This Article was fact checked and last updated for accuracy on July 8, 2023 by Mani Karthik
Decoding Plastic: The 10 Best Credit Cards in India for Every Wallet
Folks, today, we’re diving head-first into the labyrinth of credit cards in India, and boy, is it a wild ride.
I mean, who knew a little piece of plastic could give you so much, right?
From sizzling air miles to sumptuous dining discounts, we’re unmasking the top 10 credit cards in India that can make your wallet do a little happy jig.
1. HDFC Regalia Card
Let’s kick off with a crowd-pleaser. The HDFC Regalia Card is a royal treat, thanks to its hefty reward points on travel and dining.
The annual fee? A cool INR 2,500.
But with a low foreign currency markup and complimentary airport lounge access, it pays for itself if you’re a frequent flyer.
2. SBI SimplyCLICK Card
Got a serious case of the ‘Add to Cart’ syndrome? The SBI SimplyCLICK Card is your best buddy.
It throws around reward points on online shopping like confetti. The annual fee is a pocket-friendly INR 499, and the interest rate stands at 3.35% per month.
3. American Express Platinum Travel Card
Alright, globetrotters, this one’s for you. The American Express Platinum Travel Card is your passport to some juicy travel benefits.
Sure, the annual fee of INR 5,000 may cause a little heartburn, but the welcome gift of 5,000 Membership Rewards Points, travel vouchers, and lounge access eases the pain.
4. Axis Bank My Zone Credit Card
Movie buffs, rejoice! With the Axis Bank My Zone Credit Card, you’re looking at up to 25% cashback on movie tickets.
A humble INR 500 is all you pay as an annual fee, and the interest rate? A competitive 3.25% per month.
5. ICICI Amazon Pay Card
Hey, who doesn’t love a little cashback love from Amazon? With the ICICI Amazon Pay Card, you’re looking at a whopping 5% cashback on Amazon purchases.
There’s no annual fee, and the interest rate sits pretty at 3.40% per month.
6. Citi Cashback Card
The Citi Cashback Card is like a generous grandma, giving you cashback on all your spends.
The annual fee is INR 500, and the monthly interest rate is 3.25%. Not too shabby, eh?
7. HSBC Visa Platinum Card
The HSBC Visa Platinum Card is a solid all-rounder with its reward points and cashback on dining, hotels, and more.
There’s no annual fee, and the interest rate is a reasonable 3.3% per month.
8. Standard Chartered Manhattan Platinum Card
If you’re a supermarket savvy, the Standard Chartered Manhattan Platinum Card should be on your radar.
You can rake in up to 5% cashback on supermarket spends. The annual fee is INR 999, and the monthly interest rate is 3.49%.
9. Kotak Royale Signature Card
Luxury lovers, the Kotak Royale Signature Card is right up your alley. From dining to travel, it piles on the reward points.
The annual fee of INR 999 isn’t too hard to swallow when you factor in the perks.
10. RBL Bank Platinum Maxima Card
Finally, the RBL Bank Platinum Maxima Card is an underdog that shines with its 2x reward points on dining, entertainment, and utility bill payments.
The annual fee is INR 2,000, and the interest rate is 3.99% per month.
Comparison
Let’s compile all the crucial information into one place.
Here’s a markdown table featuring all 10 cards we discussed:
Credit Card | Annual Fee | Interest Rate | Key Benefit |
---|
HDFC Regalia Card | INR 2,500 | Not specified | Reward points on travel and dining, low foreign currency markup, complimentary airport lounge access |
SBI SimplyCLICK Card | INR 499 | 3.35% per month | Reward points on online shopping |
American Express Platinum Travel Card | INR 5,000 | Not specified | Welcome gift of 5,000 Membership Rewards Points, travel vouchers, lounge access |
Axis Bank My Zone Credit Card | INR 500 | 3.25% per month | Up to 25% cashback on movie tickets |
ICICI Amazon Pay Card | No annual fee | 3.40% per month | 5% cashback on Amazon purchases |
Citi Cashback Card | INR 500 | 3.25% per month | Cashback on all spends |
HSBC Visa Platinum Card | No annual fee | 3.3% per month | Reward points and cashback on dining, hotels, etc |
Standard Chartered Manhattan Platinum Card | INR 999 | 3.49% per month | Up to 5% cashback on supermarket spends |
Kotak Royale Signature Card | INR 999 | Not specified | Reward points on luxury spends like dining and travel |
RBL Bank Platinum Maxima Card | INR 2,000 | 3.99% per month | 2x reward points on dining, entertainment, and utility bill payments |
Please remember, for the most accurate comparison, refer to the bank’s official websites or contact their customer service, especially for cards where the interest rate was not specified in the previous text.
