10 Best Rework Stations
for June 2023

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When it comes to soldering and reworking electronic components, having the right tool for the job is essential. This is where rework stations come in, offering advanced features and superior performance to help you achieve accurate, precise results every time. A rework station consists of a hot air gun and a digital soldering iron, making it a versatile tool for soldering, desoldering, and reworking surface mounted devices (SMD). It heats and cools down quickly and the intelligent temperature control circuit ensures that the right temperature is maintained during use. The Yihua and Aoyue brand are some of the most popular and reliable rework station manufacturers, offering various features like anti-static design and ESD safe design, making them ideal for delicate electronic projects. With the 10 best rework stations in this post, you can choose from a range of models that cater to different requirements, whether you're a hobbyist or a professional in the field of soldering and reworking. These stations are perfect for projects such as repairing circuit boards, replacing damaged components, and fine-tuning prototypes. With safety features like the No Air Protection and exceptional precision control, these rework stations will give you the confidence you need when working on important projects. Read on to discover more about the 10 best rework stations of the year, and find the perfect tool for your next project.

1
9.8
SCORE
YIHUA 8786D I 2 in 1 Hot Air Rework and Soldering Iron Station with °F /°C, Cool/Hot Air Conversion, Digital Temperature Correction and Sleep Function

YIHUA 8786D I 2 in 1 Hot Air and Rework Soldering Iron Station with °F /°C

by YIHUA

A Dual System with Advanced DesignsThis station combines soldering station and hot air rework station for versatile uses when it provides dual display system & dual power switch and other advanced software functions.

The YIHUA 8786D I 2 in 1 Hot Air Rework and Soldering Iron Station with °F /°C, Cool/Hot Air Conversion, Digital Temperature Correction and Sleep Function is a modestly priced, decent-performing soldering iron and hot air rework station. It boasts both 60W and 120W heat outputs, a 3-stage temperature control, and a digital temperature display. The 8786D is relatively quiet, heats up fairly quickly, and has strong heat output. Its temperature accuracy is decent, but the temperature adjustment range is somewhat limited. The 8786D's airflow control is decent, and it does come with an included metal stand. But its stand isn't as stable as other stations, and it can wobble if knocked over. The 8786D's sleep function is nice, and it's relatively quiet, but it can get rather hot, so be careful when using it.

2
9.5
SCORE
YIHUA 862BD+ SMD ESD Safe 2 in 1 Soldering Iron Hot Air Rework Station °F /°C with Multiple Functions

YIHUA 862BD+ SMD ESD Safe 2 in 1 Soldering Hot Iron Air Rework Station °F /°C with Multiple Functions

by YIHUA

Zilog Dual Core Microcomputer Processor- This unit now features a Three LED tubes display and you can easily change the LCD digital readouts back and forth "Centigrade to Fahrenheit" for the soldering iron and hot air temperatures with the push of a button.

The YIHUA 862BD+ ESD Safe 2 in 1 Soldering Iron Hot Air Rework Station is a versatile soldering station that not only serves as a soldering iron, but also as a hot air gun. The soldering iron has an adjustable temperature setting between 200°C and 450°C, which is perfect for most soldering jobs, and the soldering iron comes with a protective cover. The hot air gun also has an adjustable temperature setting between 200°C and 450°C, which is perfect for most soldering jobs. The soldering iron and hot air gun have dual LED displays, which show the temperature for both irons, and the air gun has a separate LED indicator for the air flow. The soldering iron comes with a sturdy, metal stand, and the hot air gun has a metal stand of its own. The soldering iron and hot air gun are both ESD safe, so they're safe to handle, and you can set the temperature at the push of a button. The YIHUA 862BD+ ESD Safe 2 in 1 Soldering Iron Hot Air Rework Station is a good choice for anyone who wants to perform a variety of soldering jobs.

