The 20 best soldering wire brands
Kester, Oatey and Indium Corporation lead our ranking of 20 soldering wire brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Soldering Wire brands, ranked
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1
Kester
Rosin-core eutectic tin-lead wire in many diameters, a long-standing choice for electronics assembly and repair benches.
Top products: Kester 44
Website: kester.com |Brands like Kester
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Oatey
Lead-free silver-bearing plumbing solder on spools and bars, aimed at potable water pipe joints rather than electronics.
Top products: Safe Flo
Website: oatey.com |Brands like Oatey
Popularity 5.7/10
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3
Indium Corporation
Indium alloys and fluxes for precision electronics, including semiconductor-grade solder used in high-reliability assembly work.
Top products: 97In 3Agยท Low Temperature Wire Research Solder Kit
Website: indium.com |Brands like Indium Corporation
Popularity 2.9/10
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4
Lucas-Milhaupt
Silver-bearing brazing and solder alloys for HVAC and refrigeration joints, supplied as wire, rings and preforms.
Top products: Silvabrite 100
Website: lucasmilhaupt.com |Brands like Lucas-Milhaupt
Popularity 2.9/10
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5
Forney
Solid-core solder wire for general plumbing and metalwork, with lead-free and 50/50 options sold in small spools.
Top products: Solid Core Lead-Free Solder Wire
Website: forneyind.com |Brands like Forney
Popularity 2.8/10
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6
HAKKO
Temperature-controlled FX-888D stations with ceramic-heater irons and replaceable tips for board rework.
Website: hakkousa.com |Brands like HAKKO
Popularity 2.6/10
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7
Weller
German soldering irons and stations, with its own solder wire for workshop and electronics use.
Top products: Metal Work Solder Wire
Website: weller-tools.com |Brands like Weller
Popularity 2.2/10
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8
M.G. Chemicals
Flux-cored solder wire and paste sold alongside its own circuit board cleaners and conformal coatings.
Website: mgchemicals.com |Brands like M.G. Chemicals
Popularity 2.2/10
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9
goot
Hand-sized irons and tweezer tools with a cleaning sponge, aimed at hobbyists and fine surface-mount work.
Website: en.goot.jp |Brands like goot
Popularity 1.9/10
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10
SRA
Custom alloy blends in flux-cored wire with adjustable core-flux strengths, ordered by spool or bulk for production runs.
Website: sra-solder.com |Brands like SRA
Popularity 1.6/10
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11
Cardas Audio
Audio cable maker that produces its own solder and flux, used for hand-finishing high-end hi-fi connections.
Website: cardas.com |Brands like Cardas Audio
Popularity 1.5/10
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12
BernzOmatic
BernzOmatic sells gas torches, soldering irons, and hand and power tools for home repair, soldering and light heating jobs. Its torches cover household tasks such as small diameter soldering, heating putty and cooking outdoors. They give a portable flame source...
Website: bernzomatic.com |Brands like BernzOmatic
Popularity 1.5/10
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13
HOZAN
Bench stations with ESD-safe handles, plus wire strippers and crimpers stocked for repair shops.
Website: hozan.co.jp |Brands like HOZAN
Popularity 1.5/10
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14
Stannol
Kristall flux-cored wire with a no-clean core, sold in tin-lead and lead-free alloys for electronics.
Website: stannol.de |Brands like Stannol
Popularity 1.3/10
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15
Chip Quik
Low-temperature tin-bismuth alloys in paste and wire, for reflow work that stays under component heat limits.
Website: chipquik.com |Brands like Chip Quik
Popularity 1.0/10
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16
Almit
LFM-48 flux pen and M-Line cored wire, used widely for hand rework on SMD boards.
Website: almit.de |Brands like Almit
Popularity 0.8/10
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17
Jufeng
Chinese solder producer offering flux-cored wire and paste at lower price points for hobby and workshop buyers.
Website: jufengsolder.com |Brands like Jufeng
Popularity 0.8/10
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18
Chemtronics
Chemtronics is the market-leading manufacturer of solvent cleaners in China. They specialize in producing industrial and laboratory cleaning chemicals for water, heat and pressure washers, degreasing equipment, vapor degreasers, and other cleaning systems. Their cleaners also clean electrical parts, wires,...
Website: chemtronics.com |Brands like Chemtronics
Popularity 0.7/10
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19
Amtech
From an early period, humans have been accustomed to using tools in a field of work. We always prefer reliable and powerful tools as required by the job. Amtech brings the exact pieces of equipment built from high-quality materials that...
Website: amtechdiy.com |Brands like Amtech
Popularity 0.7/10
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20
247 Solder
Fine-pitch SMD work with 0.5mm to 1.0mm wire, where 63/37 suits leaded rework and SAC lead-free covers modern fine-pitch boards.
