Daiwa BG 3500X vs Shimano Cardiff 301A

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

Daiwa BG

Spinning

69.10 out of 100

Value for money3.5 out of 5

Quality classMedium

Durability7.77 out of 10

Ergonomics4 out of 10

Gear ratio5.7:1

Maximum drag0lbs

Weight400g / 14.11oz

Line retireve per crank97 centimeter / 38.19 inch

Ball bearings6

Technical Specifications

BrandDAIWA
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €104.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size3500
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.3/220

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 BG 3500X clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.7:1) and line retrieve per crank (97 centimeter / 38.19 inch). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Daiwa BG 3500X is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Daiwa BG and Shimano Cardiff 301A?

Daiwa BG 3500X

A fast gear ratio of 9 out of 10 (5.7:1), means the reel is built for speed and it's perfect for active retrieves, and quick follow ups
A high retrieve rate of 9.2 out of 10 (97 centimeter / 38.19 inch), means the reel is made just for speed, perfect for speed fishing or covering water quickly
Saltwater-safe design makes it perfect for spinning conditions.