Daiwa 22 Exist LT 2500X vs Shimano Cardiff 301A

The selected categories are different, score metrics vary from category to another.

Daiwa 22 Exist LT

Spinning

88.70 out of 100

Value for money3.5 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics6.47 out of 10

Gear ratio5.1:1

Maximum drag5kg / 11.02lbs

Weight160g / 5.64oz

Line retireve per crank72 centimeter / 28.35 inch

Ball bearings12

Technical Specifications

BrandDAIWA
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €668.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size2500
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.2/150

Shimano Cardiff 301A

Multireels

34.80 out of 100

Value for money3.5 out of 5

Quality classMedium

Durability3.69 out of 10

Ergonomics6.38 out of 10

Gear ratio5.8:1

Maximum drag5kg / 11.02 lbs

Weight252g / 8.89oz

Line retireve per crank61cm / 24.01 inch

Ball bearings4 A-RB + 1 RB

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelMultireels
Price range~ €88.60
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size301
Handle typeDouble handle
Drag typeStar drag
Handle orientationLeft
Line capacity monofilmm/m: 0.25/285. 0.30/235, 0.40/40 lb/yds:12/230, 14/180

Conclusion

Daiwa 22 Exist LT 2500X clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.1:1) and durability (9.5 out of 10). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Daiwa 22 Exist LT 2500X is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Daiwa 22 Exist LT and Shimano Cardiff 301A?

Daiwa 22 Exist LT 2500X

Thanks to its 7 out of 10 (5.1:1) gear ratio, the reel offers a strong balance between torque and quick retrieval
A drag rating of 6.38 out of 10 (5kg / 11,02lbs) gives you steady control and it's perfect for most freshwater fish and light saltwater action
When it comes to retrieve speed, a score of 5.29 out of 10 (72 centimeter / 28.35 inch) means slower line pickup, great when you need more control for slower fishing styles
Saltwater-safe design makes it perfect for spinning conditions.