Shimano Ultegra C3000HGDX vs Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX

Shimano Ultegra

Spinning

92.50 out of 100

Value for money5 out of 5

Quality classGood

Durability8.5 out of 10

Ergonomics6.27 out of 10

Gear ratio5.8:1

Maximum drag9kg / 19.84lbs

Weight220g / 7.76oz

Line retireve per crank86 centimeter / 33.86 inch

Ball bearings6

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €132.00
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel sizeC3000HGD
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.3/130

Penn Slammer IV

Spinning

8500 Hsx

70.80 out of 100

Value for money4.5 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability5.5 out of 10

Ergonomics4 out of 10

Gear ratio5.3:1

Maximum drag22.6kg / 49,82lbs

Weight870g / 30.69oz

Line retireve per crank127 centimeter / 50 inch

Ball bearings9

Technical Specifications

BrandPENN
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €294.00
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size8500 HS
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.46/415

Conclusion

Shimano Ultegra C3000HGDX clearly outshines Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX, offering significantly better performance in ball bearings (6) and line retrieve per crank (86 centimeter / 33.86 inch). While Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Ultegra C3000HGDX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano Ultegra and Penn Slammer IV?

Shimano Ultegra C3000HGDX

With a score like 8.53 out of 10 (220g / 7,76oz), the reel feels light in the hand.. ideal for active techniques like twitching, jigging, or topwater.
8.1 out of 10 (86 centimeter / 33.86 inch) in line retrieve, means it picks up line fast, very handy when chasing quick fish
Landing a score of 8.67 out of 10 (6) in bearings, it feels smooth and controlled. Great when you're fishing actively and want consistency
Saltwater-safe design makes it perfect for spinning conditions.