Upgrading bearings in baitcasters

Is it worth it, and what difference have you seen, if any.

Thanks in advance.

I have done it before. But really don't get the return for the investment
Yes it makes a difference but not enough to go out of my way for it

I had all my reels cleaned through APT in January, I asked about new bearings in all. Answer was with my Shimano Curados and Cores the bearings were already pretty good and wouldn't make a big difference, if any.

this^^

I "upgraded" the hearings in my Steez reels and didn't notice a difference at all. I upgraded and added three on my TWS Zillion and it was very significant. I added a level wind bearing and one to each handle. Made for a noticeablly smoother winding reel. The upgraded spool bearings added a little distance, and noise. But I went from stainless to ceramic.

In my Lews Team Pro, the bearings didn't last long. Upgrading them made an improvement, but I waited too long to do it, so of course it seemed like a huge difference. Probably is slightly better than new

My feelings? I like to tweak and obsess over my reels. For me, it was a way to have a little fun over the winter and keep myself in a fishing state of mind. Can't say the improvements were really worth it, but the fun I had working on them was.

Learning to clean and properly lubricate your bearings yourself will pay back much more than upgrading to anything better than ABEC 5 grade bearings. Even the most expensive all-ceramic bearings will perform poorly if not kept clean. Only a tiny drop of good quality oil is sufficient.

If you demand the best performance from your reels you will need to service them frequently, probably more frequently than you want to have someone else do for you.

This is what I do with my reel.

I would say the higher end reels, properly maintained, the bearings are pretty good. However, in my black max 2 I changed out the spool bearings with bocas and the difference was pretty noticeable.

There is a difference, using spinnerbaits and cranks you can see the difference in length and ease of cast. I do not change them on soft plastics(Except Swim Baits) due to distance is not a factor.

http://www.lakeforktacklerepair.com/supplies.htm

Some good stuff here , especially folks new to reel maintenance.

Two more tips about oil:
Avoid Quantum Hot Sauce. I tends to gel up on the bearings.
Try Royal Purple Multi-Purpose Lubricant. It's only a few bucks for a two ounce squeeze bottle and it works quite well.

Thanks everyone for the advice, sounds like a good cleaning is the way to go. Appreciate all the information!