105 vs Ultegra - is it worth it?

[Noviss]

I have just had my bike upgraded (after a mishap) where the primary difference is Ultegra running gear instead of 105. At this early stage - I have only been on two 21km commutes - the only notable difference I have observed is that the front shift is much snappier on the Ultegra than the 105. The Ultegra braking also seems to be a bit more solid compared to 105. I really can't notice any improvement in the rear shifting. In fact I would go so far as to say that the rear shift on my old 9 speed Ultegra out performs both 105 and Ultegra on the11 speed.

[jpgibson]

My bike ( Kona Roadhouse 2016) had a mishmash groupset, Tiagra BB, 105 level crank, 105 FD, Ultegra RD, 105 hydraulic brake ( 505). Strangely I like the brifters, and I LOVE discs.
I decided I'd make it all Ultegra ( except for brifters) and replaced the BB ( for less than $30) and the FD ( for about $40). Shifting on the front felt no different AND they look identical!!.I do think the BB is better ( and the old one had less than 500km on it).
Many people love bling, and if you can afford it, go for it.It wont, however, make you any better BUT it might make you like your ride that little bit more.
Most people like nice stuff, whether it's worth it, well, that's upto you.

[warthog1]

I've got 5800 on one bike and 6800 on the other. Cable quality and routing has more effect on shifting imo. Functionally they seem identical to me.

[Duck!]

Curiously, despite being damn near identical, I find the front shift action on the 5800 105 noticeably jerkier than Ultegra & Dura-Ace. Why it is I have no idea.

[macca33]

I have DA9000 and Ult6800 across a few rigs and have test-ridden 105-5800. Absolutely, there are differences in smoothness of shifting between the groupsets. BUT, whether that is worth the dollar differential, or not, is up to the prospective purchaser.... If one was to keep their bike clean and properly serviced, the differences would not be too upsetting.

cheers