After working in the fishing industry and seeing what is available from most major manufacturers, it’s my opinion that Daiwa dominates the market in spinning reels under $100. Daiwa seems to offer significantly more value than most other brands when considering features such as durability, bearing quality, smoothness and weight. Comparing reels side-by-side and just spinning the handles show a noticeable difference in smoothness to other brands at even higher price points.
When shopping for a new spinning reel, people tend to compare bearing counts. I avoid doing this across different manufacturers, as many reels will advertise a very high bearing count, but perform very poorly. When comparing Daiwa reels to each other, added bearings have an intentional contribution to performance.
I have listed the Daiwa selection below, highlighting key differences and features. *Pricing may vary based on retailer*
Daiwa Strikeforce – $24
One of the smoothest 1-bearing reels available at an entry level price.
- ABS Aluminum Spool
- DigiGear
- 1 Bearing
Daiwa Sweepfire – $29
Includes the same features as the Strikeforce, but with an added bearing for slightly better performance.
- ABS Aluminum Spool
- DigiGear
- 2 Bearings
Daiwa Crossfire LT – $44
Arguably the best reel under $50 and introduces the LT series. This 2 bearing reel outperforms reels that have 5+.
- Carbon Light Body
- ABS Aluminum Spool
- Machine Cut Handle
- Advanced Tournament Drag
- 2 Bearings
Daiwa Laguna LT – $59
True Carbon Frame for increased durability and a solid price point reel.
- Carbon Light Body
- Air Rotor System
- Automatic Tournament Drag
- 4 Bearings
Daiwa Revros LT – $69
One of the most popular reels for several years. Great “bang for your buck”.
- Air Rotor
- Automatic Tournament Drag
- Carbon Light Body
- DigiGear
- 5 Bearings
Daiwa Regal LT – $79
Is one of the smoothest reels in the price range with a total of 10 bearings, the most in the lineup. Doesn’t sacrifice durability with the True Carbon Frame.
- Air Rotor
- Automatic Tournament Drag
- Carbon Light Body
- DigiGear
- 10 Bearings
Daiwa Legalis LT – $89
Best reel in my opinion for this price range. Entry point for the Air Bail that is nearly indestructible and features new ZAION-V material for the LT body and Air Rotor.
- Air Bail
- Automatic Tournament Drag
- Carbon Light Body
- DigiGear
- Machine Cut Handle
- 6 Bearings
Daiwa Exceler LT – $99
Only reel under $100 that has a 1-piece handle for maximum durability. Culmination of almost all features of reels below it.
- Air Bail
- Air Rotor
- Automatic Tournament Drag
- Carbon Light Body
- Machine Cut Handle
- 6 Bearings
NOTE: Select models feature a shallower spool for less line capacity. This is designed for using braided line to reduce the need for backing line. This can be a disadvantage for anglers using other types of line and for applications that require significant line capacity. Models include the Crossfire LT, Laguna LT and Revros LT
Tie 1 On - Fishing 