Spinning reels come in all sizes, shapes and designs – obviously, each aspect will inevitably have an effect over the final price as well. You do not really need the most expensive reel in the world, but you can also do better than the cheapest one. A middle choice seems to be the way to go. Browsing the best spinning reels under 100 is a lot easier when using my buyer’s guide!

Best Spinning Reels Under 100 USD

The good news is you do have options. The bad news is that many of these options are similar, so you might feel overwhelmed. Nothing to worry about! I have already done your homework. Here are some of the top rated spinning reels in commerce, based on reviews I have gathered online, as well as stars given and ratings over multiple shopping websites.

Top Spinning Reels Under 100

• Editor’s choice: Daiwa Legalis LT Spinning Reel
• Customer favorite: Shimano Spirex RG Spinning Reel
• Best value for money: Fin Nor Lethal Spinning Reel

Best Spinning Reels Under 100

Editor’s choice: Daiwa Legalis LT Spinning Reel

I was always in doubt regarding Daiwa. Some of its products are great for the price, while others are just average. You never know what you are about to get. Well, the Legalis LT is definitely on the positive side. The moment you see and touch this reel… This is when you know you have a piece of quality in your hands.

The beauty of this reel is given by the material used for the body. It is made of carbon. It is good looking and extremely durable, but it is also lightweight. It has an excellent balance on your rod. Other than that, you can retrieve it on the left or right hand side – a matter of seconds.

When it comes to its smoothness, you have a six bearing system that makes battling large fish a breeze. The system comes with an air bail and an air rotor. Also, you have a digi gear drive system. The combo is ideal regardless of the fishing conditions.

Did I mention how good looking it is? I guess I did, but I have to do it again. It is my favorite piece.

Pros

• Lightweight, but durable at the same time
• Based on superior materials like pure carbon
• Super smooth
• Left or right retrieve within a few seconds

Cons

• The drag is not as smooth as in older all metal versions of this reel

Best price & deal

What do other anglers say?

“Amazing reel for the price, quiet, great drag… It provides great value for money and it makes a very reliable unit.”

Click here for more details.

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Pflueger President XT Spinning Reel

I have never been a big fan of Pflueger, but this spinning reel convinced me. This unit feels like it should cost two or three times more. It has a 10 bearing system and lots of aluminum parts, including the main shaft and the pinion gear.

The spinning reel is extremely fast due to the high speed gear ration. Other than that, the drag system is sealed, so it requires no maintenance. You get a carbon fiber handle that will last for ages and a durable rubber cork knob.

The braid ready spool contributes to the performance of this reel. If the design is important to you, this skinny and narrow reel will definitely draw some compliments from fellow anglers. It looks good and futuristic.

On another note, you can purchase it in a few different sizes, based on the rod you have.

Pros

• Probably the smoothest spinning reel in this price range
• Durable materials that will last for ages
• Every part is designed to be lightweight
• Extremely well balanced

Cons

• Smaller than expected, especially for those with large hands

Best price & deal

What do other anglers say?

“I got this reel as a replacement for my Shimano reel. Excellent value for money!”

Try it out here.

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Lews Mach Spinning Reel

Lews convinced me with a few of its products, so I knew I could leave myself in good hands with the Mach Crush reel. It comes with a premium system that takes the smoothness to another level – a top notch 11 bearing system.

All in all, you got 10 ball bearings and a zero reverse one way clutch bearing. I will be honest with you – it will take you a day or two to get used to its smoothness. At first, I thought something was wrong with it. Anyway, the reel comes in a few different sizes.

The body and side plate are made of durable aluminum – corrosion resistance and a lightweight profile. You also get a skeletal speed rotor based on C40 carbon, which is just as durable and light, not to mention the stainless steel bail wire.

If there is one thing I am not perfectly happy about, that is the orange red color – not a big fan. But in terms of performance, it is flawless.

Pros

• Excellent ratio for weight and balance
• Improved smoothness due to a premium system
• Comes in a few different sizes
• Durable and resistant materials

Cons

•  Not available in other colors

Best price & deal 

What do other anglers say?

“The reel works great and does exactly what it is supposed to do. Great buy!”

Try it out here.

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Abu Garcia Revo X Spinning Reel

The Revo X reel from Abu Garcia comes in a few different varieties based on the size you want – none of them will disappoint you, just make sure you get what you need. The unit looks like it has just arrived from the future.

You have six HPCR bearings made of stainless steel, as well as a roller bearing. Its main role is to provide extra protection against corrosion and it does a pretty good job. The rotor is made of graphite for a lightweight and flexible approach.

In terms of smoothness and reliability, you can count on a carbon matrix hybrid drag system. It sounds sophisticated, I know, and it is. You will love how well it works. Moreover, the body design brings in insert molded C7 and a top X-Crafty gearbox design.

The line control is not to be overlooked either due to the upgraded rocket line management system.

Pros

• Superior technologies used in its construction
• Extra resistance to corrosion
• Lightweight and durable design
• Perfect line management

Cons

• Heavier than other units in this range, but still lightweight and balanced

Best price & deal

What do other anglers say?

“Best reel for the money! Bearings are smooth and you have great control for jigging.”

Check it out here.

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Quantum Energy S3 PT Spinning Reel

Quantum does not fool around when it comes to quality. This unit comes with a 5:3:1 gear ratio. One turn will bring in up to 26 inches of line per rotation. As for the bearing system, you have 8+1 bearings for extra smoothness.

