SHIMANO SLX REEL BUYERS GUIDE! ALL 4 REELS COMPARED AND DIFFERENCES EXPLAINED

In 2 short years Shimano unloaded 4 different SLX reels on us... today I show you guys all the differences!
DAIWA, SHIMANO, ABU GARCIA, LEWS, KASTKING, QUANTUM, 13 FISHING, CURADO, CITICA, CASITAS, CAENAN, CHRONARCH, METANIUM, ALDEBARAN, ANTARES, CALAIS, STELLA, CONQUEST, SUSTAIN, STRADIC, EXSENCE, STEEZ, ZILLION, TATULA, FUEGO, ALPHAS, REVO, CONCEPT Z, MGX, LUCKY CRAFT, MEGABASS, EVERGREEN, JACKALL, DEPS, IMA, G LOOMIS, MAJOR CRAFT, MGL, NRX, CRUCIAL, SV, PISCIFUN, BLACK MAX, BASS RISE, RYOGA, BANTAM, ADRENA, GLORIOUS, ULTIMA, EXIST, BALLISTIC, FREAMS, TRUMP, SCORPION, XF 50, BAIT FINESSE, HAIBO, STEED, EXIST, ICAST, SLX, TRANX, POISON, SENSILITE, ZEPHYR

[@lmsmbassaddict7378]

The reel test is a stand up guy with excellent videos. Thank you brother.

[@rapalaman6681]

Super comparison and thanks! I have the SLX DC 70 XG (actually mine is a lefty 71). It has of course the 70 size spool, and features the two tone paint, XT chrome knob caps and the SLX DC logo in a subdued black paint. So this is a looker and much nicer than the USA version. Bearing count on the box is 6+1. It is a JDM and bought mine because of your earlier info so thank you.

[@fisherm.7310]

Great video! I really enjoy the comparison videos you put out. You should do the same with other reels like Curados, curado K, curado DC, curado MGL, maybe some of the even older curados, like the curado 70. Metaniums, Diawas, ect. Maybe even show the casting distances of each of the ones you show and tell us which one you’d pick. I would have liked to see what the casting distance between the MGL is compared to the XT or base SLX to understand your pick a bit more and to see what you are getting for your money. Keep up the good work!

[@5.7.0bassin2]

I have all 3 and love them i will be picking up the mgl soon

[@anthonymcgee8933]

Thanks for the video! I just got into the Shimano reels, I brought the SLX DC this Spring and it has performed wonderfully. Im going to get the SLX XT and SLX MGL this fall, probably another SLX DC too.

[@Mathe_Baendiger]

Get a curado

[@Starmangmh57]

Thanks! This was the video I needed as I I'm getting ready to purchase one. It will definitely be the XT.

[@itsnotme8047]

I'm really considering getting the slx dc and this video really helped

[@ivanradi4275]

Excellent video, thanks your previous ones I bought two SLX XT, the 8.2 and the 6.3 matching SLX Rods. Very please with their performance.

[@goosecreekrods3133]

Excellent review. Thank you very much. I'm going with the XT.

[@G_Machine_Joe]

Great video man. Thanks. I absolutely love the XT, except for it's overall size. Awesome, smooth reel that performs great, but it's so darn small! Haven't handled a DC yet, but I'm going to get one strictly for the size. 👍🏼

[@timmygbass6287]

Great details on this review. Thanks for the video.

[@jamiecobb7874]

So helpful! I've bought my husband several shimano bait casters, and really needed the help determining what features he needs this time. Thank you

[@bassinwithty4940]

you are a great wife

[@darkiee69]

Stupid thing Shimano did, naming it the same as some of their bike parts.

[@pcheek68]

Agreed. Now Google news feed keeps showing me stories about biking. And won't stop. Even though I've said, " not interested in this topic"... It's because I frequently Google the slx reel lineup. This video helped me choose the xt over the mgl...

[@THEREELTEST]

yep a pretty lazy job at naming the reel. Its worse for us youtubers doing videos on them because its easy to mess up saying the name

[@darkiee69]

@@THEREELTEST And not fun when you're trying to google if to see the price. The first two pages on google was just bike shops.

[@nathanring8112]

I’m into mountain biking AND fishing and it just gets even more confusing

[@darkiee69]

@@nathanring8112 Accidentally ordering a reel handle when it was a derailleur you were after. 😉

[@zneluresandfish2049]

Thank you this was soooo helpful which would be best for some galveston kayak red and trout fishing I will throw most often is some of my custom soft plastic lures

[@zlm2032]

Great review….thanks for sharing this info.

