It looks like in the ‘semi-professional’ (non-$2,000) soldering iron market there are a few key players; X-Tronic, Weller, and Hakko. Hakko & Weller are kind of the top dogs and are basically the same level of quality with varying strengths. Xtronics (at least in our foreseeable price range) follows closely behind and has the best accessories/customizable layout. Depending on what we are looking for in terms of budget on the ‘Buy-Once-Cry-Once’ scale, we have a few options from each brand which can be considered.
X-Tronic:
X-Tronic seems to have a wider range of price brackets than the other(s), including (obviously) the $50 set you found already. Customer service seems best out of the three; multiple reviews praise good customer service & replaceable elements offered directly from the brand, and all their products apparently include a 3-year warranty. They’re the only one out of the three that comes with accessories/platforms other than just the heating element and iron holder.
Hakko
Almost exclusively well-reviewed & highly recommended throughout the soldering ‘community,’ seems to be considered the most reliable of the three brands and is at the very least comparable to Weller, if not better. Units are reportedly better for precise work, have a smaller form factor, and possibly the best build quality of the three, band (once you get past the initial setup) relatively simple operation. Pricier than X-tronics in terms of what you get as a package/accessories for the same price, but usually slightly more affordable than Weller. apparently. Customer support is kind of ‘meh,’ with only a 90-day warranty compared to X-tronics’ 3 years and
Weller:
Apparently invented the instant-heat-up soldering iron. Seems to be considered at the very least comparable to Hakko, if not better. Reportedly more robust in terms of power, and durable. More expensive than the other two, but 2nd best in warranty with 1 full year of coverage.
Comparison by Details & Price:
Comparison/Ranking by Feature:
Resources:
Hakko vs. Weller:
Weller Review:
Review website’s ranked list of best irons:
Pretty comprehensive review of a bunch of common brands, including those I’ve found so far: