PCBA Soldering Methods: Reflow, Wave, and Hand Soldering
2026-06-08
Not all PCBA soldering is the same.
Each method serves a different purpose. Using the wrong one wastes time and money.
Here are 3 common soldering methods and when to use each.
Method Comparison
Method Best For Speed Cost
Reflow Soldering SMT components (resistors, ICs, BGAs) Fast Low-medium
Wave Soldering Through-hole components (connectors, capacitors) Medium Medium
Hand Soldering Rework, prototypes, small batches Slow High (labor)
When to Use Each
Reflow Soldering
– Solder paste applied, components placed, board heated in oven
– Best for: SMT assembly, high volume, fine-pitch components
– Solder paste applied, components placed, board heated in oven
– Best for: SMT assembly, high volume, fine-pitch components
Wave Soldering
– Board passes over molten solder wave
– Best for: Through-hole parts, mixed SMT+TH boards
– Board passes over molten solder wave
– Best for: Through-hole parts, mixed SMT+TH boards
Hand Soldering
– Technician manually solders each joint with iron
– Best for: Rework, prototypes under 5 boards, repairs
– Technician manually solders each joint with iron
– Best for: Rework, prototypes under 5 boards, repairs
STG Electronic Capabilities
Method In-House? Typical Use
Reflow Yes All SMT assembly
Wave Yes Through-hole on mixed boards
Hand Yes Rework, touch-up, small prototypes
Reflow Yes All SMT assembly
Wave Yes Through-hole on mixed boards
Hand Yes Rework, touch-up, small prototypes
Common Mistake
Using hand soldering for production quantities.
Result: Inconsistent joints, high labor cost, slow delivery.
Need Help Choosing?
Send your BOM + component types + quantity → 24hr soldering method recommendation + quote
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