SRAM vs Shimano Groupsets
The differences between SRAM and Shimano’s bike components are almost more philosophical than physical. Shimano is the long-standing name in the business, a tried and true company from Japan with over a century of manufacturing bike parts. SRAM is a much newer company - founded in 1987 - but they came in with a bang when they revolutionized road bike shifters.
These histories represent each brand’s ethos:
>> SRAM has been driving key innovations in the field since their inception and is focused on delivering new technologies quickly.
>> Shimano is less concerned with new technology and more focused on producing very high quality, reliable components at a lower price point than SRAM.
There are some practical differences that are worth comparing and contrasting, though. There are major differences in functionality within their groupset and braking systems, which we’ll dive into below. But in the case of these two brands, it’s not really a matter of one brand being better than the other - they just have different priorities.
At all but the highest tiers (XTR and XX1), Shimano is often considered the best bang for your buck, unless you’re looking for cutting edge tech (view our SRAM vs Shimano comparison charts below). Many riders may not even notice a huge difference between the two; in the end, it comes down to experience and personal preference.
But at the same time, Shimano and SRAM groupsets can’t exactly be compared 1:1 at the higher tiers because you also have to consider the kind of riding you do. For example, SRAM XX1 Eagle is aimed at XC riders looking to shave grams and X01 is made to be a little more durable for enduro and DH riders.
Below, we’ll go over the main difference between SRAM and Shimano mountain bike, road, and gravel components. Then, we'll dive a little deeper and go into the specific differences in SRAM and Shimano brakes, groupsets, and freehubs. And if you want a more in-depth rundown of the specifics of SRAM and Shimano, check out our guides, "SRAM Groupset Levels Explained" and "Shimano Groupset Levels Explained."
SRAM vs Shimano MTB Groupsets
SRAM components can be found on the majority of OEM mountain bikes. This doesn’t necessarily mean it’s better - manufacturers just get a better deal when they use more SRAM, and you can almost build an entire bike with components from the SRAM umbrella (RockShox, for example). And during Covid, it was all but impossible to even get Shimano components.
MTB Comparison FAQs
What is the difference between SRAM SX Eagle vs Shimano Deore?
SRAM SX Eagle delivers budget-friendly 1x12 mountain bike drivetrains with massive 11-50t cassette range, while Shimano Deore offers better durability and smoother shifting in both 1x and 2x configurations at a similar price point. The difference becomes apparent when comparing the plastic-bodied SX Eagle derailleur that might flex under load versus Deore's more solid metal construction that maintains precision through muddy conditions and rough descents.What is the difference between Shimano XT vs SRAM GX?
SRAM GX Eagle offers wider gear range cassettes and simpler 1x-only approach, while Shimano XT provides more precise shifting action with options for both 1x and 2x setups. You'll notice GX Eagle's distinctive trigger shifter with a single thumb paddle versus XT's dual-paddle design, and GX's characteristic "clunky" but reliable shifts compared to XT's smoother, quieter gear transitions on technical terrain.What is the difference between Shimano SLX vs SRAM GX?
SRAM GX Eagle boasts wider gear range cassette options and commitment to 1x drivetrains, while Shimano SLX delivers smoother, more precise shifting at a similar price point with both 1x and 2x configurations. On the trail, GX Eagle's distinct "clunk" sound during shifts contrasts with SLX's quieter operation, and GX's single-paddle shifter design differs from SLX's dual-paddle ergonomics that many riders find more intuitive for rapid gear changes.
What is the difference between SRAM NX vs Shimano Deore?
SRAM NX Eagle is an entry-level 12-speed mountain bike groupset featuring a wide 11-50T cassette range and a trigger shifter design, but at a heavier weight of approximately 2,005g and with less refined shift quality than higher-tier options. Shimano Deore offers exceptional value with precise 10 or 12-speed shifting (depending on generation), Shimano's signature I-Spec integration for cockpit customization, and superior durability with features like Shadow RD+ clutch technology that reduces chain slap on rough terrain.What is the difference between Shimano Deore vs SRAM SX Eagle?
SRAM SX Eagle is the entry-level 12-speed mountain bike groupset featuring a wide-range 11-50T cassette but with heavier components made from less premium materials. Shimano Deore offers arguably better shift quality, featuring Shimano's reliable Shadow RD+ clutch technology for chain retention, Hyperglide+ tooth profiles for smoother shifts under load, and options for 10- or 12-speed configurations with more precise and durable components.
