Daiwa 22 Exist vs Shimano 22 Stella: Which is Better?
In 2022, the flagship spinning reels "22 Exist" and "22 Stella" both underwent major model changes. This article summarizes the information on both and compares them from multiple angles such as specs and technology. If you are wondering whether to choose the "Exist" or the "Stella", please check it out.
Key Technologies of Daiwa 22 Exist and Shimano 22 Stella
Let's quickly review the features of Daiwa's "Exist" and Shimano's "Stella".
Key Technology of Daiwa "22 Exist"
First, let's look at the "22 Exist". The keyword for the 2022 model is "Airdrive Design". - Airdrive Rotor - Airdrive Bail - Airdrive Spool - Airdrive Shaft
These are the technologies related to the "Airdrive Design". The evolution of the front half of the reel (front unit) is the highlight. Because the front unit has been significantly lightened, the center of gravity has shifted to the rear of the reel compared to the previous model.
The perceived lightness, which does not appear in the numerical weight, has improved, providing excellent sensitivity and operability. It is the perfect reel for those who want to master manual lure operation with fine rod work and sharp reeling.
Key Technology of Shimano "22 Stella"
Next, let's look at the "22 Stella". The keyword for the 2022 model is "Infinity Evolution". The technologies related to "Infinity" are the following three: - Infinity Loop - Infinity Drive - Infinity Cross
"Infinity Loop" is a mechanism that winds the line onto the spool at an ultra-high density.
Resistance when the line is released is significantly reduced, increasing casting distance.
"Infinity Drive" and "Infinity Cross" are mechanisms that contribute to improved winding power and gear durability, respectively. The power and durability, which were highly evaluated in the "18 Stella", have been further refined.
Strengths of Daiwa 22 Exist and Shimano 22 Stella
Both the "22 Exist" and "22 Stella" have evolved to further extend the strengths of their 2018 models.
What are the strengths of Daiwa "22 Exist"?
The Daiwa "22 Exist" excels in finesse fishing. The weight of the "22 Exist" is at a level comparable to ultra-lightweight reels with resin bodies, despite having a metal body. The improved balance achieved by adopting the "Airdrive Design" increases the sense of unity with the rod, enabling more precise lure operation.
The low-inertia lightweight rotor has a light start-up and sharp response when stopped. The sharpness of stop-and-go reeling is excellent, and it is easy to create variations that trigger the fish's predatory switch. Overall, the "22 Exist" is a specification that appeals to those who want to master technical fishing using small tricks.
What are the strengths of Shimano "22 Stella"?
On the other hand, the Shimano "22 Stella" excels in power fishing. It has excellent overall reel durability and winding power, and high reliability under heavy loads. Even those with a style of fighting head-on with a tight drag can use it with peace of mind.
Shimano has an established reputation for winding performance, and the inherent silkiness is alive and well in the "22 Stella". It has a slightly different direction from Daiwa, which promotes low inertia, and features a comfortable winding feel that includes inertia. It goes well with fishing that swims the lure with a constant retrieve speed.
Comparing Daiwa "22 Exist" and Shimano "22 Stella"
From here, let's compare the "22 Exist" and "22 Stella". The comparison points are specs, lineup, technology, and sales points.
Comparison Point 1: Specs and Model Lineup
Let's compare the specs and model lineup.