3
9.4
SCORE
YIHUA 948-II 4 in 1 Hot Air Rework Soldering Iron and Desoldering Suction Tin Gun Station with Suction Pick Up Pen °F /°C

YIHUA 948-II 4 in 1 Hot Air Rework Soldering Iron and Suction Desoldering Tin Gun Station with Suction Pick Up Pen °F /°C

by YIHUA

One Unit, Four ToolsThis unit features a 75-Watt De-soldering Station, a powerful 650-Watt Hot Air Rework Station, a 60-Watt Soldering Station and a Suction Pen for more choices.

The YIHUA 948-II 4 in 1 Hot Air Rework Soldering Iron and Desoldering Suction Tin Gun Station with Suction Pick Up Pen °F /°C is a well-designed, highly functional soldering station. It has a built-in temperature display, which allows for precise temperature control, and an automatic switchover function. The powerful 960W heating element heats the soldering iron in just 30 seconds, and the unit comes with three interchangeable nozzles for different tasks. The YIHUA 948-II 4 in 1 Hot Air Rework Soldering Iron and Desoldering Suction Tin Gun Station with Suction Pick Up Pen °F /°C comes with a desoldering gun, a soldering gun, a suction pick up pen, a sponge, a desoldering brush, a sponge, a cleaning brush, tweezers, and tweezers. The YIHUA 948-II 4 in 1 Hot Air Rework Soldering Iron and Desoldering Suction Tin Gun Station with Suction Pick Up Pen °F /°C can heat from room temperature to 500°F (260°C), and it has a lifespan rating of 10000 hours, so it's built to last. The unit uses the same 960W heating element as the YIHUA 960-II 4 in 1 Hot Air Rework Soldering Iron and Desoldering Suction Pick Gun Station with Suction Pick Up Pen °F /°C, but it uses a smaller, lighter unit that weighs about 5.5 pounds.

4
9.4
SCORE
CO-Z 909D+ 5 in 1 SMD Soldering Rework Station with Hot Air Heat Gun, Solder Iron Station with Stable DC, 5V USB Outlet for Charging, LED Digital Monitor to Adjust the Voltage and Temperature

CO-Z 909D+ 5 in 1 SMD Soldering Station Rework with Hot Air Heat Gun

by CO-Z

Voltage, Tips and Nozzles ----- Power input of this product is 15V 2A, the voltage is adjustable from 0-15V; the pack comes with 5 interchangeable tips and 4 nozzles to accommodate different needs.

The CO-Z 909D+ 5 in 1 SMD Soldering Rework Station with Hot Air Heat Gun, Solder Iron Station with Stable DC, 5V USB Outlet for Charging, LED Digital Monitor to Adjust the Voltage and Temperature is an excellent soldering station. It offers a wide range of convenient functions, including soldering iron, hot air gun, stable DC, voltage detecting and 5V USB outlet. The hot air gun is equipped with a brushless motor for mild and continuous hot air generation, stable and accurate temperature from 212F to 842F; soldering iron also features stable temperature control from 392F to 896F, accommodating various needs. The soldering iron and hot air gun have separated temperature control, and both are powered by independent power supply. The soldering iron is compatible with 18W, 25W and 35W irons, and the hot air gun is compatible with 300W and 450W irons. The soldering iron station has 25W and 35W irons, and the hot air gun station has 300W and 450W irons. The soldering iron station and the hot air gun station are both equipped with LED digital temperature display, and the temperature can be adjusted between 392°F and 896°F. The soldering iron station and hot air gun station both feature independent DC output, voltage detecting and 5V USB outlet, convenient for charging small electronic devices. The soldering iron station and hot air gun station both also have a stable DC output and voltage detection function, convenient to adjust the voltage for specific devices.

