Spinning reels with ten ball bearings can be smoother but also tighter. I tend to break in reels with ten ball bearings with non cranking baits, worm fishing, etc. my reels with lesser ball bearings I use on crankbaits, spinnerbaits etc.

 

now the faster gear ratios by the end of the trip was like going to the gym. On the spinning reels.

Three ball bearings. One of the best casters ever. 

Quality lower bearing reel > cheaper high bearing count reel

18 hours ago, Dwight Hottle said:

I have never purchased a reel based on bearing count. My answer is no.  

 

Ditto

 

 

 

 

 

Mike

Oh you better believe it's a selling point, just not for me. Quality over quantity.