My CTs & CT type Rs are now backups to my Curado Ks. I bought a K and now am out am out $540 after buying 2 more, and will probably buy a slower retreive one now.
IMO comparing the 2 side by side
Curado K
smaller profile on the palming side
larger on the gear box side
better ergonomically designed- extremely well thought out
more comfortable to palm
asymmetrical contoured handles more comfortable to grip
heavy duty and more powerful feel
longer handle
long casting
smooth retrieving
cast control knob much easier to access due to the raised knurled end
star drag has a swept design keeping it smaller in diameter but allowing using only your index finger to tighten, (like a gun trigger) or only your thumb to loosen
I've had to free up the brake control knob on all 3 reels I have- don't know what's up with that
Difficult to adjust the knob and the setting numbers are hard to see
on the palm side of the reel at the bottom the fit doesn't look flush
CT-Rs
slightly lighter in weight
glossy 2 tone red/black that looks good
brake control has serrated edges and digs in on your palm under your index finger, very uncomfortable for jerkbaits
palm side extends straight forward further before contouring around causing the brake control to be more bothersome
I'm having trouble coming up with anything that the CT-R outshines the K at. The CT-R has been a solid performing problem free reel, but the K is just better in almost every aspect, IMO.
I haven't used either reel for heavy under load cranking to comment on that aspect, and haven't used them enough to comment on durability and longevity. Most of my fishing so far with these reels have been bottom fishing plastics, and jigs. IMO, the K wins in nearly every category for me. I've uploaded some pics to show some of the things I've commented on. I've got too much time on my hands tonight.