5
8.9
SCORE

The Aoyue 888A 2 in 1 Digital Hot Air Rework and Soldering Station is one of our favorite rework stations, and it's easy to see why. The 888A features a dual function: It can function as a conventional soldering iron and hot air rework station. The soldering iron has a 60W power output, which is enough to handle most common circuit board components. The hot air function has a 120W output, and it's powerful enough to rework most surface mount components. Both functions have digital displays, which provide an accurate reading at all times. The soldering iron also has an adjustable sleep timer, which shuts down the soldering iron after 60 minutes. The hot air function also has an adjustable sleep timer, which shuts down the hot air after 30 minutes. The 888A also has a built-in sponge holder and a separate spool holder. The hot air function also has a cooling fan, which helps reduce frizzy solder and clean up after soldering. The 888A comes with a 3-year manufacturer's warranty.

6
8.7
SCORE
Durable 2 in 1 Hot Air Rework Gun Station and Soldering Iron Station 800W with PID Smart Temperature Control,Sleep Function,Digital Display,Small Noisy,Rapid Heat-Up,°F /°C Switch RS2

Auroland Durable 2 in 1 Hot Air Rework Gun Station Soldering and Iron Station 800W with PID Smart Temperature Control

by Auroland

REWORK & SOLDERINGThis RS2 is the perfect combination of Hot Air Station and Soldering Station. It supports the simultaneous use of Hot Air Station and Soldering Station. Perfect for mobile phone repairs, circuit welding, automotive coatings, etc.

The RS2 is a well-designed, well-built soldering station that does the job of best performing stations we tested, but is priced like budget models. The RS2 comes with everything you need for basic soldering, including everything but the soldering iron, and has a good selection of accessories, too. The soldering iron heats up quickly and has a stable temperature (it doesn't overheat or cool down too fast). It has a slim, ergonomic handle that makes it easy to hold, perfect for working remotely, and the soldering iron has a 90-degree angle that makes it easier to reach into tight spaces. The RS2 also comes with an extra soldering iron tip, a sponge for cleaning the soldering iron tip, and a field repair kit. The RS2 is easy to set up and use, and it includes basic safety features, such as anti-static and over-temperature protection. The RS2 is also affordable (it costs about $40 less than the runner-up model), so it's a good choice for hobbyists who just need a basic soldering station.

7
8.6
SCORE
Aoyue 968A+ SMD Digital Hot Air Rework Station

Aoyue 968A+ SMD Digital Air Hot Rework Station

by Aoyue

Digital Display for soldering iron and a digital calibration and auto sleep function

The Aoyue 968A+ is a rework station that doubles as a hot air gun. It's compact enough to fit on a desk or workbench, and it's powerful enough to handle most repair tasks. The 70-watt iron included works well for most soldering tasks, but it's a bit slow when sorting and reconnecting cables, and the cable feeding system isn't as easy to use as our fellow top pick, the Tweezerman Nite-Eye GC. The smoke absorber is a nice touch, but it's not as effective as we'd like. The built-in airflow gauge is a nice touch, but it's a bit too sensitive, and the temperature display is a bit dark. The display also doesn't offer any information about how long a soldering job will take, which is too bad. Overall, the 968A+ is a handy, compact rework station that does a good job handling most tasks, but it's not as versatile as the Harbor Freight model.

8
8.5
SCORE
Happybuy 853D 3 in 1 Soldering Station 110V Hot Air Rework Station Digital Display Soldering Iron Station with Accessories

Happybuy 853D 3 in 1 Soldering Station 110V Hot Rework Air Station Digital Display Soldering Iron Station with Accessories

by Happybuy

DIVERSE APPLICATION- Designed for soldering SOIC, CHIP, QFP, PLCC, BGA and other temperature sensitive components, essential tool for cell phone repair, laptop repair, or circuit boards soldering.

The Happybuy 853D 3-in-1 Soldering Station is one of the best soldering stations we've ever tested. It has all the features you need, including accurate temperature control, a digital display, and an accurate temperature display. It also has lots of extra features, such as an auto-off function when the iron gets too hot. The 853D's accuracy is outstanding: temperatures were within 1 degree C. The only drawback is that the 853D's soldering iron is detachable, so you can't use the soldering iron with accessories that come with the soldering station. And like most soldering stations, the 853D isn't the best at soldering large, heavy components or components with long leads. But it's the best soldering station on our list, and it's an excellent value for the price.

