HDFC Credit Card vs ICICI Credit Card: Which is the Better Choice?

It is wise to compare options from leading banks offering credit cards to individuals. Two of India's most popular credit card providers, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank, provide a wide range of cards that cater to different needs of individuals. While availing of a credit card, an individual looks forward to multiple rewards, cashback, or travel benefits. Understanding the differences between their offerings can help you make an informed decision. This guide will compare the HDFC and the ICICI credit card, focusing on the main features, benefits, and costs associated with each. By examining the HDFC credit card vs ICICI credit card options in detail, you can easily select the best credit option to benefit you.

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Thejus KS
Thejus KS
A mechanical engineer turned history buff with a sprinkle of financial brilliance. Thejus’s expertise comes with a unique blend of engineering precision, timelines, and the power of numerals. He knows that numbers are the pulse of our globe. Attention to detail and extensive research are the key elements of his writing.
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Amit Prakash Singh
Co-Founder, Square Yards & Chief Business Officer, Urban Money
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ICICI Bank vs HDFC Bank Credit Cards – Key Highlights

For a detailed comparison between various features and benefits of the HDFC Bank credit card vs the ICICI Bank credit card, refer to the table below:

Feature HDFC Bank Credit Cards ICICI Bank Credit Cards
Types of Cards Available Regular, Premium, Super Premium, Co-branded, CashBack, Lifestyle Entry-level, Premium, Co-branded, Lifestyle, Cashback
Reward Programs Up to 5% cashback on select categories (e.g., Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra) and reward points for other spends Up to 5% cashback on select categories and rewards points for other spends
Annual Fees Varies by card type, generally between ₹500 – ₹10,000 Varies by card type, generally between ₹499 – ₹5,000
Airport Lounge Access Complimentary access with Premium and Super Premium cards Complimentary access with select cards like Coral and Sapphiro
Welcome Benefits Gift vouchers, cashback, or bonus reward points on select cards Gift vouchers, bonus reward points, and exclusive offers
Foreign Currency Markup As low as 2% on select premium cards 3.5%-1.75% on most cards
Additional Benefits Concierge services, golf privileges, and discounts at partner restaurants Complimentary movie tickets, dining offers, and concierge services
Fuel Surcharge Waiver 1% waiver across all fuel stations 1% waiver across all fuel stations
Interest-Free Credit Period Up to 50 days Up to 48 days
Exclusive Perks Personal concierge, golf privileges, exclusive membership offers Complimentary access to select airport lounges, exclusive dining offers

ICICI Bank Credit Card

Whether you are looking for cashback, travel perks, or lifestyle rewards, the ICICI Bank credit card can meet your needs. The ICICI Bank Credit Card lineup includes options like the Coral, Rubyx, and Sapphiro cards, each providing unique benefits. For example, the Coral Credit Card offers a 25% discount on movie tickets through BookMyShow and INOX, along with complimentary access to airport and railway lounges. The Rubyx Credit Card adds extra perks like free golf games and dining discounts.

For individuals who love to travel, cards like the MakeMyTrip ICICI Bank Signature Credit Card provide benefits such as complimentary airport lounge access, exclusive travel vouchers, and special offers on MMT Cabs. Additionally, ICICI Bank offers co-branded cards like the Amazon Pay ICICI Bank Credit Card, which is perfect for regular Amazon shoppers and offers rewards on every purchase.

These cards come with competitive interest rates and flexible EMI options, and they often include attractive welcome offers like bonus reward points or gift vouchers, making them a great choice for different financial needs. Whether you prioritise cashback, rewards, or exclusive experiences, ICICI Bank likely has a credit card that suits your lifestyle.

ICICI Bank’s Top 5 Credit Cards

The credit cards offered by ICICI Bank are designed for individuals with different lifestyles and needs. Here are the top 5 ICICI Bank credit cards that stand out for their features and benefits:

ICICI Bank Coral Credit Card

This card is perfect for everyday use. It offers a 25% discount on movie tickets through BookMyShow and INOX twice a month. It also provides complimentary airport and railway lounge access once every quarter and a 1% fuel surcharge waiver at HPCL pumps. With a low joining fee of ₹500 + GST, it’s an excellent option for frequent moviegoers and travellers.

ICICI Bank Rubyx Credit Card

The Rubyx Credit Card is a premium card and offers complimentary golf rounds, discounts on dining, and free airport lounge access. Cardholders can earn up to 6 reward points per ₹100 spent internationally and enjoy exclusive movie ticket offers. The card has a joining fee of

₹3,000 + GST and provides excellent value for those who enjoy luxury experiences.

