Daiwa 23 Saltiga 4000-HX vs Shimano 21 Nexave FI 2500X

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

Daiwa 23 Saltiga

Seafishing

81.20 out of 100

Value for money3.5 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics5.91 out of 10

Gear ratio5.7:1

Maximum drag12kg / 26.46lbs

Weight345g / 12.17oz

Line retireve per crank90 centimeter / 35.43 inch

Ball bearings12

Technical Specifications

BrandDAIWA
The main category of the reelSeafishing
Price range~ €777.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size4000-H
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.26/260

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 23 Saltiga 4000-HX clearly outshines Shimano 21 Nexave FI 2500X, offering significantly better performance in durability (9.5 out of 10) and maximum drag (12kg / 26,46lbs). While Shimano 21 Nexave FI 2500X may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Daiwa 23 Saltiga 4000-HX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Daiwa 23 Saltiga and Shimano 21 Nexave FI?

Daiwa 23 Saltiga 4000-HX

At 5.82 out of 10 (12kg / 26,46lbs), the drag is on the lighter side—suitable for smaller saltwater species or finesse-style presentations
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
The reel scores 7 out of 10 (4) in bearings, offering smooth performance for regular use with no issues