Quick Verdict

  • For everyday spend, the IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ edges out with a slightly higher base reward rate of 0.7% compared to 0.67% on the HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Cardⓘ.
  • When it comes to dining, the HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Cardⓘ offers a better category reward rate of 2%, making it the preferred choice for foodies.
  • Both cards have no joining or annual fees, making them equally cheap to hold.
  • Choose HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Cardⓘ if you want a straightforward, lifetime-free card with good dining rewards and no lounge access needed. Opt for IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ if you value lounge access and marginally better overall rewards.

Side by Side

DetailHSBC Visa Platinum Credit CardⓘIndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ
Annual feeNil (lifetime free)Nil (lifetime free)
Joining feeNil (lifetime free)Nil (lifetime free)
Fee waiver on spend
Reward rate0.67% base, 2% dining0.7% base, 1.75% dining
Reward typepointspoints
Domestic loungeNone8 per year
International loungeNoneNone
Forex markup3.5%3.5%
Best suited forlifetime-free, first-card, dining, shoppingrewards, lifetime-free, lounge, shopping

Rewards Compared

Spending Rs 10,000 on the HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Cardⓘ earns Rs 67 in rewards at the base rate. However, if the spend is on dining, the card’s effective return doubles to Rs 200, thanks to its 2% category rate. This makes it a strong contender for users who frequently dine out and want to maximize their returns in that category.

On the other hand, the IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ offers a slightly better base reward rate of 0.7%, resulting in Rs 70 back on Rs 10,000 spent. Its dining rewards are a bit lower at 1.75%, translating to Rs 175 on the same spend. While the difference is small, it means HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Cardⓘ is better for dining, whereas IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ gives a marginal advantage on general spend.

Fees Compared

Neither card charges a joining fee nor an annual fee, making both lifetime free to hold. There are no fee waiver conditions because no fees are levied in the first place. This zero-fee structure means there is no break-even point to consider, offering a risk-free option for users wishing to keep costs minimal.

Which One Should You Pick

The HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Cardⓘ suits first-time credit card users or those who want a simple, no-fee card with excellent dining rewards. Its lack of lounge access may deter frequent travelers, but if dining and shopping are your primary categories, this card is quite rewarding.

The IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ is ideal for reward-focused users who appreciate lounge access, offering eight domestic lounge visits per year, and slightly better base rewards. It is a good pick for shoppers who also want the perk of lounges, despite its dining rewards being a bit lower.

In a decisive call, if you prioritize dining rewards and want a straightforward card with no annual fees, pick HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Cardⓘ. If you value lounge access and a small edge in base rewards, IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ is the better choice. Avoid HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Cardⓘ if you need lounge access, and skip IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ if dining rewards are your top priority.

What to Check Before You Apply

  • Confirm any caps on rewards or lounge visits that could limit your benefits.
  • Verify the redemption process and value of points earned to ensure they suit your spending habits.
  • Understand the waiver maths carefully, even though these cards have no fees, to avoid surprises if offerings change.
  • Be aware of the 3.5% forex markup on both cards, which can make foreign transactions expensive.
  • Check if the domestic lounges offered by IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ are at airports you frequently visit.

FAQ

Are there any joining or annual fees on these cards?+
Both the HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Cardⓘ and IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ have no joining or annual fees. They are lifetime free cards.
Which card offers better rewards on dining?+
The HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Cardⓘ provides a higher dining reward rate of 2%, compared to 1.75% on the IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ.
Does either card provide international lounge access?+
Neither card offers international lounge access. Only the IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ provides 8 domestic lounge visits annually.
What is the forex markup on these cards for foreign transactions?+
Both cards charge a 3.5% forex markup on foreign currency spends, which is standard but can add cost to international purchases.