Shimano Sahara 500 FI vs Shimano Exsence C 3000 MHGAX

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 Exsence

Spinning

95.00 out of 100

Value for money4 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics6.4 out of 10

Gear ratio6.0:1

Maximum drag9kg / 19.84lbs

Weight180g / 6.35oz

Line retireve per crank88 centimeter / 34.65 inch

Ball bearings12

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €416.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel sizeC 3000 MHGA
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.25/125

Conclusion

Shimano Exsence C 3000 MHGAX clearly outshines Shimano Sahara 500 FI, offering significantly better performance in durability (9.5 out of 10) and maximum drag (9kg / 19,84lbs). While Shimano Sahara 500 FI may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Exsence C 3000 MHGAX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

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

Shimano Sahara 500 FI

Landing a score of 8 out of 10 (4 S SUS + 1 Rollerbearing) in bearings, it feels smooth and controlled. Great when you're fishing actively and want consistency

Shimano Exsence C 3000 MHGAX

With a great drag score 9.2 out of 10 (9kg / 19,84lbs), the reel is built to handle big fish confidently.. whatever the setting, freshwater or inshore salt
8.3 out of 10 (88 centimeter / 34.65 inch) in line retrieve, means it picks up line fast, very handy when chasing quick fish
Saltwater-safe design makes it perfect for spinning conditions.