Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX vs Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 PGX

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

Shimano 21 Stradic SW

Seafishing

85.10 out of 100

Value for money4.5 out of 5

Quality classGood

Durability8.8 out of 10

Ergonomics5.79 out of 10

Gear ratio4.6:1

Maximum drag12kg / 26.46lbs

Weight430g / 15.17oz

Line retireve per crank78 centimeter / 30.71 inch

Ball bearings7

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSeafishing
Price range~ €240.40
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size5000 PG
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.33/200

Conclusion

Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 PGX clearly outshines Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (4.6:1) and line retrieve per crank (78 centimeter / 30.71 inch). While Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 PGX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano Spheros SW A and Shimano 21 Stradic SW?

Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 PGX

Scoring 8.8 out of 10 (4.6:1), this reel offers a faster line retrieval, making it a good option for chasing pelagics or (and in practice useful for to quickly reset)
Scoring 8.77 out of 10 (430g / 15,17oz), this reel is lighter than expected for a saltwater model, which helps on long sessions without extra strain
A line retrieval (per crank) of 78 centimeter / 30.71 inch helps bringing in line quickly, making it great for repositioning or working topwater baits