LIC Select Credit Card vs Shoppers Stop HDFC Bank Credit Card: Which Credit Card Wins in 2026?

Quick Verdict

• The LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ wins for everyday spend with a higher base reward rate of 0.75% compared to 0.5% on the Shoppers Stop HDFC Bank Credit Cardⓘ.
• For travel and lounge access, the LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ clearly leads with complimentary domestic and international lounge visits, whereas the Shoppers Stop HDFC Bank Credit Cardⓘ offers none.
• The LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ is cheaper to hold with no joining or annual fees, while the Shoppers Stop HDFC Bank Credit Cardⓘ charges Rs 299 for both.
• Pick the LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ if you want a lifetime-free card with travel perks and forex benefits; choose the Shoppers Stop HDFC Bank Credit Cardⓘ if you primarily shop online and value the welcome voucher and store membership.

Side by Side

Rewards Compared

Spending Rs 10,000 on the LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ earns Rs 75 in rewards at the base rate of 0.75%. This is a straightforward return on all spends, making it a reliable choice for everyday use. The card’s reward structure is simple and consistent, with no category restrictions mentioned, which benefits users who want steady rewards without tracking categories.

In contrast, the Shoppers Stop HDFC Bank Credit Cardⓘ offers a base reward rate of 0.5%, translating to Rs 50 back on Rs 10,000 spent. However, it shines in the online shopping category with a 6% reward rate, which means Rs 600 back on Rs 10,000 spent online. This makes it highly attractive for users who spend heavily on online platforms, especially if their purchases align with the card’s category rewards. Outside this category, the returns are modest.

Fees Compared

The LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ has the advantage of no joining or annual fees, making it a truly lifetime-free card. This is a significant benefit for those who want to avoid fee-related break-evens or spend thresholds.

The Shoppers Stop HDFC Bank Credit Cardⓘ charges Rs 299 as both joining and annual fees. There is no fee waiver on spend, so the cardholder must consider whether the rewards earned, especially from online shopping, justify this cost. The break-even spend to cover the fee at the base rate is Rs 59,800 annually, which is quite high unless the user maximizes the 6% online category rewards.

Which One Should You Pick

Choose the LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ if you want a no-fee card that rewards all spending at a decent rate and offers travel perks like lounge access and lower forex markup. It suits travelers, forex users, and those who prefer simplicity without worrying about fee waivers. This card is ideal for lifetime-free usage with solid rewards and travel benefits.

Opt for the Shoppers Stop HDFC Bank Credit Cardⓘ if you are a frequent online shopper who can leverage the 6% reward rate in that category and can make use of the welcome voucher and Shoppers Stop Silver Edge membership. It is best for shoppers who can offset the Rs 299 fees with category rewards and store benefits.

Skip the LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ if you do not travel or use lounges and prefer category-specific rewards. Avoid the Shoppers Stop HDFC Bank Credit Cardⓘ if you do not shop online enough to cover the fees or want a card with travel perks.

What to Check Before You Apply

• Verify if the lounge access on the LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ requires a minimum monthly spend of Rs 20,000 to avail both domestic and international lounges.
• Check the redemption value and flexibility of points on both cards, especially for the Shoppers Stop HDFC Bank Credit Cardⓘ where category rewards matter.
• Understand the fee waiver conditions clearly; the LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ has none, but the Shoppers Stop HDFC Bank Credit Cardⓘ charges fees without waiver.
• Be aware of forex markup differences: 1.5% on LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ versus 3.5% on Shoppers Stop HDFC Bank Credit Cardⓘ, which impacts foreign currency spends.
• Confirm the lounge locations and participating airports for the LIC Select Credit Cardⓘ to ensure they match your travel plans.

FAQ