Daiwa 20 Saltiga (G) 18000-HX vs Shimano 21 Nexave FI 2500X

The selected categories are different, score metrics vary from category to another.

Daiwa 20 Saltiga (G)

Seafishing

67.80 out of 100

Value for money3 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics3.4 out of 10

Gear ratio5.8:1

Maximum drag30kg / 66.14lbs

Weight885g / 31.22oz

Line retireve per crank131 centimeter / 51.57 inch

Ball bearings12

Technical Specifications

BrandDAIWA
The main category of the reelSeafishing
Price range~ €850.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size18000-H
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.47/300

Shimano 21 Nexave FI

Spinning

52.30 out of 100

Value for money3 out of 5

Quality classLow

Durability2.86 out of 10

Ergonomics6.17 out of 10

Gear ratio5.0:1

Maximum drag-

Weight250g / 8.82oz

Line retireve per crank73 centimeter / 28.74 inch

Ball bearings4

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €41.33
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size2500
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.2/240

Conclusion

Daiwa 20 Saltiga (G) 18000-HX edges out Shimano 21 Nexave FI 2500X with slightly better overall performance, especially on the maximum drag (30kg / 66,14lbs) and the durability (9.5 out of 10). Still, Shimano 21 Nexave FI 2500X holds its own with strengths like a ball bearings of 4 and a gear ratio of 5.0:1, making it a solid choice depending on your preferences and fishing needs.

What's the difference between Daiwa 20 Saltiga (G) and Shimano 21 Nexave FI?

Daiwa 20 Saltiga (G) 18000-HX

With a drag score of 10 out of 10 (30kg / 66,14lbs), the reel is built to handle serious pressure from large saltwater predators
Built tough for the salt, ideal for seafishing.

Shimano 21 Nexave FI 2500X

Thanks to its 6.33 out of 10 (5.0:1) gear ratio, the reel offers a strong balance between torque and quick retrieval
With a score like 8.33 out of 10 (250g / 8,82oz), the reel feels light in the hand.. ideal for active techniques like twitching, jigging, or topwater.
When it comes to retrieve speed, a score of 5.43 out of 10 (73 centimeter / 28.74 inch) means slower line pickup, great when you need more control for slower fishing styles
The reel scores 7 out of 10 (4) in bearings, offering smooth performance for regular use with no issues