Shimano Cardiff 301A vs Daiwa 21 Ballistic MQ LT 1000DX

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 21 Ballistic MQ LT

Spinning

75.20 out of 100

Value for money4 out of 5

Quality classGood

Durability4.66 out of 10

Ergonomics6.43 out of 10

Gear ratio5.1:1

Maximum drag5kg / 11.02lbs

Weight170g / 6oz

Line retireve per crank64 centimeter / 25.2 inch

Ball bearings8

Technical Specifications

BrandDAIWA
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €198.90
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size1000D
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.2/150

Conclusion

Daiwa 21 Ballistic MQ LT 1000DX clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.1:1) and total score (7.52 out of 10). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Daiwa 21 Ballistic MQ LT 1000DX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano Cardiff 301A and Daiwa 21 Ballistic MQ LT?

Daiwa 21 Ballistic MQ LT 1000DX

Thanks to its 7 out of 10 (5.1:1) gear ratio, the reel offers a strong balance between torque and quick retrieval
A drag rating of 6.38 out of 10 (5kg / 11,02lbs) gives you steady control and it's perfect for most freshwater fish and light saltwater action