Shimano Sahara FJ 4000X vs Shimano 20 Stella 18000 HGX

Shimano Sahara FJ

Spinning

47.70 out of 100

Value for money2 out of 5

Quality classLow

Durability7 out of 10

Ergonomics6.07 out of 10

Gear ratio4.7:1

Maximum drag11kg / 24.25lbs

Weight280g / 9.88oz

Line retireve per crank75 centimeter / 29.53 inch

Ball bearings4+1

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €71.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size4000
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.3/180

Shimano 20 Stella

Spinning

84.10 out of 100

Value for money3 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics4 out of 10

Gear ratio5.7:1

Maximum drag25kg / 55.12lbs

Weight670g / 23.63oz

Line retireve per crank129 centimeter / 50.79 inch

Ball bearings13

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €895.33
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 20 Stella 18000 HGX clearly outshines Shimano Sahara FJ 4000X, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.7:1) and total score (8.41 out of 10). While Shimano Sahara FJ 4000X may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano 20 Stella 18000 HGX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano Sahara FJ and Shimano 20 Stella?

Shimano Sahara FJ 4000X

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.
When it comes to retrieve speed, a score of 5.71 out of 10 (75 centimeter / 29.53 inch) means slower line pickup, great when you need more control for slower fishing styles
Landing a score of 8 out of 10 (4+1) in bearings, it feels smooth and controlled. Great when you're fishing actively and want consistency

Shimano 20 Stella 18000 HGX

A fast gear ratio of 9 out of 10 (5.7:1), means the reel is built for speed and it's perfect for active retrieves, and quick follow ups
Decent value at €895.33, it covers the basics, making it a great option for beginners or casual spinning setups