Shimano 20 Stella 18000 HGX vs Daiwa 21 Ballistic MQ LT 2500DX

Shimano 20 Stella

Spinning

84.10 out of 100

Value for money3 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics4 out of 10

Gear ratio5.7:1

Maximum drag25kg / 55.12lbs

Weight670g / 23.63oz

Line retireve per crank129 centimeter / 50.79 inch

Ball bearings13

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €895.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size18000 HG
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.52/310

Daiwa 21 Ballistic MQ LT

Spinning

95.00 out of 100

Value for money5 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability5.5 out of 10

Ergonomics6.35 out of 10

Gear ratio5.2:1

Maximum drag10kg / 22.05lbs

Weight195g / 6.88oz

Line retireve per crank73 centimeter / 28.74 inch

Ball bearings8

Technical Specifications

BrandDAIWA
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €204.30
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size2500D
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.28/150

Conclusion

Daiwa 21 Ballistic MQ LT 2500DX edges out Shimano 20 Stella 18000 HGX with slightly better overall performance, especially on the ball bearings (8) and the weight (195g / 6,88oz). Still, Shimano 20 Stella 18000 HGX holds its own with strengths like a durability of 9.5 out of 10 and a gear ratio of 5.7:1, making it a solid choice depending on your preferences and fishing needs.

What's the difference between Shimano 20 Stella and Daiwa 21 Ballistic MQ LT?

Shimano 20 Stella 18000 HGX

Saltwater-safe design makes it perfect for spinning conditions.

Daiwa 21 Ballistic MQ LT 2500DX

With a score like 8.7 out of 10 (195g / 6,88oz), 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
With an outstanding bearing score of 10 out of 10 (8), the reel offers top tier smoothness. Ideal for anglers who appreciate premium feel