Unlike most of you, I only dabble in electronics ... just started playing with my first Arduino. I do a bit of everything ... solder wires in my truck ... repair some old tube equipment ... I don't trust crimp connections so I solder all of them ... I am a machinist by trade but also build a contr…

Both manufacturers are good. 1mm and .5mm should be good for your situations. “ I do a bit of everything ... solder wires in my truck ... repair some old tube equipment ... I don't trust crimp connections so I solder all of them ...” Properly crimped wires (they have a bit of flex) are better th…

Kester 44 has been around for years. I look at it as a standard. If you parts (connectors and wire) are new it doesn't matter. However for your current job it doesn't matter. Perhaps you can aid in making your decision by thinking what you might use the rest of the roll of solder for.

Exactly what I was thinking and why I was asking! From what I read both will work great for my new connectors but which is a better "all around" solder? It took me 20 years to go through 1 lb so I am sure I will have this next roll for a long while. Is one better than the other for all around job…

Either company, but all around 60/40 might be best, it’s subjective though.

Be aware that 60/40d solder has a solidus phase meaning the solder goes though a "slush" temperature range before becoming solid. 63/37 solder is eutectic having no solidus phase and is less likely to make a cold colder joint.

[image] LarryD: all around 60/40 might be best Really? I would've guess that the improvement going from 60/40 to 63/37 would make any differences between the two current choices. (not to mention: did you know that solder is supposed to have a use-by date? I don't know if it's realistic, bu…

[image] westfw: did you know that solder is supposed to have a use-by date? So do I :woozy_face: :older_man: :skull: :ghost:

It's not necessary to order a pound at a time. https://www.jameco.com/z/83-4000-0000-Kester-Solder-Pocket-Pack-0-031-Inch_73576.html

Thanks! Like I said, my once every 20 year purchase. Just wanted to make sure of what I was buying. I didn't realize how complicated this could be. Learned a lot about solder. Thanks again!

You have seen this ? [SDG #079 What's the best solder for electronics? Expensive or cheap?]

Best solder Kester or MG Chemicals?

Other Hardware General Electronics

LarryD February 24, 2022, 4:51am 13

Oh, you are just a youngster.

Here is a 900+ post thread that might drive you crazy.

Topic		Replies	Views
Buying solder: Going through hell! Kester 44: 60/40 -VS- 67/33 General Electronics	22	14394	July 16, 2017
Which Flavor of Solder? General Guidance	28	382	March 4, 2026
Did I buy the wrong solder? General Electronics	26	3604	June 6, 2019
Good solder General Electronics	13	1672	August 3, 2020
Alternatives to soldering, before I rip all my hair out General Guidance	52	708	September 5, 2025

Best solder Kester or MG Chemicals?

Related topics