Shimano FX 4000 FCX vs Shimano 21 Sustain 5000 XGFJX

Shimano FX

Spinning

49.90 out of 100

Value for money3.5 out of 5

Quality classLow

Durability2.5 out of 10

Ergonomics4 out of 10

Gear ratio5.2:1

Maximum drag9kg / 19.84lbs

Weight320g / 11.29oz

Line retireve per crank82 centimeter / 32.28 inch

Ball bearings3

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €18.33
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size4000 FC
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.3/180

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

Conclusion

Shimano 21 Sustain 5000 XGFJX clearly outshines Shimano FX 4000 FCX, offering significantly better performance in durability (9.5 out of 10) and total score (9.5 out of 10). While Shimano FX 4000 FCX 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 FX and Shimano 21 Sustain?

Shimano FX 4000 FCX

A bearing score of 5 out of 10 (3) gets the job done (basic but dependable) especially for beginners or casual anglers

Shimano 21 Sustain 5000 XGFJX

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.
Saltwater-safe design makes it perfect for spinning conditions.