Best Credit Cards in India 2025 – Compare Top Options for Cashback, Travel and Rewards
Credit cards have become essential financial tools in India, especially with the rise of digital payments and e-commerce. In 2025, banks and fintech companies are offering highly competitive credit cards designed to fit the unique needs of Indian consumers.
This article compares the best credit cards in India based on key features like cashback, rewards, annual fees, and lifestyle benefits. Whether you are a first-time user, a salaried employee, a frequent flyer, or an online shopper, this guide will help you choose the right credit card.
Why Use a Credit Card in India
Using a credit card smartly can help you:
- Earn cashback and reward points
- Access free airport lounges
- Build a good credit score
- Manage monthly expenses with EMI options
- Get discounts on food, travel, and shopping
Let’s look at the top 7 credit cards for 2025.
- HDFC Millennia Credit Card
Best for: Online shopping
Annual Fee: Rs. 1000 (waived on spending Rs. 1 lakh per year)
Key Benefits:
- 5 percent cashback on Amazon, Flipkart, and Myntra
- 1 percent cashback on all other spends
- Fuel surcharge waiver up to Rs. 250 per month
- Welcome vouchers worth Rs. 1000
Why Choose: Ideal for young professionals and regular online shoppers.
- SBI SimplyCLICK Credit Card
Best for: Beginners and online users
Annual Fee: Rs. 499 (waived on annual spend of Rs. 1 lakh)
Key Benefits:
- 10x reward points on Amazon, BookMyShow, Cleartrip, and more
- Milestone benefit: Rs. 2000 Amazon voucher on spending Rs. 1 lakh annually
- 1 reward point per Rs. 100 spent elsewhere
Why Choose: Great for first-time users looking to save on online purchases.
- Axis Bank ACE Credit Card
Best for: Bill payments and food delivery
Annual Fee: Rs. 499 (waived on Rs. 2 lakh spend annually)
Key Benefits:
- 5 percent cashback on bill payments through Google Pay
- 4 percent cashback on Zomato, Swiggy, and Ola
- 2 percent cashback on all other spends
Why Choose: High everyday cashback value for utility bills and food lovers.
- ICICI Amazon Pay Credit Card
Best for: Amazon users
Annual Fee: Rs. 0 (Lifetime Free)
Key Benefits:
- 5 percent back for Amazon Prime members
- 3 percent back for non-Prime users
- 1 percent back on all other spends
- No joining or annual fee
Why Choose: One of the best lifetime free cards with direct cashback on Amazon.
- AU Small Finance LIT Credit Card
Best for: Custom feature selection
Annual Fee: Rs. 499
Key Benefits:
- Choose and change benefits like cashback, fuel, travel, etc.
- 5 percent cashback on selected categories
- No predefined reward structure – you control the benefits
Why Choose: Fully customizable card for advanced users.
- Standard Chartered Smart Credit Card
Best for: Grocery, EMI, and household spending
Annual Fee: Rs. 499
Key Benefits:
- 2 percent cashback on online spends
- 1 percent cashback on offline spends
- Instant EMI conversion on transactions above Rs. 2000
Why Choose: Simple and efficient card with low EMI interest rates.
- IndusInd Bank Legend Credit Card
Best for: Premium lifestyle and travel
Annual Fee: Rs. 2500
Key Benefits:
- Complimentary airport lounge access
- Golf sessions and movie offers
- Travel insurance and concierge services
Why Choose: Premium features ideal for high-income professionals.
How to Choose the Right Credit Card
Consider these factors before applying:
- Your monthly spending habits
- Preferred spending categories like fuel, travel, online shopping
- Annual fees vs cashback value
- Welcome bonuses and milestone rewards
- Eligibility criteria based on your income
Card Comparison Table
| Purpose | Best Card |
|---|---|
| Online Shopping | HDFC Millennia, SBI SimplyCLICK |
| Food & Delivery | Axis ACE Credit Card |
| Lifetime Free | ICICI Amazon Pay |
| Bill Payments | Axis ACE |
| Travel Benefits | IndusInd Legend |
| Beginner Friendly | SBI SimplyCLICK, AU LIT |
Tips to Maximize Credit Card Benefits
- Always pay the full bill before the due date to avoid interest.
- Use the card for categories that offer maximum cashback.
- Combine two or more cards to cover all types of expenses.
- Track reward points regularly and redeem before expiry.
- Avoid cash withdrawals and unnecessary EMI conversions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can students apply for credit cards in India?
Yes, some banks offer student credit cards or secured cards against fixed deposits.
Q. Are credit cards safe for online use?
Yes, they are safe if you use secure websites, two-factor authentication, and avoid public Wi-Fi.
Q. How many credit cards should I have?
There is no fixed number. 2 to 3 cards with different benefits is a good strategy.
Q. Does applying for multiple cards affect my CIBIL score?
Yes, too many applications in a short period can reduce your score. Apply wisely.
Final Words
The Indian credit card market is full of rewarding options in 2025. Whether your goal is to earn cashback, enjoy travel benefits, or simply manage your finances better, choosing the right card is the first step. Start by identifying your primary spending habits, compare the features, and apply through trusted sources.
With responsible usage, a credit card can help you save thousands of rupees every year and boost your financial health.