Shimano Vanford FA C3000AX vs Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX

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

Shimano Vanford FA

Spinning

82.20 out of 100

Value for money4 out of 5

Quality classGood

Durability4.61 out of 10

Ergonomics6.4 out of 10

Gear ratio5.1:1

Maximum drag9kg / 19.84lbs

Weight180g / 6.35oz

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 sizeC3000A
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.3/130

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

Conclusion

Shimano Vanford FA C3000AX clearly outshines Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.1:1) and weight (180g / 6,35oz). While Shimano Spheros SW A 18000 HGX may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Vanford FA C3000AX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

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

Shimano Vanford FA C3000AX

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 8.8 out of 10 (180g / 6,35oz), 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