There is nothing to worry about whether you are left or right handed. You have a changeable retrieve button to swap it – a matter of seconds. The clutch is reliable in pretty much any weather condition – a lifetime of instant operation.

The body is made of precision machined aluminum. The same goes for bearings, gears and shafts. Moreover, Quantum has implemented a successful lubrication system for less friction and a longer lifespan.

Balance is perfect due to the nickel titanium bail – thinner for extra balance, but still tough and sturdy.

Pros

• Less friction between parts, more durability
• A few innovative technologies
• Lightweight part in its design
• Reliable in most weather conditions

Cons

• Not suitable for fish heavier than seven pounds

Best price & deal

What do other anglers say?

“This reel is as good as some of my most expensive reels.”

Try it out here.

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Best Value For Money: Fin Nor Lethal Spinning Reel

Fin Nor may not be the most popular brand when it comes to spinning reels, but trust me – the quality for the price is almost impossible to beat. This Lethal model is a perfect middle range option with lots of reliability and durable materials.

The side plate and body are based on aluminum. It will resist corrosion and can also keep the balance under control. You also get a multi stack drag system with carbon fiber washers – more powerful than what you can usually find in this price range.

The Mega technologies used in this reel bring in a Mega Shield protection against corrosion – based on multiple layers. You also have a Mega Lock anti reverse system. As for the bearings, they are made of double shielded stainless steel.

The spinning reel is lightweight and features a futuristic design that will enhance your rod.

Pros

• Excellent protection against corrosion
• Multiple technologies for extra performance
• Carbon fiber washers for a powerful drag system
• Smooth bearing system

Cons

• Feels clunky if you put too much lube

Best price & deal

What do other anglers say?

“This reel is amazing – superb stainless steel internals, all aluminum body and oversized SS gears. It brings in a 23 pound drag.”

Give it a try here.

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Shimano Sahara FI Spinning Reel

This is Shimano’s most simplistic spinning reel I have ever used. There are no fancy bells and whistles. It is inexpensive and it gets the job done – simple as that. No weird features that no one can use, no fancy designs (good looking though) and no sketchy technologies.

The Sahara FI is relatively new when compared to other spinning reels in this segment. Given the simplicity, there are no funny parts or unusual components, so it is simply made to last and take lots of wear and tear.

There are two technologies that Shimano has decided to bring in though – HAGANE Gearing in the G Free Body and X-Ship. Other than that, you can get this reel in multiple sizes – starting from 1000 and going up to 5000.

Bottom line, I think this reel is excellent regardless of your experience level – both novices and professionals.

Pros

• Made to last for ages
• Simple systems proven to last
• Lightweight and well balanced on the rod
• Available in a plethora of different sizes

Cons

• No back wind option

Best price & deal 

What do other anglers say?

“Great reel for different types of fishing, I love it.”

Find out more about it here.

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Penn Fierce III Spinning Reel

Penn is known for the excellent value for money coming with its reels and the Fierce III model makes no exception either. The reel comes in a few different sizes – a wide range between 1000 and 8000, so it makes no difference what rod you have. It will match.

When it comes to its design, you can count on a great durability. The side blade and body are fully metallic. Moreover, the drag washers are based on carbon fiber – Penn HT 100. Given its design, it is suitable for both inshore and near shore experiences.

The ball bearing system brings in 4+1 shielded stainless steel bearings. It is surprisingly smooth for this system. At the same time, the bail wire is made of heavy duty aluminum. The super line spool ensures light and simple line management.

Last, but not least, the gear alignment is quite precise when dealing with heavy fish.

Pros

• Lots of different sizes
• Durable and lightweight materials
• Excellent for most types of rods
• Great for both inshore and near shore fishing

Cons

• There are smoother systems out there in this price range

Best price & deal 

What do other anglers say?

“There are a few surprising capabilities given the specifications of this spinning reel – it can certainly exceed your expectations.”

Try it out here.

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Customer favorite: Shimano Spirex FG Spinning Reel

I was a bit disappointed when I tried out the Spirex FG reel from Shimano. It can only take nine pound fish, not heavier than that. It is still an excellent choice for most types of fish, but do not get it if you plan to battle heavy and aggressive fish.

Other than that, the system is flawless. You got a line management system that no other brand can match – S Arm Cam, Power Roller III and Propulsion Spool Lip. All these technologies ensure you will never face any issues when dealing with the line.

Shimano has brought in a few other handy technologies, such as the Varispeed oscillation and a casting system that makes the difference. It carries the QuickFire II quality standards and can be handled with one hand only.

Furthermore, you have six shielded stainless steel ball bearings, as well as graphite for parts like the rotor, side plate and frame. It is both durable and lightweight.

Pros

• Lots of superior technologies used for its performance
• Extremely smooth ball bearing system
• Graphite for most parts due to its lightweight and durable profile
• Quality one handed casting system

Cons

• Maximum drag set to nine pounds only

Best price & deal 

What do other anglers say?

“This reel is exactly as advertised. Shimano reels are great quality and this middle entry unit features some great technologies. It is definitely worth the money.”

Check it out here.

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Final words

As a short final conclusion, choosing the best spinning reel in this price range is a bit confusing. Many of the above mentioned reels come with relatively similar features, but small details often make the difference.

Like I said before, the above mentioned reels are extremely well rated. They come from reputable manufacturers, so you literally take no risks. Make sure they can match your personal needs and you should be alright.​