Shimano Speedmaster Leverdrag II 12IIX vs Shimano 21 Sustain 5000 XGFJX

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

Shimano Speedmaster Leverdrag II

Multireels

82.70 out of 100

Value for money4.5 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics3.4 out of 10

Gear ratio5.7:1/3.1:1

Maximum drag18kg / 39.68lbs

Weight730g / 25.75oz

Line retireve per crank106 centimeter / 41.73 inch

Ball bearings4

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelMultireels
Price range~ €205.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size12II
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeLever drag
Handle orientationRight
Line capacity monofillbs/yds: 20/350

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 edges out Shimano Speedmaster Leverdrag II 12IIX with slightly better overall performance, especially on the gear ratio (6:2:1) and the weight (280g / 9,88oz). Still, Shimano Speedmaster Leverdrag II 12IIX holds its own with strengths like a ball bearings of 4 and a line retrieve per crank of 106 centimeter / 41.73 inch, making it a solid choice depending on your preferences and fishing needs.

What's the difference between Shimano Speedmaster Leverdrag II and Shimano 21 Sustain?

Shimano Speedmaster Leverdrag II 12IIX

With premium bearings scoring 5 out of 10 (4), this reel delivers buttery smooth operation even with load

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.