SRAM vs Shimano Gravel Groupsets
SRAM and Shimano are split pretty evenly on gravel bikes, though it’s worth noting that SRAM only has one option for gravel. SRAM’s XPLR AXS line uses premium electronic components, meaning this collection is more likely to be found on the highest end gravel bikes. Shimano's GRX lines, however, will be found on a wider variety of bikes.
SRAM and Shimano take different approaches to gravel-specific components. SRAM only offers a handful of gravel components that are generally modified versions of their highest end road components. Bike manufacturers frequently use SRAM’s road components on gravel bikes as well.
SRAM’s XPLR options are built around a 1x drivetrain philosophy with wide-range 10-44t cassettes specifically designed for gravel riding. They've focused on providing enough range for both steep climbs and fast road sections while maintaining reasonable gear jumps. SRAM’s XPLR gravel components only come in AXS options, so their only true gravel options are very high-end. Shimano's GRX components take a more versatile approach, offering both 1x and 2x drivetrain options. Their 1x systems typically use an 11-42t cassette range, while their 2x systems provide more traditional gear ratios with smaller jumps between gears. They also offer both mechanical and electronic (Di2) shifting options, with their Di2 system using wired connections rather than wireless. Shimano's approach generally provides more traditional gear ranges and shifting feel, which some riders prefer for mixed-terrain riding where they want closer gear spacing for road sections.
Gravel Comparison FAQs
What is the difference between SRAM Apex vs Shimano GRX?
SRAM Apex is generally positioned as a more budget-friendly option, often utilizing a 1x (single chainring) setup, known for its simplicity and good value. Shimano GRX, on the other hand, is a gravel-specific groupset line with various tiers, typically offering both 1x and 2x (double chainring) configurations and often featuring design elements optimized for gravel riding, like clutch derailleurs for better chain retention. While both are capable for gravel, Shimano's GRX components often come with a higher price tag and more advanced features in its higher-end versions. Due to the various tiers of GRX components, this isn't really a fair apples to apples comparison.
SRAM vs Shimano Road Groupsets
Shimano components are found on the majority of road bikes. The primary differences users will see in Shimano and SRAM’s road groupsets are whether or not there is a front derailleur and the shifting levers - SRAM uses DoubleTap, which we'll get into more below.
Road Comparison FAQs
What is the difference between SRAM Rival vs Shimano 105?
SRAM Rival emphasizes wireless electronic shifting with its AXS system, offering a clean cockpit free of cables and comfortable ergonomics for long rides, while Shimano 105 provides both electronic and mechanical shifting reliability with more traditional ergonomics and a lower price point. A SRAM Rival AXS-equipped bike will have a sleeker appearance with its hidden batteries and wireless design, whereas a Shimano 105 bike maintains precise shifting performance with visible cables but typically costs significantly less than its electronic counterparts.What is the difference between SRAM Apex vs Shimano 105?
SRAM Apex is a budget-friendly electronic or mechanical shifting groupset that offers 12-speed gearing and hydraulic disc brakes while weighing about 2,980g for a complete set, making it ideal for entry-level riders seeking electronic performance. Shimano 105 is a mid-range mechanical or Di2 electronic groupset known for its reliability, featuring 11 or 12-speed options (depending on generation), with excellent ergonomics in its lever design and typically costs less than comparable SRAM options while providing exceptional durability.
What is the difference between SRAM Rival vs Shimano Ultegra?
SRAM Rival offers wireless electronic shifting in its eTap AXS version with a 12-speed drivetrain weighing around 3,202g complete, while delivering crisp shifts and wide gear range cassette options. Shimano Ultegra sits one tier below Dura-Ace in Shimano's hierarchy, providing professional-level performance with precise Di2 electronic or mechanical shifting options, superior ergonomics with its dual-control levers, and renowned durability at a more accessible 3,111g weight (for Di2) than flagship groupsets.
SRAM vs Shimano Brakes
SRAM and Shimano brakes are kind of like cilantro - you either like them or you don’t. SRAM and Shimano have historically taken notably different approaches to their hydraulic brake systems, though those lines are less fine with SRAM's 2025 release of the Maven and Motive brakes.
SRAM and Shimano bike brakes differ primarily in their underlying technologies and feel. Shimano brakes typically offer more modulation with a progressive power curve, allowing riders to precisely control braking force throughout the lever stroke. SRAM brakes, on the other hand, tend to deliver more immediate power with a more binary on-off feeling that many aggressive mountain bikers prefer.
