LIC Classic Credit Card vs IDFC HPCL First Power Credit Card: Which Credit Card Wins in 2026?

Quick Verdict

• For everyday spending, the IDFC HPCL First Power Credit Cardⓘ offers a higher base reward rate and lucrative category bonuses, making it the winner.
• For travel and lounge access, the LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ stands out with complimentary domestic lounge visits.
• The cheaper card to hold is the LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ due to zero joining and annual fees with no spending thresholds.
• Choose the LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ if you want a simple, fee-free card with lounge benefits. Opt for the IDFC HPCL First Power Credit Cardⓘ if you spend heavily on fuel, groceries, or utilities and can meet the fee waiver criteria.

Side by Side

Rewards Compared

When spending Rs 10,000 on general purchases, the LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ returns Rs 50 in rewards, reflecting a 0.5% effective rate. In contrast, the IDFC HPCL First Power Credit Cardⓘ provides a better base return of Rs 75 on the same spend, representing a 0.75% reward rate. This difference is significant for everyday use, especially if you do not focus on specific categories.

The IDFC HPCL First Power Credit Cardⓘ shines in targeted categories like fuel, groceries, and utilities, offering a 5% effective return. For Rs 10,000 spent in any of these categories, you earn Rs 500 back, vastly exceeding the LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ return. This makes the Power credit card ideal for those with concentrated spending in these segments. The LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ does not report category-specific rates, so it remains a flat 0.5%.

Fees Compared

The LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ has no joining or annual fees, making it cost-free to hold indefinitely. This is ideal for users who prefer simplicity and no maintenance charges. On the other hand, the IDFC HPCL First Power Credit Cardⓘ charges Rs 199 as both joining and annual fees. However, this fee is waived if you spend Rs 50,000 annually, which breaks down to about Rs 4,167 monthly.

To justify the Rs 199 fee solely through the higher base reward rate, you would need to spend approximately Rs 26,533 annually on the IDFC HPCL First Power Credit Cardⓘ. For category spenders, the break-even point is even lower due to the 5% returns in fuel and essentials. The head-to-head analysis notes you would need Rs 79,600 more spend on the Power card than the Classic to cover the fee difference if only considering base rates, but category rewards reduce this gap substantially.

Which One Should You Pick

The LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ suits those who want a zero-fee credit card that offers lounge access and decent rewards on everyday spending. It is especially attractive if you are looking for a first credit card or value domestic lounge visits without the hassle of minimum spends or fees. This card is not suitable for heavy category spenders looking to maximize rewards or international travelers seeking forex benefits.

The IDFC HPCL First Power Credit Cardⓘ is best for users who spend significantly on fuel, groceries, and utility bills and can leverage the 5% category returns. It also fits those comfortable meeting a Rs 50,000 annual spend to waive fees and looking for better base rewards than a typical entry-level card. Avoid this card if you want a no-fee option or do not spend enough to clear the fee waiver.

In conclusion, the LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ is the better choice for fee-conscious lounge seekers and casual spenders, while the IDFC HPCL First Power Credit Cardⓘ excels for category-focused users and those aiming for higher rewards despite a nominal fee.

What to Check Before You Apply

• Confirm any caps or limits on category rewards, especially the Rs 20,000 monthly spend gate for domestic lounges on the LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ.
• Understand the redemption value of points and any restrictions on how you can use them.
• Calculate if your monthly and annual spends realistically meet the Rs 4,167 monthly threshold to waive the IDFC HPCL First Power Credit Cardⓘ fee.
• Note the 3.5% forex markup on both cards, which can make international transactions expensive.
• Check which lounges are accessible with the LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ and if they are convenient for your travel routes.

FAQ