  Over the decades I have seen one worn out tip, which was on a production station, so it was on for 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, for years.

https://hackaday.com/2016/06/01/long-term-review-weller-magnastat-soldering-iron/

[marck120]

@David Hess


Thanks for the info

Yes exactly, I was looking for a simple and reliable system, I admit I didn't know about this system that Weller uses, however there is no way to set a temperature to your liking,.

On the site it says this:

"The Magnastat is a simple but very effective iron with a fixed controlled temperature. The tip has a magnet on the rear end that keeps a power switch for the heating element closed. When the tip has heated up to the Curie temperature of the magnet, it loses its magnetism and the switch opens. The temperature drops below the Curie temperature and the magnetism returns, the switch closes, the tip heats up again and the cycle repeats. The temperature of the tip is therefore dictated by the Curie temperature of the magnet and Weller supply a range of tips with magnets for different temperatures."

If I understand correctly as you also explained to me the temperature is fixed and is controlled by this magnet on the tip that opens and closes a switch based on the Curie temperature.

But I also read this:

"The result is an iron with enough power to solder heat-sucking jobs that would leave lesser irons breathless, while having the delicacy to solder tiny surface-mount components without destroying them or lifting the tracks,"

In the end it is an automatic process but it is very interesting, I did not know this system.

As you explained it is difficult to find the replacement tip but this one lasts decades.

[tatel]

Doing some research I also discovered that to load a possible firmware I also need a programmer.

Yep, I got a cheap one from AliExpress. The one from amazon could easily be the same thing at quite a few times the price.

Among other things I also need the tin, they recommended the 63/37 tin, it is difficult to find quality tin at a good price, the one sold on aliexpress they say is of low quality.

Well 60/40 would be about the same, but it wouldn't be eutectic. So it would melt/solidify at different temperatures, eutectic would melt/solidify at the same temperature. Probably you won't notice the difference unless having a quite precise thermocouple, etc. I did calibrate mine with 60/40 IIRC. I wouldn't worry too much about it.

I hope the supplied tips are of good quality.

Hell. no. If you want good quality tips, get original Haako/JBC tips and pay for them. In that case you wouldn't probably need give them a burning-in time, nor to calibrate each tip, nor fine tune its PID parameters. With clone T12 tips, there's a lot of variability. The homework to do with each and every tip allows you to have good enough working tips for peanuts. You'll be trading work for money.

You'll probably see some tips with a dark plating at a higher price, I tried them and didn't notice any difference. That dark plating could perhaps make them more durable? I dunno. Of course you'll have to care for your tips anyway,  cleaned and tinned between uses. But if you are not going to use the station heavily, the "normal" clone tips are quite probably good enough.

You should make sure you get some chisel tips, pure conical ones are more difficult because there is less contact surface -> worse heat transfer. And a BIG D52 tip to work over ground planes, etc, where heat dissipates so fast that a smaller tip couldn't do the job. The better way it's probably to get the set with just one tip, then purchase some additional BC or D tips in different sizes.