Additionally, they use different hydraulic fluid types - Shimano uses mineral oil which is less corrosive but more sensitive to air contamination, while SRAM uses DOT fluid which performs better under extreme heat but requires more frequent maintenance due to its hygroscopic nature.
Mountain Bike Brakes
| SRAM Mountain Bike Brake Tiers | ||
| XC | SRAM Level(discontinued in 2025) | The Level is SRAM's cross-country brake. The brakes borrow internals from the Guide brakes but have limited, tooled adjustability. Level's models range from the most basic Level to the Level Ultimate, which includes SRAM's lightest and nicest features. The Levels are mostly 2-piston brakes, which keeps them lightweight though the higher end models do have 4-piston options. Within the Level model, the brakes have the following hierarchy (high to low):
|
| SRAM Motive (new for 2025) | SRAM Motive blends the former Codes and Levels to create a brake that is light enough for XC and strong enough for Trail riding. The Motive is one of SRAM's first brakes to use mineral oil instead of DOT fluid. Within the Motive family, the brakes have the following hierarchy (from high to low)
| |
| Trail | SRAM G2 | SRAM G2 brakes are the redesigned Guide brakes and they balance weight and power for trail riding. They have a stiffer caliper body than the Guides and increased power, plus SRAM's Bleeding Edge system, SwingLink, and more. Within the G2 lineup, the brakes have the following hierarchy (high to low):
|
| Enduro / DH | SRAM Code(discontinued in 2025) | SRAM Codes are the best brakes you can buy for downhill-focused bikes.They have impressive modulation and power, as well as for heavier e-bikes. The feature 4-piston calipers and a larger fluid reservior to combat brake fade. They also have tool-free adjustments and a heavier, durable design that is not trying to save weight. Within the Code model, the brakes have the following hierarchy (high to low):
|
| SRAM Maven | SRAM Mavens are a more powerful option for gravity-focused and DH riding. The're also suitable for e-bikes. The Maven uses larger pistons and pads than the Codes and use mineral oil instead of DOT fluid. Within the Maven family, the brakes have the following hierarchy (high to low):
| |
| Shimano Mountain Bike Brake Tiers | |||
| Pro | Shimano XTR | Shimano XTR brakes use the highest quality materials and come in different models designed for different discplines.
| |
| High | Shimano Saint | Shimano Saint brakes are made for downhill racing. They are a 4-piston brake with finned pads. | |
| Shimano XT | Shimano XT brakes have much of the same performance as XTR, without the high end materials and price point. It comes in 2-piston and 4-piston varieties and run slightly heavier than XTR brakes.
| ||
| Mid | Shimano SLX | SLX is the workhorse of Shimano brakes, with brake levers that are nearly identical to XT. The main difference is that the levers don't have the bite point adjustment. The calipers come in 2 and 4 piston options.
| |
| Enthusiast | Shimano Deore | The Deore brakes benefit from Shimano's trickle down technology and share many design features with the more expensive models. The dinstinguishing feature is the resin pistons; the higher end models use ceramic and alloy. Deore also comes in 2 and 4 piston versions.
| |
| Entry | - | - | |
Road and Gravel Brakes
| SRAM vs Shimano Road Bike Brake Tiers | |||
| Pro | SRAM Red | Shimano Dura-Ace (R9200) | SRAM Red brakes are the pinnacle of SRAM's braking technology. They engineered to be more aerodynamic and powerful. They come in both hydraulic and mechanical options. |
| Shimano Dura-Ace is Shimano's flagship road bike groupset, designed for professional and high-end racing. It features a 2x12-speed drivetrain with hydraulic disc brakes and Di2 electronic shifting option. | |||
| High | SRAM Force | Shimano Ultegra (R8100): | SRAM Force brakes are even lighter than Rival brakes and feature titanium pivot bolts for reduced weight and an indexed quick-release lever for easier adjustments. The rim brake version uses skeletonized arms for further weight reduction and a powerful return spring for crisp responsiveness. They also come in a hydraulic brake version. |
| Shimano Ultegra is a high-end road bike groupset that shares many of the features of the Dura-Ace but at a more affordable price point. It features a 2x12-speed drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, and Di2 electronic shifting options. | |||
| Mid | SRAM Rival | Shimano 105 (R7100) | SRAM Rival offers increased tire clearance for up to 28mm tires and high-quality SwissStop pads for confident stopping power. This mid-tier option sheds weight and comes as mechanical or hydralic disc options. |
| Shimano 105 is a mid-range road bike groupset but riders can still get Di2 electronic shifting in this mid-level groupset. It features a 2x12-speed drivetrain with a wide gear range, hydraulic disc brakes, and reliable components. | |||
| Enthusiast | SRAM Apex and Apex 1 | Shimano Tiagra (R4700) | SRAM Apex brakes offer high-performance braking in a user-friendly design. These entry-level brakes are available in both mechanical rim brake and hydraulic disc brake options. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, Apex brakes provide reliable stopping power at a great price. |
| Shimano Tiagra is an entry-level road bike groupset that provides reliable components at an affordable price point. It features a 2x10-speed drivetrain, hydraulic and mechanical disc brake options, and durable components. | |||
| Entry | Shimano Sora (R3000) Shimano Claris (R2000) | The Shimano Sora groupset delivers a winning combination of affordability and performance for entry-level road cyclists. It is designed for entry level riders with a 3x9-speed drivetrain and mechanical disc brakes. The Shimano Claris groupset is an entry level groupset that features mechanical disc brakes and 2x8 and 3x8-speed drivetrain options for casual riders. | |
Brake Fluid Differences
SRAM uses DOT fluid in all but their newest brakes (Maven and Motive), which performs better at higher temps. SRAM also pioneered their "Bleeding Edge" technology, which features a closed system that helps prevent air from entering during the bleeding process.
