Shimano Cardiff 401A vs Shimano 21 Sustain 4000 FJX

The selected categories are different, score metrics vary from category to another.

Shimano Cardiff 401A

Multireels

48.20 out of 100

Value for money3.5 out of 5

Quality classMedium

Durability3.72 out of 10

Ergonomics6.24 out of 10

Gear ratio5.2:1

Maximum drag5kg / 11.02 lbs

Weight337g / 11.89oz

Line retireve per crank56cm / 22.05 inch

Ball bearings4 A-RB + 1 RB

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelMultireels
Price range~ €95.30
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size401
Handle typeDouble handle
Drag typeStar drag
Handle orientationLeft
Line capacity monofil0.30mm-325m / 0.35mm-270m / 0.40mm-215m 12lb-330yds / 14lb-250yds / 20lb-165yds

Shimano 21 Sustain

Spinning

93.60 out of 100

Value for money5 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics6.08 out of 10

Gear ratio5:3:1

Maximum drag11kg / 24.25lbs

Weight275g / 9.7oz

Line retireve per crank87 centimeter / 34.25 inch

Ball bearings9

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €215.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size4000 FJ
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 180/1.8

Conclusion

Shimano 21 Sustain 4000 FJX clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 401A, offering significantly better performance in maximum drag (11kg / 24,25lbs) and durability (9.5 out of 10). While Shimano Cardiff 401A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano 21 Sustain 4000 FJX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano Cardiff 401A and Shimano 21 Sustain?

Shimano Cardiff 401A

A 7 out of 10 (4 A-RB + 1 RB) ball bearing gives a smooth performance across most typical fishing situations

Shimano 21 Sustain 4000 FJX

With a great drag score 10 out of 10 (11kg / 24,25lbs), the reel is built to handle big fish confidently.. whatever the setting, freshwater or inshore salt
8.2 out of 10 (87 centimeter / 34.25 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.