[@WhereWeWild]

Love your vids man. Appreciate them. 😊🤙🏽 Quick questions. I need super long casting distance for light baits. Considering the MGL. (Or if you have any better suggestions for a similar price) The American MGL is often sold out and more expensive also so was thinking about grabbing the JDM version on Digitaka. Do you like one better than the other? Also I notice you usually have the high XG gear ratios and was curious why? 🤔😊 Thanks again man keep up the good work!

[@Henryjholmesjr]

I have 3 of the 4 slx,slx xt,slx dc they all serve a purpose my favorite is the dc because of the Digital chip making the noise and you can bomb it of course at the end of the day you can’t go wrong with a shimano period

[@ricklawrence3406]

I have the SLX DC and I absolutely love it,I have no problem casting any lure either heavy or weightless,and get plenty of distance no matter what im throwing.

[@strikepaw1]

Is it good for throwing paddle tails? 1/4th to 1/2 ounce?

[@Mathe_Baendiger]

Dc is easy, try xt it outperforms the dc in distance

[@danthompson1467]

Very nice review sir I've been studying the baitcaster reels hard the pasted months .getting really to buy one this week I got cabin fever bad lol

[@MadVillainDoom]

I have the base SLX for over a year and I have used it mostly in saltwater trying to break it so I can get a new one with my 2 year warranty and it still works perfectly fine hahaha solid reel!

[@tylerharrison5189]

Bruh

[@hmoobdc5]

Loved my shimano scorpion dc

[@markperez1662]

Sounds like the only thing Shimano did wrong was not hiring this guy to give a comprehensive product review. Well done mate!

[@michaeldinunzio7019]

The xt is definitely my go to especially casting weightless flukes

[@aarondavis8224]

I own 3 types of slx reels. I have xt, dc, and mgl 70. I've always wondered if these reels were worth the extra money over the standard slx. Your videos answered this and I see I did get better reels. Thanks

[@henryhillhouse5544]

Which reel would u sag has the best performance

[@aarondavis8224]

@@henryhillhouse5544 it depends on what you are wanting to use it for and how much you're willing to spend. The XT is a great all around reel if you're on a budget, the DC is my favorite but it costs more, you can't go wrong with DC, the MGL 70 is designed to throw lighter baits, I can cast 1/4 oz squarebills on it with ease when paired with a medium light rod.

[@henryhillhouse5544]

@@aarondavis8224 I am willing to buy any of the reels and I would use it for weightless snd weighted soft plastics also some lighter top waters and jigs

[@henryhillhouse5544]

@@aarondavis8224 I have heard people say the xt has the same performance as the dc just more proned to backlash or would u disagree

[@aarondavis8224]

@@henryhillhouse5544 yes the XT can cast just as well as the DC. Dc is a set it and forget it brake system. Changing weights of lures is easier since you don't have to make adjustments. I'm very thankful for dc on windy days. The XT can cast the same distance.

[@terrywolford7880]

Now you also have #5. The 23 SLX DC 70/71 has reverted back to the IDC 4 brakes, it has a MGL 3 spool.anti rust treatment of bearings (saltwater OK). It has 6 ball and 1 bearings.

[@josealfaro797]

Do you know if the slx spools are interchangeable? All your videos are awesome. Great job.

[@lstaples007]

I love the xt... its looks the best and its the best bang for ur buck... I am a little concerned about water getting into the side plate adjustment area? Also can the mgl spool go in any of the other reels?

[@phillipjmontoyapmoney]

This is the best vid I’ve seen. It’s 2024 and I’m barely watching it

[@dymerafaelbr-usa6260]

I have the Curado DC that I bought it last year I kind don't love it because I feel like it's a little to big for my hands and how I like to palm the reels when I am fishing. I was wondering how would the Curado DC and the SLX DC frame compare to each other? Are they pretty much the same size? Also, I am getting a JDM Scorpion DC that's arriving in November I was wondering the size frame difference on that as well. I love your videos! Anytime I am thinking about getting new reels that I haven't owned before I always come here to check you videos on them! Keep up! Do a video comparing those three reels if you would that would be sick!

[@Mr.Higgs.]

I Think alot of us would love a tatula comparison video.

[@dmillz23]

I have both the xt and the dc, I find the xt in my hands more often. Idk why but it just feels right.

[@Mathe_Baendiger]

It’s better

[@vernervanschalkwyk2280]

Thanks for this reply. You have given the answer i was looking for.

