Shimano 20 Stella 18000 HGX vs Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 XGX

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

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

Shimano 21 Stradic SW

Seafishing

63.80 out of 100

Value for money4 out of 5

Quality classGood

Durability8.8 out of 10

Ergonomics5.79 out of 10

Gear ratio6.2:1

Maximum drag12kg / 26.46lbs

Weight430g / 15.17oz

Line retireve per crank105 centimeter / 41.34 inch

Ball bearings7

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSeafishing
Price range~ €240.40
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size5000 XG
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.33/200

Conclusion

Shimano 20 Stella 18000 HGX clearly outshines Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 XGX, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.7:1) and maximum drag (25kg / 55,12lbs). While Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 XGX may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano 20 Stella 18000 HGX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano 20 Stella and Shimano 21 Stradic SW?

Shimano 20 Stella 18000 HGX

A fast gear ratio of 9 out of 10 (5.7:1), means the reel is built for speed and it's perfect for active retrieves, and quick follow ups

Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 XGX

Scoring 8.77 out of 10 (430g / 15,17oz), this reel is lighter than expected for a saltwater model, which helps on long sessions without extra strain
With a fast retrieve 7, the reel helps you stay on top of fast runs and cover water efficiently