Website: 247solder.com |Brands like 247 Solder
Popularity 0.7/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kester | kester.com | – | – | – | – |
| Oatey | oatey.com | /OateySCS | oatey_co | @Oatey_Co | OateyCompany |
| Indium Corporation | indium.com | /indium | indiumcorporation | @IndiumCorp | indiumcorporation |
| Lucas-Milhaupt | lucasmilhaupt.com | /lucasmilhaupt | lucasmilhaupt | – | Lucas-Milhaupt |
| Forney | forneyind.com | /forneyind | forneyind | @forneyind | forneyind |
| HAKKO | hakkousa.com | /HakkoUSA | hakkousa | @hakkousa | – |
| Weller | weller-tools.com | – | – | – | – |
| M.G. Chemicals | mgchemicals.com | – | – | – | – |
| goot | en.goot.jp | /%E5%A4%AA%E6%B4%8B%E9%9B%BB%E6%A9%9F%E7%94%A3%E6%A5%AD%E6%A0%AA%E5%BC%8F%E4%BC%9A%E7%A4%BE-100782451699761 | taiyo_goot | @Taiyo_goot | taiyo goot |
| SRA | sra-solder.com | /srasolder | – | @SRASolder | SRA Solder Lab |
Soldering Wire Buying Guide
Soldering is an essential technique for making electrical and electronic connections. Soldering wire is a vital component required to make these connections. When buying soldering wire, it's important to consider its quality, diameter, composition, and flux. In this article, we will discuss the factors you need to consider when purchasing soldering wire.
Quality
The quality of the soldering wire plays an important role in achieving successful and long-lasting connections. Low-quality solder wire can be difficult to use and may even cause problems in your electronic components. When shopping for soldering wire, look for brands that have a good reputation for quality products. Also, make sure the solder wire conforms to industry standards such as the Electronics Industry Alliance's J-STD-006 and the International Electrotechnical Commission's IEC 61190. These standards ensure the soldering wire has been tested for quality and consistency.
Diameter
Another factor to consider when choosing soldering wire is the diameter. The diameter of soldering wire determines how much solder is used, and how easily it flows. The most common diameter for soldering wire is 0.031 inches, or 0.8mm. However, other diameters can be used depending on the specific requirements of your project. For instance, thinner wire would be more suitable for smaller or intricate connections, while thicker wire is better suited for larger, more robust connections.
Composition
The composition of soldering wire is another primary consideration. There are two primary types of soldering wire: lead-based and lead-free. Lead-based solder has been the preferred choice for many years due to its ease of use, low melting point, and high tensile strength. However, lead-based solder has become less popular due to the potential health risks associated with lead exposure. Lead-free soldering wire is now widely used as a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative. It has higher melting points than lead-based solder and may require additional flux to be added to facilitate its use.
Flux
Flux is a chemical agent that is added to soldering wire to facilitate the flow of solder and remove oxides from the surfaces being soldered. Choosing the right flux can be essential in achieving a clean and effective connection. There are two types of flux: rosin-core and water-soluble flux. Rosin-core flux is a type of flux that is embedded inside the soldering wire. It's easy to use and doesn't require additional flux. However, it can be challenging to remove the residue after soldering. Water-soluble flux is another type of flux. It's easy to remove after soldering but requires additional cleaning after soldering. It's essential to choose the right type of flux for your specific application.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right soldering wire can be essential in achieving good connections. When shopping for soldering wire, make sure to consider the quality, diameter, composition, and flux. Additionally, it's important to choose a reputable brand that adheres to industry standards. By considering these factors, you can ensure that you get the best soldering wire for your application.
Additional Information
Cost
The cost of soldering wire varies depending on the composition, diameter, and brand. Lead-free soldering wire tends to be more expensive than lead-based solder, but it's considered safer for people and the environment. Additionally, thinner wire is usually more expensive than thicker wire. It's essential to consider the costs and choose the soldering wire that best fits your budget while still ensuring quality and suitability for your project.
Application
The application is another essential factor when selecting soldering wire. Different applications require different types of soldering wire. For instance, high-precision electronics and circuit board work may require a specific diameter and type of soldering wire, while a more general-purpose wire may suffice for household repairs, automotive work, and other general repairs.
Storage
Storage of soldering wire is essential to maintain its quality and effectiveness. It's important to keep soldering wire in a dry and cool place to prevent exposure to moisture, which can cause damage to the wire. Ensure the spool is tightly closed when not in use to prevent exposure to air, which can also cause damage. Additionally, if you're using rosin-core soldering wire, it's essential to store it separately from materials prone to corrosion since the rosin-core flux can cause rusting.
Handling
When handling soldering wire, safety should be a priority. It's essential to use protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, and ensure the soldering iron is unplugged whenever not in use. Additionally, avoid inhaling the fumes produced during the soldering process. Soldering fumes can be hazardous to your health, and it's recommended to use a well-ventilated area or wear a respirator mask to reduce exposure. It's also important to avoid touching the soldering iron tip when it's hot.
Environmental considerations
When selecting soldering wire, it's important to consider the environmental impact. Lead-free soldering wire is considered more environmentally friendly than lead-based solder. Additionally, it's important to consider the disposal of unused or leftover soldering wire. Some communities have collection programs for hazardous waste, including soldering wire. Check with your local government or waste management authority to learn about the disposal options in your area.
Final thoughts
Selecting the right soldering wire requires careful consideration of the quality, diameter, composition, and flux of the wire. Additionally, it's essential to consider the application, cost, storage, handling, and environmental impact. By taking these factors into account, you can select the right soldering wire for your project, whether you're working on electronics or general repairs.