However, DOT fluid is extremely caustic (it’s used in your car brakes too) and some people do not want to work with such a harsh material and it also requires more frequent maintenance. The bleeding process is more complex than bleeding Shimano brakes, too, so those who plan on maintaining their own bikes may prefer the simplicity of Shimano brakes.
It's worth noting that SRAM has finally gotten on board with mineral oil, though, with their brand new Maven and Motive brakes. This will likely muddy the waters a bit when it comes to how SRAM and Shimano brakes are known to "feel," which we'll get into below.
Shimano only uses mineral oil in their hydraulic systems, which generally requires less frequent maintenance than DOT fluid. It is more sensitive to air contamination, though. Their bleeding process is also substantially easier than SRAM’s.
Design & Engagement Differences
SRAM and Shimano hydraulic brakes differ in their lever design, ergonomics, and performance characteristics. SRAM brakes typically feature a more minimalist lever with a broader, flatter blade and a distinct "reach adjust" mechanism that allows for quick one-finger adjustments. Shimano brakes tend to have a more curved lever shape with a more traditional look and their bite point adjustment is usually integrated differently.
For most riders, choose between SRAM and Shimano brakes will come down to the different feel of the two systems. Performance-wise, SRAM brakes often feel more progressive with a softer initial engagement and more modulation. Shimano brakes are known for a more immediate, direct feel with a firmer initial bite, though some riders have noted that this bite point changes with the outside temps and can be unreliable.
Pad and rotor compatibility varies between the two, with SRAM using more organic pad compounds and Shimano favoring metallic pads.
Shop Shimano BrakesShop SRAM Brakes
SRAM vs Shimano Drivetrains
Gearing Differences
SRAM and Shimano take different approaches to their gearing systems, particularly in their recent mountain bike drivetrains. SRAM pioneered the widespread adoption of 1x drivetrains (single front chainring) with their Eagle group, featuring a 10-50t cassette range. They've since expanded this to include 10-52t and even 10-54t options in their Eagle drivetrain lineup. Thanks to SRAM, 1x12 is now the industry standard for mountain bikes and it’s even made its way to more adventure-oriented gravel bikes.
Shimano initially held onto 2x and 3x systems but has now fully embraced 1x technology, offering cassettes with 10-51t range in their newer groups. Shimano does still offer higher-end 2x components on their road and gravel bikes, though.
In road groups, SRAM has pushed towards wider range cassettes with their XPLR and Force AXS groups offering 10-44t options, while Shimano tends to stick with more traditional road gearing ranges. Both companies make excellent products, but SRAM generally offers slightly wider gear ranges while Shimano is often praised for smoother shifting under load.
Shifter Differences
SRAM and Shimano road and mountain bike shifters have distinct design philosophies.
SRAM uses a "DoubleTap" mechanism where a single lever controls shifting - a light click moves to smaller cogs, while a deeper push shifts to larger cogs. This creates a more minimalist design with fewer moving parts. Shimano, in contrast, uses a two-lever system with separate paddles for upshifts and downshifts, allowing distinct movements for each gear change.
Ergonomically, SRAM shifters typically feature broader, flatter levers with a more pronounced curve that some riders find more comfortable, especially those with larger hands. Shimano shifters have a more traditional rounded shape and are renowned for incredibly precise, crisp shifting.