You bet, let’s break it down to the most suited card for different needs:
Best Credit Card for Shopping
Our vote for the best shopping buddy goes to the SBI SimplyCLICK Card. It’s all about that ‘Add to Cart’ life, rewarding you with points for every online purchase.
And hey, at an annual fee of just INR 499 and a 3.35% monthly interest rate, it’s practically a steal.
Best Credit Card for Travel
Hands down, the American Express Platinum Travel Card is the perfect partner for your wanderlust. With its generous welcome gift of 5,000 Membership Rewards Points, travel vouchers, and lounge access, you’ll be globetrotting in style.
The annual fee of INR 5,000 may seem hefty, but considering the perks, it’s a small price to pay.
Best Credit Card for Online Purchases
Finally, for all you e-commerce enthusiasts, the ICICI Amazon Pay Card is a dream come true. With a whopping 5% cashback on all Amazon purchases and no annual fee to worry about, your online shopping sprees just got a whole lot more rewarding.
And there you have it.
Ten credit cards that give you more than just a buying power—they give you rewards, benefits, and, let’s face it, a bit of bragging rights.
So, folks, pick your plastic wisely and let the good times roll.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a credit card?
A credit card is a plastic card issued by a financial institution, primarily a bank, that allows you to borrow money to make purchases.
How does a credit card work?
When you use a credit card, you’re borrowing money from the card issuer, which you’ll need to pay back either in full or over time with interest.
How do I apply for a credit card?
You can apply online through the bank’s website or by visiting a local branch. You’ll need to provide personal and financial information.
What is a credit limit?
The credit limit is the maximum amount you can charge to your credit card. This limit is set by the card issuer based on your credit score and income.
What is an annual fee?
Some cards charge an annual fee for the benefits and rewards they offer. This fee is charged once a year and varies from card to card.
What are reward points?
Reward points are earned for every purchase made using a credit card. These points can be redeemed for various gifts, cashback, or air miles, depending on the card.
How is interest calculated on a credit card?
Interest is calculated based on the outstanding balance at the end of each billing cycle if you do not pay the full amount.
What happens if I miss a payment?
Missing a payment can result in a late fee, a higher interest rate, and a negative impact on your credit score.
What is a cash advance?
A cash advance allows you to withdraw cash from your credit card, but typically comes with high fees and interest rates.
What is a balance transfer?
A balance transfer allows you to move your debt from one credit card to another, often with a lower interest rate for a promotional period.
Is the HDFC Regalia Card good for travel?
Yes, HDFC Regalia Card offers reward points on travel and dining, low foreign currency markup, and complimentary airport lounge access.
Does the SBI SimplyCLICK Card offer benefits for online shopping?
Yes, SBI SimplyCLICK Card offers reward points for every online purchase.
Is the ICICI Amazon Pay Card suitable for online purchases?
Absolutely. The ICICI Amazon Pay Card offers 5% cashback on all Amazon purchases.
Can I get a credit card with no annual fee?
Yes, some credit cards like the ICICI Amazon Pay Card and HSBC Visa Platinum Card offer no annual fee.
Which is the best credit card for cashback?
The Citi Cashback Card offers cashback on all spends.
Which credit card is best for dining and entertainment?
RBL Bank Platinum Maxima Card offers 2x reward points on dining and entertainment.
Which credit card is the best for shopping?
SBI SimplyCLICK Card is an excellent choice for shopping, as it offers reward points on online shopping.
What is the best credit card for travel?
American Express Platinum Travel Card is ideal for travel, offering welcome gift points, travel vouchers, and lounge access.
Which is the best credit card for online purchases?
ICICI Amazon Pay Card is the best for online purchases, offering 5% cashback on Amazon purchases.
Can I have more than one credit card?
Yes, you can have more than one credit card. However, it’s important to manage them wisely to avoid debt and maintain a good credit score.