Reels and Spools

Is it a reel, a spool, a drum or a bobbin?

We are frequently asked about the difference between a reel, a spool, a drum, and, occasionally, a bobbin. While Webster's remains the official source, we can share our experience with you.

The dictionary defines:

Bobbin - a small pin or cylindrical piece of wood with a head on which thread is wound.
Drum - a metal spool or cylinder around which cable, etc. is wound in a machine.
Reel - any frame or spool on which thread, wire, film, rope, etc. may be wound.
Spool - a rod or cylinder, usually having a hole running from end to end and a rim at either end, upon which thread, wire, etc. is wound.

Common Usage of Reels and Spools

The term "reel" is used 98% of the time in North America. "Spool" carries a connotation of a smaller reel, typically 6" and under.

We think of a spool when we purchase fishing line or thread; however, we think of a reel when we refer to packaging for wire, cable, and cordage products. The wire in a utility yard is on "reels, while the thread for a sewing machine is on "spools" (or "bobbins").

The term, "bobbin," emanates from the textile industry. In this application, a bobbin could be up to 24" and still be considered a bobbin, directly as a result of the specific market application.

Certain world geographies refer to reels as drums or cable drums.

The term, "reel," appears to have the earliest roots (B.C.). In North America, "reel" is commonly accepted as meaning packaging for linear-wound products and is cemented in the vocabulary of industries where reels are commonly used.

As an all-encompassing term, we have chosen "reel" as our reference for a packaging option for wire, cable, and other flexible, linear products.