Honestly, is there a difference in smoothness between the two? In comparing two similary priced reels, (quantum accurist and revo s), would the PT bearings make a difference??

Any Quantum PT reel I've had apart had stainless bearings in it. Bearing quality can vary widely, so what is it you are trying to compare to?

The bearrings in the Quantum PT (Performance Tuned) series are also stainless steel, just like the revo. I picked up a spinning version on Black Friday a couple years back and fished it this season. I really like it. I had gone in with the intent to buy a pflueger, but they had these 50% off because a newer model had come out that was a slightly different color of red. Too good of a deal to pass up, and I don't have any regrets. Never compared it side by side to an Abu though. If you are able to get into a store where you are able to hold them both, let us know which one you think is smoother. It's probably something that you'll only be able to find out for yourself when you get your hands on them.

I thought the quantum PT bearings were supposed to be a hybrid ceramic-stainless steel bearing?

The only manufacturers using hybrid bearings in a stock reel are the most expensive 13 reel I believe. The quantum reel bearings may have a polymer cage but that's something else entirely.

The only manufacturers using hybrid bearings in a stock reel are the most expensive 13 reel I believe. The quantum reel bearings may have a polymer cage but that's something else entirely.

Yah that's what I read on the specs. What exactly does the polymer cage do?

Melt in solvent and wear out quicker.

Yah that's what I read on the specs. What exactly does the polymer cage do?

It reduces friction and overall weight, but they do not like some solvents as Francho mentioned. I have not noticed them wearing out any faster than a SS bearing, but then again I have never wore out a bearing on any of my reels...

 

Mitch

Me niether, was being snarky.

But then do the polymer cages make a difference between regular stainless steel bearings and PT bearings?

In actual use, no. Just another way to skin a cat. 

Nope, no difference.

So are they just a marketing fad?

IDK. Are they marketed as better? Never really noticed, myself, though admittedly I don't often shop Quantum. I think a "fad" should probably be a little more universal than just one manufacturer. Replacing perfectly good bearings with noisier, fussier, expensive bearings that do not impact performance in any way seems to be a "fad" lately, lol.