Shimano 21 Nexave FI 5000 HGX vs Shimano Cardiff 301A

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

Shimano 21 Nexave FI

Spinning

60.40 out of 100

Value for money3 out of 5

Quality classLow

Durability2.91 out of 10

Ergonomics4 out of 10

Gear ratio5.8:1

Maximum drag11kg / 24.25lbs

Weight305g / 10.76oz

Line retireve per crank98 centimeter / 38.58 inch

Ball bearings4

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €44.33
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size5000 HG
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.35/175

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 5000 HGX clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.8:1) and maximum drag (11kg / 24,25lbs). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano 21 Nexave FI 5000 HGX 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 5000 HGX

A fast gear ratio of 9.2 out of 10 (5.8:1), means the reel is built for speed and it's perfect for active retrieves, and quick follow ups
With a great drag score 10 out of 10 (11kg / 24,25lbs), the reel is built to handle big fish confidently.. whatever the setting, freshwater or inshore salt
A high retrieve rate of 9.3 out of 10 (98 centimeter / 38.58 inch), means the reel is made just for speed, perfect for speed fishing or covering water quickly