CUB CSK RuPay Platinum Credit Card vs LIC Select Credit Card: Which Credit Card Wins in 2026?

Quick Verdict

• The LIC Select Credit Card ⓘ offers a higher base reward rate, making it the better choice for everyday spend.
• For travel and lounge access, LIC Select Credit Card ⓘ clearly wins with complimentary domestic and international lounge visits, while CUB CSK RuPay Platinum Credit Card ⓘ has none.
• The LIC Select Credit Card ⓘ is cheaper to hold with no joining or annual fees compared to the Rs 500 fees for CUB CSK RuPay Platinum Credit Card ⓘ.
• Choose the CUB CSK RuPay Platinum Credit Card ⓘ if you prioritize UPI and dining rewards on a RuPay network; pick LIC Select Credit Card ⓘ for a fee-free card with superior travel perks and lower forex markup.

Side by Side

Rewards Compared

On a Rs 10,000 spend, the CUB CSK RuPay Platinum Credit Card ⓘ earns Rs 33 back at the base rate, but if your spend is on UPI or dining, the return increases to Rs 67 per Rs 10,000. This makes it attractive for users who frequently transact via UPI or dine out, leveraging the 0.67% reward rate for these categories.

In contrast, the LIC Select Credit Card ⓘ offers a straightforward 0.75% base reward rate, translating to Rs 75 per Rs 10,000 spent across all categories. There are no category-specific boosts, but the higher base rate means consistent rewards on all spends. This card is better for those who want simplicity and higher returns on diverse expenses without focusing on specific categories.

Fees Compared

The CUB CSK RuPay Platinum Credit Card ⓘ carries a joining fee and annual fee of Rs 500 each. There is no fee waiver based on spend, so holding this card costs Rs 1,000 in the first year and Rs 500 every subsequent year regardless of usage. The break-even spend to cover the annual fee with base rewards is approximately Rs 1,51,515 annually.

Meanwhile, the LIC Select Credit Card ⓘ is lifetime free with no joining or annual fees, requiring no minimum spend to avoid charges. This makes it the cheaper option to hold long term, especially for users who do not want to worry about fee waivers or thresholds.

Which One Should You Pick

If you are a user who prefers transacting on the RuPay network or often spends on UPI and dining, the CUB CSK RuPay Platinum Credit Card ⓘ suits you well. It is tailored for those seeking category-specific rewards and are comfortable paying an annual fee to unlock these benefits. However, you should skip this card if you want fee-free ownership or lounge access.

The LIC Select Credit Card ⓘ is ideal for everyday users looking for a simple, no-fee card with good rewards across all spends. It particularly benefits frequent travelers and forex users thanks to lower forex markup and complimentary lounge access. Avoid this card if you prioritize category-specific rewards or use the RuPay network exclusively.

Overall, the LIC Select Credit Card ⓘ is the better all-rounder for 2026, especially if you want to avoid fees and travel often. The CUB CSK RuPay Platinum Credit Card ⓘ is more niche, rewarding specific spends but at a cost.

What to Check Before You Apply

• Verify any caps on category rewards such as UPI or dining to understand true earning potential.
• Confirm redemption options and value for points as some cards may have restrictions.
• Understand the fee waiver threshold math, especially if you aim to avoid annual fees on CUB CSK RuPay Platinum Credit Card ⓘ.
• Check forex markup rates carefully if you plan to use the card abroad, as charges vary significantly.

FAQ