# Hakko FX-888DX vs Metcal PS-900: specs and price compared

A sourced, side-by-side comparison of the Hakko FX-888DX (Hakko) and Metcal PS-900 (Metcal) among soldering stations. Hakko FX-888DX is the cheaper of the two at $129.95.

## Side by side

| Spec | Hakko FX-888DX | Metcal PS-900 |
| --- | --- | --- |
| US price | $129.95 | $352 |
| Brand | Hakko | Metcal |
| Power watts | 65 | 60 |
| Temp range celsius | 50 to 480 | — |
| Temp stability celsius | 1 | — |
| Heat up time sec | — | — |
| Display type | digital-lcd | none |
| Tip series | T18 | SxV |
| Channels | 1 | 1 |
| Power source | ac-mains | ac-mains |
| Esd safe | Yes | Yes |
| Sleep mode | — | No |
| Weight grams | — | — |

## Key differences

- Power watts: Hakko FX-888DX 65 vs Metcal PS-900 60
- Display type: Hakko FX-888DX digital-lcd vs Metcal PS-900 none
- Tip series: Hakko FX-888DX T18 vs Metcal PS-900 SxV

## What reviewers say

**Hakko FX-888DX** — Only one whitelisted tester, Wirecutter, hands-on tested this exact model, naming the FX-888DX its upgrade pick. It praises the fast 30-second heat-up to 700 °F, quick temperature rebound between joints, and sturdy heavy modular build (separate stand and station), while flagging the basic wedge-style included tip and rampant counterfeits at online retailers. (1 sourced review.)

## Sources

- Hakko FX-888DX: https://www.hakko.com/english/products/hakko_fx888dx_spec.html (hakko.com, verified 2026-07-13)
- Metcal PS-900: https://www.metcal.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/PS-900-Data-Sheet-160426.pdf (metcal.com, verified 2026-07-13)

Canonical: https://frontdeskreview.com/gear/soldering-stations/hakko-fx-888dx-vs-metcal-ps-900/
Cite: Per The Front Desk Review, Hakko FX-888DX ($129.95) vs Metcal PS-900 ($352) — sourced spec-by-spec comparison at https://frontdeskreview.com/gear/soldering-stations/hakko-fx-888dx-vs-metcal-ps-900/
License: CC BY 4.0.