At first look, a heat gun may look similar to a hairdryer, and also, their working process may appear similar too. However, a heat gun dissipates heat at a much higher temperature. The sweltering air of the heat gun is used for bending plastics, loosening hardware, soften different materials, and shrink wraps.
And when you want a heat gun for electronics, you would want to purchase the best heat gun for electronics presently gettable in the market. However, this isn’t like picking the cherries from the birthday cake.
Indeed, the selection for the heat guns can seem awfully tricky. Henceforth, our review rounds up five popular and high-performing heat guns to meet your requirements. Whether you are a professional, homeowner, or DIY worker, these five heat guns will serve all.
Also, the added buying guide and safety measurements for using a heat gun come as a bonus with the write-up.
Review of the Best Heat Gun for Electronics
Heat guns are inexpensive, versatile, and easy to use power tools. You will see its widespread use in arts and crafts as well as hardcore construction projects. These are homeowners and electricians favorite for joining wires or blowing away any damaged components precisely without damaging other parts.
1.Tacklife HGP73AC Heat Gun
The Tacklife HGP73AC comes with an array of premium components and practical features suitable for professional use. Also, the heat gun comes handy in a tight budget.
Despite coming in inexpensive pricing, the heat gun adepts at a variety of project completion. You can use it for barbecue lighting, shrinking plastic wraps, and importantly, paint removal from walls. And the heat gun features all accessories required to accomplish all these works.
It includes four nozzles, a fishtail, a cone, a spoon reflector, and a barbecue lighter within the package. So, you won’t have to buy anything separately ardently. It adds up to its cost-cutting feature greatly.
For effectively a wide range of applications, the heat gun offers seven variable temperature controls. Also, it has three different flow modes which change according to the set temperature level. The best part about the heat gun is that both flow and temperature are controlled with a dial knob at the rear cover. So, you won’t face the problem of reaching the controller knob.
It comes with a powerful 1600W motor that hastened to reach the maximum temperature in a relatively short period. So, you won’t have to waste time waiting. The heat gun also features professional overheating protection and quick cool off technology for swift usages.
The increased control over temperature setting and airflow cooperate with the ergonomic rubberized grip to offer the best heat gun experiences to all users.
Key Features
- Wattage: 1600W
- Temperature Settings: 122℉~1112℉
- Weight: 2.64 pounds
- Nozzles: Four
Pros
- Four different and useful nozzles
- Seven variable temperature control
- Lightweight and sizeable rubberized handle
- Quick heat dissipation and airflow
Cons
- Lasts only for 500 hours
Verdict: The HGP73AC is made for bending pipes, paint removing, rusty nuts and bolts removal, and thawing tubes.
2. Wagner Spraytech 0503038 HT400 Heat Gun
When you start using the redesigned Wagner Spraytech HT400, you would love its useful and practical features. What’s more, the manufacturer has included all the essential heat gun features without making it an expensive investment.
During our review, we liked its practical applications that didn’t make intent at adding higher settings but kept it useful for medium-duty works anyway. Firstly, it has a lovely integrated hand that comes handy during hands-free operation and cooling off period.
So, you can accomplish all of your crafting and household functions without any work fatigue. Also, its 0.7 pounds weight is easily carried into hard to reach corners. It is another appreciable function of the HT400 heat gun.
The construction may seem a bit fragile, but that’s acceptable with its lower pricing. Moreover, the heat gun provides dual temperature settings at 680°F and 450°F for variable uses. When you add the temperature setting with the two fan speeds, it really gives exceptional control.
The two temperature and fan speed settings make it a suitable tool for small to medium crafting and household works. These operations are made breezier with increased flexibility of the unit that suits DIY workers more. You can, thus, use the HT400 for shrinking wraps, loosening nuts, and bending PVC pipes.
Hence, this heat gun remains at the top of the best cheap heat gun for electronics, small crafts, and DIY projects.
Key Features
- Wattage: 360W
- Temperature Settings: 450℉~680°F
- Weight: 0.7 pounds
- Fan Speed: Two
Pros
- Hands-free operation is possible.
- Two fan and temperature settings offer increased control
- Lightweight construction helps small DIY projects
- Cool-touch sidebars for efficient cooling off.
Cons
- All the accessories come separately
- Only for small projects
Verdict: While cumbersome heat guns are inappropriate for small crafting and electrician jobs, the HT400 with 0.7 pounds weight suits the artistic works more.
3.PORTER-CABLE PC1500HG Heat Gun
Another brilliant inclusion in the list of the best heat gun for electronics comes in the form of the PC1500HG heat gun. It brings loads of practical features to the forefront. For one, it has two fan speed settings for the airflow.
