Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 XGX vs Shimano Sahara 2500 R

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

Shimano Sahara 2500 R

Spinning

38.50 out of 100

Value for money2.5 out of 5

Quality classLow

Durability2.96 out of 10

Ergonomics4.08 out of 10

Gear ratio5.2:1

Maximum drag2kg / 4.41 lbs

Weight275g / 9.70oz

Line retireve per crank76cm / 29.92 inch

Ball bearings3 S SUS + 1 Rollerbearing

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €47.33
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size2500
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeRead drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/m: 0.18/290. 0.20/240, 0.25/160

Conclusion

Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 XGX clearly outshines Shimano Sahara 2500 R, offering significantly better performance in durability (8.8 out of 10) and maximum drag (12kg / 26,46lbs). While Shimano Sahara 2500 R may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 XGX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano 21 Stradic SW and Shimano Sahara 2500 R?

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
Built tough for the salt, ideal for seafishing.

Shimano Sahara 2500 R

The reel brings in line quickly with its 8 out of 10 (5.2:1) rating, making it a great fit for power fishing
When it comes to retrieve speed, a score of 5.86 out of 10 (76cm / 29.92 inch) means slower line pickup, great when you need more control for slower fishing styles