[@notsure8327]

I find these reels to be almost unmatched at their price points. Here in Southern missouri, Lews has a big cult like fan base and I came close to buying lews reels in several occasions. Fortunately I was able to fish with some guys who are strictly Lews users. I was shocked at the quality difference between the base SLX model and a variety of $100-160ish Lews reels. It’s by no means a high end reel, but the gap between the two brands was like the gap between the SLX and a Curado DC or high end Shimano. The difference in rod performance was even more stark.

[@RyanSmith-fb8rf]

Does the SLX XT use the same gear and pinion as the SLX DC? I’m wanting to put a different gear in my slx dc

[@anthonyreeder8283]

I have 3 of the new smaller Dawia Tatula’s 100’s and one of the older ones. Do you feel that the Daiwa Tatula 100 is a better reel then the Slx or on the same level as the Curado?

[@jiggityyjake2992]

Wish you had a video on all the tatula models.

[@fishntales1766]

Are the xt and mgl spools interchangeable with no issues?

[@rolandmcclendon1394]

I'm going to get the shimano slx xt

[@russhood6747]

I love the comparison but , I have SHIMANO SLX MGL 71 did this come after the above?

[@saltwaterslayer4243]

Can you do this with all curado reels also which reel do you recommend for saltwater fishing the curado k slx dc or slx Xt or should I get the curado dc even though its out of my price point

[@mnbassintv2849]

So which is the best for casting crankbaits and spinner braids and stuff like that?

[@fishingmw1990]

Have you done a video like this but with all the different Shimano Curado?

[@leonardbrown1512]

I have the JDM SLX MGL and the SLX DC. I use the MGL the most for Saltwater light lake and river. I have caught some large fish on ot with 10lb braid. Its a great real. What are the differences between the JDM Scorpion MGL and the SLX MGL?

[@Raulmore07]

Waiting for the "Tranx 300 vs Tatula 300" Hope to see them soon!

[@touaevang]

How do you use the dial settings on the curado k? What do each number mean?

[@LH10039]

What fishing do you use in all your tests?

[@charlie8brown]

Apologies if you’ve addressed it somewhere, but… does the XT spool fit and function in the MGL frame? Everything I’ve read says they’re the same frame, only the spools are different.

[@weisswurstfruhstuck8523]

Please could you help me as a newby! What is this with the spool size of the SLX? Is this depending on how much line you are able to put on your spool? I would like to have a SLX for pulling behind my boat from further distances and usually the line is too short for that. I would need a longer line on these reels. Could you please explain me if this is correct ? Or what model I should or could take. Needent to be the slx only. I just need more line for trolling behind my boat. I googled but maybe as I am not a totally native speaker don’t get the important certainty of the models differences. Would be very glad and very kind of you if you’d help out a German/Irish pal due to that issue :)

[@2222fishing]

do you think the dc is worth buying on any reel shimano makes .or do you think if you can cast good with out it dont bother buying it?. i am on the fence!! with this dilemma. someone please help me out

[@addicted2tackle122]

Can I use the slx or the slx xt for all lures, jigs, pitching, crankbaits,etc...

[@thomasng4078]

Want to ask that which one is better, the curado k or the slx xt

[@americanstriper8666]

What are Micro Gears, X-ship, and iDC-4 brakes?

[@brandonsmith606]

I have the DC and the mgl is on it's way I bought the DC barely used and it's way awesome for throwing a spinnerbait in the wind

[@shahrilaril1492]

thanks ...

[@ivanbaires5727]

Do they make the handle left hand return

[@grizrr]

Witch model will get me more fish?

[@6cwl9]

I wish I had all 4 models

[@Kenzfishing]

Can I use the SLX for saltwater snook fishing ?

[@danielin1880]

Does the SLX DC have the same bearings as the base SLX or the SLX XT?

[@letsdu-dezdudezcheng1373]

Nice info master , also nice bible verse.

[@andrewwolf8652]

Dang that SLX MGL is sexy. I wonder how it compares to the new Curado 70 MGL or even the scorpion MGL 🧐 (and which one is worth the bang for the buck)

[@beelao5755]

Thanks

[@tannervandeman8785]

So I bought a Shimano SLX XT and I can't seem to figure out what I have to do to get it to cast far. I don't know what I need to do to fix that issue if anyone can help just let me know. Please and Thank You

[@TheMass33]

Is this the SLX DC from Japan?

[@pondbossbaits4579]

What is controversial about the side plate on the less expensive SLX model?

[@rayheller8450]

Hey I had a question my handle nut on the slx xt seems to be striped and I had accidentally ordered the regular slx handle nut are they the same or are they different?

[@kalecastaneda]

Yes it is. I did the same thing.

