Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX vs Shimano Vanford FA 2500AX

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

Shimano Vanford FA

Spinning

82.30 out of 100

Value for money4 out of 5

Quality classGood

Durability4.61 out of 10

Ergonomics6.42 out of 10

Gear ratio5.1:1

Maximum drag9kg / 19.84lbs

Weight175g / 6.17oz

Line retireve per crank75 centimeter / 29.53 inch

Ball bearings8

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €184.33
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size2500A
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.25/160

Conclusion

Shimano Vanford FA 2500AX clearly outshines Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.1:1) and weight (175g / 6,17oz). While Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Vanford FA 2500AX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano Spheros SW A and Shimano Vanford FA?

Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX

Built tough for the salt, ideal for seafishing.

Shimano Vanford FA 2500AX

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 8.83 out of 10 (175g / 6,17oz), 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