[Comparison] Is the price difference 70 times? A fishing comparison between Daiso and DAIWA reels and a report on their usability.

An actual comparison of Daiso and DAIWA reels under the same conditions. Despite a price difference of 50 times, surprising performance qualities such as drag effectiveness and operability were also revealed. A practical fishing review that examined the experiential value of low-cost and high-end reels.

Compared under the same conditions! How do the reels from Daiso and DAIWA compare?

For fishing enthusiasts who are particular about their gear, the brand name DAIWA brings a sense of security. On the other hand, fishing reels are also sold at Daiso, which now has everything one might need. Although there is a significant price difference, what are the actual differences in structure and operational feel?

As a writer with 20 years of fishing experience, I compared both reels by using them under the same conditions at the same fishing spot with the same setup.

Spec Comparison: What are the differences between Daiso and DAIWA?

First, let's take a look at the basic specifications of each.

Daiso: Reel (2000)

Product Name / Reel (2000)
Price / 550 yen
Material / Body: Nylon, Spool: ABS Resin, Line: Nylon
Product Size / 12.8cm × 12.5cm × 12.5cm
Gear Ratio / 5.2:1
Line Capacity / Nylon #3 100m
● Daiso

DAIWA: Spinning Reel 20 Luvias LT (2020 Model)

Product Name / Spinning Reel 20 Luvias LT (2020 Model)
Price / From 38,400 yen
Retrieve Length (cm / Handle One Turn): 67
Gear Ratio / 5.1
Weight / 150g
Max Drag Force / 5.0kg
Standard Line Capacity / Nylon (lb-m) 3-150, 4-100 / PE (No-m) 0.4-200, 0.5-170
● Globeride

Daiso's reel has a spool structure

What I first felt when I picked it up was the difference in the construction and material of the spool. The Daiso reel has a spool that appears silver, which is made of thin ABS resin rather than metal. While it is lightweight and easy to handle, it is weak against impact, and there is a possibility that it may break if dropped or hit.

Additionally, the included nylon line has a strong "coiling tendency," causing it to float or twist during normal winding. This is a common characteristic of inexpensive lines from other manufacturers as well, and I felt a certain degree of handling difficulty even in its new state.

That said, the foldable handle design is very convenient, making it compact for transport and storage. What surprised me was that the drag function worked properly. When I applied tension with my hand, the line smoothly fed out, and I realized it could be adjusted securely. Although I haven't actually hooked a fish, considering the price, I was honestly amazed at how much control I could achieve.

The difference in "smoothness" was apparent at the moment of the cast.

On this day, I used the same setup and made several dozen casts, but the differences between the two were clear from the first cast. The Daiso reel had a bit of resistance when releasing the line, creating a sensation of "catching" at the moment of the throw. The distance was also unstable, varying with each cast.

On the other hand, the DAIWA Luvias provided a smooth feeling when the line came off the spool, allowing for stable distance increase with light force. It was clear that the reel was doing its job at the moment of the throw. The precision of the spool is what creates this difference. The DAIWA Luvias has a winding rate of 67cm per rotation, allowing for rhythmic winding with light force. It also had the stiffness characteristic of aluminum bodies, keeping the reel stable without any wobbling.

Is there a difference in winding feel and trouble frequency?

There was a significant difference in the sensation during winding. While the Daiso reel can be turned lightly, there is a bit of play in the gears, and when under load, a "crunchy" feeling is transmitted.

In contrast, the DAIWA Luvias has a very smooth gear engagement, maintaining a consistent torque feel. It picks up even light bites well, providing assurance when a fish is hooked.

On the other hand, in terms of troubles, the Daiso reel experienced occasions where the line would rise and tangle about once every few uses. This was a result of the shallow spool design and the quirks of the nylon line. The Luvias did not encounter any problems at all, and even after long hours of use, the operation remained comfortable.

Still, it's surprising that it operates this well for 550 yen.

What I felt from actually fishing was that "the Daiso reel is much better than I expected." I felt a slight lack of reliability in the spool, but its lightness contributes to its ease of handling. The rotation of the handle is smooth, and it has sufficient performance for casting practice or as an introduction to fishing for children. Honestly, I thought it might break sooner, but in reality, I was able to enjoy fishing without issues. Considering the price, I feel it's a well-made reel.

The value seen in actual fishing, which exceeds the price

The DAIWA Luvias is a reel that truly embodies the term precision machinery. With its high rigidity aluminum body and lightweight design, it can be handled comfortably even during long fishing sessions. Its high drag power allows for safe engagement with big catches, making it a truly reliable companion.

The comparison of reels with a large price difference has clearly highlighted not only the differences in specs but also the differences in experience. The DAIWA Luvias increases in affection the more it is used, thanks to its reliable quality and stability.

On the other hand, the Daiso reel has its charm as an entry point to fishing, with an ease of challenge that is appealing. The time spent fishing with high-end gear and the time enjoyed with low-cost options are both important experiences that enrich fishing. By understanding the value each reel holds, the ways to enjoy fishing are sure to broaden even further.

Report and article by SYURI

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