These systems are not compatible - choosing SRAM or Shimano means committing to that brand's entire drivetrain ecosystem. The choice often comes down to personal preference, hand size, and how the shifting mechanism feels during riding.
Electronic Drivetrain Differences
SRAM was the main driver of electronic shifting technology and many of their higher-tier groupsets are only offered as electronic now. SRAM's electronic shifting, known as AXS, takes a fully wireless approach where each component communicates via their proprietary AIREA wireless protocol. Their derailleurs each contain their own batteries that need to be charged every few months, while the shifters use common CR2032 coin cell batteries that last about a year.
This wireless design simplifies installation and eliminates the need for internal cable routing, making it easier to swap components or perform maintenance. SRAM's system is also highly customizable through their AXS mobile app, allowing riders to program shifting patterns, button functions, and even integrate with their electronic suspension systems.
Shimano's Di2 system, in contrast, uses a wired electronic approach where all components are connected to a central battery, typically housed in the seatpost or frame. While this means dealing with wires during installation, the central battery generally needs charging less frequently than SRAM's individual derailleur batteries, typically lasting 1,000-2,000 miles between charges.
Shimano's system can be customized through their E-TUBE project app, though it offers somewhat fewer customization options than SRAM. Many riders appreciate the reliability of the wired connection and the slightly faster shift speed of Di2, while others find the wire routing process more complicated during initial setup or when making component changes.
Electronic vs Mechanical Shifting
Whether or not you want electronic shifting is a big factor when choosing between SRAM and Shimano groupsets.
Mechanical shifting offers affordability, simplicity, and reliability with no batteries to worry about and easier field repairs during rides. However, it demands more regular maintenance due to cable stretch, provides less precise shifting that degrades with wear, requires more physical effort at the lever, and can be compromised by contamination affecting shift performance.
Electronic shifting delivers exceptionally precise and consistent gear changes with minimal hand force, requires less maintenance once properly set up, eliminates cable-related issues, enables multiple shifting points, and can integrate with cycling computers for data tracking. The downsides include substantially higher cost, dependence on battery power, potential electronic failures with more complex troubleshooting, limited field repairability, and environmental concerns regarding electronic waste.
Shop SRAM ComponentsShop Shimano Components
SRAM vs Shimano Freehubs
Most riders won’t need to worry about freehubs unless they’re making changes to their wheelsets or drivetrains.
Shimano uses their proprietary Hyperglide (HG) freehub body design, which became the industry standard for many years. This design features straight splines along the freehub body that accept cassettes with corresponding grooves. Their newer Microspline freehub body was introduced for their 12-speed mountain bike cassettes, featuring a different spline pattern with finer grooves that can handle higher torque loads and accommodate smaller cogs (as small as 10T).
SRAM developed their XD and XDR driver bodies as alternatives to the HG standard. The XD driver (for mountain bikes) and XDR driver (for road/gravel bikes) allow for smaller cogs (10T and 11T) than traditional HG freehubs (which are limited to 11T minimum). The key difference is in their design - XD/XDR drivers feature a threaded interface that allows the smallest cog to extend beyond the end of the freehub body, enabling wider overall gear ranges.
Additionally, SRAM's design helps prevent cassette damage to the freehub body, which was a common issue with aluminum HG freehubs. However, this means that SRAM's 12-speed cassettes aren't compatible with standard HG freehubs, requiring either an XD/XDR driver or conversion to a different hub.
Progressive vs Refined
SRAM and Shimano represent different philosophies in bicycle component design and choosing between the two is mostly personal preference. SRAM tends to be more innovative and willing to push new standards, as seen in their early adoption of 1x drivetrains, wider gear ranges (like their 10-52t cassettes), and wireless electronic shifting. Their components typically feature a more minimalist design philosophy, too, so those looking for a streamlined or more progressive set up may prefer SRAM.
Shimano, in contrast, is known for their refined, evolution-based approach, focusing on reliability and consistent performance with more traditional designs. They're renowned for their precise shifting, especially under load, and brakes with immediate and powerful engagement.
Both companies make great products across all price points, so the choice between them will usually come down to personal preference, riding discipline, and whether you prioritize tried-and-true reliability or the latest, most innovative tech.
DANIELLE VILAPLANA
Product Content Writer
Danielle is a Product Content Writer in Salt Lake City, UT. She worked at several bike shops before realizing her desk job potential. She currently has five bikes for urban riding, bikepacking, gravel biking, road biking, and mountain biking, each with a different brake and different groupset. If she had to pick a favorite, it would be SRAM GX.