A soldering iron is a hand tool that plugs into a standard 120V AC outlet and is heated to melt solder around electrical connections. This is one of the most important tools in soldering and can come in a few variations such as pen or gun shape.

For beginners, it is recommended to use the pen soldering iron in the 15W to 30W range. Most soldering irons have interchangeable tips that can be used for various soldering applications. Be very careful when using a soldering iron as it can heat up to 896 degree Fahrenheit which is extremely hot.