9
8.5
SCORE
110V 853A 600W SMD PCB Preheater bga Rework Station Preheating Oven Station Infrared Preheating Station Hot Plate Preheating Oven Welder

TFCFL 110V 853A 600W SMD PCB Preheater bga Rework Station Oven Preheating Station Infrared Preheating Station Hot Plate Preheating Oven Welder

by DINGYU

Comes with a thermometer to facilitate the detection of PCB temperature.Sensor closed loop PID control, accurate temperature stability.

FLIR's 853A 600W SMD PCB Preheater is a well-designed and easy-to-use preheater for desoldering and soldering. It can be programmed to reach any temperature between 100°C and 300°C, and its digital display is easy to read and reliably accurate. The 853A has a ceramic heating element, which ensures that you won't hear annoying pops and crackles while it's in use, and it's sufficiently powerful to preheat most electronics quickly. It also has a large heating area of 16" x 12", so it's suitable for large circuit boards, and it preheats quickly (you can preheat a board in as little as 5 minutes). The 853A has a 10-minute timer, so you can set the temperature and walk away, but it's too short for batch preheating. The 853A doesn't come with a cooling tray, so you'll still need to include that, and it's large and bulky, so you'll need ventilation. The 853A is pricey, but it's a bargain compared to many competitive preheaters, and the small size and portability make it a great choice for hobbyists and small-scale production.

10
8.5
SCORE
Aoyue 852A++ Digital SMD Hot Air Rework Station

Aoyue 852A++ Digital SMD Air Hot Rework Station

by Aoyue

Built in air flow gauge for precise adjustment

This powerful hot air rework station is best suited for hobbyists and electronics repairers who do a lot of component level repair. This rework station features a 500 watt metal heater with a long-life element. The heater has three temperature settings, 400, 450, and 500 degrees Celsius, so you'll be able to change the temperature as needed. The heater has a built in vacuum pickup tool, so you'll be able to pick up components without using a solder sucker. The rework station also has two built in soldering irons, one 15 watt iron and one 30 watt iron. The 15 watt iron is enough for soldering very small components, while the 30 watt iron is powerful enough for soldering larger components. The rework station also features a built in fan, so you can cool your components as they heat up. The fan is whisper quiet, so you'll barely notice it. The rework station is well-built, and it's well built. The unit is compact, and it includes a lot of extras, like an extra vacuum pickup tool, a carrying case, a soldering iron stand, and a solder wick.

Rework stations have come a long way since their inception in the mid-20th century. These versatile tools are essential for any technician, engineer or hobbyist who needs to repair or modify electronic components.

Early Days:

In the early days of rework stations, they were nothing like the advanced tools we have today. The first rework stations were simple soldering irons that were used to remove and replace electronic components. These early tools lacked the precise temperature controls needed for precise soldering work, which made repairs difficult, and the entire process was a hit-and-miss affair.

Introduction of Hot Air:

In the 1980s, hot air rework stations were introduced. These tools used a stream of hot air to melt and re-flow solder, making it easy to remove and replace components. Hot air rework stations quickly became the industry standard, and they remain popular today.

Advancement of Rework Stations:

In recent years, rework stations have advanced considerably. Today's stations come equipped with microprocessors that monitor temperature and air flow, ensuring precise control over the soldering process. Some of them include temperature control modes such as digital, touch screen and knob control. Many stations offer programmable settings, allowing technicians to save and recall specific soldering profiles for different components.

No Air Protection:

Another critical feature that has been added is the exclusive No Air Protection. This is an upgraded safety design. Should the hot air gun stop putting out air unusually during use, the program will automatically set an alarm and cut off the power to the heating element to ensure safety.

