Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 XGX vs Shimano Sahara 3000 SS DH HG 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 3000 SS DH HG R

Spinning

37.00 out of 100

Value for money2.5 out of 5

Quality classLow

Durability3 out of 10

Ergonomics2 out of 10

Gear ratio6.2:1

Maximum drag2kg / 4.41 lbs

Weight335g / 11.82oz

Line retireve per crank91cm / 35.83 inch

Ball bearings3 S SUS + 1 Rollerbearing

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €51.33
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size3000 SS DH HG
Handle typeDouble handle
Drag typeRead drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/m: 0.25/260. 0.30/180, 0.35/130

Conclusion

Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 XGX clearly outshines Shimano Sahara 3000 SS DH HG R, offering significantly better performance in durability (8.8 out of 10) and weight (430g / 15,17oz). While Shimano Sahara 3000 SS DH HG 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 3000 SS DH HG 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
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
Built tough for the salt, ideal for seafishing.

Shimano Sahara 3000 SS DH HG R

A fast gear ratio of 10 out of 10 (6.2:1), means the reel is built for speed and it's perfect for active retrieves, and quick follow ups
8.6 out of 10 (91cm / 35.83 inch) in line retrieve, means it picks up line fast, very handy when chasing quick fish