Electronics

Precision Tools

  • precision screwdriver
    • budget: Jakemy (see Aliexpress, Taobao, etc.)
    • standard: Klein Tools ($19 incl. 27 bits)
      • can store 27 bits! now that’s bit storage!
    • better: iFixit
      • $9 for driver only
      • $19 for Moray Driver Kit (32 bits)
      • $49 for Mako Driver Kit (64 bits)
      • $69 for Manta Driver Kit (112 bits)
      • $74 for Pro Tech Toolkit (64 bits + other tools like spudgers, suction cups, etc.)
    • electric: Xiaomi ($46)
  • spudger: Jakemy ($6)
  • mini rotary tool
    • corded: Dremel 4300 ($124)
    • cordless: Dremel 8250 ($149 $131) or 8260 ($169)

The LTT precision screwdriver ($29 for driver only, $49 incl. 60 bits) is a bit more expensive than the iFixit, but includes a spinny fidget with ceramic bearings and a bit compartment. Purchase if you like LTT and want to support them

The 8250 and 8260 are very similar, but the 8260 has Bluetooth functionality with an app + an all-black design with a light-up logo. Besides the smart features, there is little to differentiate the 8260 from the 8250.

Some people online say that the app is terrible and that the light-up logo is gimmicky, but I have not tested this myself so I cannot confirm this.

Wire Strippers

  • wire strippers: Knipex Forged ($49)
  • automatic wire strippers: Knipex ($48 $44)

Soldering

Soldering Irons
  • smart soldering iron: Pinecil ($39)
  • soldering station: Weller WE1010 ($115) / Hakko FX888D ($121)
Solder and Flux
  • solder
    • leaded: Kester 44 63/37 ($38)
    • lead-free: Kester 275 ($51)
  • flux: Stirri V3 TF ($27)
Other Accessories
  • helping hands
    • standard: Kotto ($23)
    • magnetic: Omnifixo OF-M4 ($66) / QuadHands workbench ($49)
  • circuit board holder: Weller ESF-120 ($94)
  • tip cleaner: Hakko 599B ($9)
  • solder smoke absorber: Kotto ($39)

Magnifying

  • magnifying lamp: Aven Mighty Vue Pro ($264)
  • magnifying glasses: OptiVisor DA (~$50-60 depending on magnification)
  • handheld magnifying glasses: Eschenbach ($98)
  • microscope
    • digital: Andonstar AD246S-M ($168)
    • stereo microscope: AmScope SM-4NTP ($564)