Shimano Cardiff 301A vs Shimano Exsence 4000 MXGAX

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 Exsence

Spinning

95.00 out of 100

Value for money4 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics6.27 out of 10

Gear ratio6.2:1

Maximum drag11kg / 24.25lbs

Weight220g / 7.76oz

Line retireve per crank99 centimeter / 38.98 inch

Ball bearings12

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €421.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size4000 MXGA
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.3/110

Conclusion

Shimano Exsence 4000 MXGAX 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 Exsence 4000 MXGAX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

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

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 Exsence 4000 MXGAX

A fast gear ratio of 10 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 9.4 out of 10 (99 centimeter / 38.98 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.