With a commanding 18.8% market share in 2025, SBI credit cards have become increasingly popular among Indian consumers looking for rewarding payment options. The bank’s diverse portfolio caters to various spending habits and lifestyle needs, from everyday purchases to premium travel experiences. This comprehensive guide examines the best SBI credit cards available in 2025, helping you identify which card aligns with your financial goals and spending patterns.
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Why SBI Credit Cards Are Leading the Market in 2025?
SBI credit cards have seen remarkable growth, with the bank issuing 240,000 new cards in January 2025 alone. This expansion reflects the bank’s commitment to offering competitive rewards, innovative features, and tailored benefits. SBI credit cards stand out in the crowded market due to their:
- Digitized membership kits for streamlined account management
- Contactless payment capabilities for quick transactions
- Comprehensive utility bill payment options
- Robust insurance and protection plans
Whether you’re a first-time applicant or looking to upgrade your existing card, understanding the unique features of each SBI credit card will help you make an informed decision.
The Top 5 SBI Credit Cards in 2025
1. SBI SimplySAVE Credit Card: Best for Everyday Spenders
The SBI SimplySAVE Credit Card has established itself as an excellent option for daily expenses, offering substantial rewards on common spending categories.
Key Features:
- Welcome bonus of 2,000 reward points when you spend ₹2,000 within 60 days of card issuance
- 10 reward points for every ₹150 spent on dining, movies, and groceries
- 1 reward point per ₹150 on all other categories
- 1% fuel surcharge waiver on transactions between ₹500-₹3,000 (maximum ₹100 per statement cycle)
Fees and Charges:
- Joining fee: ₹499 + taxes
- Annual fee: ₹499 + taxes (waived on spending ₹1 lakh in the previous year)
- Late payment fees ranging from ₹0 to ₹1,300 based on statement balance
Ideal For: Young professionals and families who spend regularly on dining, entertainment, and groceries.
2. SBI ELITE Credit Card: Premium Benefits for High Spenders
The SBI ELITE Credit Card delivers premium rewards and exclusive privileges for those with sophisticated lifestyle needs.
Key Features:
- Premium rewards structure with accelerated points on dining and groceries
- Complimentary airport lounge access (domestic and international)
- Higher reward points on travel bookings
- Milestone benefits for reaching spending thresholds
Fees and Charges:
- Joining fee: ₹4,999 + GST
- Annual fee: ₹4,999 + GST (waived on spending ₹10 lakh or more)
- Priority customer service
Ideal For: Frequent travelers and high-income individuals who value premium experiences and exclusive benefits.
3. SBI Cashback Credit Card: Maximum Returns on Everyday Purchases
The SBI Cashback Credit Card offers straightforward value with direct cashback on purchases across categories.
Key Features:
- 5% cashback on online shopping (up to ₹2,500 per month)
- 2% cashback on utility bill payments
- 1% cashback on all other transactions
- Zero liability on lost card
Fees and Charges:
- Joining fee: ₹999 + taxes
- Annual fee: ₹999 + taxes (waived on spending ₹1.5 lakh in the previous year)
- Interest rate: 3.35% per month (40.2% per annum)
Ideal For: Online shoppers and those who prefer direct cashback over reward points.
4. SBI Card PRIME: Balanced Benefits for Moderate Spenders
The SBI Card PRIME offers a balanced mix of rewards, cashback, and lifestyle benefits for moderate spenders.
Key Features:
- 5X reward points on dining, groceries, and entertainment
- 3X reward points on online shopping
- Milestone benefits at ₹3 lakh and ₹6 lakh annual spends
- Complimentary movie tickets (buy one, get one)
Fees and Charges:
- Joining fee: ₹2,999 + taxes
- Annual fee: ₹2,999 + taxes (waived on spending ₹3 lakh in the previous year)
- Fuel surcharge waiver up to ₹250 per month
Ideal For: Urban professionals who enjoy dining out, entertainment, and occasional travel.
