Since conventional reels and baitcasting reels are used for heavier applications, some people may confuse the two of them. A baitcasting reel sits on the rod just like the conventional reel; however, it is suited for lighter applications compared to conventional reels. You will find low profile reels with baitcasting reels while conventional reels are larger. Also, all baitcasting reels have level winds which is not always the case with conventional reels as some do not come with level wind. Also, the two differ in flipping the gear; baitcasting reels flip in automatically, while on a conventional reel, you have to put in the gear manually.