Quick Verdict

  • For everyday spend, the IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ wins with a higher base reward rate of 0.7% compared to 0.5% on the IDFC First Millennia Cardⓘ.
  • The IndusInd Legend Credit Card also leads for dining spend, offering 1.75% rewards, making it better for food lovers.
  • Both cards are lifetime free with no joining or annual fees, so they are equally cheap to hold.
  • Pick the IDFC First Millennia Card if you want a no-fee first card with some domestic lounge access and welcome benefits. Choose the IndusInd Legend Credit Card if you want higher rewards across the board and more domestic lounges.

Side by Side

DetailIDFC First Millennia CardⓘIndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ
Annual feeNil (lifetime free)Nil (lifetime free)
Joining feeNil (lifetime free)Nil (lifetime free)
Fee waiver on spendNoneNone
Reward rate0.5%0.7%
Reward typePointsPoints
Domestic lounge4 per year (Rs 20,000 monthly spend gate)8 per year
International loungeNoneNone
Forex markup3.5%3.5%
Best suited forLifetime-free, first-card, shoppingRewards, lifetime-free, lounge, shopping

Rewards Compared

Spending Rs 10,000 on the IDFC First Millennia Cardⓘ earns Rs 50 worth of points at the base reward rate of 0.5%. This is a modest return suitable for someone who wants a no-fee card with some perks like domestic lounge access. The card also offers a 5% cashback on the first EMI spend up to Rs 1,000 and welcome gift vouchers worth Rs 500 on spending Rs 5,000 within 30 days, which can add value for new cardholders.

In contrast, the IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ offers a more lucrative base reward of Rs 70 per Rs 10,000 spent at 0.7%. It further shines in the dining category where it delivers Rs 175 back per Rs 10,000 spent, reflecting a 1.75% return. This makes it an excellent choice for foodies and those who want better returns on everyday spends. Both cards earn points, but the Legend card's superior rates give it the edge for maximizing rewards.

Fees Compared

Neither the IDFC First Millennia Cardⓘ nor the IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ charges any joining or annual fees, making them both highly accessible and cost-effective. There are no fee waiver thresholds to worry about since the cards are free for life. This means cardholders do not have to hit any minimum spends to avoid fees, simplifying ownership. In terms of cost, both cards tie, so your choice should be driven by rewards and benefits rather than fees.

Which One Should You Pick

The IDFC First Millennia Cardⓘ is perfect for first-time credit card users or those who want a completely free card with decent rewards and some domestic lounge access. Its welcome benefits add value for new customers, and the Rs 20,000 monthly spend gate for lounges could suit moderate spenders who like occasional travel comfort. Skip this card if you want higher returns or more extensive lounge access.

The IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ suits reward seekers and frequent diners who want more points per rupee and more lounge visits annually. Its higher base and dining reward rates make it ideal for those who spend heavily on food and shopping. It is also free for life, so there are no cost concerns. However, skip this card if you want international lounge access or if you rarely dine out since the category advantage may not benefit you.

Overall, the IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ is the better all-around option for most spenders looking for rewards and lounge perks without fees. The IDFC First Millennia Cardⓘ can appeal to beginners or those seeking a simple, free card with a few lounge visits.

What to Check Before You Apply

  • Confirm the Rs 20,000 monthly spend gate for domestic lounges on the IDFC First Millennia Cardⓘ to ensure you can access lounges without surprises.
  • Check the redemption process and value for points on both cards to avoid devaluation or complex conversions.
  • Remember that forex markup is 3.5% on both cards, making foreign currency spends expensive.
  • Verify the list of domestic lounge locations and timings to ensure they match your travel patterns.
  • Note that neither card provides international lounge access, so plan accordingly if you travel abroad.

FAQ

What are the annual and joining fees for these cards?+
Both the IDFC First Millennia Cardⓘ and the IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ have no joining or annual fees, making them free for life.
Do these cards offer any welcome benefits?+
The IDFC First Millennia Cardⓘ offers 5% cashback on the first EMI spend up to Rs 1,000 and gift vouchers worth Rs 500 on spending Rs 5,000 within 30 days. The IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ does not have any welcome benefits.
How many domestic lounge visits are allowed on each card?+
The IDFC First Millennia Cardⓘ offers 4 domestic lounge visits per year with a Rs 20,000 monthly spend requirement, whereas the IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ provides 8 domestic lounge visits annually without a specified spend gate.
Are there any foreign exchange charges?+
Yes, both cards levy a 3.5% forex markup on foreign currency transactions, which is the standard rate in India.
Which card offers better rewards on dining spends?+
The IndusInd Legend Credit Cardⓘ offers a higher reward rate of 1.75% on dining compared to 0.5% base rewards on the IDFC First Millennia Cardⓘ, making it preferable for dining expenses.