5. SBI Student PLUS Advantage Credit Card: Entry-Level Option for Students
The SBI Student PLUS Credit Card is designed specifically for students looking to build credit history while enjoying modest benefits.
Key Features:
- Lower credit limit suitable for students (starting at ₹20,000)
- 2X reward points on education-related expenses
- 1X reward points on all other transactions
- Special discounts on educational platforms and bookstores
Fees and Charges:
- Joining fee: ₹499 + taxes
- Annual fee: ₹499 + taxes (waived for first year)
- Lower late payment fees
Ideal For: College and university students looking to build credit history responsibly.
Compare SBI Credit Cards: Side-by-Side Comparison
When you compare SBI credit cards, it’s important to look at all aspects to find the best match for your needs:
| Feature | SimplySAVE | ELITE | Cashback | PRIME | Student PLUS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joining Fee | ₹499 | ₹4,999 | ₹999 | ₹2,999 | ₹499 |
| Annual Fee | ₹499 | ₹4,999 | ₹999 | ₹2,999 | ₹499 |
| Fee Waiver | ₹1 lakh spend | ₹10 lakh spend | ₹1.5 lakh spend | ₹3 lakh spend | First year free |
| Reward Rate | 10 points/₹150 | 15 points/₹150 | 5% cashback | 5X points | 2X points |
| Lounge Access | No | Yes (domestic & international) | No | Yes (domestic only) | No |
| Fuel Benefit | 1% waiver | 1% waiver + extra points | 1% cashback | 1% waiver | 2.5% waiver |
FAQs
1. Which is the best SBI credit card in 2025?
The best SBI credit card depends on your spending habits. Here are the top picks:
• For Rewards & Cashback: SBI SimplyCLICK Credit Card
• For Travel: SBI IRCTC RuPay Credit Card / SBI Air India Signature Card
• For Premium Benefits: SBI Elite Credit Card
• For Fuel Savings: BPCL SBI Card
• For Shopping & Lifestyle: SBI SimplySAVE Credit Card
2. What is the eligibility for SBI credit cards?
Eligibility varies by card, but generally, you need:
✔ Age: 21-65 years
✔ Income: ₹2.5 lakh+ annual income (varies by card)
✔ Credit Score: 700+ recommended
✔ Employment: Salaried or self-employed with stable income
3. What are the annual fees for SBI credit cards?
• SBI SimplyCLICK: ₹499 (waived on ₹1 lakh spend)
• SBI Elite: ₹4,999
• SBI BPCL Credit Card: ₹499
• SBI IRCTC Card: ₹500
• SBI Cashback Card: ₹999
Most cards offer a fee waiver if you meet the annual spending threshold.
4. How can I apply for an SBI credit card online?
You can apply through:
✅ SBI’s official website
✅ SBI YONO app
✅ Visiting the nearest SBI branch
✅ Online platforms like Amazon, Flipkart (for co-branded cards)
5. Which SBI credit card is best for fuel savings?
The BPCL SBI Credit Card is the best for fuel purchases, offering 4.25% value back at BPCL petrol pumps.
6. What is the best SBI credit card for frequent travelers?
For train travel: IRCTC SBI Card
For flight travel: SBI Air India Signature Card
For international use: SBI Elite (with lounge access & forex benefits)
7. Can I convert my SBI credit card bill into EMI?
Yes, SBI allows you to convert purchases above ₹2,500 into EMIs with flexible tenure options. You can request this via the SBI Card website or customer service.
8. How do I increase my SBI credit card limit?
You can request a credit limit increase through:
📞 SBI Card customer care
💻 SBI Card website/app
🏦 Nearest SBI branch (with income proof if required)
9. What are the late payment charges on SBI credit cards?
Late fees depend on the due amount:
• ₹500–₹1,000 due: ₹400 penalty
• ₹1,001–₹10,000 due: ₹750 penalty
• ₹10,000+ due: ₹950+ penalty
10. Which SBI credit card is best for online shopping?
The SBI SimplyCLICK Credit Card offers 5X–10X reward points on online shopping with Amazon, Flipkart, Cleartrip, and more.
