Shimano Cardiff 301A vs Shimano Stella FK 2500X

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

93.80 out of 100

Value for money3.5 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics6.3 out of 10

Gear ratio5.1:1

Maximum drag9kg / 19.84lbs

Weight210g / 7.41oz

Line retireve per crank75 centimeter / 29.53 inch

Ball bearings12+1

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €593.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size2500
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 160/0.16

Conclusion

Shimano Stella FK 2500X clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in maximum drag (9kg / 19,84lbs) and gear ratio (5.1:1). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Stella FK 2500X 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 2500X

Thanks to its 7 out of 10 (5.1:1) gear ratio, the reel offers a strong balance between torque and quick retrieval
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
When it comes to retrieve speed, a score of 5.71 out of 10 (75 centimeter / 29.53 inch) means slower line pickup, great when you need more control for slower fishing styles
Saltwater-safe design makes it perfect for spinning conditions.