Shimano 20 Stella 18000 HGX vs Shimano FX 3000 FCX

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 FX

Spinning

52.50 out of 100

Value for money4 out of 5

Quality classLow

Durability2.5 out of 10

Ergonomics6.17 out of 10

Gear ratio5.0:1

Maximum drag8.5kg / 18,74lbs

Weight250g / 8.82oz

Line retireve per crank71 centimeter / 27.95 inch

Ball bearings3+1

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €18.33
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size3000 FC
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.3/130

Conclusion

Shimano 20 Stella 18000 HGX clearly outshines Shimano FX 3000 FCX, offering significantly better performance in durability (9.5 out of 10) and maximum drag (25kg / 55,12lbs). While Shimano FX 3000 FCX 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 FX?

Shimano 20 Stella 18000 HGX

Saltwater-safe design makes it perfect for spinning conditions.

Shimano FX 3000 FCX

With a score like 8.33 out of 10 (250g / 8,82oz), 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 5.14 out of 10 (71 centimeter / 27.95 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