7 Best Solder Suckers for Electronics of 2023 Reviewed

If you are wondering how to remove solder without damaging your appliances, you should try out solder suckers.

Desoldering units are of two types – suction and hot air pumps. We believe that you should opt for suckers because they can effectively remove molten solder. You can use it for repair and replacement and prevent short-circuiting by keeping your circuit boards nice and clean.

Armed with a nozzle to reach even tight spots, you’ll get the required precision in all your tasks. Moreover, it features a state-of-the-art design, meaning you can use your tool for a long time without any worries. And, the non-slip grip ensures sweat and heat don’t stand in the way of work.

However, you may be wondering how to choose from the numerous options lining the market. To ease your troubles, we have selected 6 of the best models that are making all the right noise.

Without further ado, let’s get straight to the reviews.

Best Solder Suckers for Electronics

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced pro, these tools will help you get the job done right. So without further ado, here’s the list of the 7 best solder suckers for electronics.

1. Engineer SS-02 Solder Sucker Pump – Best Ergonomic Build

We kick things off with the Engineer SS-02 Solder Sucker Pump, which has rightly occupied the top spot on our list. It features the latest technology, backed up by excellent durability to take care of your desoldering needs. Most customers have liked what it has to offer.

First and foremost, the flexible, heat-resistant silicone tip provides maximum contact with the soldering iron without any risk. It covers the solder joint while the Teflon tube forms a better connection with the molten solder. Also, you can cut a part of the supplied tube if you need to replace it.

Likewise, you get much better suction than in other models, and the amount of solder residue left behind is less. Moreover, you can disassemble it without much difficulty, and the Engineer has included a spare silicone tube as well if you need additional nozzles.

Meanwhile, the unit has a compact design, making it easy to maneuver. It means you can perform single-handed operations for added comfort. As a result, it’s highly flexible, and the high-quality materials ensure that it will last a long time to deliver consistent performance.

We have received reports saying it’s prone to occasional jamming, which is not a severe problem. Any solder sucker tends to jam up once in a while, but the thing to consider is how long it takes to resolve it. So, it’s best if you find out how to unjam it before you encounter the problem.

2. Greenlee 1700 Desoldering Tool – Best For Durability

In the runners-up spot, we have picked the Greenlee 1700 Desoldering Tool, which you can use with printed circuit boards. It flaunts a robust design well complemented by new functions that you can operate at the push of a button. You will get terrific value for your money, which is why it’s highly accessible.

Right away, you’ll notice the durable construction due to the metal frame and the repair kit to keep your components in prime condition. The kit includes replacement springs and suction rods to ensure you’ve everything you need to get the work done. Additionally, it has anti-static replacement tips for uninterrupted performance.

The model uses an enclosed spring mechanism allowing it to run smoothly, and it doesn’t require petroleum jelly saving you added trouble. Likewise, it comes with a fine thread to prevent it from coming loose. Consequently, it doesn’t require much tightening to get the job done.

Moreover, there’s a knob to depress the spring, depending on the suction force you require. Attention to user-friendliness is also seen in the push-button operation providing optimum comfort, and you can enjoy the tool for a long time.

You may have an issue with the small size of the knob leading to a problem with gripping. Your thumb may slide off if there’s too much grease, which could be an inconvenience. However, as you move your hand up and down the slot, it would be best to be more careful regarding the sharp edges to avoid cuts.

3. Tabiger Solder Wick & Desoldering Pump – Best For Versatility

Completing our top three models is the Tabiger Solder Wick & Desoldering Pump, which includes several quality components to reduce your workload. There can be no issues regarding the performance, and it comes with the necessary features to produce much-needed reliability. It’ll be a valuable addition to the workshed.

To start, you can use it with one hand by cocking it and pressing down on the easy-to-reach trigger button. And further adding to the comfort are the solder braids and desoldering wick. Once the components are heated, you can quickly clean up molten solder leaving your workspace spick and span.

Plus, the unit is made from ABS, meaning you can use it for tough jobs without any risk of damage. Likewise, thanks to the covered sponge, it’ll absorb heat and sweat, meaning it’s non-slip and ideal when it comes to working for extended periods. Moreover, the nozzle is made from nylon and is capable of withstanding high temperatures.

Apart from these, it’s very versatile, and you can use it for small boards on PCBs, removing relays from printed circuits, and re-soldering mechanical keyboard switches. It has all the makings of a fantastic unit due to its reliable output.

There are a couple of issues with the unit, but neither of them is very serious. After using it for a while, you may find it tends to clog. Unclogging is not a major worry, but you can conduct frequent checks, thereby keeping you alert for early signs of clogging.

4. Velleman Vacuum Desoldering Pump

The penultimate product on our list is the Velleman Vacuum Desoldering Pump, which is suited for small-scale projects. It’s armed with enough power for a fast operation while the components make it dependable. It has quickly climbed the charts and is turning quite a few heads in the market.

Firstly, it has a 120V pump capable of generating 30W of power thereby allowing you to use it for most jobs. Moreover, it’s a handheld device meaning the 2.1mm tip of the pump opening comes in handy when operating on tight spots. So, you can use it to get the desired result in most situations.

Furthermore, it’s fast, thereby saving the time needed to complete any task. The speed is a direct result of the heater, which supports faster cleanups, and you’ll love the fact that it fits in the palm of your hand. As a result, comfortable performance is a guarantee.

The most important aspect of the tool is its affordable price. Despite having numerous components, Velleman has managed to keep the cost within limits hence catering to a broader audience. Also, operating it is straightforward, which will please a lot of customers.

