Shimano Cardiff 301A vs Shimano 21 Sustain 5000 XGFJX

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

Shimano 21 Sustain

Spinning

95.00 out of 100

Value for money5 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics6.07 out of 10

Gear ratio6:2:1

Maximum drag11kg / 24.25lbs

Weight280g / 9.88oz

Line retireve per crank101 centimeter / 39.76 inch

Ball bearings9

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €215.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size5000 XGFJ
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 175/1.75

Conclusion

Shimano 21 Sustain 5000 XGFJX clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (6:2:1) and maximum drag (11kg / 24,25lbs). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano 21 Sustain 5000 XGFJX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano Cardiff 301A and Shimano 21 Sustain?

Shimano Cardiff 301A

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

Shimano 21 Sustain 5000 XGFJX

A fast gear ratio of 9.6 out of 10 (6:2:1), 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 9.6 out of 10 (101 centimeter / 39.76 inch), means the reel is made just for speed, perfect for speed fishing or covering water quickly
Saltwater-safe design makes it perfect for spinning conditions.