Shimano Sahara 500 FI vs Shimano Stradic SWB 8000HGX

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

Shimano Sahara 500 FI, Spinning reel with front drag
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 Stradic SWB, 8000HG, left and right hand, Sea fishing reel, Front Drag, STSW80HGB
Shimano Stradic SWB
Seafishing
66.50 out of 100
Value for money4 out of 5
Quality classGood
Durability8.82 out of 10
Ergonomics5.45 out of 10
Gear ratio5.6:1
Maximum drag16kg / 35.27lbs
Weight665g / 23.46oz
Line retireve per crank107 centimeter / 42.13 inch
Ball bearings7

Technical Specifications

  • BrandSHIMANO
  • The main category of the reelSeafishing
  • Price range~ €245.33
  • Is saltwater resistantYes
  • Spare spoolNo
  • Reel size8000HG
  • Handle typeSingle handle
  • Drag typeFront drag
  • Handle orientationLeft, Right
  • Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.37/275

Conclusion

Shimano Stradic SWB 8000HGX clearly outshines Shimano Sahara 500 FI, offering significantly better performance in durability (8.82 out of 10) and maximum drag (16kg / 35,27lbs). While Shimano Sahara 500 FI may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Stradic SWB 8000HGX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

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

Shimano Sahara 500 FI

  • A fast gear ratio of 10 out of 10 (6.2:1), means the reel is built for speed and it's perfect for active retrieves, and quick follow ups

Shimano Stradic SWB 8000HGX

  • Scoring 8.4 out of 10 (16kg / 35,27lbs), the reel delivers reliable, smooth resistance when targeting strong fighters like snapper or pollock
  • Built tough for the salt, ideal for seafishing.