The issue with the model is that it’s not the most versatile tool. You would want your machine to be capable of handling various tasks, and while it does the basics well, you may feel it misses out on multi-purpose use. No surprises then that you may consider some other option.

5. Electronix Express Solder Sucker Desoldering Pump

The Electronix Express Solder Sucker is designed for effectively removing hot solder from circuit boards while being budget-friendly. Its lightweight and compact design makes it convenient for a variety of users and situations, from amateurs to professionals.

We appreciated the pump’s efficient plunger that allows users to perform comfortable one-handed operations. Its durable metal body can withstand heat and usage, while the replaceable nonstick nylon tip offers durability and precision.

The plastic parts of the device tend to degrade and melt easily upon exposure to high heat. Additionally, the plunger springs forward rapidly, which may cause accidents if not properly handled.

6. Weller 7874B

The Weller 7874B desoldering pump caters to both hobbyists and professionals, making it a perfect addition to any toolbox. Its heat-resistant and antistatic design ensures a safe and efficient working experience.

We liked the high suction power and the Teflon tip of this mechanical desoldering pump, which provides thorough solder removal and resilience to heat. Its large tip size makes it suitable for handling larger soldered joints, and its easy storage and long-lasting design are practical for different users.

The plastic tip of the pump is a bit too large, which can create unwanted space where the solder gets stuck and make the desoldering process less efficient.

7. Kotto Solder Sucker

The Kotto Solder Sucker features a state-of-the-art silicone nozzle that can resist temperatures up to 842°F. Its aircraft 6061 aluminum construction provides a lightweight design that fits comfortably in your hand.

We liked the one-handed operation and innovative silicone nozzle that can be cut to size for optimal sealing at different angles. Its lightweight design and effective suction make it an efficient tool when dealing with small details and minimal tin usage.

The solder sucker can only store a minimal amount of tin, which necessitates frequent emptying during the desoldering process, making it less efficient for larger projects or continuous use.

Best Solder Suckers For Electronics Comparison Table

Buying Guide For The Best Solder Suckers

Before you venture into the market, we would like to give you a couple of pointers to help you pick the right unit. Solder suckers have many components that could make it difficult for you to distinguish between the top tools and the merely good ones.

We are here to discuss the essential aspects of desoldering units based on which we have formulated our list. A piece of knowledge about these functions will place you in good stead and help you make an informed choice.

1. Solder Suckers Durability

Your tool must be durable to handle the wear and tear of daily use. As a solder sucker, it will have to clean up tight spots to keep your appliances in the best condition. It should be no surprise that only quality materials must be used for construction to ensure it doesn’t break down.

Buying any tool is an investment, and you cannot afford to spend time or money ever so often on a new one. You must enjoy both the product and the components that come with it for a long time.

In that regard, the manufacturers cannot afford to make any compromises. So, just having a steel or metal construction is not enough. It must withstand the daily demands of the job to deliver faultless output.

2. Ease of Use

Solder suckers must handle an array of tasks, but that should not mean that the designers have to compromise with user-friendliness. The primary objective of any unit is to reduce your workload, and therefore you must be able to control it effectively to get the best results.

All the components and functions must be understandable, almost at a glance. You should know what each part does rather than pondering over how to get it right. Plus, the installation process, along with the disassembly, must be written clearly to ensure that it’s uncomplicated.

There is no point in having a plethora of functions if the users find it challenging to use. Rather any good model must keep the basics right and then add the necessary features to deliver a better performance.

3. Solder Suckers Versatility

Finally, it must be versatile to make sure you get through your work quickly. Working on circuit boards or repair work can get tedious, so you cannot afford to go about it at a leisurely pace.

You have a lot of work to do, and your unit must be up to speed to ensure you get a cracking performance. More power doesn’t always guarantee better performance, so you must have the ability to control the force you need on various tasks. As a result, your tool will be versatile, enabling you to handle small-scale and large-scale projects.

What types of solder suckers are available?

There are two main types of solder suckers: manual and electric. Manual solder suckers are operated by hand and rely on a spring-loaded mechanism to create suction. Electric solder suckers are powered by electricity and use a heating element and vacuum to remove solder.

Can I use a solder sucker to remove all types of solder?

Solder suckers are designed to remove most types of solder used in electronics, including lead-based and lead-free solders. However, some specialized solders may require different tools or techniques for removal.

How do I clean and maintain my solder sucker?

To clean and maintain your solder sucker, follow these tips:

1. Clean the nozzle regularly with a damp cloth or alcohol wipe.
2. Remove any debris or excess solder from the tool after each use.
3. Store the tool in a dry, dust-free location.
4. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any additional maintenance or repairs.

Can a solder sucker damage my circuit board or components?

When used correctly, a solder sucker should not damage the circuit board or components. However, improper use or excessive force can cause damage. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the tool carefully and precisely.

Conclusion

We hope you have a better understanding of solder suckers after going through our list.

These nifty tools will help keep your appliances in top condition and reduce the risk of unwanted accidents. But before signing off, we have decided to help you a bit more by narrowing down the top three products from our list.

In the first place, we have picked the Engineer SS-02 Solder Sucker Pump, which features an unmatched silicone tip and provides a comfortable experience. In second place is, Greenlee 1700 Desoldering Tool due to the enclosed spring mechanism and top-quality components.

The final podium spot goes to the Tabiger Solder Wick & Desoldering Pump, a multi-purpose tool offering great durability.

We have reached the end of our detailed guide, and the ball is in your court. It’s up to you to decide which solder sucker you need.

That’s all from us. Until next time. Ciao!

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