"22 Exist" Specs
| Model | Gear Ratio | Weight (g) | Standard Line Capacity | Bearings (Ball/Roller) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LT2000S-P | 4.9 | 155g | PE 0.4 - 200m | 12/1 |
| LT2000S-H | 5.8 | 155g | PE 0.4 - 200m | 12/1 |
| LT2500S | 5.1 | 160g | PE 0.6 - 200m | 12/1 |
| LT2500S-H | 5.8 | 160g | PE 0.6 - 200m | 12/1 |
| LT2500S-XH | 6.2 | 160g | PE 0.6 - 200m | 12/1 |
| LT2500S-DH | 5.1 | 170g | PE 0.6 - 200m | 12/1 |
| PC LT2500 | 5.2 | 175g | PE 0.8 - 200m | 12/1 |
| LT3000S | 5.2 | 180g | PE 0.8 - 200m | 12/1 |
| PC LT3000 | 5.2 | 190g | PE 1 - 200m | 12/1 |
| PC LT3000-XH | 6.2 | 190g | PE 1 - 200m | 12/1 |
| LT4000 | 5.2 | 205g | PE 1.5 - 200m | 12/1 |
| LT4000-XH | 6.2 | 205g | PE 1.5 - 200m | 12/1 |
| LT5000-C | 5.2 | 220g | PE 2 - 300m | 12/1 |
| LT5000-CXH | 6.2 | 220g | PE 2 - 300m | 12/1 |
"22 Stella" Specs
| Model | Gear Ratio | Weight (g) | Line Capacity | Bearings (BB/Roller) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1000SSPG | 4.4 | 165g | PE 0.4 - 100m | 12/1 |
| C2000S | 5.1 | 170g | PE 0.6 - 150m | 12/1 |
| C2000SHG | 6.0 | 170g | PE 0.6 - 150m | 12/1 |
| C2500S | 5.1 | 175g | PE 0.8 - 150m | 12/1 |
| C2500SXG | 6.3 | 175g | PE 0.8 - 150m | 12/1 |
| 2500S | 5.1 | 205g | PE 0.8 - 150m | 12/1 |
| 2500SHG | 5.8 | 205g | PE 0.8 - 150m | 12/1 |
| C3000SDH | 5.1 | 220g | PE 0.8 - 150m | 14/1 |
| C3000SDHHG | 5.8 | 220g | PE 0.8 - 150m | 14/1 |
| C3000MHG | 5.8 | 210g | PE 1.2 - 150m | 12/1 |
| C3000XG | 6.4 | 210g | PE 1.5 - 270m | 12/1 |
| 3000MHG | 5.7 | 235g | PE 1.2 - 150m | 12/1 |
| 4000M | 5.3 | 260g | PE 1.5 - 200m | 12/1 |
| 4000MHG | 5.7 | 260g | PE 1.5 - 200m | 12/1 |
| 4000XG | 6.2 | 260g | PE 1.5 - 320m | 12/1 |
| C5000XG | 6.2 | 260g | PE 2 - 300m | 12/1 |
Both have as many bearings as possible, and the model lineup follows a modern flow. Regarding lightness, the "Exist" is overwhelmingly lighter even in the 2022 models. However, the "Stella" is not a reel that sells on lightness, so it doesn't mean the "Exist" is unconditionally superior. Still, there are surprisingly many situations where the lightness of the tackle itself is an advantage. For those seeking extreme delicacy, the "Exist" will likely feel more attractive.
Comparison Point 2: Technology
Next, let's compare the technologies installed in the "22 Exist" and "22 Stella".
"22 Exist" Technologies
| Technology | Main Benefits |
|---|---|
| Airdrive Rotor | Lighter start-up, lighter front unit |
| Airdrive Bail | Avoidance of line trouble, lighter front unit |
| Airdrive Spool | Avoidance of line trouble, lighter front unit |
| Airdrive Shaft | Improved winding power and gear durability, lighter front unit |
| Monocoque Body | Improved body rigidity |
| MC Tough Digigear | Improved gear durability and winding comfort |
| Magsealed | Improved waterproofness, prevention of performance degradation |
| ATD TYPE-L | Improved drag performance |
| Twist Buster III | Avoidance of line trouble |
"22 Stella" Technologies
| Technology | Main Benefits |
|---|---|
| Infinity Loop | Improved casting distance, avoidance of line trouble |
| Infinity Drive | Improved winding power and winding comfort |
| Infinity Cross | Improved gear durability |
| Anti-Twist Fin | Avoidance of line trouble |
| AR-C Spool (New Shape) | Avoidance of line trouble |
| DURA Cross | Maintenance of drag performance, improved durability |
| HAGANE Gear | Improved winding power and winding comfort |
| Micromodule Gear II | Improved winding comfort and winding sensitivity |
| X-Ship | Improved winding power and winding comfort |
| HAGANE Body | Improved body rigidity |
| X Protect | Improved waterproofness and durability |
| G Free Body | Reduction of tip heaviness, improved tackle balance |
| Silent Drive | Less play, improved winding comfort |
| Long Stroke Spool | Improved casting distance |
| One-Piece Bail | Prevention of line trouble |
| Rigid Support Drag | Prevention of line breaks, improved fight efficiency |
| S A-RB | Improved bearing durability and corrosion resistance |
As the flagship reels of Daiwa and Shimano, both are fully loaded with technologies. The performance required for a spinning reel is flawlessly provided. Naturally, there are no blind spots in either the "22 Exist" or the "22 Stella". As always, they are built to very fine details, and regarding the fulfillment of technology, one can only say they are "evenly matched."
