Which Credit Card Is Best in 2025? A Complete Guide Based on Your Needs
Rohan Kadam
Choosing the best credit card isn't about which one is most popular—it’s about which card matches your lifestyle, spending habits, and financial goals. With hundreds of options available in India, it can get overwhelming. That’s why we’ve broken it down based on categories like rewards, cashback, travel, and more.
Let’s find out which credit card is best for you in 2025.
1. Best Credit Card for Online Shopping: HDFC Millennia Credit Card
Annual Fee: ₹1,000 (waived on spending ₹1 lakh/year)
Benefits:
5% cashback on Amazon, Flipkart, Swiggy, Zomato
1% cashback on all other online spends
Airport lounge access (domestic)
Why it’s best: Ideal for millennials and frequent online shoppers. Apply Swiploan.
2. Best Cashback Credit Card: Axis Bank Ace Credit Card
Annual Fee: ₹499 (waived on ₹2 lakh annual spend)
Benefits:
5% cashback on bill payments via Google Pay
2% cashback on other spends
4 free domestic lounge visits/year
Why it’s best: Simple, no-fuss cashback model with great everyday savings. Apply Swoploan.
3. Best Travel Credit Card: SBI Card ELITE
Annual Fee: ₹4,999
Benefits:
Complimentary Club Vistara membership
8 free domestic and 6 international lounge visits/year
Exclusive travel & hotel deals
Why it’s best: Perfect for frequent flyers and premium users. Apply Swiploan.
4. Best Lifetime Free Credit Card: IDFC FIRST Classic Credit Card
Annual Fee: ₹0 for life
Benefits:
Up to 10X rewards on select spends
Zero interest on cash withdrawals for 48 days
No late fees up to a certain limit
Why it’s best: No annual fee, flexible rewards, and great for beginners. Apply Swiploan.
5. Best Premium Credit Card: HDFC Infinia (Metal Edition)
Annual Fee: ₹12,500 (Invite-only)
Benefits:
Unlimited airport lounge access (domestic + international)
5 reward points per ₹150 spent
Complimentary Club Marriott, golf sessions, travel concierge
Why it’s best: Premium lifestyle card with world-class perks. Apply Swiploan.
Compare at a Glance
| Card Name | Best For | Key Perks | Fee (₹) |
| HDFC Millennia | Online shopping | 5% cashback on top apps | 1,000 |
| Axis Bank Ace | Cashback | 5% on utilities via GPay | 499 |
| SBI ELITE | Travel | Lounge access, flight discounts | 4,999 |
| IDFC FIRST Classic | Free Card | Lifetime free, high rewards | 0 |
| HDFC Infinia | Premium | Luxury benefits, unlimited lounge access | 12,500 |
Which One Should You Choose?
Beginner/New to Credit: IDFC FIRST Classic or HDFC MoneyBack+
Online Shopper: HDFC Millennia or Amazon Pay ICICI Card
Travel Enthusiast: SBI ELITE or HDFC Regalia
Want Cashback: Axis Ace or Standard Chartered Smart
Luxury Lifestyle: HDFC Infinia or Axis Magnus
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to "Which credit card is best?" It really depends on your lifestyle, income, and financial goals. Evaluate your spending patterns and choose a card that rewards your everyday behavior.
Tip: Don’t chase multiple cards without purpose. Start with one that offers the most value for your specific lifestyle, and build your credit profile responsibly. To Know More To Connect Swiploan.
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