Quick Verdict

  • The Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Cardⓘ is the clear winner for everyday spends due to its superior reward rates, especially in online and dining categories.
  • For travel and lounge access, the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Cardⓘ also takes the lead with multiple complimentary domestic and international lounge visits.
  • Both cards are lifetime free with no joining or annual fees, but the Samsung card requires a monthly spend of Rs 25,000 to waive fees, while the ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Cardⓘ is free with no minimum spend.
  • Choose the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Cardⓘ if you want robust rewards on shopping, travel, and lounge benefits; pick the ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Cardⓘ if you want a simple, no-frills, lifetime-free card for basic dining and utility spends.

Side by Side

DetailSamsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit CardⓘICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Cardⓘ
Annual feeNil (lifetime free)Nil (lifetime free)
Joining feeNil (lifetime free)Nil (lifetime free)
Fee waiver on spendRs 3.00 lakh annually (Rs 25,000 monthly)None
Reward rate1.5% base, 10% online, 3% dining0.5% base, 0.5% utilities
Reward typePointsPoints
Domestic lounge8 per yearNone
International lounge4 per yearNone
Forex markup3.5%3.5%
Best suited forShopping, lounge, rewards, travelLifetime-free, first-card, dining, shopping

Rewards Compared

On a standard spend of Rs 10,000, the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Cardⓘ returns Rs 150 in rewards at its base rate. This rate increases dramatically in specific categories: online spends earn a phenomenal Rs 1,000 back per Rs 10,000, while dining earns Rs 300 back. These elevated category returns make it highly attractive for users who frequently shop online or dine out.

Conversely, the ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Cardⓘ offers a modest Rs 50 back on Rs 10,000 spent at its base rate. Its category-specific reward is limited to utilities with the same 0.5% return, which is comparatively low. This card is better suited for users who prefer a straightforward rewards structure without emphasis on high-value categories.

Fees Compared

Both cards come with no joining or annual fees, making them attractive for fee-sensitive users. However, the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Cardⓘ requires an annual spend of Rs 3.00 lakh, or Rs 25,000 monthly, to waive any potential fees and maintain its benefits. In contrast, the ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Cardⓘ is genuinely lifetime free with no spend-based waiver conditions, which is ideal for low spenders or first-time cardholders.

Given the waiver condition on the Samsung card, users must evaluate their monthly spend habits to ensure the card remains cost-effective. The ICICI card has no break-even spend threshold since it does not impose any fees.

Which One Should You Pick

If you are a frequent online shopper or dine out often and want generous reward returns along with travel benefits such as lounge access, the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Cardⓘ is the superior choice. Its strong category rewards and lounge privileges make it excellent for travel and lifestyle enthusiasts who can meet the Rs 25,000 monthly spend for fee waiver. Those who do not spend enough every month may find the fee waiver challenging.

The ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Cardⓘ suits first-time credit card users or those seeking a simple, no-fee card for utility payments and occasional dining without worrying about minimum spends or fee waivers. It is ideal for low spenders and those who want a reliable, basic card without extras.

In summary, pick Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Cardⓘ if you want premium rewards, travel perks, and can maintain higher spends. Skip it if your spend is low or inconsistent. Choose ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Cardⓘ if you want a straightforward, free, no-strings-attached card but skip it if you want better rewards or travel benefits.

What to Check Before You Apply

  • Confirm the Rs 25,000 monthly spend to maintain fee waiver on the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Cardⓘ.
  • Understand redemption options and any caps on maximum rewards in high-return categories.
  • Account for the 3.5% forex markup on foreign transactions if you frequently travel internationally.
  • Verify availability and access conditions for the 8 domestic and 4 international lounge visits with the Samsung card.
  • Check if the ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Cardⓘ fits your spend pattern since its rewards are limited to low-value categories.

FAQ

What rewards can I expect on online spends with these cards?+
The Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Cardⓘ offers an effective 10% return on online spends, equating to Rs 1,000 back per Rs 10,000 spent. The ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Cardⓘ does not provide enhanced rewards for online shopping and offers only the base 0.5% return.
Are there any fees to hold these cards?+
Both cards have no joining or annual fees and are lifetime free. However, the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Cardⓘ requires Rs 3.00 lakh annual spend or Rs 25,000 monthly to waive fees effectively, whereas the ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Cardⓘ has no such spend requirement.
Do these cards offer lounge access?+
The Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Cardⓘ provides 8 domestic and 4 international lounge visits annually. The ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Cardⓘ does not offer any lounge access.
What is the forex markup on these cards?+
Both credit cards charge a 3.5% forex markup on foreign currency transactions, which is standard across Indian credit cards.
Who should avoid these cards?+
If you spend less than Rs 25,000 monthly, the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Cardⓘ may not be cost-effective due to fee waiver conditions. The ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Cardⓘ should be skipped by users seeking high rewards or travel perks as it offers limited benefits.