Shimano Cardiff 301A vs Daiwa 20 Ballistic EX LT 2500DX

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

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

Daiwa 20 Ballistic EX LT

Spinning

89.90 out of 100

Value for money4.5 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability5.5 out of 10

Ergonomics6.43 out of 10

Gear ratio5.3:1

Maximum drag10kg / 22.05lbs

Weight170g / 6oz

Line retireve per crank75 centimeter / 29.53 inch

Ball bearings11

Technical Specifications

BrandDAIWA
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €210.20
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size2500D
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.28/150

Conclusion

Daiwa 20 Ballistic EX LT 2500DX clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.3:1) and maximum drag (10kg / 22,05lbs). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Daiwa 20 Ballistic EX LT 2500DX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano Cardiff 301A and Daiwa 20 Ballistic EX LT?

Shimano Cardiff 301A

A 7 out of 10 (4 A-RB + 1 RB) ball bearing gives a smooth performance across most typical fishing situations

Daiwa 20 Ballistic EX LT 2500DX

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
With a great drag score 9.6 out of 10 (10kg / 22,05lbs), 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