Head-to-head · 🇮🇳 India
HDFC Infinia (Metal) vs Standard Chartered Ultimate
Side-by-side comparison across fees, rewards, welcome bonuses, and eligibility.
IN
Premium
HDFC Bank
HDFC Infinia (Metal)
VISA
Wins 4 of 10
IN
Premium
Standard Chartered
Standard Chartered Ultimate
VISA
Wins 4 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 | HDFC Infinia (Metal) | Standard Chartered Ultimate |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | · ₹12,500 | ₹5,000 |
| Joining fee | · ₹12,500 | ₹5,000 |
| Top reward rate | 33% (travel) | · 3.3% (general) |
| Base reward rate | = 3.3% | = 3.3% |
| Forex markup | 1.99% | · 3.5% |
| Welcome bonus | = 12,500 reward points (offsets joining fee 1:1) | = 6,000 reward points + ₹1,000 voucher |
| Fee waiver threshold | ₹1,000,000 / yr | · ₹1,500,000 / yr |
| Min income | · ₹4,000,000 | ₹1,500,000 |
| Min credit score | · 800 | 780 |
| Editorial rating | 4.9/5 | · 4.4/5 |
Benefits compared
HDFC Infinia (Metal)
- Unlimited international + domestic lounge access (self + guest)
- 10x reward points on SmartBuy partners
- Free annual Club Marriott + Club Vistara Gold
- Concierge 24x7
- 2% forex markup
Standard Chartered Ultimate
- 5 reward points per ₹150 (effectively 3.3%)
- 4 complimentary international lounge visits/year
- BookMyShow buy-1-get-1
- 1% fuel surcharge waiver
- Comprehensive travel + purchase insurance
FAQ
›HDFC Infinia (Metal) vs Standard Chartered Ultimate: which is better?
It's a true tie — pick the one whose boost categories match your spend. HDFC Infinia (Metal) wins on 4 criteria, Standard Chartered Ultimate on 4.
›Can I get both?
Yes — if your credit profile supports it, holding both is the optimal play. Use HDFC Infinia (Metal) for its best categories, Standard Chartered Ultimate for its best categories. Just watch the combined annual fees against your spend.
›Which one has the better welcome bonus?
HDFC Infinia (Metal): 12,500 reward points (offsets joining fee 1:1). Standard Chartered Ultimate: 6,000 reward points + ₹1,000 voucher.