Shimano Ultegra C3000DX vs Shimano Cardiff 301A
The selected categories are different, score metrics vary from category to another.

Shimano Ultegra
Spinning
85.30 out of 100
Value for money4.5 out of 5
Quality classGood
Durability8.5 out of 10
Ergonomics6.27 out of 10
Gear ratio5.1:1
Maximum drag9kg / 19.84lbs
Weight220g / 7.76oz
Line retireve per crank75 centimeter / 29.53 inch
Ball bearings6
Technical Specifications
- BrandSHIMANO
- The main category of the reelSpinning
- Price range~ €132.00
- Is saltwater resistantYes
- Spare spoolNo
- Reel sizeC3000D
- Handle typeSingle handle
- Drag typeFront drag
- Handle orientationLeft, Right
- Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.3/130

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 Ultegra C3000DX clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in maximum drag (9kg / 19,84lbs) and gear ratio (5.1:1). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Ultegra C3000DX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.
What's the difference between Shimano Ultegra and Shimano Cardiff 301A?
Shimano Ultegra C3000DX
- Thanks to its 7 out of 10 (5.1:1) gear ratio, the reel offers a strong balance between torque and quick retrieval
- With a great drag score 9.2 out of 10 (9kg / 19,84lbs), the reel is built to handle big fish confidently.. whatever the setting, freshwater or inshore salt
- When it comes to retrieve speed, a score of 5.71 out of 10 (75 centimeter / 29.53 inch) means slower line pickup, great when you need more control for slower fishing styles
- Saltwater-safe design makes it perfect for spinning conditions.
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