CSB Bank OneCard Credit Card vs LIC Select Credit Card: Which Credit Card Wins in 2026?

Quick Verdict

• For everyday spend, the LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ offers a significantly higher reward rate, making it the clear winner.
• When it comes to travel and lounge access, the LIC Select Credit Card also wins due to its complimentary domestic and international lounge visits.
• Both cards have no joining or annual fees, so they are equally cheap to hold.
• Choose the LIC Select Credit Card if you want better rewards, travel benefits, and lower forex markup. Opt for the CSB Bank OneCard Credit Cardⓘ only if you prefer a simple, no-frills card with lifetime free fees and are okay with lower rewards.

Side by Side

Rewards Compared

Spending Rs 10,000 on the CSB Bank OneCard Credit Cardⓘ earns you Rs 20 worth of points, reflecting a base reward rate of 0.2%. This modest return suits users who prioritize a lifetime free card without fuss but are less concerned about maximizing rewards. The card’s rewards structure is straightforward with no special category multipliers listed.

In contrast, the LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ offers a substantially higher effective reward rate of 0.75%, translating into Rs 75 back per Rs 10,000 spent. This makes it much more appealing for everyday spenders seeking better returns. Additionally, the LIC Select Credit Card’s reward rate outshines the CSB Bank OneCard by almost four times, highlighting its focus on rewarding users generously. The card also supports travel and lounge benefits which complement its higher reward rate for frequent travelers.

Fees Compared

Both cards have no joining or annual fees, making them equally cost-effective in terms of fixed charges. Neither card requires a minimum spend to waive fees since the fees are zero by design. From a fee perspective, there is no break-even to consider because neither card imposes any annual or joining fees.

However, the difference arises in forex markup, where the CSB Bank OneCard charges 2%, costing Rs 2,000 on Rs 1,00,000 spent abroad, whereas the LIC Select Credit Card imposes a lower 1.5% forex markup, costing Rs 1,500 on the same foreign spend. This makes the LIC Select more attractive for international travelers who want to minimize forex charges.

Which One Should You Pick

Pick the CSB Bank OneCard Credit Cardⓘ if you want a straightforward, no-fee credit card with a minimal reward rate and have limited or no interest in travel perks or high rewards. It suits users who prefer a lifetime free card with no conditions or spend requirements but do not prioritize rewards or lounge access.

The LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ is better suited for users who spend regularly and want higher rewards on everyday purchases. It is ideal for travelers who value complimentary lounge access, four domestic and two international visits per year, and want to save on forex markup. The monthly Rs 20,000 spend gate for lounges is a reasonable threshold for frequent travelers.

Decisively, the LIC Select Credit Card wins for most users due to its richer rewards, travel benefits, and lower forex costs. The CSB Bank OneCard is only advisable if you want a card with no fees and minimal fuss regardless of rewards or travel perks.

What to Check Before You Apply

• Confirm the lounge access spend gate of Rs 20,000 monthly on the LIC Select Credit Card and whether your spending pattern meets it.
• Check if the reward points redemption has caps or expiry periods that might limit your actual benefits.
• Validate the forex markup cost difference carefully if you plan to use the card abroad frequently.
• For the LIC Select Credit Card, verify the number of lounge visits allowed per year (4 domestic, 2 international) and the participating lounges’ convenience.

FAQ