Compare 21 of India's most popular credit cards by annual fee, cashback, reward rate, forex markup and lounge access. Then find out exactly how much each one would earn you, based on how you spend.
With dozens of cards on offer, picking one can feel overwhelming. The best credit card is simply the one that returns the most for your spending, after fees. Here is what to compare.
1. Annual fee and fee waiver
Fees range from zero on lifetime free cards to ₹12,500+ on super-premium cards, plus 18% GST. Most banks waive the renewal fee if you spend a set amount in a year. If you will easily cross that threshold, the card is effectively free.
2. Reward rate on your top categories
A card's headline "5% cashback" usually applies only to certain merchants or categories. Compare the reward rate on the places where you actually spend: Amazon, Flipkart, Swiggy, groceries, fuel or travel. Convert points to rupees using a realistic redemption value. Our reward points calculator can help.
3. Caps and exclusions
Accelerated rewards are often capped at ₹500–₹5,000 a month. Rent, fuel, wallet loads, insurance, utilities and EMIs are commonly excluded. A card with a lower headline rate but no caps can beat a capped 5% card for big spenders.
4. Forex markup
If you travel or shop on foreign websites, the forex markup (0–3.5% plus GST) can wipe out your rewards. Use the forex markup calculator to see the difference.
5. Lounge access and lifestyle benefits
Airport lounge visits, movie offers, golf and insurance add real value, but only if you use them. Many banks now require a minimum spend before you can use lounge access.
6. Interest rate and charges
Most Indian credit cards charge around 3–3.75% interest a month (about 36–45% a year) on unpaid balances. If you might carry a balance, no reward programme will make up for that. See the interest calculator.
Credit card comparison FAQs
How do I compare credit cards in India?
Compare five things: the annual fee and the spend needed to waive it, the reward rate on the categories where you spend most, reward caps and exclusions, forex markup if you spend abroad, and extras like lounge access. Our credit card finder does this for you using your own monthly spends.
Which is the best credit card in India?
There is no single best card. It depends on where you spend. For broad online spending SBI Card Cashback leads, Amazon Pay ICICI is best for Amazon, Scapia Federal Bank is strong for international travel, and HDFC Infinia leads for very high spenders.
Does comparing credit cards affect my CIBIL score?
No. Comparing cards on CardPicker does not involve a credit check. Only a formal application to a bank triggers a hard enquiry on your credit report.
Are lifetime free credit cards worth it?
Yes, if their rewards suit you. A lifetime free card costs nothing to hold and helps build credit history, but paid cards often return more if you spend enough to cover the fee.
How is the estimated yearly value calculated?
We multiply your spend in each category by the card's effective reward rate, apply monthly caps, add annual milestone benefits, then subtract the annual fee (plus GST) if you do not meet the waiver threshold, and forex costs on international spends.
How many credit cards should I have?
Most people do well with two or three: one card for broad everyday rewards, one for their most-used platform (Amazon, Flipkart or Swiggy) and optionally a travel card. Pay every card in full each month.