Shimano 20 Stella 18000 HGX vs Shimano Aero BB 4000X

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 Aero BB

Spinning

39.80 out of 100

Value for money2 out of 5

Quality classLow

Durability3 out of 10

Ergonomics6.03 out of 10

Gear ratio4.7:1

Maximum drag10kg / 22.05lbs

Weight290g / 10.23oz

Line retireve per crank75 centimeter / 29.53 inch

Ball bearings3+1

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €61.33
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size4000
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.3/180

Conclusion

Shimano 20 Stella 18000 HGX clearly outshines Shimano Aero BB 4000X, offering significantly better performance in durability (9.5 out of 10) and gear ratio (5.7:1). While Shimano Aero BB 4000X 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 Aero BB?

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
Saltwater-safe design makes it perfect for spinning conditions.
Decent value at €895.33, it covers the basics, making it a great option for beginners or casual spinning setups

Shimano Aero BB 4000X

With a score like 8.07 out of 10 (290g / 10,23oz), 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
The reel scores 7 out of 10 (3+1) in bearings, offering smooth performance for regular use with no issues