Shimano 21 Nexave FI 2500X vs Shimano Cardiff 301A

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

Shimano 21 Nexave FI , 2500, left and right hand, Spinning Fishing Reel, Front Drag, NEX2500FI
Shimano 21 Nexave FI
Spinning
52.30 out of 100
Value for money3 out of 5
Quality classLow
Durability2.86 out of 10
Ergonomics6.17 out of 10
Gear ratio5.0:1
Maximum drag-
Weight250g / 8.82oz
Line retireve per crank73 centimeter / 28.74 inch
Ball bearings4

Technical Specifications

  • BrandSHIMANO
  • The main category of the reelSpinning
  • Price range~ €41.33
  • Is saltwater resistantNo
  • Spare spoolNo
  • Reel size2500
  • Handle typeSingle handle
  • Drag typeFront drag
  • Handle orientationLeft, Right
  • Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.2/240
Shimano Cardiff 301A, Lefthand, Multiplier Reel, Baitcasting reel
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

Shimano 21 Nexave FI 2500X clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.0:1) and total score (5.23 out of 10). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano 21 Nexave FI 2500X is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano 21 Nexave FI and Shimano Cardiff 301A?

Shimano 21 Nexave FI 2500X

  • Thanks to its 6.33 out of 10 (5.0:1) gear ratio, the reel offers a strong balance between torque and quick retrieval
  • When it comes to retrieve speed, a score of 5.43 out of 10 (73 centimeter / 28.74 inch) means slower line pickup, great when you need more control for slower fishing styles