Shimano Cardiff 301A vs Shimano Exsence C 3000 MHGAX

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

Ergonomics6.4 out of 10

Gear ratio6.0:1

Maximum drag9kg / 19.84lbs

Weight180g / 6.35oz

Line retireve per crank88 centimeter / 34.65 inch

Ball bearings12

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €416.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel sizeC 3000 MHGA
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.25/125

Conclusion

Shimano Exsence C 3000 MHGAX clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (6.0:1) and maximum drag (9kg / 19,84lbs). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Exsence C 3000 MHGAX 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 C 3000 MHGAX

A fast gear ratio of 9.6 out of 10 (6.0:1), means the reel is built for speed and it's perfect for active retrieves, and quick follow ups
With a great drag score 9.2 out of 10 (9kg / 19,84lbs), the reel is built to handle big fish confidently.. whatever the setting, freshwater or inshore salt
8.3 out of 10 (88 centimeter / 34.65 inch) in line retrieve, means it picks up line fast, very handy when chasing quick fish
Saltwater-safe design makes it perfect for spinning conditions.