Penn 2020 Clash II 4000 HSX vs Shimano Vanford FA 2500AX

Penn 2020 Clash II

Spinning

59.90 out of 100

Value for money4 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics4 out of 10

Gear ratio7.0:1

Maximum drag6.8kg / 14,99lbs

Weight323g / 11.39oz

Line retireve per crank112 centimeter / 44.09 inch

Ball bearings9

Technical Specifications

BrandPENN
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €208.50
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size4000 HS
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.28/280

Shimano Vanford FA

Spinning

82.30 out of 100

Value for money4 out of 5

Quality classGood

Durability4.61 out of 10

Ergonomics6.42 out of 10

Gear ratio5.1:1

Maximum drag9kg / 19.84lbs

Weight175g / 6.17oz

Line retireve per crank75 centimeter / 29.53 inch

Ball bearings8

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €184.33
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size2500A
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.25/160

Conclusion

Shimano Vanford FA 2500AX clearly outshines Penn 2020 Clash II 4000 HSX, offering significantly better performance in ball bearings (8) and gear ratio (5.1:1). While Penn 2020 Clash II 4000 HSX may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Vanford FA 2500AX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Penn 2020 Clash II and Shimano Vanford FA?

Penn 2020 Clash II 4000 HSX

Saltwater-safe design makes it perfect for spinning conditions.

Shimano Vanford FA 2500AX

Thanks to its 7 out of 10 (5.1:1) gear ratio, the reel offers a strong balance between torque and quick retrieval
With a score like 8.83 out of 10 (175g / 6,17oz), 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 5.71 out of 10 (75 centimeter / 29.53 inch) means slower line pickup, great when you need more control for slower fishing styles
With an outstanding bearing score of 10 out of 10 (8), the reel offers top tier smoothness. Ideal for anglers who appreciate premium feel