Axis Bank My Zone Credit Card vs HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Card: Which Credit Card Wins in 2026?

Quick Verdict

• The HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Cardⓘ wins for everyday spend with a higher base reward rate of 0.67% compared to 0.4% on the Axis Bank My Zone Credit Cardⓘ.
• The Axis Bank My Zone Credit Cardⓘ is better for dining and online spends, offering 15% and 5% returns respectively, far exceeding HSBC’s 2% dining rate.
• HSBC’s card is cheaper to hold with no joining or annual fees, while Axis Bank charges Rs 500 for both.
• Pick Axis Bank My Zoneⓘ if you spend heavily on dining and online shopping and can meet the quarterly Rs 50,000 lounge spend gate for domestic lounge access. Choose HSBC Visa Platinumⓘ if you want a no-fee, straightforward card with decent rewards for everyday use.

Side by Side

Rewards Compared

On a Rs 10,000 spend, the Axis Bank My Zone Credit Cardⓘ returns Rs 40 at its base rate of 0.4%. However, if you spend in dining, the card offers a very lucrative 15% return, which means Rs 1,500 back on Rs 10,000 spent, making it a strong choice for food lovers. Online spends also earn a respectable 5%, or Rs 500 per Rs 10,000. This card is clearly designed to reward category-specific spending heavily.

In contrast, the HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Cardⓘ offers a higher base reward rate of 0.67%, translating to Rs 67 back on Rs 10,000 spent, which is the best for general everyday use. Its dining category rate is just 2%, or Rs 200 per Rs 10,000, significantly lower than Axis Bank’s 15%. HSBC’s card does not specify other category bonuses, so it is best suited for users who prefer simple, flat rewards without category juggling.

Fees Compared

The Axis Bank My Zone Credit Cardⓘ charges a joining fee of Rs 500 and an annual fee of Rs 500. There is no fee waiver on spend mentioned, so these fees are payable regardless of usage. The card’s derived data suggests you need to spend about Rs 1,25,000 annually to cover the annual fee through base rewards alone.

The HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Cardⓘ stands out with no joining fee and no annual fee for life, making it extremely cost-effective for those who want a no-fee card. There is no waiver threshold to worry about, and the card breaks even immediately since there are no fees to offset.

Which One Should You Pick

Choose the Axis Bank My Zone Credit Cardⓘ if you are a dining enthusiast or spend heavily online and want to maximise category rewards. It is also suitable as a first card for those who want some lounge access domestically and don’t mind paying a modest fee for premium benefits like a SonyLiv subscription.

Opt for the HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Cardⓘ if you want a simple, no-fee card with a higher base reward rate for everyday spending. It is ideal for first-time cardholders who prefer straightforward cashback without worrying about fee waivers or category restrictions.

In conclusion, if you prioritise category rewards and lounge access and can meet the spend criteria, Axis Bank My Zoneⓘ is the better pick. For a fee-free, hassle-free card with solid general rewards, HSBC Visa Platinumⓘ wins. Those who rarely dine out or shop online should skip Axis Bank’s card due to fees, while those seeking premium lounge access or category rewards may find HSBC’s card too basic.

What to Check Before You Apply

• Confirm the Rs 50,000 quarterly spend gate for domestic lounge access on Axis Bank My Zoneⓘ.
• Check the redemption process and value of points for both cards to ensure rewards are usable.
• Understand the fee waiver maths on Axis Bank My Zoneⓘ as none is offered, so fees apply regardless of spend.
• Be aware that both cards charge a 3.5% forex markup on foreign currency spends, which can add significant cost abroad.
• Verify the availability and locations of domestic lounges for Axis Bank My Zoneⓘ to ensure they suit your travel patterns.

FAQ