Shimano TLD 15X vs Shimano Sahara 500 FI

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

Shimano TLD

Seafishing

66.50 out of 100

Value for money4 out of 5

Quality classMedium

Durability8 out of 10

Ergonomics6.05 out of 10

Gear ratio4.0:1

Maximum drag10kg / 22.05lbs

Weight528g / 18.62oz

Line retireve per crank75 centimeter / 29.53 inch

Ball bearings4

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSeafishing
Price range~ €154.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size15
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeLever drag
Handle orientationRight
Line capacity monofil-

Shimano Sahara 500 FI

Spinning

44.20 out of 100

Value for money2.5 out of 5

Quality classLow

Durability3 out of 10

Ergonomics6.42 out of 10

Gear ratio6.2:1

Maximum drag2.5kg / 5.52 lbs

Weight175g / 6.17oz

Line retireve per crank69cm / 27.17 inch

Ball bearings4 S SUS + 1 Rollerbearing

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €62.00
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size500
Handle typeHandle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/m: 0.20/110 lb/yds: 2/190. 4/100, 6/60

Conclusion

Shimano TLD 15X clearly outshines Shimano Sahara 500 FI, offering significantly better performance in durability (8 out of 10) and line retrieve per crank (75 centimeter / 29.53 inch). While Shimano Sahara 500 FI may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano TLD 15X is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano TLD and Shimano Sahara 500 FI?

Shimano TLD 15X

At 5 out of 10 (10kg / 22,05lbs), the drag is on the lighter side—suitable for smaller saltwater species or finesse-style presentations
A line retrieval (per crank) of 75 centimeter / 29.53 inch helps bringing in line quickly, making it great for repositioning or working topwater baits
Built tough for the salt, ideal for seafishing.