Top Credit Cards in India with Best Rewards

In today’s fast-paced financial environment, credit cards have transformed from simple payment tools into gateways for rewards, cashback, and exclusive benefits. With over 60 million credit card users in India as of 2023, choosing the right card has become crucial to maximizing savings and rewards. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, online shopper, or someone who enjoys dining out, the right credit card can offer perks tailored to your lifestyle. In fact, credit card transactions in India crossed ₹1.3 trillion in 2023, highlighting the growing trend of using cards for everyday expenses. But with so many options available, how do you pick the one that suits you best? From travel benefits to online shopping rewards, understanding the top credit cards in India can help you make an informed decision and unlock the maximum value for your spending habits. Let us explore the top credit cards in India that offer the best rewards, helping you make an informed choice for maximizing your benefits:

Which are the Best Credit Cards in India for Rewards?

1. HDFC Diners Club Privilege Credit Card

The HDFC Diners Club Privilege Credit Card is a premium option that offers high reward points, especially if you’re a frequent traveler or someone with significant monthly spending.

Key Features:

• 4 reward points for every ₹150 spent.
• 10X reward points on partner brands like Amazon, Flipkart, and major travel platforms.
• Complimentary access to over 1,000 airport lounges globally.
• Annual fee waiver on spends above ₹3 lakhs in a year.

Best For: High spenders and frequent travelers who want premium benefits.

2. SBI SimplyCLICK Credit Card

The SBI SimplyCLICK Credit Card is a great choice for online shoppers. Its strong rewards on online spending make it a solid option for those who regularly shop on e-commerce platforms.

Key Features:

• 10X reward points on partner websites like Amazon, BookMyShow, and Cleartrip.
• 5X reward points on other online spending.
• Annual fee waiver on spends exceeding ₹1 lakh per year.
• ₹500 Amazon gift card as a welcome gift.

Best For: Regular online shoppers looking to maximize their rewards.

3. Axis Bank Rewards Credit Card

The Axis Bank Rewards Credit Card is designed for those who want a simple, yet effective reward system across all their spending. With a low annual fee and strong reward point accumulation, it’s a practical choice for regular users.

Key Features:

• 16% rewards on all spends.
• 1 Reward Point = ₹0.20.
• Annual fee of ₹500, waived off if annual spends exceed ₹1 lakh.

Best For: Individuals looking for a no-frills rewards card with high returns on general spending.

4. IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card

The IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card is a fantastic choice for those who prefer shopping online and dining out. With accelerated reward points in specific categories, it’s a great all-rounder for everyday use.

Key Features:

• 10X reward points on online spending across 1,000+ merchants.
• 5X reward points on dining, movies, and utility bill payments.
• 1 reward point = ₹0.25.
• No annual fee, making it a cost-effective option.

Best For: Individuals who frequently shop online and want strong rewards across a variety of spending categories.

5. American Express Membership Rewards Credit Card

The American Express Membership Rewards Credit Card offers versatility in redeeming reward points, along with the premium service that American Express is known for.

Key Features:

• 1,000 Membership Rewards points on completing 4 transactions of ₹1,000 each per month.
• 1 reward point for every ₹50 spent (except for fuel, insurance, and utility payments).
• Access to the Amex Membership Rewards portal for redeeming points for travel, dining, and merchandise.
• Savings of up to 18% at select restaurants in India.

Best For: Individuals looking for flexibility in redeeming rewards and premium lifestyle benefits.

6. American Express SmartEarn Credit Card

For those seeking a simple and affordable credit card with decent rewards, the American Express SmartEarn Credit Card is a great choice. It offers category-specific rewards for grocery, fuel, and other essential purchases.

Key Features:

• 5% rewards on grocery spends.
• 2% rewards on fuel.
• 1% rewards on other categories.
• 1 reward point = ₹0.25.
• Annual fee of ₹495.

Best For: People who want a basic rewards card with strong earnings in the grocery and fuel categories.

7. Axis Bank Ace Credit Card

For cashback enthusiasts, the Axis Bank Ace Credit Card is one of the best options available. Offering substantial cashback across various categories, this card ensures value with every swipe.

Key Features:

• 5% cashback on bill payments and recharges via Google Pay.
• 4% cashback on food delivery and travel via partners like Swiggy and Ola.
• 2% cashback on all other spends.
• Unlimited cashback with no cap.

Best For: Individuals who prefer cashback rewards over points and use their card for daily expenses.

8. ICICI Bank Coral Contactless Credit Card

The ICICI Bank Coral Credit Card offers a good balance of rewards for daily spends and travel. With contactless payment features, it simplifies transactions while earning you rewards.

Key Features:

• 2 PAYBACK points for every ₹100 spent on retail purchases.
• 1 PAYBACK point for every ₹100 spent on utilities and insurance.
• Complimentary domestic airport lounge access.
• 15% savings on dining through the Culinary Treats Program.

Best For: People seeking balanced rewards for everyday spending and travel perks.

9. Citi Cashback Credit Card

If cashback is your preference, the Citi Cashback Credit Card is an excellent option for those who want to earn direct cashback on utility bill payments, entertainment, and everyday purchases.

Key Features:

• 5% cashback on utility bills and movie tickets.
• 0.5% cashback on other spending.
• Cashback gets credited automatically once it hits ₹500.
• Low annual fee, which is waived with high spending.

Best For: Individuals looking for easy cashback on everyday utility and entertainment expenses.

10. Standard Chartered Super Value Titanium Credit Card

The Standard Chartered Super Value Titanium Credit Card is ideal for people who want to save on fuel and utility bill payments, while also earning rewards on other categories.

Key Features:

• 5% cashback on fuel, phone bills, and utility payments.
• 1 reward point for every ₹150 spent on other categories.
• Waiver of fuel surcharge.
• Low foreign transaction fees, making it suitable for travelers.

Best For: Individuals who want significant cashback on fuel and utility bills.

Conclusion

Selecting the right credit card comes down to understanding your spending habits. Are you a frequent traveler, an online shopper, or someone who values cashback on utilities and groceries? The best credit card for you will depend on where you spend the most and how you want to earn rewards.

With options like the Axis Bank Rewards Credit Card offering a simple, yet rewarding structure, and the IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card excelling in online spending and dining, there’s something for everyone. Meanwhile, the American Express SmartEarn Credit Card provides valuable rewards on groceries and fuel, appealing to individuals who want a low-fee card with practical benefits.

Before applying for any card, always review the fees, reward redemption options, and whether the card’s benefits align with your financial goals. Happy swiping, and enjoy those rewards!

These tips are brought to you by HappyWise Financial Services.

If you need any assistance with organizing your finances or want to discuss your investment options, feel free to connect through Email or Whatsapp.

Disclaimer: Some part/s may be generated/modified using GenerativeAI