Quick Verdict

  • For everyday spend, the IndusInd Legend Credit Card ⓘ offers a higher base reward rate.
  • For travel and lounge access, the IndusInd Legend Credit Card ⓘ wins with complimentary domestic lounge visits.
  • The HDFC Bank MoneyBack Plus Credit Card ⓘ has a joining and annual fee but offers fee waiver on spend, whereas the IndusInd Legend Credit Card ⓘ is lifetime free.
  • Choose HDFC Bank MoneyBack Plus Credit Card ⓘ if you are a first-time cardholder focused on online shopping cashback. Opt for IndusInd Legend Credit Card ⓘ if you want a lifetime free card with lounge access and better rewards on dining.

Side by Side

DetailHDFC Bank MoneyBack Plus Credit Card ⓘIndusInd Legend Credit Card ⓘ
Annual feeRs 500Nil (lifetime free)
Joining feeRs 500Nil (lifetime free)
Fee waiver on spendRs 50,000 annually (Rs 4,167 per month)None
Reward rate0.5% base, 3.33% online spend0.7% base, 1.75% dining
Reward typePointsPoints
Domestic loungeNone8 visits per year
International loungeNoneNone
Forex markup3.5%3.5%
Best suited forFirst-card, cashback, shoppingRewards, lifetime-free, lounge, shopping

Rewards Compared

On a base spend of Rs 10,000, the HDFC Bank MoneyBack Plus Credit Card ⓘ earns Rs 50 in rewards through points, but this jumps significantly to Rs 333 when spending online, reflecting a strong category reward rate of 3.33%. This makes it particularly attractive for consumers who shop frequently online or want cashback benefits with their first credit card.

In contrast, the IndusInd Legend Credit Card ⓘ offers a higher base reward rate of 0.7%, translating to Rs 70 on Rs 10,000 spent. Its category focus on dining delivers Rs 175 for Rs 10,000 spent in that segment, which is less than the MoneyBack Plus’s online rate but still noteworthy for food lovers and social spenders. The Legend card targets customers looking for steady rewards and includes lounge access, adding value beyond just points.

Fees Compared

The HDFC Bank MoneyBack Plus Credit Card ⓘ charges Rs 500 each for joining and annual fees, which are waived if you spend Rs 50,000 annually or about Rs 4,167 per month. This means moderate spenders can avoid fees, but if your spending dips below this, the fees apply. The card requires roughly Rs 1,00,000 in annual spend at the base reward rate to cover the annual fee purely through rewards.

The IndusInd Legend Credit Card ⓘ is truly lifetime free with no joining or annual fees, making it very cost-effective for customers who want rewards without worrying about fee waivers or break-even calculations. This no-fee structure combined with lounge access is a strong proposition for value seekers.

Which One Should You Pick

The HDFC Bank MoneyBack Plus Credit Card ⓘ is ideal for first-time credit card users who want a simple cashback structure, especially if they shop online frequently. Its fee waiver on Rs 50,000 annual spend makes it reasonable for moderate spenders, though the forex markup is standard and no lounge benefits exist.

The IndusInd Legend Credit Card ⓘ suits those who want a no-annual-fee card that rewards everyday spending with a better base rate and includes up to 8 domestic lounge visits per year. It appeals to shoppers and dining enthusiasts who value rewards and lounge privileges combined with zero fees.

Decisively, pick the IndusInd Legend Credit Card ⓘ if you want a lifetime free card with better base rewards and lounges. Skip the MoneyBack Plus ⓘ if you dislike fees or want lounge access. Conversely, skip the Legend ⓘ if you prefer cashback on online spend and are okay with fee waivers.

What to Check Before You Apply

  • Check if your spending habits align with the fee waiver threshold on the MoneyBack Plus ⓘ; under-spending means fees apply.
  • Confirm the value and redemption options of points for each card, as points are the reward currency.
  • Understand the forex markup of 3.5% on both cards if you travel abroad frequently.
  • Verify the domestic lounge network and locations for the IndusInd Legend Credit Card ⓘ to ensure access where you travel most.

FAQ

What are the key differences in reward rates between these two cards?+
The HDFC Bank MoneyBack Plus Credit Card ⓘ offers a 0.5% base rate with a strong 3.33% rate on online spends, while the IndusInd Legend Credit Card ⓘ provides a higher 0.7% base rate and 1.75% on dining. The MoneyBack Plus is better for online shopping cashback, while the Legend rewards dining and general spend more evenly.
Can the fees on the MoneyBack Plus card be waived entirely?+
Yes, the joining and annual fees of Rs 500 each on the MoneyBack Plus ⓘ are waived if you spend Rs 50,000 annually, which breaks down to Rs 4,167 per month. Spending below that means you pay the fees.
Does the IndusInd Legend Credit Card have any joining or annual fees?+
No, the IndusInd Legend Credit Card ⓘ is a lifetime free card with no joining or annual fees, making it cost-effective for long-term holders.
Are there any lounge access benefits with these cards?+
The IndusInd Legend Credit Card ⓘ offers 8 domestic lounge visits per year, whereas the HDFC Bank MoneyBack Plus Credit Card ⓘ does not provide any lounge access.
What is the forex markup on these cards for international transactions?+
Both cards charge a forex markup of 3.5%, which is standard in the Indian market for foreign currency transactions.