Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 XGX vs Daiwa BG 3500X

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

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

Daiwa BG

Spinning

69.10 out of 100

Value for money3.5 out of 5

Quality classMedium

Durability7.77 out of 10

Ergonomics4 out of 10

Gear ratio5.7:1

Maximum drag0lbs

Weight400g / 14.11oz

Line retireve per crank97 centimeter / 38.19 inch

Ball bearings6

Technical Specifications

BrandDAIWA
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €104.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size3500
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.3/220

Conclusion

Both Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 XGX and Daiwa BG 3500X perform at a similar level overall, so the better choice depends on what matters more to you, Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 XGX offers a maximum drag of 12kg / 26,46lbs, while Daiwa BG 3500X stands out for a line retrieve per crank of 97 centimeter / 38.19 inch. Your decision should be guided by your fishing style and target species.

What's the difference between Shimano 21 Stradic SW and Daiwa BG?

Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 XGX

At 5.82 out of 10 (12kg / 26,46lbs), the drag is on the lighter side—suitable for smaller saltwater species or finesse-style presentations
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

Daiwa BG 3500X

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
A high retrieve rate of 9.2 out of 10 (97 centimeter / 38.19 inch), means the reel is made just for speed, perfect for speed fishing or covering water quickly