Credit Cards: Compare Best Credit Cards In India 2025
Whether you are travelling, going out to eat, shopping online, or clearing bills, a credit card can come in handy in each situation. Moreover, using a credit card correctly can help you build a good credit score and earn rewards. There are a plethora of credit cards to choose from. However, it is important to pick the one which aligns with your spending habits. In this blog, we will cover a comprehensive list of credit cards across different categories that can help you make the right decision.
Top Credit Cards in India by Category
|
Category |
Credit Cards |
Ideal User |
|
Cashback Credit Cards |
|
Frequent shoppers and users who pay bills through credit cards. |
|
Rewards/Lifestyle Credit Cards |
|
Individuals who spend a lot on lifestyle or are regular shoppers. |
|
Travel Credit Cards |
|
Frequent travellers. |
|
Fuel/Utility Credit Cards |
|
Individuals who commute daily or pay utility bills through credit cards. |
|
Premium/Super-Premium Credit Cards |
|
Ideal for high-income individuals. |
How to Choose the Best Credit Card
Although there are several credit cards across various categories, it is important to understand and assess the key metrics that help you choose the best credit card for your lifestyle and spending habits.
Annual/Joining Fees
When choosing a credit card, one should always check the fees associated with joining the program. Certain credit cards also charge an annual fee. Keeping track of these fees can help you pick the most cost-effective credit card.
Annual Percentage Rate
When you make purchases using a credit card, you are essentially borrowing money. The interest charged by a bank on a credit card is known as the annual percentage rate (APR). The APR applies if you fail to clear the outstanding dues by the due date. The higher the APR, the more costly it can be if you carry your outstanding dues to the next billing cycle.
Reward Structure
One of the key benefits of a credit card is the numerous rewards one can enjoy by using it. While comparing credit cards, keep an eye on the types of rewards you can earn and how reward points are calculated. Picking a card that offers rewards which align with your lifestyle can be highly beneficial.
Lifestyle Compatibility
There are numerous credit cards that are suitable for different purposes and end users. During the decision-making process, it is important to consider whether a credit card fits with your spending habits and lifestyle. Keeping how, where, and how often you spend your money can help you pick the most suitable credit card.
Credit Score Requirements
Banks and credit card companies often take into account an individual’s credit score when they apply for a credit card. While some credit cards may require a high credit score, others may be more lenient. Make sure your credit score is healthy and meets the requirements of the credit card that you are applying for. Higher credit scores can improve your chances of approval and may also result in lower interest rates.
Best Cashback Credit Cards
SBI Cashback
Annual Fee: ₹999
Joining Fee: ₹999
The SBI Cashback credit card is ideal for frequent shoppers, as it offers cashback on every transaction, helping them save money.
Key Features:
- 5% cashback on online transactions.
- 1% cashback on in-store transactions.
- 1% fuel surcharge waiver across all petrol pumps in India.
Amazon Pay ICICI
Joining Fee: Free
Annual Fee: Free
Whether you are an Amazon Prime user or not, you can enjoy cashbacks on online transactions through an Amazon Pay ICICI credit card. Cardholders receive several benefits, including cashback on online transactions.
Key Features:
- Welcome bonuses for Prime members as well as non-Prime Members.
- Cashback of 5% for Prime members and 3% for non-Prime members on Amazon purchases and 1% on other transactions.
- Ideal for individuals who frequently shop on Amazon or with their merchant partners.
Axis Bank ACE
Joining Fee: ₹499
Annual Fee: ₹499
The Axis Bank ACE credit card can be an ideal option for individuals looking to earn cashback on transactions made on apps such as Swiggy, Zomato, or Ola.
Key Features:
- 20% cashback on bills at select restaurants
- 4% cashback on Swiggy and Zomato
- 5% cashback on utility bills via Google Pay.
- 4 airport lounge visits at certain domestic airports.
- Ideal for users who frequently order from apps like Swiggy and Zomato.
Swiggy HDFC Bank
Joining Fee: ₹500
Annual Fee: ₹500
Through the Swiggy HDFC Bank, one can enjoy cashback offers on various Swiggy services and other transactions. Receive additional benefits that can make travel more enjoyable.
Key Features:
- Free 3-month Swiggy One membership on joining.
- 10% cashback on Swiggy services.
- 5% cashback on select brands and 1% cashback on all transactions.
- Access to golf clubs and a 12% discount on worldwide hotels through Agoda.
- Ideal for users who frequently utilise Swiggy services and also travellers looking to save some money.
HDFC Bank Millennia
Joining Fee: ₹1,000
Annual Fee: ₹1,000
The HDFC Millennia credit card is catered to millennials and Gen Z, with cashback offers on numerous e-commerce platforms, restaurants, lifestyle, and entertainment.
