Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 XGX vs Shimano Sahara 3000S R

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

Shimano 21 Stradic SW, 5000 XG, left and right hand, Saltwater Fishing Reel, Front Drag, 20STSW5000XG
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 3000S R, Spinning reel with rear drag
Shimano Sahara 3000S R
Spinning
38.50 out of 100
Value for money2.5 out of 5
Quality classLow
Durability2.99 out of 10
Ergonomics4.07 out of 10
Gear ratio5.2:1
Maximum drag2kg / 4.41 lbs
Weight280g / 9.87oz
Line retireve per crank76cm / 29.92 inch
Ball bearings3 S SUS + 1 Rollerbearing

Technical Specifications

  • BrandSHIMANO
  • The main category of the reelSpinning
  • Price range~ €49.33
  • Is saltwater resistantNo
  • Spare spoolNo
  • Reel size3000 S
  • 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 3000S R, offering significantly better performance in durability (8.8 out of 10) and maximum drag (12kg / 26,46lbs). While Shimano Sahara 3000S 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 3000S 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 3000S 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