Microshift Vs Shimano (Detailed Comparison)

With so many brands manufacturing cycling components today, choosing the right derailleurs, shifters, and drivetrain parts for your bike can be challenging.

Two of the biggest players that you’ll likely encounter are Microshift and Shimano.

Shimano has long been the undisputed leader in the bike component world, known for its engineering innovation and premium performance.

But Microshift has rapidly been making a name for itself in recent years, producing components that rival Shimano’s smoothness and quality at a fraction of the price.

So how do Microshift vs Shimano compare?

In this post, we’ll evaluate some of the key differences between these two component giants.

We’ll look at criteria like price, durability, performance, weight, availability, and compatibility to help you determine which brand is the better choice for your cycling needs and budget.

Shimano Vs Microshift

Here’s a detailed comparison of Microshift vs Shimano on some of these factors:

Price And Value

The most obvious difference between Microshift and Shimano is price.

Broadly speaking, Shimano components are more expensive.

For example, a Shimano 105 11-speed rear derailleur costs around $60, while a comparable Microshift R11 rear derailleur is priced at about $25.

Detailed Price Comparison Table

Here’s a breakdown of current pricing for comparable components:

Prices are approximate and may vary by retailer and region. Microshift typically offers 40-60% savings compared to equivalent Shimano components.

However, the extra cost doesn’t always mean extra performance or quality with Shimano.

Microshift punches well above its weight class, providing impressive quality and smooth shifting for a fraction of the price of many Shimano components.

For budget-minded builds or upgrades, Microshift offers incredible value.

Durability

Shimano components are known for their durability and longevity.

They are designed to withstand heavy use and can last for years with proper maintenance.

Microshift components, while not as durable as Shimano, still offer decent quality and are built to withstand regular use.

However, they may not last as long as Shimano components, especially for more serious cyclists who put a lot of miles on their bikes.

Quality

Both brands produce components using aluminum, steel, and carbon fiber. And the materials used are largely the same grade.

In general, Shimano and Microshift have similar quality construction at most mid-range price points.

For example, an entry-level Claris rear derailleur from Shimano versus a similar Advent model from Microshift will offer comparable durability and smoothness during regular cycling.

At the highest levels, Shimano’s carbon offerings are crafted with more sophisticated molds and exotic alloys, giving them the edge in weight and rigidity.

But for average cycling needs, Microshift delivers without the costly premium.

Performance and Smoothness

Shimano components are widely regarded as some of the best in the industry in terms of performance.

They offer smooth shifting, precise control, and excellent power transfer. It’s their advanced engineering that gives it an advantage in shifting consistency and control.

For example, features like Shimano’s Shadow Plus clutch design, optimized pivot placements, and Hyperglide cog tooth profiles enable superb responsiveness between shifter and derailleur.

Microshift components, while not quite on par with Shimano, still offer good performance and have dramatically closed the gap.

Models like Advent and Arsis now mimic many of Shimano’s signature tech innovations.

Weight

In the high-performance realm, Shimano dominates with featherweight carbon derailleurs, cassettes, and shifters. Their top-end groups like Dura-Ace Di2 are engineered with weight reduction as a priority.

At more modest price points though, Shimano and Microshift components have similar weights as they utilize comparable aluminum alloys and steel grades.

A Shimano Tiagra derailleur weighs just about the same as a Microshift Advent model of the same size and tooth capacity.

So for racers and weight weenies, Shimano has the upper hand.

But for the average rider, Microshift and Shimano weights are largely on par when comparing models of the same speed and materials.

Installation Difficulty

Both Microshift and Shimano components follow similar installation procedures, but there are some differences:

Microshift Installation:

• Generally straightforward installation process
• Compatible with Shimano cable pull ratios, making it easy to mix components
• May require slight adjustments to cable tension for optimal shifting
• Installation time: 30-60 minutes for a complete drivetrain setup

Shimano Installation:

• Well-documented installation procedures with extensive online resources
• OEM spec on most bikes means mechanics are very familiar with installation
• Precise cable tension is critical for optimal performance
• Installation time: 30-60 minutes for a complete drivetrain setup

Verdict: Installation difficulty is similar for both brands. Shimano has more resources and familiarity, but Microshift’s compatibility with Shimano standards makes it equally accessible.