Key Features:
- Earn cash points against the joining fee and on each transaction.
- 5% cashback across leading e-commerce platforms and 1% cashback on each transaction.
- Up to 20% discount at select restaurants through Swiggy Dineout.
- Ideal for frequent online shoppers and lifestyle spenders.
Best Rewards/Lifestyle Credit Cards
Axis Bank SELECT
Joining Fee: ₹3,000
Annual Fee: ₹3,000
The Axis Bank SELECT credit card offers rewards across dining, travel, and lifestyle, matching a premium experience on a budget.
Key Features:
- Amazon voucher worth ₹2,000 upon joining
- Gain Axis Edge points on transactions with a reward rate of 1-10%
- Lounge access for domestic and international airports
- 24x7 concierge desk, free golf rounds, 1% fuel surcharge refund
- Discounts on movie tickets through BookMyShow and grocery bills on BigBasket
- Ideal for frequent lifestyle spenders, shoppers, or regular travellers.
HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card
Joining Fee: ₹2,500
Annual Fee: ₹2,500
Individuals can enjoy a host of perks through the HDFC Regalia Gold credit card that can make spending on lifestyle a rewarding experience.
Key Features:
- Welcome bonuses include a ₹2,500 gift voucher and Club Mahindra Silver Tier & MakeMyTrip Black Elite membership (if spending exceeds ₹1 lakh in the first 90 days).
- Strong rewards program with a reward rate of 1.3% to 13%.
- Up to 5X rewards at select partner stores.
- Lounge access and travel insurance coverage.
- Suitable frequent shoppers, travellers, and lifestyle spenders.
SBI Prime Credit Card
Joining Fee: ₹2,999
Annual Fee: ₹2,999
The SBI Prime credit card can be rewarding, offering a wide range of benefits spanning shopping, travel, and lifestyle.
Key Features:
- Welcome bonus gift voucher of a leading brand worth ₹3,000
- Free Trident Privilege Red Tier membership, Club Vistara Silver membership, and upgrade voucher for Vistara.
- Reward rate of 0.5% to 5%.
- Lounge access across domestic and international airports.
- Ideal for individuals who travel frequently and spend on lifestyle or shopping.
HDFC Bank Diners Club Black Card
Joining Fee: ₹10,000
Annual Fee: ₹10,000
A premium credit card with a strong rewards program that offers numerous benefits for shopping, travelling, and lifestyle spends.
Key Features:
- Complimentary membership to MMT Black Elite, Club Marriott, Forbes, Amazon Prime, and Swiggy One
- High rewards rate against travel and shopping spends.
- 24/7 concierge service, premium lounge access, and fast-track airport experience.
- Milestone benefits on leading e-commerce platforms.
- Ideal for individuals who spend frequently on travel, shopping, or dining out.
Axis Bank Privilege Credit Card
Joining Fee: ₹1,500
Annual Fee: ₹1,500
The Axis Bank Privilege credit card is an affordable lifestyle credit card that offers holders a lucrative rewards program and several benefits.
Key Features:
- Instantly gain up to 12,500 EDGE reward points upon signing up.
- Earn reward points on each transaction with a reward rate of up to 5%
- Complimentary lounge access
- Discounts on dining through the Axis Bank Dining Delights program.
- The credit card is suitable for individuals seeking an affordable card that rewards routine spending.
Best Travel Credit Cards
IRCTC SBI Platinum Card
Joining Fee: ₹500 (plus taxes)
Annual Fee: ₹500
The IRCTC SBI Platinum card offers various benefits, including access to railway lounges, booking benefits, and reward points.
Key Features:
- Earn reward points on joining and on annual renewal
- Earn up to 10% rewards against bookings made through the IRCTC website and app
- Gain railway lounge access and travel offers from IRCTC
- Suitable for individuals who frequently travel by train within the country.
Axis Bank Miles & More World Credit Card
Joining Fee: ₹3,500 (plus GST)
Annual Fee: ₹3,500 (plus GST)
The Axis Bank Miles & More World credit card can make travelling highly rewarding, as it lets you redeem your miles for rewards.
Key Features:
- Earn miles as a welcome bonus when you make your first transaction and purchase a Priority Pass.
- Redeem your miles on the Miles & More website for rewards.
- Gain 2 complimentary visits to Priority Pass lounges.
- Benefit from discounts at select partner brands.
- Ideal for individuals who travel regularly by air and want to redeem accrued miles for rewards.
Club Vistara IDFC First Bank
Joining Fee: ₹4,999
Annual Fee: ₹4,999
The Club Vistara IDFC First Bank credit card is a co-branded card with Vistara that offers several benefits, such as a Club Vistara membership.
