With DIY projects becoming quite a trend these days, most individuals (such as myself) require specific tools that assist in such tasks or projects. A soldering station is quite a nifty tool that helps you carry out your DIY projects in an efficient manner. This device is quite reliable and enables you to carry out a smooth welding or engraving process.
After a lot of research on which devices to invest in, I decided to test out two soldering stations for myself; the Hakko FX888D and the Weller WE1010. These soldering stations are ranked on the top, and due to their distinct features, it gets hard to decide between these two. The following article will have a detailed comparison of the Hakko FX888D and the Weller WE1010. Their features and their drawbacks are based on my own experience to provide readers an accurate depiction of these products.
Hakko FX888D | Weller WE1010 | |
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Image | ||
Dimensions | 9.6 x 9.6 x 7.3 inches | 5.91 x 8.86 x 12.4 inches |
Weight | 2.6 Pounds | 5.51 pounds |
Temperature Range | 120°F – 899°F | 200°F – 850 °F |
Power Consumption | 120V | 120V |
Wattage | 70W | 70W |
Temperature Stability | ±1.8°F | ±10 °F |
Tips Available | 33 | 7 |
Warranty | One year | One year |
Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Similarities between Hakko FX888D and Weller WE1010
Power Consumption
These soldering stations have a power consumption of 120 Volts. The voltage is relatively low and makes these stations quite reliable and safer to use while providing enough energy to get the job done.
Wattage
The wattage power is roughly around 70 watts for both of these devices, which is usually quite common amongst most soldering stations. Power was given in a smooth and even manner to help me carry out my tasks quickly and efficiently.
Differences between Hakko FX888D and Weller WE1010
Design and Size
Hakko FX888D
This feature is one of the main things that sets these devices apart. The Hakko FX888D has dimensions of 9.6 x 9.6 x 7.3 inches and weighs around 2.6 pounds. It is relatively slender, and it comes in a two-toned color: blue and yellow. The station itself is user friendly and easy to operate, and the handles and station are exceptionally lightweight and do not use up as much space as other soldering stations.
Weller WE1010
The Weller WE1010 has dimensions of 5.91 x 8.86 x 12.4 inches and a weight of 5.51 pounds. The device is quite sleek looking and comes with a heat-resistant silicone cable for safety purposes. The device is slightly heavy but easy to use.
Winner: The Hakko FX888D, as it is lightweight and does not utilize as much space as the Weller WE1010.
Temperature range and stability
Hakko FX888D
This soldering station can operate at a temperature range of 120°F – 899°F, which is higher than most other soldering stations. A wide range of temperatures gave me access to an accurate job for most of my DIY projects. The temperature stability is around ±1.8°F and was reliable enough for me to complete my projects without any mistakes.
Weller WE1010
The Weller WE1010 has a temperature range of 200°F – 850 °F, as well as a temperature stability of ±10 °F. This soldering station also ensured that my tasks were carried out quickly and that I had an accurate viewpoint when it came to soldering.
Winner: The Hakko FX888D, as it has a better temperature range and stability.
Features
Hakko FX888D
This slender and lightweight soldering station has a digital calibration, as well as a low-temperature alarm. The digital display will show the current temperature in either Fahrenheit or Celsius, as it was customizable. It consists of ceramic heating sensors to ensure that it heats up quickly, and is password protected to ensure your settings remain the same and are not tampered with. Hakko FX888D has 5 presets available, 33 different compatible tips and is ESD safe.
Weller WE1010
The Weller WE1010 has a 70-watt power station and soldering iron for high quality, precise soldering. The handle was designed to provide comfort during usage, and the soldering station can easily be switched on and off through the front power switch. The digital LCD screen displays the temperatures, which could be locked automatically on a standby position for safety purposes. The station can be password protected to ensure your customized settings are not lost, and the menu control buttons make it easy to access these features. A heat resistant silicone cable is also provided for additional safety precautions, and this soldering station has seven compatible tips.
Winner: The Weller WE1010, as it has extra perks.
Value for Money
Both of these soldering stations have a warranty period of 12 months. However, you can get additional features and benefits at a lower price by purchasing the WE1010.
Pros and Cons
- Compact and complete
- Light cord made it easier to use
- Flexible cord with a solid-built handle
- Five preset memory temperatures which made it easier for me to switch between them
- Heats up quickly and saves time
Cons
- Ended up losing its heating ability after a few months of usage
- Has trouble melting a big gauge solder
- Silky smooth cord that is relatively light and flexible
- Heats up pretty quickly with a steady pace
- Great temperature control
- Easy to use
Cons
- There is no main line fuse for this station
- Tip support ended up getting burnt after some usage
Final Verdict
The Weller WE1010 is the better option, as it has multiple other features that the Hakko FX88D does not have, as well as user safety precautions.