Quick Verdict

  • For everyday spending, especially grocery and online shopping, the Axis Bank Select Credit Card ⓘ wins due to its higher reward rates in these categories.
  • For travel enthusiasts and foreign currency spenders, the HSBC Travelone Credit Card ⓘ stands out with a lower forex markup and more international lounge access.
  • The Axis Bank Select Credit Card is cheaper to hold if you can meet its higher spend waiver threshold; otherwise, HSBC Travelone’s slightly lower waiver spend is easier to achieve.
  • Pick Axis Bank Select for superior rewards on groceries and online purchases and lounge access if you spend heavily; choose HSBC Travelone for travel-focused perks, forex savings, and premium benefits.

Side by Side

DetailAxis Bank Select Credit Card ⓘHSBC Travelone Credit Card ⓘ
Annual feeRs 3,000Rs 4,999
Joining feeRs 3,000Rs 4,999
Fee waiver on spendRs 10.00 lakhRs 8.00 lakh
Reward rate1% base, 4% grocery, 2% online1% base, 3% travel, 3% dining
Reward typePointsPoints
Domestic lounge8 per year8 per year
International lounge4 per year6 per year
Forex markup1.5%0.99%
Best suited forRewards, grocery, lounge, travel, shoppingTravel, rewards, lounge, forex, shopping
Golf accessYesYes

Rewards Compared

Spending Rs 10,000 on the Axis Bank Select Credit Card ⓘ earns Rs 100 back at the base rate. However, spending in groceries yields a much higher return of Rs 400, and online shopping returns Rs 200. This card strongly rewards grocery and online categories, making it ideal for users with heavy spends in these segments. The welcome benefit of 10,000 EDGE Reward Points worth Rs 2,000 also adds upfront value.

On the other hand, the HSBC Travelone Credit Card ⓘ also returns Rs 100 on Rs 10,000 spend at the base rate but shines in travel and dining categories, yielding Rs 300 each. This makes it attractive for users who prioritize travel-related expenses and dining out. The welcome benefits include Rs 1,000 cashback, a Rs 3,000 PostCard voucher, and additional points on spending, which enhance its appeal to new cardholders.

Fees Compared

The Axis Bank Select Credit Card ⓘ charges Rs 3,000 as both joining and annual fees. The fee is waived if you spend Rs 10 lakh annually, which translates to about Rs 83,333 per month. The card's base reward rate means you need to spend approximately Rs 3 lakh annually just to cover the fee with rewards.

The HSBC Travelone Credit Card ⓘ carries a higher joining and annual fee of Rs 4,999 each. Its fee waiver threshold is Rs 8 lakh annually, or about Rs 66,667 monthly, which is more attainable than Axis Bank’s. However, the spend required to recover the fee with base rewards is nearly Rs 5 lakh annually, reflecting the higher fee.

Which One Should You Pick

Choose the Axis Bank Select Credit Card ⓘ if you frequently shop for groceries and online, and you can maintain a high monthly spend to waive the fees. Its superior category rewards and decent lounge access make it a great all-rounder for rewards-focused spenders who also desire occasional travel benefits. However, skip this card if your spend is below Rs 3 lakh annually or if you rarely shop in the bonus categories.

The HSBC Travelone Credit Card ⓘ is best for travelers, forex spenders, and those who dine out often. Its lower forex markup of 0.99% and six international lounge visits per year provide tangible benefits for international travelers. The premium benefits like purchase protection and discounts on holiday bookings also add value. Avoid this card if you do not spend enough to meet the fee waiver threshold or if your expenses are mostly outside travel and dining.

Overall, if your spending pattern favors groceries and online shopping with occasional travel, the Axis Bank Select Credit Card ⓘ is the better choice. For travel enthusiasts and forex spenders who value premium perks, the HSBC Travelone Credit Card ⓘ wins.

What to Check Before You Apply

  • Confirm if your spending patterns match the card’s category reward rates to maximize returns.
  • Understand the redemption options and value for points, as these can vary and affect rewards.
  • Calculate if your monthly spending can realistically meet the fee waiver threshold to avoid paying fees.
  • Check the forex markup charges carefully if you travel abroad frequently.
  • Verify the lounge access gates and terms, including any spend gates for complimentary visits.

FAQ

What is the annual fee waiver condition for these cards?+
The Axis Bank Select Credit Card requires Rs 10 lakh annual spend (approx. Rs 83,333 monthly) to waive the Rs 3,000 fee. The HSBC Travelone Credit Card requires Rs 8 lakh annual spend (approx. Rs 66,667 monthly) to waive its Rs 4,999 fee.
Which card offers better lounge access?+
HSBC Travelone Credit Card offers 8 domestic and 6 international lounge visits annually, whereas Axis Bank Select Credit Card provides 8 domestic and 4 international lounges per year, making HSBC better for international travelers.
How do the forex markups compare?+
Axis Bank Select charges 1.5% forex markup, whereas HSBC Travelone charges a lower 0.99%, making HSBC better for foreign currency transactions.
Are there significant welcome benefits on these cards?+
Yes, Axis Bank Select offers 10,000 EDGE Reward Points worth Rs 2,000 on the first transaction. HSBC Travelone provides Rs 1,000 cashback, a Rs 3,000 PostCard voucher, 3-month EazyDiner membership, and extra points on higher spends.
Can these cards be recommended for low spenders?+
No, both cards have high fee waiver thresholds and joining fees, so they are not ideal for low spenders who may end up paying fees without earning sufficient rewards.