Comparison Point 3: Sales Points
The "22 Exist" and "22 Stella" have different sales points. Specifically, their strengths are: - 22 Exist: Lightness, operability, sensitivity, lightness of winding, balance - 22 Stella: Casting distance, winding comfort, power, durability
In the 2022 models, both have evolved in a direction that further extends the strengths they have inherited over generations. If you want to buy one but are wondering which one to choose, it will be easier to understand if you base it on the performance you seek. Setting aside manufacturer preferences, if you think purely in terms of performance, the "Exist" and "Stella" are well segregated.
So, Which is Better: "22 Exist" or "22 Stella"?
Based on the comparison so far, we will consider which is superior, the "22 Exist" or the "22 Stella". However, it is difficult to unconditionally decide which is better. Therefore, we will conclude with "Exist (or Stella) is better in terms of specific styles."
"22 Exist" is Recommended for Delicate Fishing
First, in delicate fishing, the "22 Exist", which is superior in overall lightness, has the advantage. Compared to the "22 Stella", its weight is much lighter, and the "Airdrive Design", the centerpiece of the 2022 model, also brings a perceived lightness. In finesse fishing, where sensitivity is amplified by lightening the tackle, you gain an absolute advantage.
The rotor has also been made lighter, so the start-up of winding is light, and the stop is sharp. It is easier to perform fine lure operations by reeling than with the "Stella", whose strength is a comfortable rotation including moderate inertia. You would want to choose the "22 Exist" for fishing where you don't continuously wind and swim the lure, but rather let it drift, move it quickly and then stop it dead, or initiate actions through angler operation.
"22 Stella" is Recommended for Power Fishing
On the other hand, for strong fishing, it is stable to match the "22 Stella", which has excellent winding power and durability. For bass fishing, it goes well with power finesse, and for salt, it pairs well with seabass, flatfish, and light shore jigging. In terms of size, some of the 2500 class and those above the 3000 class fall into this category.
And in such fishing, it is not uncommon for the catch to be influenced by casting distance. The increased casting distance due to the ultra-dense winding of the "Infinity Loop" will also be fully utilized.
Of course, it's not that you can't do power fishing with the "22 Exist". Thanks to the Monocoque Body and other features, the "22 Exist" also has sufficient power. However, if you are going to do hardcore high-load fishing, a light reel might cause some anxiety. If you are going to use it heavily in fishing that requires power and durability, the "22 Stella", which boasts a moderate sense of weight and high rigidity, would be more reassuring.
"22 Stella" has the Edge in Impact of Evolution
Regarding the impact of the evolution presented in the 2022 model changes, the "22 Stella" feels superior. The strength of the Airdrive Design, which is the foundation of the "22 Exist", is sensory lightness and improved operability. While certainly attractive, it is not accompanied by a visible reduction in weight.
On the other hand, regarding the "22 Stella", first of all, there is the clear strength of ultra-dense winding (Infinity Loop). And the trouble-less mechanisms starting with the "Anti-Twist Fin" are also excellent. It might be plain, but it makes you think, "That's a clever idea!"
Overall, both reels have their unique strengths. Depending on the individual, which one is the optimal solution will change. We hope you will find the perfect reel for your style, keeping the contents of this article in mind.