Key Features:
- Gain welcome bonuses such as ticket vouchers, upgrades, and Club Vistara Silver membership.
- Extensive domestic and international lounge access.
- Gain ticket vouchers upon spending milestones.
- The credit card is suitable for individuals who fly frequently, both domestically and internationally, as it offers several rewards, including seat upgrades.
HSBC Travel One Credit Card
Joining Fee: 4,999
Annual Fees: ₹4,999
The HSBC Travel One credit card is a travel-focused credit card that offers a host of perks and numerous milestone benefits.
Key Features:
- Cashback, discounts, and reward points as a welcome bonus.
- Flat 15% discount on travel platforms like Yatra, EaseMyTrip, and ClearTrip.
- International and domestic lounge access.
- Earn reward points for travel or flight purchases.
- Suitable for individuals who travel frequently and want to avail discounts and rewards on their expenditure.
Axis Atlas Credit Card
Joining Fee: ₹5,000
Annual Fee: ₹5,000
The Axis Bank Atlas credit card is a premium, travel-oriented credit card that offers holders a wide range of benefits and rewards.
Key Features:
- 2,500 EDGE miles as a welcome bonus
- Earn EDGE miles for transactions
- Concierge service, domestic and international lounge access.
- Suitable for frequent travellers and individuals looking to earn reward points as they spend.
Best Fuel/Utility Credit Cards
IndianOil RBL Bank XTRA Credit Card
Joining Fee: ₹500 (plus taxes)
Annual Fee: ₹500 (plus taxes)
The IndianOil RBL Bank XTRA credit card is a co-branded card that allows users to earn rewards on fuel expenses and also save money on fuel.
Key Features:
- 1,000 Fuel Points as a welcome bonus
- 1% fuel surcharge waiver
- The annual fee is waived upon achieving certain milestones
- Suitable for individuals who frequently travel by road and want to earn rewards and save money.
BPCL SBI Card Octane
Joining Fee: ₹1,499
Annual Fee: ₹1,499
This SBI credit card, in partnership with BPCL, allows individuals to earn reward points on fuel expenses and other expenditures.
Key Features:
- Earn 6,000 reward points upon joining.
- 25X reward points against the fuel bought at BPCL petrol pumps
- Earn reward points for transactions at BPCL, the Bharat Gas application, or the Bharat Gas website.
- Reward rate of 0.25% to 6.25% applicable on groceries, movie tickets, or dining.
- Suitable for individuals who often spend a lot on fuel and lifestyle expenses.
Airtel Axis Bank Credit Card
Joining Fee: ₹500
Annual Fee: ₹500
A budget-friendly, utility-focused credit card, the Airtel Axis Bank credit card can help individuals save on utility bills and earn rewards on their expenses.
Key Features:
- Earn a ₹500 Amazon voucher as a welcome bonus
- Up to 10% cash back on utility bill payments, with 25% cashback on bills for Airtel services.
- Domestic lounge access and dining discounts through EazyDiner
- Suitable for individuals who pay utility bills with credit cards.
ICICI HPCL Super Saver Credit Card
Joining Fee: ₹500
Annual Fee: ₹500
The ICICI HPCL Super Saver credit card offers savings on fuel purchases and utility bills, along with several benefits.
Key Features:
- Welcome bonus of up to 2,000 reward points
- 5% cashback on HPCL petrol pump or HP Pay app. 1.5% additional cashback as reward points for transactions on the HP Pay app.
- Cashback and reward points for bill payments or retail store expenditures.
- Roadside assistance in case of breakdowns
- Suitable for frequent road travellers and individuals who clear utility bills through credit cards.
HPCL IDFC First Power+ Credit Card
Joining Fee: ₹499
Renewal Fee: ₹499
The IDFC First Power+ credit card offers fuel savings and accelerated rewards on utility bills, groceries, and FASTag recharges.
Key Features:
- Welcome bonus cashback of ₹500
- Earn up to 4% of the value as rewards for HPCL fuel & LPG expenses.
- Gain additional rewards for payments through the HP Pay app.
- Movie ticket discounts, lounge access, and roadside assistance.
- This credit card is ideal for individuals looking to earn reward points against fuel expenses.
Best Premium/Super-Premium Credit Cards
HDFC Infinia Credit Card Metal Edition
Joining Fee: ₹12,500
Annual Fee: ₹12,500
The HDFC Infinia Credit Card Metal Edition is a premium, invite-only credit card that offers exclusive services and numerous rewards.
Key Features:
- 12,500 reward points and a complimentary Club Marriott membership as a welcome bonus
- Extensive domestic and international lounge access. Convert reward points into air miles.
- Exclusive discounts at ITC hotels
- Reward points are redeemable at major retail outlets such as Apple and Tanishq.
