Shimano Cardiff 301A vs Shimano Vanford FA 2500HGAX

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 Vanford FA

Spinning

89.50 out of 100

Value for money4.5 out of 5

Quality classGood

Durability4.61 out of 10

Ergonomics6.42 out of 10

Gear ratio5.8:1

Maximum drag9kg / 19.84lbs

Weight175g / 6.17oz

Line retireve per crank86 centimeter / 33.86 inch

Ball bearings8

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €184.33
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size2500HGA
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.25/160

Conclusion

Shimano Vanford FA 2500HGAX clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.8:1) and maximum drag (9kg / 19,84lbs). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Vanford FA 2500HGAX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

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

Shimano Vanford FA 2500HGAX

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
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
8.1 out of 10 (86 centimeter / 33.86 inch) in line retrieve, means it picks up line fast, very handy when chasing quick fish