Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX vs Shimano Vanford FA C3000SDHAX

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

70.00 out of 100

Value for money3.5 out of 5

Quality classGood

Durability4.65 out of 10

Ergonomics6.38 out of 10

Gear ratio5.1:1

Maximum drag9kg / 19.84lbs

Weight185g / 6.53oz

Line retireve per crank75 centimeter / 29.53 inch

Ball bearings10

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €195.33
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel sizeC3000SDHA
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.18/120

Conclusion

Shimano Vanford FA C3000SDHAX edges out Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX with slightly better overall performance, especially on the gear ratio (5.1:1) and the weight (185g / 6,53oz). Still, Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX holds its own with strengths like a ball bearings of 4+1 and a durability of 8.56 out of 10, making it a solid choice depending on your preferences and fishing needs.

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

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.

Shimano Vanford FA C3000SDHAX

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 8.77 out of 10 (185g / 6,53oz), 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