The high and low fan speed delivers airflow at 11CFM to 19CFM. It is more than sufficient for most heavy-duty project completions. Also, it has temperature settings from 120℉ to 1100℉ for superior controls.
You will be surprised to note that the heat gun actually allows users to set the temperature at a 20℉ interval. It suits pinpoint accuracy at works, an essential feature for electronics.
Another practical feature of the heat gun includes separate dial knobs for the fan and temperature settings. So, you won’t have to control one over another unintentionally anymore wrongly. Apart from the controls, the 1500W motor also ensures quick heating to avoid annoying waiting times.
As a plus point, the heat gun is relatively lightweight with a 2 pounds weight measurement. So, you can use the handgun for prolonged periods without being concerned about hand fatigue and tiredness.
The overall construction of PC1500HG is durable and ensures endurance for an extended period. However, if it comes out defected, you can take the help of the three-year extended warranty period from Porter-Cable.
Key Features
- Wattage: 1500W
- Temperature Settings: 120℉~1100°F
- Weight: 0.7 pounds
- Fan Speed: Two
Pros
- 20°F interval for temperature control
- Lightweight design reduces fatigue
- A broad 10-19CFM airflow.
- Lengthy cord for substantial reaching capacity
Cons
- Sometimes the output is somewhat unsatisfactory
Verdict: The PC1500HG heat gun is made for professionals and household workers alike. Its wide range of temperature and fan speed is stunning. Also, separate knobs for controls make it easy to use for all.
4.Wagner Spraytech 0503008 HT1000 Heat Gun
Wagner HT1000 Heat Gun is a clear winner when it comes to cheap heat guns with uncompromising features for beginners and professionals alike. It has two temperature settings at 750ᵒF and 1000ᵒF to work on high heats with most metals at ease.
Additionally, the different fan speeds ensure much more controlled and customized operation with the heat gun. You can, thus, use the heat gun for regular household chores such as loosening nuts and bolts, thawing pipes, and paint removal.
All the works become comfier and more accurate, thanks to the flexible design of the unit. Furthermore, at 1200W capacity, this heat gun quickly reaches the necessary temperature range. It, subsequently, makes all the DIY and professional works faster than you may anticipate.
Apart from comfort, Wagner HT1000 also focused on durability. That’s why the manufacturer has added corrosion and rust-resistant nozzle with the package. Also, the handle is ergonomic and durable.
So, you can use the handle to accomplish all heating jobs at ease. And the durability profoundly ensures that the heat gun works successfully under the harshest conditions without any damage.
Last but not least, work comfortably with the heat gun with its integrated stand that permits hands-free operation and cooling off period.
Key Features
- Wattage: 1200W
- Temperature Settings: 750℉~1000°F
- Weight: 1.35 pounds
- Fan Speed: Two
Pros
- Two fan and heat settings
- The package includes a heating hook
- Integrated stand and lightweight design
- Rust-proof durable construction
Cons
- The motor loses power irregularly
Verdict: The Wagner Spraytech HT1000 is a cheap heat gun. You can count on its durability and easiness to complete limitless home improvement tasks and craftsmanship.
5.SEEKONE Heat Gun
The SEEKONE hot air gun is handy for professionals and hobbyists with a long temperature range, four nozzles, and durability.
The hot air gun has a wide temperature range at 120℉ to 1200℉, which is sufficient to complete most of the tasks at ease. Also, you get two variable temperature settings to ensure accuracy and control during the operations.
What’s more, the two flow modes provide better control over the airflow. Hence, you will enjoy the increased control of the heat gun. On top of this, the fast heating capacity of the tool means you can accomplish the tasks sooner than anticipated.
The fast heating is made possible with the 1800W powered motor. It has a soft starting feature for a prolonged lifetime. The lifetime is also enhanced with the durable construction and overload protection of the heat gun.
Besides, the heat gun weighs only 2.06 pounds and has an ergonomic rubberized handle. You can work with the power tool without getting tired soon. Furthermore, the handle features multiple grips and also perfect weight distribution. So, you can accomplish most applications with ease and comfort.
The SEEKONE hot gun is made for thawing frozen pipes, loosening nuts, decorating up-cycling, bending pipes, and home improvement too.
