Quick Verdict

  • The Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘ wins for everyday spend with a 1.5% base reward rate and strong category bonuses.
  • The LIC Select Credit Card ⓘ offers better value for forex transactions due to its lower 1.5% forex markup compared to 3.5%.
  • Both cards have no joining or annual fees, making them equally cheap to hold.
  • Pick the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite ⓘ if you want strong rewards on online and dining spends plus more lounge access. Choose the LIC Select ⓘ if you prioritize international forex savings and moderate lounge usage with a spend gate.

Side by Side

DetailSamsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘLIC Select Credit Card ⓘ
Annual feeNil (lifetime free)Nil (lifetime free)
Joining feeNil (lifetime free)Nil (lifetime free)
Fee waiver on spendRs 3.00 lakh,
Reward rate1.5% base0.75% base
Reward typepointspoints
Domestic lounge8 per year4 per year
International lounge4 per year2 per year
Forex markup3.5%1.5%
Lounge spend gate,Rs 20,000 monthly both lounges
Best suited forshopping, lounge, rewards, travellifetime-free, rewards, forex, travel, lounge

Rewards Compared

Spending Rs 10,000 on the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘ returns Rs 150 in rewards at the base rate. This card significantly boosts returns in key categories, offering Rs 1,000 back on Rs 10,000 spent online and Rs 300 on dining. This makes it a strong option for users who shop online frequently or dine out, as the category multipliers far exceed the base rate.

In contrast, the LIC Select Credit Card ⓘ provides Rs 75 back on Rs 10,000 spent across the board, with no category-specific increments mentioned. This steady but lower reward rate suits those who prefer a simpler rewards structure and do not prioritize category bonuses.

Fees Compared

Both cards have no joining fee or annual fee, making them free to hold indefinitely. The Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘ offers a fee waiver threshold based on Rs 3.00 lakh annual spend, equating to Rs 25,000 per month. Spending below this does not affect fees since the card is lifetime free with no annual charges.

The LIC Select Credit Card ⓘ also comes with zero fees and no waiver conditions. However, it imposes a spend gate of Rs 20,000 monthly to access lounge benefits, which can be a consideration for frequent travelers.

Which One Should You Pick

Choose the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘ if you are a high spender who shops online or dines out regularly and values more lounge access. Its superior category rewards make it ideal for maximizing returns on everyday spends and travel perks. However, beware of the relatively high 3.5% forex markup if you travel abroad often.

Opt for the LIC Select Credit Card ⓘ if you seek a truly lifetime free card with a lower forex markup of 1.5%, making it better suited for international travelers who want to minimize forex costs. Its simpler rewards and lower lounge access still provide value, especially if you can meet the Rs 20,000 monthly lounge spend gate.

Skip the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite ⓘ if you travel internationally frequently and want lower forex fees. Avoid the LIC Select ⓘ if you want stronger rewards on online and dining spends or more lounge visits without spend gates.

What to Check Before You Apply

  • Confirm if online and dining category spends on the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite ⓘ have caps or exclusions.
  • Verify the redemption value and ease of converting points to vouchers or cashback.
  • Understand the monthly or annual spend requirements for fee waivers and lounge access.
  • Check the forex markup charges and whether you can avoid them with any specific usage.
  • Confirm the lounge locations and availability to see if they match your travel preferences.

FAQ

What is the base reward rate on these cards?+
The Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘ offers a base reward rate of 1.5% on all spends, while the LIC Select Credit Card ⓘ provides 0.75%.
Do these cards charge any annual or joining fees?+
Both cards have no joining fees and no annual fees, making them lifetime free to hold.
How many lounge visits are included with these cards?+
The Samsung Axis Bank Infinite ⓘ permits 8 domestic and 4 international lounge visits per year. The LIC Select ⓘ allows 4 domestic and 2 international visits annually, subject to a Rs 20,000 monthly spend gate for lounge access.
Which card is better for international travel?+
The LIC Select Credit Card ⓘ is better for international travel due to its lower 1.5% forex markup compared to 3.5% on the Samsung Axis Bank Infinite ⓘ.
Are there any welcome benefits included?+
The Samsung Axis Bank Infinite Credit Card ⓘ comes with Samsung cashback vouchers worth Rs 2,500. The LIC Select Credit Card ⓘ does not offer any welcome benefit.