In the world of portable soldering irons, two models have emerged as top contenders: the TS80P and the Pinecil. Both offer a range of features that appeal to electronics enthusiasts, hobbyists, and professionals. This article will delve into the specifications, performance, ease of use, and overall value of these two popular tools to help you decide which is the best fit for your needs.
Specifications and Features
TS80P
The TS80P, developed by Miniware, is an upgraded version of the original TS80. It boasts several improvements and notable features:
- Power Supply: The TS80P supports USB-C PD (Power Delivery) up to 30W, allowing for faster heating and more stable power delivery.
- Temperature Range: It offers a temperature range of 100°C to 400°C, adjustable in 1°C increments.
- Heating Element: The TS80P uses a high-quality, replaceable heating element for consistent performance.
- Build Quality: It features a durable CNC-machined aluminum body with a comfortable grip.
- User Interface: The TS80P has an OLED screen for easy temperature monitoring and adjustment.
- Firmware: Open-source firmware allows for customization and updates.
Pinecil
The Pinecil, produced by Pine64, is another formidable competitor in the portable soldering iron market:
- Power Supply: The Pinecil supports both DC barrel jack and USB-C PD up to 65W, providing even more power for rapid heating. Note: Unlike the TS-80P, the Power supply is not included
- Temperature Range: Similar to the TS80P, the Pinecil’s temperature range is 100°C to 400°C, with precise control.
- Heating Element: It utilizes a high-efficiency heating element that is replaceable and designed for longevity.
- Build Quality: The Pinecil has a robust plastic body with ergonomic design considerations.
- User Interface: Equipped with an OLED display, the Pinecil offers clear temperature readings and adjustments.
- Firmware: Like the TS80P, the Pinecil supports open-source firmware, giving users the flexibility to customize their device.
Performance
When it comes to performance, both the TS80P and Pinecil offer impressive capabilities:
- Heating Time: Thanks to their powerful USB-C PD support, both irons heat up quickly, with the Pinecil generally having a slight edge due to its higher power capacity.
- Temperature Stability: Both models maintain stable temperatures during use, which is crucial for precision soldering tasks.
- Tip Variety: Both the TS80P and Pinecil offer a range of interchangeable tips, allowing for versatility in different soldering applications.
Ease of Use
The ease of use for both soldering irons is a significant consideration:
- Portability: Both the TS80P and Pinecil are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for on-the-go repairs and projects.
- Power Options: The ability to use common USB-C power sources adds to their convenience, eliminating the need for proprietary chargers.
- User Interface: The OLED screens on both devices make it easy to adjust settings and monitor temperature, though the user experience might vary slightly based on individual preferences for interface design.
Value for Money
Assessing the value for money involves looking at the overall cost versus the features and performance:
- Price: Generally, the Pinecil is more budget-friendly compared to the TS80P, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money without compromising on performance.
- Durability: Both irons are built to last, with the TS80P’s aluminum body potentially offering a slight edge in terms of durability.
- Community and Support: Both products benefit from strong community support and open-source firmware, ensuring that users can get help and updates when needed.
What do Customers Think?
User Opinions on Pinecil vs. TS80P
Both the Pinecil and TS80P soldering irons have garnered significant attention from the maker and electronics communities, each with its own set of strengths and user preferences.
Pinecil Pros:
- Affordability: The Pinecil is widely praised for its cost-effectiveness, providing high functionality at a lower price point compared to the TS80P. Note however that it does not ship with a power supply.
- Power Flexibility: Users appreciate the Pinecil’s ability to operate on a wide range of power sources, including USB-C PD and DC barrel jack, making it versatile for fieldwork and various power availability scenarios
- Performance: Despite its lower price, the Pinecil performs admirably for most soldering tasks. It heats up quickly and handles typical electronics projects well, although it may struggle with more demanding jobs like desoldering components on boards with significant heat sinks.
Pinecil Cons:
- Build Quality: Some users note that the Pinecil’s build feels less robust compared to the TS80P. The tip connection can feel a bit loose, which may affect precision in some cases.
- High-Heat Performance: While it can reach high temperatures, the Pinecil may not perform as well with tasks requiring sustained high heat, such as soldering large ground planes or multi-layer boards.
TS80P Pros:
- Build Quality: The TS80P is praised for its premium build, featuring a CNC-machined aluminum body that feels more durable and comfortable during extended use.
- User Interface: The TS80P’s user interface, including its OLED display, is considered intuitive and easy to use, providing precise temperature control and a good user experience.
- Temperature Stability: It maintains stable temperatures very well, which is crucial for precision soldering tasks. This makes it reliable for professional use.
- Compact and Portable: Like the Pinecil, the TS80P is also highly portable, making it suitable for field repairs and projects on the go.
Cons:
- Cost: The TS80P is more expensive than the Pinecil, which might not be justified for users who do not need its premium build and slight performance edge.
- Power Requirements: Although it supports USB-C PD, the TS80P’s power requirements can sometimes be less flexible compared to the Pinecil, which can affect usability in less equipped environments.
Summary
Pinecil is the go-to choice for users who need a cost-effective, versatile, and powerful enough soldering iron for most general tasks. Its flexibility with power sources and open-source firmware add to its appeal, despite some minor drawbacks in build quality and high-heat performance.
TS80P, on the other hand, is ideal for users who prioritize build quality, temperature stability, and a more refined user interface. It is a bit more expensive but offers a more robust feel and reliable performance for precision tasks.
Conclusion
Choosing between the TS80P and Pinecil depends largely on your specific needs and budget. The TS80P offers a premium build with slightly less power, while the Pinecil provides more power at a lower cost with a durable design. Both models excel in performance, ease of use, and community support, making either choice a solid investment for anyone in need of a portable soldering iron.
Ultimately, if budget is a primary concern, the Pinecil is likely the better choice. However, if you prioritize build quality and are willing to invest a bit more, the TS80P could be the ideal tool for your soldering needs.
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Recommended Accessories
I use a Brass Coil Tip Cleaner to clean my tips.
Resources
- Pinecil Wiki
- Both soldering irons run open source firmware called IronOS, which allows users to customize and update their soldering iron easily.