[@mhbh4118]

I waiting for Penn Phantom BC the new comers. It is can beat Tranx or Coastal

[@juanlozano2630]

You should try out the sixgill deluge, cyclone, typhoon, crius, or hamarr. Would love to see your opinion on them. I have a slx xt coming in tomorrow 😁 now gotta find a reel to replace my kast king spartacus.

[@d10dozerman2]

How do you like your Kast King reel or do you dislike it?

[@juanlozano2630]

@@d10dozerman2 shit sorry for the late reply but yeah i like it a lot for the price, its held up really good and whatnot and casts really good

[@d10dozerman2]

@@juanlozano2630 no worries. Did you receive your Shimano SLX xt reel and if so what is your impression of it. I have the SLX and I really like it. The SLX is a Great reel for $100 I was thinking about purchasing XT reel.

[@johnrich9278]

I put the slx xt chrome knob caps on my slx dc and it looks so much better.

[@johnrich9278]

Really wish they would have went with the grey color scheme on the dc.

[@johnrich9278]

Like the slx xt and mgl

[@johnrich9278]

Update. I also order a stainless 95mm handle for the slx dc and now it really sets it off. Kinda feel like I should be working for shimano on designing how the reels look lol.

[@caseydangar1193]

I own the xt and the dc as well and I love my slx dc but there is no denying that the slx xt just looks way more sleeker. Im gonna give it try putting my chrome xt knob end caps on my dc and see what it looks like. Its crazy to me that people like me and you who are regular dudes can get the styling scheme better for a shimano reel better than the slx dc designers at shimano. They nailed it with the slx xt but in my opinion whiffed it on the dc looks.

[@JerseyFishing20]

There’s no way I’m picking any of them over the DC but after that I agree on the XT model. I’m just one of the DC song lovers so only thing I’m taking over a DC is a better DC.

[@CoopOutdoorsy88]

Please do this curado’s, other shimano reels both spinning and casting, and other brands just like this video. And do this stuff I said with rods.

[@isaaco6131]

Can you do a casting distance and see how far the slx xt can cast with measurements

[@THEREELTEST]

Eventually I will

[@Mathe_Baendiger]

Xt is the best in distance but you will get some small nests

[@TriumphLegend900TT]

Hi How about SLX DC 70 ?!

[@americanstriper8666]

When I see the IDC brakes onscreen, I automatically thought it means "I don't care brakes".

[@hillbillyohio513]

Do you think these Shimano SLX DC reels for 129 on ALIExpress are real? Ive wanted to order one but im afraid to get a fake!

[@wanzhaf932]

do this for curado lineup.....really appreciate it....

[@THEREELTEST]

The Curados are more cut n dry with only 3 models. The DC and the 200 serve the same purposes while the 70 is the finesse model.

[@wanzhaf932]

@@THEREELTEST just do it....😂....btw where is other video about other gomexus reel handle and knob....curado K with single power handle maybe?

[@dymerafaelbr-usa6260]

Also, you said "in my opinion and my style of fishing.." what did you meant by that? I assume you bass fishing is that what you meant?

[@30minforasn]

Dc hands down for anyone considering one.

[@Mathe_Baendiger]

Haha

[@patwalker9890]

Agree with the SLX XT. The DC is some nice bling, but for everyday work on the water it doesn't really shine.

[@tylermedley4911]

Maybe its because i fish small creeks but i love my dc for daily work. If your gonna fish h&h's with just 1 combo while you walk 10 miles up a creek the fact that the dc doesnt birdsnest really helps out alot.

[@dadboddamien]

I typically just do one rod/reel outings and my DC is my go to.. It's been great for me.

[@garyk76]

depends on bait weight you throwing because it will outcast all the others by quite abit when you throwing baits that was 3/8 or more which is basically anything to actual bass fish

[@tylermedley4911]

@@garyk76 summer times in the creeks of setx a 3/8 chartreuse h&h is the only bait you need to slay bass. But you better have 3 or 4 of them because they hang up on anything they look at.

[@THEREELTEST]

get a Scorpion DC and you will think the SLX DC is garbage lol

[@rmbassfishing]

Have you seen the jdm slx 70 dc?

[@rebelliousexist570]

what does jdm mean

[@rmbassfishing]

@@rebelliousexist570 japanese domestic market. most fishing companies such as Shimano are based in Japan and therefore they get a few more skews of reels and rods than we do here in the states. these often have newer technologies or just slightly different. They are called JDM reels

[@rebelliousexist570]

@@rmbassfishing ohhhh nice thank you. I've heard of jdm cars before too so now it makes sense. thanks

[@wanzhaf932]

and price is near to bantam mgl....