Key Features
- Wattage: 1800W
- Temperature Settings: 120℉~1200°F
- Weight: 2.06 pounds
- Fan Speed: Two
Pros
- High-speed heating capacity for quick jobs
- Overload and overheat protection for durability
- Four nozzles and other accessories included in the package
- Fatigue-free and safe use is possible
Cons
- Only two fan speed settings
Verdict: The SEEKONE heat gun has an LCD display to see the workpiece with enhanced clarity. It makes the results more accurate. Also, the ergonomic design lets you work for an extended period without getting tired.
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Buying Guide for the Best Heat Gun for Electronics
When you plan to buy a heat gun, several factors require close consideration. If you don’t know how to judge these factors, you may, most likely, end up getting a wrong hot air gun for your purposes.
Since you are our prime priority, we don’t want you to experience such annoyance. That’s why we have compiled a comprehensive heat gun buying guide here.
Power Output
A heat gun is designed to dissipate heat in a relatively quick time to work on the metals. The heat is generated from the motor. So, higher motor output ensures a higher temperature range. It also provides a quick rising of the heat on the gun to meet your project requirements.
The higher wattage also ensures an overall increase in the performance section. Nonetheless, higher power output is also benefited from multiple settings.
The only drawback of such immense motor output is that they get pricier too.
Temperature Range and Settings
What is a heat gun manufactured for? The answer is to generate heat to work on different metals. So, the power tool should facilitate a higher temperature setting. However, there is a small trick when it comes to the heat range of the instrument.
Firstly, the lower end of the heat generation needs to be minimal, and secondly, the higher range requires maximum range.
Besides the temperature range, you should also focus on the variable temperature settings. Usually, most heat guns provide two variable temperature settings. But some units feature three to five stages, which are ideal for controlled and customized applications.
Fan Setting
The fan setting of a heat gun is essential to control the airflow. The adjustable fan settings help you direct the flow speed back and forth to meet the demand of your applications. For instance, when you work with light and fragile materials, you can set the fan speed at a lower level. It will help you work with better efficiency.
Similarly, the higher airflow setting will allow you to complete the jobs quicker. Ideally, there are mostly two-variable airflow settings. Some high-end heat guns may have higher airflow settings, but these are costly too.
Work Type
Another important heat gun consideration is the type of heat gun you will require for the jobs. Likewise, all power tools, the heat gun are either for DIY projects or professionals. So, go through the specifications of the heat gun to know which type of work it will suit better.
There are, however, some heat guns that will support both work types.
Readable Displays
This is an additional feature in a heat gun that will enhance your work comfort with the power tool. Heat guns with LED or LCD display will showcase the temperature and airflow range. So, you will get rid of any guess works.
Thermal Protection
Thermal protection or thermal cut-out is an essential feature for the heat gun. It helps the motor stop working whenever the temperature breaches the desired level. It safeguards the device from overheating and getting damaged eventually.
Accessories
A heat gun won’t work directly on the metals. It requires nozzles and other accessories such as a spoon reflector and barbecue lighter. You should check whether the heat gun package includes all these within the box or comes separately.
Heat Gun Safety Measurements
A heat gun is a sensitive power too. It works with extreme temperatures and a considerable airflow rate. So, you would want to remain on the safe side while using the heat gun. It asks for following some safety measurements. These are:
- Always wear gloves when you work with the heat gun. It will make sure that your hands remain safe even if you touch the nozzle accidentally.
- The wire and power cord or plug need regular inspection for secured performance. Once in a while, check the wiring and plugs to make sure that there’re no leaks.
- After finishing off your work, let the heat gun and its nozzle cool down properly. Don’t hasten to store it without cooling it down.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1.How much does an average heat gun cost?
Heat guns are a relatively inexpensive power tool. You will get the most standard hot air guns around $10 to $30 in the offline and online market. However, some professional heat guns may cost you around $50, but it fair enough considering the number of features it will provide to you.
2. Can I use a heat gun to reflow solder?
Yes, you can quickly use a heat gun to reflow or reattach the damaged soldering or new soldering of the electronic components and circuit boards. You only need to make sure that the parts are held down to prevent blowing away of the parts while soldering.
Conclusion
Whether you are ardently a professional electrician or an enthusiast homeowner, a heat gun will serve several purposes for you. Also, it is an indispensable power tool for artisans. Hence, our review of the best heat gun for electronics will be beneficial for all.
If you look for a professional heat gun, we would like to recommend the Tacklife HGP73AC Heat Gun for you. It has 1600W output and a 122℉~1112℉ temperature range that will accomplish all jobs at ease and with premium accuracy.
On the contrary, the Wagner Spraytech HT400 Heat Gun wit 360W and medium temperature range is suitable for artisans and DIY workers.