Anti-static Design/ ESD Safe Design:

One of the newer features that can be seen in many rework stations is the anti-static or ESD safe design. These features can prevent static or leakage damage to components. This reduces the risk of failure or malfunction and ensures the longevity of the components.

Conclusion:

Rework stations have come a long way from the simple tools of the past. With their advanced features and precise controls, they have made electronic repairs easier and more accurate. As technology continues to progress, we can be sure that rework stations will continue to evolve and become even more advanced in the years to come.

Key factors in the product description are:

1. Exclusive No Air Protection: This is a crucial safety feature that ensures the hot air gun does not overheat, which could lead to damage or accidents. The program stops the heating element from functioning once the device stops putting out air. This automatic alarm system and cut-off feature help ensure the safety of the user by preventing the tool from overheating, which could result in burns or fire.

2. Intelligent Temperature Control: This feature is essential when working with delicate components that require precise and accurate temperature control. With the high-end precision PID program, the station can monitor and correct actual temperatures at high speed with fast temperature compensation. This provides the accuracy that your projects need for optimal performance. Accurate temperature control is crucial in welding and soldering, as it helps prevent overheating and damage to the components being worked on.

3. Anti-static Design/ ESD Safe Design: This feature is essential as it helps prevent static or leakage damage to components. Static electricity can damage sensitive electronic components during the welding or soldering process. The Anti-static design of this hot air gun helps prevent such damages, including discharges that could cause sparks, overheating, or electronic component failure. The ESD Safe Design ensures the protection of these sensitive components against electrostatic discharge, which can cause damage to electronic parts and systems.

Overall, these key features are essential for a welding and soldering tool to ensure the safety of the user and accuracy for the delicate components. The exclusive no-air protection ensures that the device stops overheating, while the intelligent temperature control ensures accuracy, and the anti-static design prevents damage to sensitive components. Investing in this hot air gun with these key performance factors will offer you peace of mind and guarantee an efficient and quality welding and soldering process.

FAQ About rework stations

Q: What should I look for in a rework station?

A: When looking for a rework station, there are several factors to consider, including temperature control, versatility, ease of use, and safety features. You'll want to look for a rework station that allows you to precisely control the temperature, has a range of interchangeable nozzles for different jobs, and that is easy to use and operate. It's also important to ensure that the station has adequate safety features to prevent damage to components or injury to the user.

Q: What are the different types of rework stations?

A: There are several different types of rework stations, including hot air rework stations, soldering rework stations, and BGA rework stations. Hot air rework stations are used for removing and installing surface-mount components using hot air, while soldering rework stations are used for soldering and desoldering through-hole components. BGA rework stations are specialized units designed for repairing Ball Grid Array (BGA) components.

Q: What is a hot air rework station?

A: A hot air rework station is a tool used for removing and installing surface-mount components using hot air. The station comprises a heating element and a fan, which combine to provide a stream of hot air that melts the solder holding the component in place, allowing it to be removed or repositioned. Hot air rework stations are commonly used in electronics repair and manufacturing.

Q: What is the difference between a rework station and a soldering station?

A: While there is some overlap, a rework station is a more versatile tool than a soldering station. While both can be used for soldering and desoldering electronics components, rework stations typically offer additional capabilities such as hot air rework and the ability to work with a wider range of components. A soldering station, on the other hand, is dedicated solely to soldering and typically has only one or two interchangeable tips.

One more thing, if you're in the market for a hot air rework station, you want to make sure you get the best one for your needs. That's why we recommend checking out our top picks for the best hot air rework stations in our reviews and buying guide (The 5 Best Hot Air Rework Stations Reviews and Buying ...). Our number one pick features an exclusive safety design with no air protection and intelligent temperature control for the most accurate results every time. Plus, all of our top picks have anti-static/ESD safe designs to protect your components. Take a look and find the perfect hot air rework station for your workshop in 2023!

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