Model #3020-XTS Digital Display Soldering Iron Station by X-Tronic vs SSVT Variable Temperature Soldering Station by Stahl Tools
When comparing Model #3020-XTS Digital Display Soldering Iron Station by X-Tronic vs SSVT Variable Temperature Soldering Station by Stahl Tools, the Slant community recommends Model #3020-XTS Digital Display Soldering Iron Station by X-Tronic for most people. In the question“What's the best soldering iron for small electronics?” Model #3020-XTS Digital Display Soldering Iron Station by X-Tronic is ranked 5th while SSVT Variable Temperature Soldering Station by Stahl Tools is ranked 8th. The most important reason people chose Model #3020-XTS Digital Display Soldering Iron Station by X-Tronic is:
The high wattage allows this soldering iron to give consistent heat for long periods. This makes it well-suited for big projects that require extended soldering.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Suited for heavy-duty use
The high wattage allows this soldering iron to give consistent heat for long periods. This makes it well-suited for big projects that require extended soldering.
Pro Economical to use and maintain
After 10 minutes of inactivity, sleep mode automatically kicks in and decreases the temperature of the tip. It helps to save power and prolongs the life-time of the tip by decreasing the rate of corrosion.
Pro Convenient solder holder
You can place your coiled solder on the special holder. It's much more convenient than having to hold and unravel it with your hands.
Pro Hardy stainless steel pencil stand
The spring stand lets you conveniently rest the pencil when you're not using it.
Pro Brass tip cleaner saves time and power
Besides the wet sponge that most soldering irons are equipped with, this one has brass wiring. It easily cleans the tip and, unlike the sponge, doesn't cool it down. This saves extra power and time necessary for the tip to reheat.
Pro Responsive controls
The tip temperature can be adjusted from 392 to 896 °F. It heats up and cools down quickly thanks to the high-quality ceramic heat element. The digital screen that displays temperature makes it easy to monitor and adjust the heat output.
Pro Well-suited for tasks that demand precise temperature
The temperature control function allows you to choose from 302 up to 842°F of heat. Having this much control, you can use this soldering iron for tasks that demand precision - like working with very small objects.
Pro Comfortable handle
The pencil is equipped with a rubber grip that prevents your fingers from slipping. It also acts as a heat insulator to protect you from burns.
Pro Great value
Considering other devices with comparable power and functionality that sell for up to $100, this soldering station comes cheaply. Great option for amateurs and hobbyists.
Pro Hardy stainless steel pencil stand
The spring stand lets you conveniently rest the pencil when you're not using it.
Cons
Con Fragile handle
The plastic handle heats up and cracks after heavy use.
Con The sponge is too thin
The wet sponge that is used to clean the tip of the iron is thin and wears out quickly. It will have to be replaced frequently.
Con Heavy
Total weight of 1.8 lbs makes this station inconvenient to carry around.
Con Poor build quality
Some common issues that users find are fragility of the power cord and malfunction of the heating mechanism that translates into a puff of smoke coming from the handle of the pencil.