Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX vs Daiwa 21 Ballistic MQ LT 1000DX

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 21 Ballistic MQ LT

Spinning

75.20 out of 100

Value for money4 out of 5

Quality classGood

Durability4.66 out of 10

Ergonomics6.43 out of 10

Gear ratio5.1:1

Maximum drag5kg / 11.02lbs

Weight170g / 6oz

Line retireve per crank64 centimeter / 25.2 inch

Ball bearings8

Technical Specifications

BrandDAIWA
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €198.90
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size1000D
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.2/150

Conclusion

Daiwa 21 Ballistic MQ LT 1000DX edges out Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX with slightly better overall performance, especially on the gear ratio (5.1:1) and the weight (170g / 6oz). Still, Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX holds its own with strengths like a durability of 8.56 out of 10 and a maximum drag of 18kg / 39,68lbs, making it a solid choice depending on your preferences and fishing needs.

What's the difference between Shimano Spheros SW A and Daiwa 21 Ballistic MQ LT?

Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX

Built tough for the salt, ideal for seafishing.

Daiwa 21 Ballistic MQ LT 1000DX

Thanks to its 7 out of 10 (5.1:1) gear ratio, the reel offers a strong balance between torque and quick retrieval
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.