Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX vs Shimano Cardiff 201A

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

Penn Slammer IV, 8500 HS, left and right hand, Spinning Fishing Reel, Front Drag, 1545770
Penn Slammer IV
Spinning
8500 Hsx
70.80 out of 100
Value for money4.5 out of 5
Quality classExcellent
Durability5.5 out of 10
Ergonomics4 out of 10
Gear ratio5.3:1
Maximum drag22.6kg / 49,82lbs
Weight870g / 30.69oz
Line retireve per crank127 centimeter / 50 inch
Ball bearings9

Technical Specifications

  • BrandPENN
  • The main category of the reelSpinning
  • Price range~ €294.00
  • Is saltwater resistantNo
  • Spare spoolNo
  • Reel size8500 HS
  • Handle typeSingle handle
  • Drag typeFront drag
  • Handle orientationLeft, Right
  • Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.46/415
Shimano Cardiff 201A, Lefthand, Multiplier Reel, Baitcasting reel
Shimano Cardiff 201A
Multireels
35.00 out of 100
Value for money3.5 out of 5
Quality classMedium
Durability3.69 out of 10
Ergonomics6.42 out of 10
Gear ratio5.8:1
Maximum drag5kg / 11.02 lbs
Weight230g / 8.11oz
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 size201
  • Handle typeDouble handle
  • Drag typeStar drag
  • Handle orientationLeft
  • Line capacity monofilmm/m: 0.20/315. 0.25/255, 0.30/195 lb-yds: 8/230, 10/210, 14/120

Conclusion

Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 201A, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.3:1) and maximum drag (22,6kg / 49,82lbs). While Shimano Cardiff 201A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Penn Slammer IV and Shimano Cardiff 201A?

Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX

  • The reel brings in line quickly with its 8.2 out of 10 (5.3:1) rating, making it a great fit for power fishing
  • For 8 out of 10 (22,6kg / 49,82lbs) in drag score, the reel holds up well when you're battling strong fish or fishing near heavy cover

Shimano Cardiff 201A

  • With a top weight score of 9.23 out of 10 (230g / 8.11oz), this reel keeps your setup light and responsive
  • A 7 out of 10 (4 A-RB + 1 RB) ball bearing gives a smooth performance across most typical fishing situations