Maintenance Requirements

Both brands require similar maintenance, but there are subtle differences:

Key Difference: Shimano components may hold adjustments slightly longer due to more refined manufacturing tolerances, but both require similar maintenance schedules.

Warranty and Customer Support

Shimano Warranty:

• Standard 2-year warranty on most components
• Excellent customer support network
• Authorized service centers worldwide
• Easy warranty claim process through retailers
• Replacement parts readily available

Microshift Warranty:

• Typically 1-2 year warranty depending on component
• Growing customer support network
• Warranty claims processed through authorized dealers
• Replacement parts becoming more accessible
• Responsive customer service via email

Verdict: Shimano has the advantage in warranty support due to its established network, but Microshift’s warranty coverage is competitive and customer service is improving.

Availability

Thanks to its decades of OEM spec and aftermarket popularity, Shimano components are widely available both online and at most local bike shops.

Replacement parts, accessories, and service knowledge are super easy to find.

Microshift is less ubiquitous, but has vastly expanded its worldwide distribution network in recent years.

Major online retailers like Wiggle, Chain Reaction Cycles, and Merlin carry Microshift groups.

Compatibility

One of the biggest advantages of Shimano components is their compatibility with a wide range of other components.

This makes it easy for cyclists to mix and match different parts to create their ideal setup.

Microshift components, while compatible with most other components, may not be as versatile as Shimano.

This can limit the options available to cyclists who want to customize their bikes.

Specific Product Model Comparisons

Microshift Advent X vs Shimano Deore M5100

Both are 1x11 mountain bike drivetrains designed for trail and enduro riding.

Verdict: Deore offers slightly better gear range and proven durability, but Advent X provides 90% of the performance at 60% of the cost.

Microshift R11 vs Shimano 105 R7000

Both are 11-speed road groupsets targeting the same market segment.

Verdict: 105 offers superior shifting refinement and brake performance, but R11 delivers solid performance for recreational and training use at half the price.

Microshift Advent vs Shimano Deore M4100

Entry-level 1x10 mountain bike drivetrains.

Verdict: Both are excellent entry-level options. Advent offers better value, while Deore provides slightly better shifting and proven long-term durability.

Real-World Use Case Scenarios

Scenario 1: Budget Bike Build

Situation: Building a commuter/gravel bike on a tight budget ($500-800 total build)

Recommendation: Microshift Advent or R10

• Saves $100-200 on drivetrain components
• Performance is more than adequate for commuting and casual riding
• Money saved can be invested in better wheels or frame

When to Choose Shimano: If you plan to upgrade later or want maximum reliability for daily commuting.

Scenario 2: Upgrading an Older Bike

Situation: Upgrading a 10-year-old bike with worn drivetrain

Recommendation: Microshift R10 or R11

• Compatible with existing Shimano-compatible parts
• Significant cost savings allows for other upgrades (brakes, wheels)
• Easy installation with existing cable routing

When to Choose Shimano: If you want OEM-level quality and don’t mind the extra cost.

Scenario 3: Racing or High-Performance Riding

Situation: Competitive cycling, racing, or high-mileage training

Recommendation: Shimano 105, Ultegra, or Dura-Ace

• Superior shifting precision under load
• Better brake performance for descents
• Proven reliability in race conditions
• Lighter weight at higher tiers

When Microshift Works: For training bikes or secondary bikes where cost matters more than absolute performance.

Scenario 4: Mountain Bike Trail Riding

Situation: Regular trail riding, occasional enduro events

Recommendation:

• Budget-conscious: Microshift Advent X
• Performance-focused: Shimano Deore M5100 or SLX

Consideration: If you ride 2-3 times per week on moderate trails, Advent X is sufficient. For aggressive riding or racing, Deore/SLX offers better performance and durability.

Verdict

IMHO Microshift provides incredible value, punching well above its class with impressive component performance at budget-friendly prices.

Racers and enthusiasts seeking the absolute pinnacle in lightweight performance and silky smooth shifting may still prefer Shimano’s top-tier offerings.

But for everyone else, Microshift delivers quality durability and function at a fraction of the cost. Component for component, Microshift offers better value for most cyclists.