Daiwa BG 4500 vs 5000 (4 Important Differences)

The Daiwa BG 4500 and 5000-size reels are excellent saltwater spinning reels that are a great value for the money.

Many anglers struggle when comparing these reels, as Daiwa doesn’t clarify the differences.

While the BG 4500 and 5000 reels are similar, they’re not the same. These models have several differences that make each size better for anglers with different needs.

So, which one is right for you? This guide will break down the main differences between these two saltwater spinning reels and compare them side-by-side.

Daiwa BG 4500 vs 5000 – spinning reel sizes compared

The table above compares the specifications of the Daiwa BG 4500 and BG 5000.

While these reels have several identical features, such as drag strength and gear ratios, some qualities are unique.

Line capacity, IPT, and weight are just some of the unique factors that make these reels different.

Next, we’ll break down these factors and help you decide which Daiwa BG size you should buy.

The most important differences between the Daiwa BG 4500 and 5000

Line Capacity: The main difference between these two reels is the spool size. Daiwa’s 5000 reel holds 280 yards of 20lb test line, while the 4500 model only holds 210 yards.

If you plan on using the BG for surf fishing, casting from piers, or trolling, the extra line capacity could be useful.

However, if you don’t think you’ll need 380 yards to 280 yards of line, a smaller spool improves line management and eliminates unnecessary weight.

Take Away: One important difference between the BG 4500 and 5000 is the spool size. The larger spool on the BG 5000 can hold up to 35% more braided line than the smaller spool sizes. This additional line will increase the reel’s overall weight.

So, some anglers will benefit from this more than others. If you don’t need extra line capacity, you should choose the 4500 model.

Retrieval Rate: These two reels have a slight difference in retrieval speeds.

The BG 5000 retrieves 47.4 inches of line for every handle rotation, while the 4500 size retrieves 43.1 inches of line.

Both BG models are fast-retrieve spinning reels; however, the 5000’s faster speed makes it easier to burn baits along the surface.

It’s easier to slow down your cranking than speed it up, which is why we prefer faster spinning reels. This is especially true in this situation because both models have the same drag strength, so you won’t lose any torque.

Take Away: The BG 5000 retrieves an extra 43.1” of line for every handle rotation compared to the 4500 model. This slight difference makes the 5000 more versatile because the larger spool doesn’t decrease torque.

Target Species: If you’re targeting bigger saltwater fish species, the extra line capacity on the 5000-size reel will prevent you from getting spooled.

We recommend the BG 5000 for anglers targeting big striped bass, catfish, red drum, small sharks, and other similarly-sized fish.

Since both reels have the same amount of drag strength, you won’t get more power by choosing a larger reel. However, you can avoid the frustration of running out of line.

Take Away: The BG 5000 and BG 4500 have the same drag strength. However, the larger spool on the 5000 reel will give you more line when fighting fish.

Weight: There’s a slight weight difference between the two models. Daiwa’s 5000-size reel only weighs 0.6 ounces more than the smaller size.

While this doesn’t seem to be a big difference, the weight increases after adding line. More line capacity will make the 5000 slightly heavier than the 4500. 

You’ll feel this weight the most when actively casting for hours. A reel that weighs a few ounces less will put less strain on your arm and wrist.

Take Away: Even though there’s only a 0.6-ounce weight difference between the BG 4500 and BG 5000, this increases once you add line to the spool.

Daiwa BG 4500 spinning reel review

4.7 Stars | 396 Angler Reviews

The Daiwa BG 4500 reel is the perfect saltwater spinning reel for anglers that cast for big fish. With a smaller spool and reduced line capacity, it’s easier to manage and cast for long periods of time.

With seven ball bearings, the cranking action is ultra-smooth. A strong aluminum housing keeps the gears protected from saltwater, preventing corrosion.

Daiwa incorporated their new Digigear system in this model. It significantly reduces weight while also making the gears more resilient. An advanced Air Rotor balances the reel and contributes to the BG’s buttery-smooth cranking action.

Both reel sizes have an upgraded Infinite Dual Anti-Reverse System, which is only available in the 4500-size and larger reels.

Whether you fish from a boat or shore, the BG 4500 will get the job done. This series costs three-times less than other spinning reels with the same amount of performance.

Features:

• Automatic Tournament Drag
• Advanced Digigear
• Smooth Air Rotor
• 6+1 ball bearings

Daiwa BG 5000 spinning reel review

4.7 Stars | 2,544 Angler Reviews

The Daiwa BG 5000 has a larger spool than the 4500-size, making it the perfect reel for surf casting, pier fishing, and trolling. More line capacity also prevents you from running out of line when battling larger fish.

If we could only pick one reel size, we would choose the BG 5000. The added line capacity makes it more versatile and increases the retrieval speed.

Usually, faster spinning reels will sacrifice torque. However, this model has the same drag strength as the next size smaller.

Conclusion

Regardless of your chosen model, it’s sure to impress you. We’ve fished with dozens of spinning reels and haven’t used any other reels that offer as much value for saltwater fishing.

This series has a strong drag and casts a mile. Daiwa’s modern technology keeps the interior components from grinding against each other, which improves the BG’s lifespan.

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