ICICI Bank Sapphiro Credit Card

This top-tier card is ideal for those seeking luxurious perks. It offers four complimentary domestic airport lounge accesses per quarter, two international lounge accesses per year, and significant rewards for international spending. The joining fee is ₹6,500 + GST, but the extensive benefits make it worthwhile for frequent travellers.

ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card

For those looking for the ultimate luxury experience, the Emeralde Card offers unlimited domestic and international lounge access, complimentary spa access at airports, and a BOGO (buy one, get one) offer on movie and event tickets. With a higher joining fee of ₹12,000 + GST, this card is best for high-spenders who want premium services.

Amazon Pay ICICI Bank Credit Card

This card is highly popular due to its zero annual fee and attractive cashback offers, especially for frequent Amazon shoppers. You can earn up to 5% cashback on Amazon purchases, making it a top choice for online shoppers who want to maximise their savings.

HDFC Bank Credit Card

The HDFC Bank Credit Card lineup includes cards that offer a range of benefits, from cashback on daily spending to premium travel perks and reward points on purchases. Individuals holding an HDFC Bank credit card can earn rewards and cashbacks on everyday expenses. For example, having an HDFC Millennia Credit Card can provide you with a cashback of up to 5% on popular online platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and Zomato. Meanwhile, credit cards such as the HDFC Regalia or Infinia provide complimentary global lounge access, travel insurance, and luxury brand discounts.

Apart from these perks and features, HDFC Bank provides excellent security and convenience on their credit cards, such as contactless payments and zero liability on stolen or lost credit cards, ensuring that the transactions are safe and hassle-free.

So, if you are looking for cashback, rewards, or luxury perks, HDFC Bank credit cards offer a range of options to suit your spending habits and lifestyle.

Top 5 Credit Cards of HDFC Bank

HDFC Bank provides a selection of credit cards designed to cater to different needs, whether you are looking forward to having cashbacks on your purchases or premium travel perks. Here are the top 5 credit cards from HDFC Bank:

HDFC Regalia Credit Card

The HDFC Regalia credit card is the best choice if you like luxury and travel. It offers complimentary airport lounge access, 4 reward points per ₹150 spent, and attractive discounts at fine-dining restaurants. The card also includes travel insurance and a low foreign currency markup, making it a strong choice for frequent travellers.

HDFC Millennia Credit Card

This card is perfect for online shoppers. It provides 5% cash back on popular e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and Zomato and 1% cash back on other transactions. Therefore, making it a great choice for someone who uses a credit card for everyday expenses. Additional perks include dining discounts and airport lounge access.

HDFC Infinia Credit Card

A premium card with multiple benefits, the Infinia offers unlimited lounge access globally, 10X reward points on travel and shopping via the SmartBuy platform, and luxury perks such as Club Marriott membership. It’s a top choice for high-spenders seeking comprehensive rewards.

HDFC Diners Club Black Credit Card

The Diners Club Black credit card offers various lifestyle benefits, including complimentary memberships to services like Amazon Prime and Club Marriott. It also offers 10X reward points on domestic and international bookings through the SmartBuy platform, making it suitable for frequent travellers.

HDFC MoneyBack+ Credit Card

This card is a great option for those who prefer cashback. It offers 10X CashPoints on purchases at Amazon, Flipkart, and BigBasket. These points can be easily redeemed against the statement balance, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

Which Credit Card Is Best?

It comes down to your preference and spending habits to decide which credit card is the best for you. Here’s how you can decide based on your specific needs:

Luxury & Travel Perks

HDFC Bank offers cards like the Regalia and Infinia that provide excellent travel benefits, including global lounge access, travel insurance, and high reward points on travel and dining. ICICI Bank’s Sapphiro and Emeralde cards also offer similar benefits with additional perks like golf privileges and spa access, making them ideal for those who enjoy a premium lifestyle.

Cashbacks

The HDFC Millennia Credit Card and ICICI Amazon Pay Credit Card are known for their cashback benefits. The Millennia card offers up to 5% cash back on popular online platforms, while the Amazon Pay card provides up to 5% cashback on Amazon purchases. For individuals prioritising savings, these credit cards can be an excellent choice.

For Budget-Conscious Users

If you want a card with low fees but good benefits, consider the ICICI Coral Credit Card or HDFC MoneyBack+ Credit Card. Both offer essential perks like cashback and dining discounts with minimal annual fees, making them great for everyday use.

Top Reward-Earning Credit Cards

The HDFC Diners Club Black and ICICI Rubyx Credit Card are worth considering for those who focus on earning and redeeming reward points. These cards offer enhanced rewards in various categories, including travel, dining, and shopping.

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