Shimano Cardiff 301A vs Shimano Vanquish FC 2500SCX

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 Vanquish FC

Spinning

88.20 out of 100

Value for money4 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics6.45 out of 10

Gear ratio5.1:1

Maximum drag4kg / 8.82lbs

Weight165g / 5.82oz

Line retireve per crank75 centimeter / 29.53 inch

Ball bearings12

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €407.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size2500SC
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.18/120

Conclusion

Shimano Vanquish FC 2500SCX clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.1:1) and durability (9.5 out of 10). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Vanquish FC 2500SCX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

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

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 Vanquish FC 2500SCX

Thanks to its 7 out of 10 (5.1:1) gear ratio, the reel offers a strong balance between torque and quick retrieval
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
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.