Head-to-head · 🇮🇳 India
Axis ACE vs Standard Chartered Smart
Side-by-side comparison across fees, rewards, welcome bonuses, and eligibility.
IN
Axis Bank
Axis ACE
VISA
Wins 3 of 10
IN
Standard Chartered
Standard Chartered Smart
VISA
Wins 3 of 10
Verdict
It's a true tie — neither dominates. Pick the one whose boost categories match where you actually spend.
Side-by-side
| Criterion | Axis ACE | Standard Chartered Smart |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | = ₹499 | = ₹499 |
| Joining fee | = ₹499 | = ₹499 |
| Top reward rate | 4% (fuel) | · 2% (shopping) |
| Base reward rate | 1.5% | · 1% |
| Forex markup | = 3.5% | = 3.5% |
| Welcome bonus | = Up to ₹2,000 cashback on first 60-day spends | = ₹500 Amazon voucher on first 30-day spend |
| Fee waiver threshold | · ₹200,000 / yr | ₹120,000 / yr |
| Min income | · ₹360,000 | ₹250,000 |
| Min credit score | · 750 | 720 |
| Editorial rating | 4.5/5 | · 4/5 |
Benefits compared
Axis ACE
- 5% cashback on Google Pay bill payments (electricity, gas, broadband, mobile, DTH)
- 4% cashback on Swiggy, Zomato, Ola
- 2% cashback on every other transaction
- 4 complimentary domestic airport lounge visits per year
- 1% fuel surcharge waiver
Standard Chartered Smart
- 2% cashback on online spends (capped at ₹100/month)
- 1% cashback on offline + bill payments
- 1% fuel surcharge waiver
- Up to 15% off on partner restaurants (EazyDiner)
FAQ
›Axis ACE vs Standard Chartered Smart: which is better?
It's a true tie — pick the one whose boost categories match your spend. Axis ACE wins on 3 criteria, Standard Chartered Smart on 3.
›Can I get both?
Yes — if your credit profile supports it, holding both is the optimal play. Use Axis ACE for its best categories, Standard Chartered Smart for online shopping. Just watch the combined annual fees against your spend.
›Which one has the better welcome bonus?
Axis ACE: Up to ₹2,000 cashback on first 60-day spends. Standard Chartered Smart: ₹500 Amazon voucher on first 30-day spend.