ICICI Bank HPCL Coral Credit Card vs LIC Select Credit Card: Which Credit Card Wins in 2026?

Quick Verdict

• For everyday spending, the LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ wins with a higher base reward rate of 0.75% compared to ICICI Bank HPCL Coral Credit Cardⓘ's 0.5%.
• For travel and lounge access, LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ also leads by offering two international lounge visits annually and lower forex markup.
• The ICICI Bank HPCL Coral Credit Cardⓘ is cheaper to hold only if you can spend Rs 1.50 lakh annually to waive fees, otherwise LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ is lifetime free.
• Choose ICICI Bank HPCL Coral Credit Cardⓘ if you prioritize fuel rewards and are a first-time cardholder; opt for LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ if you want a no-fee card with better rewards and travel perks.

Side by Side

Rewards Compared

Spending Rs 10,000 on the ICICI Bank HPCL Coral Credit Cardⓘ yields Rs 50 back at the base rate, but if the spend is on fuel, the rewards jump to Rs 500, reflecting a 5% return. This makes it highly attractive for those who spend significantly on fuel. Outside fuel, the 0.5% base rate is modest, so everyday non-fuel purchases earn minimal rewards.

The LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ offers a consistent 0.75% return on all spend categories, resulting in Rs 75 back on Rs 10,000 spent. While it lacks a specialized category rate for fuel, its higher base rate means it outperforms ICICI's card on general spending. For users who do not prioritize fuel rewards but want steady returns, LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ is preferable.

Fees Compared

The ICICI Bank HPCL Coral Credit Cardⓘ charges a joining fee and annual fee of Rs 199 each. These fees are waived if you spend Rs 1.50 lakh annually, equating to Rs 12,500 per month. The break-even spend to cover the annual fee via rewards at the base rate is about Rs 39,800 per year, which is much lower than the waiver threshold, so frequent fuel spenders benefit more from the waiver.

The LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ offers lifetime free membership with no joining or annual fees, removing any spend pressure to avoid fees. This makes it suitable for low to moderate spenders or those who dislike fee-based cards.

Which One Should You Pick

Pick the ICICI Bank HPCL Coral Credit Cardⓘ if you spend heavily on fuel and want to maximize rewards in that category. It also suits first-time card users looking for a low-cost card with some lounge benefits domestically. However, it is less rewarding for international travel or forex spend and requires high spending to waive fees.

Choose the LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ if you want a lifetime free card with solid rewards across the board, lower forex fees, and international lounge access. It is ideal for travelers and those who want a hassle-free card without fee worries. Avoid this card if you want a specific fuel cashback or points boost.

Overall, LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ wins for most users due to its fee-free structure, higher base rewards, and travel perks. The ICICI Bank HPCL Coral Credit Cardⓘ is a niche choice for fuel spenders willing to meet high waiver thresholds.

What to Check Before You Apply

• Verify the quarterly and monthly spend gates for lounge access to ensure your usage qualifies.
• Check the redemption value of points for each card, as points may convert differently.
• Calculate if your monthly or annual spend meets the fee waiver thresholds, especially for ICICI Bank HPCL Coral Credit Cardⓘ.
• Consider the impact of the forex markup rates if you frequently spend abroad.

FAQ