Quick Verdict

  • The Makemytrip ICICI Bank Signature Credit Card ⓘ wins for everyday spend with a higher base reward rate of 1.25% versus 0.5% on the Rubyx.
  • For travel and lounge access, the Makemytrip card also leads with 4 international lounge visits and a 6% reward rate on travel spend compared to 2 lounges and 1% travel rewards on the Rubyx.
  • The Makemytrip card is cheaper to hold, with a joining and annual fee of Rs 999 each, versus Rs 3,000 joining and Rs 2,000 annual on the Rubyx.
  • Pick the Rubyx ⓘ if you want premium benefits like golf access, concierge, and a wider welcome voucher bouquet. Opt for the Makemytrip ⓘ card if you prioritize travel rewards and lower fees.

Side by Side

DetailICICI Bank Rubyx Credit Card ⓘMakemytrip ICICI Bank Signature Credit Card ⓘ
Annual feeRs 2,000Rs 999
Joining feeRs 3,000Rs 999
Fee waiver on spendRs 5.00 lakhNot recorded
Reward rate0.5% base; 1% dining & online1.25% base; 6% travel; 2.5% dining
Reward typePointsPoints
Domestic lounge8 per year8 per year
International lounge2 per year4 per year
Forex markup3.5%3.5%
Best suited forTravel, rewards, lounge, shoppingTravel, lounge, rewards

Rewards Compared

On a Rs 10,000 spend, the ICICI Bank Rubyx Credit Card ⓘ earns Rs 50 back at the base rate. This increases to Rs 100 for dining and online spends, reflecting a modest uplift in popular categories. The reward type is points, which are then converted to value through redemption. The card’s welcome benefits add indirect value but do not affect reward rate calculations.

In contrast, the Makemytrip ICICI Bank Signature Credit Card ⓘ returns Rs 125 at the base rate on Rs 10,000 spend, more than double the Rubyx’s base rate. Its category rewards are significantly higher: 6% on travel (Rs 600 per Rs 10,000) and 2.5% on dining (Rs 250 per Rs 10,000), making it a powerful choice for travel and dining spenders. This card’s reward structure strongly favors travel-related expenses, aligning with its targeted user base.

Fees Compared

The Rubyx card charges a joining fee of Rs 3,000 and an annual fee of Rs 2,000. The annual fee can be waived if you spend Rs 5.00 lakh in a year, which translates to about Rs 41,667 per month. This high waiver threshold means casual spenders will likely pay the fee. The Rubyx’s break-even spend to cover the annual fee at base rate rewards is about Rs 4.00 lakh.

The Makemytrip card has a much lower joining and annual fee of Rs 999 each, with no specified waiver threshold. Its break-even spend for the base rate to cover fees is approximately Rs 79,920, much lower than the Rubyx. This makes the Makemytrip card more accessible and less costly for moderate spenders.

Which One Should You Pick

Choose the ICICI Bank Rubyx Credit Card ⓘ if you value premium lifestyle benefits such as golf access, concierge service, and a rich welcome voucher bundle including TataCliQ and EaseMyTrip vouchers. It suits high spenders who can meet the Rs 5 lakh waiver threshold and want a card that supports travel, shopping, and lounge access with some exclusivity.

The Makemytrip ICICI Bank Signature Credit Card ⓘ is ideal for frequent travelers and diners who want strong category rewards and lower fees. Its superior travel rewards and more international lounge visits make it a better pick for travel enthusiasts seeking value without the heavy fee burden.

In summary, skip the Rubyx if you do not spend heavily or want a lower fee card. Skip the Makemytrip card if you desire premium lifestyle perks and can meet the higher waiver threshold.

What to Check Before You Apply

  • Verify the quarterly spend requirement of Rs 75,000 to access domestic lounges on the Rubyx card.
  • Check if the points redemption value suits your spending habits since both cards use points.
  • Confirm the monthly spend needed to waive the Rubyx annual fee is feasible for you.
  • Remember both cards have a 3.5% forex markup, which can add significant cost on foreign spends.
  • Confirm which airports support the domestic and international lounges offered by each card.

FAQ

What is the forex markup on these cards?+
Both the ICICI Bank Rubyx Credit Card ⓘ and the Makemytrip ICICI Bank Signature Credit Card ⓘ charge a forex markup of 3.5% on foreign currency transactions.
Can the annual fee be waived on the Makemytrip ICICI Bank Signature Credit Card?+
No fee waiver threshold is specified for the Makemytrip ICICI Bank Signature Credit Card ⓘ, so the Rs 999 annual fee is generally payable.
How many lounge visits do these cards offer?+
The Rubyx card provides 8 domestic and 2 international lounge visits annually, while the Makemytrip card offers 8 domestic and 4 international lounge visits annually.
Which card is better for travel spend?+
The Makemytrip ICICI Bank Signature Credit Card ⓘ is better for travel spend, offering 6% rewards on travel versus 1% on the Rubyx.
Is the joining fee refundable if I do not use the card?+
Joining fees are typically non-refundable on both cards, so consider this cost before applying.