Shimano Sahara 500 FI vs Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 PGX

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

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

Shimano 21 Stradic SW

Seafishing

85.10 out of 100

Value for money4.5 out of 5

Quality classGood

Durability8.8 out of 10

Ergonomics5.79 out of 10

Gear ratio4.6:1

Maximum drag12kg / 26.46lbs

Weight430g / 15.17oz

Line retireve per crank78 centimeter / 30.71 inch

Ball bearings7

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSeafishing
Price range~ €240.40
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size5000 PG
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.33/200

Conclusion

Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 PGX clearly outshines Shimano Sahara 500 FI, offering significantly better performance in durability (8.8 out of 10) and line retrieve per crank (78 centimeter / 30.71 inch). While Shimano Sahara 500 FI may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 PGX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano Sahara 500 FI and Shimano 21 Stradic SW?

Shimano 21 Stradic SW 5000 PGX

At 5.82 out of 10 (12kg / 26,46lbs), the drag is on the lighter side—suitable for smaller saltwater species or finesse-style presentations
A line retrieval (per crank) of 78 centimeter / 30.71 inch helps bringing in line quickly, making it great for repositioning or working topwater baits
Built tough for the salt, ideal for seafishing.