[@rmbassfishing]

@@wanzhaf932 not sure about that. I've seen them consistently sub 250

[@MarcoRampinelli]

Manda uma dessas pro brasil, cara kkkk

[@paling1872]

Shimano making the slx logo on the side so bright it can burn your eyes out, while the numbers on brake adjustments are almost not even there

[@memeengineer6481]

please test the shimano curado 71xg

[@caseydangar1193]

I've got the curado 70 xg which is the same reel, just right hand retrieve. I own the slx xt, slx dc, curado k and curado 70. The curado 70 is the best looking and smoothest retrieve out of all of them. And is by far the best palming and feeling reel in the hand that I've ever felt. I fish stuff as light as 1/8th ounce ned rigs and as heavy as 1/2 ounce jigs. It can pull both extremes off easily. And don't let the size fool you. It can straight horse a fish in if it needs to. If you are interested in buying a curado 70/71 I would definetly recommend it. Its a super smooth and nice reel thats excellent for pitching and flipping along with bfs fishing. Plus they have gone down alot in price over the years.

[@memeengineer6481]

@@caseydangar1193 I just bought myself a Curado 71 mgl and i love it😉😊🤩

[@caseydangar1193]

@@memeengineer6481 man thats awesome. Is it not the best feeling reel in the hand? That reel can literally cast almost any weight lure. And its so so smooth when fishing it. Have you got a chance to fish with it yet?

[@memeengineer6481]

@@caseydangar1193 yes, the feeing is really really good, way better then my spinning reels. and you are right i can cast 4g lures easily with no problems

[@pilgrimsprogress7092]

What does SLX stand for??

[@THEREELTEST]

I dont know, Shimano were too lazy to think of a name and just picked it from they bicycle component lineup

[@cuj1359]

this year,you will have a new one different SLX reel

[@sandysatriabertopi]

Slx good gear...

[@rolandmcclendon1394]

Reel test I don't know witch one i should buy the jdm or American slx xt can you tell me please

[@ScroDiddly]

Those 2 reels are for 2 very different fishing applications. The 70 is for finesse and light tackle.

[@jamescorsiglia8997]

The important thing to consider is parts. If something where to go wrong, now your buying parts from japan or sending to japan for service. Rather than a local warranty replacement or reel repair service.

[@THEREELTEST]

The XT is not sold in Japan. Only the MGL70 and the DC70. The XT is basically a base SXL with a better paint job and much better braking for adjustability and fine tuning

[@treystiemsma7329]

I never thought a three+1ball bearing reel would be worth $100

[@antoniocarlosbatista9668]

my friend you are a fisherman or representative of some store I am looking for one that sells and dispatches to Brazil shimanos rods and reels. type antates nova and exense nova if you knew send me the link or email please

[@Rangla]

Curado300 vs tranx

[@wingfieldoutdoors3200]

Peace be with brother Philippians 4 1-13

[@fakrulamin1594]

Vs slx bfs😛

[@jeremyhines6862]

Such a good bible verse man so very true

[@matthewspell416]

I agree

[@zajdabneeg]

Its okay. Daiwa have all sorts of tatula as well lol

[@THEREELTEST]

Tatulas are the only thing keeping Daiwa in business lol

[@fvaldez714]

@@THEREELTEST id say their lexas as well

[@michaeldinunzio7019]

@@THEREELTEST that BG line as well especially down here in Florida

[@Mg0936]

@@THEREELTESTI don’t necessarily agree with that diawa is neck and neck with shimano as the top 2 reel companies

[@michaelgreene4436]

I love Gods kids. I get this crazy feeling in my stomach when I see a brother talk about the Lord. God created fishing for us on purpose. Can you imagine what amazingly cool things He is going to create in the age to come?!? Much love brother, much love.

[@antonionovaki5316]

SLX XT ,Brake system is not carbon but plastic KKKKK , the plastic auger also like those from Aldebaram and the new metanium2020 KKKKKK. That's why I don't have Shimano. They want to save money and put plastic and then the fisherman wants to have a Shimano, if he knew the plastic that comes in it, it's not worth the price, pieces that will last a short time. SHIMANO INSTEAD XE EVOLVING IS WALKING BACKWARDS, NUT ECONOMY

[@hancephillips8565]

)

[@aeioubaikal1540]

Just get Scorpion DC or higher and be done with it...

[@larryhorne-px4ky]

3 and 4 bearings is not very impressive. My ardent apex grand, and apex elite are 12/1 ball bearings.

[@RageFan4Life]

I hope you know the bible also says we can own slaves. Maybe not the best source.

[@warrenlouisiana2277]

Worst reel I bought for my son yet