- This card is suitable for individuals seeking premium services and high rewards on their expenses.
Axis Bank Burgundy Private Credit Card
Joining Fee: ₹50,000
Annual Fee: ₹50,000
The Axis Bank Burgundy Private credit card is an invite-only, exclusive credit card. This card offers premium lifestyle and financial services.
Key Features:
- 24/7 concierge services to manage flights, bookings, and experiences
- No foreign exchange markup
- Earn 15 EDGE points for every ₹200 spent.
- Free memberships to premium services such as Club Marriott, Accor Plus, and Taj Epicure
- This card is suitable for high-net-worth individuals who lead a luxurious lifestyle or travel frequently.
Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card
Joining Fee: ₹50,000
Annual Fee: ₹50,000
The Axis Bank Reserve credit card is a premium travel- and luxury-focused card for big spenders.
Key Features:
- 50,000 reward points on card activation and annual renewal
- VIP travel concierge and 4 complimentary pickup & drop-off services each year.
- Extensive lounge access domestically and internationally.
- Discounts on dining and entertainment.
- This card is suitable for high-spending, high-net-worth individuals who spend frequently on travel and lifestyle.
IDFC First Private Reserve Credit Card
Joining Fee: ₹50,000
Annual Fee: ₹50,000
Targeted at high-net-worth individuals, IDFC First Private Reserve credit card offers numerous services and benefits across luxury travel and lifestyle.
Key Features:
- Earn a welcome bonus of 50,000 reward points and 25,000 reward points on annual renewal. Gain a complimentary membership to Club ITC Culinaire Hotel.
- 0% foreign exchange markup. Lounge access at railways and airports, along with concierge services
- Accelerated reward points program with up to 10x reward points.
- The card is suitable for ultra-high-net-worth individuals who can maximise its benefits through large expenses.
ICICI Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card
Joining Fee: ₹12,500
Annual Fee: ₹12,500
Focused on travellers and high spenders, the ICICI Emeralde Private Metal credit card offers numerous benefits, including a strong rewards program.
Key Features:
- 12,500 reward points and a Taj Epicure membership as a welcome bonus
- 6x reward points on flights or vouchers and 12x reward points on purchases made on the iShop.
- Domestic and international lounge access, along with Priority Pass
- Discounts on movie tickets, dining, and unlimited golf lessons.
- Suitable for individuals who want a premium experience at lower joining and annual fees.
Comparison Table - Key Details
|
Category |
Annual Fee Range |
Core Benefits |
Ideal For |
|
Cashback |
Free to ₹1,000 |
Earn cashback, discounts, and rewards on transactions. |
Online shopping, dining out, utility bills. |
|
Rewards/Lifestyle |
₹1,500 to ₹10,000 |
Earn redeemable reward points or perks for routine credit card transactions |
Lifestyle expenses such as shopping, movies, travel, or dining out. |
|
Travel |
₹500 to ₹5,000 |
Helps save money on travel tickets, hotels, and lounge access, and earns reward points. |
Flight tickets, hotel bookings, lounge access, exclusive offers & upgrades. |
|
Fuel/Utility |
₹500 to ₹1,500 |
Individuals can save money and earn reward points on fuel expenses or utility bill payments. |
Paying utility bills, groceries, or purchasing fuel. |
|
Premium/Super-Premium |
₹12,500 to ₹50,000 |
Bespoke luxury services, benefits and rewards |
Luxury travel, shopping, or high-value expenses. |
Tips for Using Credit Cards Wisely
Clear Dues on Time
One of the most important tips for using a credit card wisely is to pay your credit card bill on time. It is essential to know your billing cycle and make the payment on time to avoid late payment fees or interest charges, which can rack up quickly.
Avoid Paying the Minimum Amount
While it is possible to pay just the minimum amount, it can cause interest to pile up quickly, which can take a long time to clear.
Know Your Reward Structure
To make the most of your credit card, it is important to understand your rewards structure. Know how the points are rewarded, how you can use them, and when they expire.
Avoid Frequent Utilisation
Keeping credit card utilisation below 30% can help you maintain a healthy credit score. For example, if your credit limit is ₹10 lakh, do not spend more than ₹3 lakh.
Regularly Review Statements
Credit card statements are vital for tracking expenses, fees, and charges. It can also help you spot any suspicious activity.
Avoid Cash Withdrawals
Although withdrawing cash with a credit card is possible, it typically incurs fees and charges per transaction. It is advisable to use a debit card for cash withdrawals instead of a credit card.
Conclusion
The best credit card for you depends on your financial goals, spending habits, and income. When selecting a credit card, it is important to compare cards across categories to find the one that best aligns with your financial goals. It is also important to regularly review other card offers to find one with better benefits and rewards.