Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX vs Daiwa 20 Ballistic EX LT 2500DX

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

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

Daiwa 20 Ballistic EX LT

Spinning

89.90 out of 100

Value for money4.5 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability5.5 out of 10

Ergonomics6.43 out of 10

Gear ratio5.3:1

Maximum drag10kg / 22.05lbs

Weight170g / 6oz

Line retireve per crank75 centimeter / 29.53 inch

Ball bearings11

Technical Specifications

BrandDAIWA
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €210.20
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size2500D
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.28/150

Conclusion

Daiwa 20 Ballistic EX LT 2500DX clearly outshines Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.3:1) and weight (170g / 6oz). While Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Daiwa 20 Ballistic EX LT 2500DX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano Spheros SW A and Daiwa 20 Ballistic EX LT?

Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX

Scoring 8 out of 10 (4+1), the reel runs smooth under pressure
Built tough for the salt, ideal for seafishing.

Daiwa 20 Ballistic EX LT 2500DX

The reel brings in line quickly with its 8.2 out of 10 (5.3:1) rating, making it a great fit for power fishing
With a score like 8.87 out of 10 (170g / 6oz), 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