Quick Verdict

  • The Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘ wins for everyday spending with a higher base reward rate and excellent category bonuses.
  • For travel and lounge access, the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite ⓘ also leads, offering more domestic and international lounge visits.
  • Both cards have no joining or annual fees, but the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite ⓘ requires a higher spend to waive fees, which is effectively Rs 25,000 per month.
  • Choose the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite ⓘ if you want robust rewards and travel perks, while the LIC Classic Credit Card ⓘ suits first-time cardholders or those seeking a simple lifetime-free card with some lounge access.

Side by Side

DetailSamsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘLIC Classic Credit Card ⓘ
Annual feeNil (lifetime free)Nil (lifetime free)
Joining feeNil (lifetime free)Nil (lifetime free)
Fee waiver on spendRs 3.00 lakhNone
Reward rate1.5% base, 10% online, 3% dining0.5% base
Reward typePointsPoints
Domestic lounge8 per year2 per year
International lounge4 per yearNone
Forex markup3.5%3.5%
Best suited forShopping, lounge, rewards, travelLifetime-free, first-card, lounge

Rewards Compared

The Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘ offers a base reward of Rs 150 on a Rs 10,000 spend, which is three times higher than the Rs 50 offered by the LIC Classic Credit Card ⓘ. This significant difference makes the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite ⓘ a much better option for everyday purchases.

Moreover, the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite ⓘ significantly boosts rewards in key categories. It offers a 10% return on online spending, equating to Rs 1,000 for every Rs 10,000 spent, and 3% on dining, or Rs 300 per Rs 10,000 spent. The LIC Classic Credit Card ⓘ does not provide any category-specific bonuses. Therefore, the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite ⓘ is ideal for shoppers and diners looking to maximise rewards, while the LIC Classic Credit Card ⓘ suits those with straightforward spending patterns.

Fees Compared

Both cards come with no joining or annual fees, making them attractive for cost-conscious users. The Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘ waives fees on spending Rs 3.00 lakh annually, which translates to Rs 25,000 per month. This requires consistent monthly usage to avoid any fee liabilities, though the card is effectively free if this threshold is met.

The LIC Classic Credit Card ⓘ is lifetime free with no spend threshold for fee waiver, making it an excellent no-strings-attached option. For users who spend below Rs 25,000 monthly, the LIC Classic Credit Card ⓘ is cheaper to hold. However, for those who can comfortably spend Rs 25,000 or more monthly, the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite ⓘ provides better value.

Which One Should You Pick

Pick the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘ if you want a high-reward card with excellent category bonuses in online shopping and dining, plus generous lounge access both domestically and internationally. It suits frequent travellers and shoppers who can meet the Rs 25,000 monthly spend to keep the card free and maximise rewards.

The LIC Classic Credit Card ⓘ is best for first-time credit card users or those who want a completely free card without worrying about spend thresholds. It offers fewer rewards but still includes two domestic lounge visits annually, a nice perk for occasional travellers.

In conclusion, if you can manage the spend requirements, the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘ is the clear winner for rewards and travel benefits. Skip the LIC Classic Credit Card ⓘ if you want more than basic rewards and lounge access. Conversely, skip the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite ⓘ if you prefer simplicity and no minimum spend commitments.

What to Check Before You Apply

  • Confirm the monthly spend requirement of Rs 25,000 on the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘ to avoid fees.
  • Verify if any caps apply to the category rewards, especially the 10% online cashback.
  • Understand the redemption value and process for points on both cards, as rewards are point-based.
  • Check which lounges you can access with the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite ⓘ and LIC Classic Credit Card ⓘ, especially for international travel.
  • Be aware that both cards charge a 3.5% forex markup on foreign currency transactions, which may affect overseas spend.

FAQ

Are there any joining or annual fees on these cards?+
Both the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘ and LIC Classic Credit Card ⓘ have no joining or annual fees, making them attractive lifetime free options.
What rewards can I expect on everyday spending?+
The Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘ offers 1.5% base rewards plus enhanced rates of 10% on online and 3% on dining spends. The LIC Classic Credit Card ⓘ offers a flat 0.5% reward rate on all purchases.
How many lounges can I access with each card?+
You get 8 domestic and 4 international lounge visits annually with the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘ. The LIC Classic Credit Card ⓘ offers 2 domestic lounge visits per year but no international lounge access.
Is there a minimum spend to keep the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card free?+
Yes, you need to spend Rs 3.00 lakh annually, which breaks down to Rs 25,000 per month, to waive any fees on the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘ.
What is the forex markup charge on these cards?+
Both cards charge a 3.5% forex markup on international transactions, which is standard for Indian credit cards but can add a significant cost to overseas spending.