Hakko FX-888D / FX-888DX

A community favorite iron. Temperature controlled, does NOT use cartridges, typically ~90-100$ USD. The 'Fisher Price soldering station'.

Hakko has discontinued the FX-888D and released the FX-888DX as a replacement. Both are suitable for the soldering work required in making portables. "Saving a buck" by finding a used FX-888D is perfectly acceptable.