Shimano FX 2500 FCX vs Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX

Shimano FX

Spinning

48.60 out of 100

Value for money3.5 out of 5

Quality classLow

Durability2.5 out of 10

Ergonomics6.17 out of 10

Gear ratio5.0:1

Maximum drag4kg / 8.82lbs

Weight250g / 8.82oz

Line retireve per crank71 centimeter / 27.95 inch

Ball bearings3

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €18.33
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size2500 FC
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.25/160

Penn Slammer IV

Spinning

8500 Hsx

70.80 out of 100

Value for money4.5 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability5.5 out of 10

Ergonomics4 out of 10

Gear ratio5.3:1

Maximum drag22.6kg / 49,82lbs

Weight870g / 30.69oz

Line retireve per crank127 centimeter / 50 inch

Ball bearings9

Technical Specifications

BrandPENN
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €294.00
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size8500 HS
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.46/415

Conclusion

Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX clearly outshines Shimano FX 2500 FCX, offering significantly better performance in durability (5.5 out of 10) and maximum drag (22,6kg / 49,82lbs). While Shimano FX 2500 FCX may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano FX and Penn Slammer IV?

Shimano FX 2500 FCX

With a score like 8.33 out of 10 (250g / 8,82oz), the reel feels light in the hand.. ideal for active techniques like twitching, jigging, or topwater.
When it comes to retrieve speed, a score of 5.14 out of 10 (71 centimeter / 27.95 inch) means slower line pickup, great when you need more control for slower fishing styles
A bearing score of 5 out of 10 (3) gets the job done (basic but dependable) especially for beginners or casual anglers