Shimano Cardiff 301A vs Shimano Stella FK 2500 S HGX

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 Stella FK

Spinning

95.00 out of 100

Value for money3.5 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics6.32 out of 10

Gear ratio5.8:1

Maximum drag4kg / 8.82lbs

Weight205g / 7.23oz

Line retireve per crank86 centimeter / 33.86 inch

Ball bearings12+1

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €599.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size2500 S HG
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 120/0.16

Conclusion

Shimano Stella FK 2500 S HGX clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.8:1) and total score (9.5 out of 10). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Stella FK 2500 S HGX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

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

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 Stella FK 2500 S HGX

A fast gear ratio of 9.2 out of 10 (5.8:1), means the reel is built for speed and it's perfect for active retrieves, and quick follow ups
Designed with a light drag at 5.69 out of 10 (4kg / 8,82lbs), the reel is perfect when you're going after small fish or using ultralight setups
8.1 out of 10 (86 centimeter / 33.86 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.