Shimano 21 Sustain 5000 XGFJX vs Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX

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

Shimano 21 Sustain

Spinning

95.00 out of 100

Value for money5 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics6.07 out of 10

Gear ratio6:2:1

Maximum drag11kg / 24.25lbs

Weight280g / 9.88oz

Line retireve per crank101 centimeter / 39.76 inch

Ball bearings9

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €215.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size5000 XGFJ
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 175/1.75

Shimano Spheros SW A

Seafishing

59.10 out of 100

Value for money4 out of 5

Quality classGood

Durability8.56 out of 10

Ergonomics3.4 out of 10

Gear ratio5.7:1

Maximum drag18kg / 39.68lbs

Weight920g / 32.45oz

Line retireve per crank129 centimeter / 50.79 inch

Ball bearings4+1

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSeafishing
Price range~ €169.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size18000 HG
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.52/310

Conclusion

Shimano 21 Sustain 5000 XGFJX clearly outshines Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (6:2:1) and line retrieve per crank (101 centimeter / 39.76 inch). While Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano 21 Sustain 5000 XGFJX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano 21 Sustain and Shimano Spheros SW A?

Shimano 21 Sustain 5000 XGFJX

A fast gear ratio of 9.6 out of 10 (6:2:1), means the reel is built for speed and it's perfect for active retrieves, and quick follow ups
With a score like 8.13 out of 10 (280g / 9,88oz), the reel feels light in the hand.. ideal for active techniques like twitching, jigging, or topwater.
A high retrieve rate of 9.6 out of 10 (101 centimeter / 39.76 inch), means the reel is made just for speed, perfect for speed fishing or covering water quickly