Shimano Vanford FA C2500SAX vs Shimano Cardiff 301A

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

Shimano Vanford FA

Spinning

74.90 out of 100

Value for money4 out of 5

Quality classGood

Durability4.61 out of 10

Ergonomics6.48 out of 10

Gear ratio5.1:1

Maximum drag3kg / 6.61lbs

Weight155g / 5.47oz

Line retireve per crank70 centimeter / 27.56 inch

Ball bearings8

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €184.33
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel sizeC2500SA
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.18/120

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 Vanford FA C2500SAX clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.1:1) and total score (7.49 out of 10). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Vanford FA C2500SAX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano Vanford FA and Shimano Cardiff 301A?

Shimano Vanford FA C2500SAX

Thanks to its 7 out of 10 (5.1:1) gear ratio, the reel offers a strong balance between torque and quick retrieval
Designed with a light drag at 5 out of 10 (3kg / 6,61lbs), the reel is perfect when you're going after small fish or using ultralight setups
When it comes to retrieve speed, a score of 5 out of 10 (70 centimeter / 27.56 inch) means slower line pickup, great when you need more control for slower fishing styles