I ordered a MiniTools test clip to start experimenting with flashing EEPROMs. There was no information on the retailer's website regarding the width of the pins. This is what I got:
I asked MiniTools if they have any solution to this. They said "no". I then realized that this clip was probably meant for soldering. Which I haven't had the energy to learn yet.
I ended up buying the expensive Pomodo one.
The flashing went well.
Depends... I started over 40 years ago with a simple, unregulated iron that was in the 5 dollar range. My current one is a Weller and costs about 300. And that is a cheap one.
Before you start soldering electronics, though, I'd start with soldering the "cube" from straight wires, then proceed to solder simple parts to perfboards.