Standard Chartered Smart vs ICICI Rubyx
Side-by-side comparison across fees, rewards, welcome bonuses, and eligibility.
Standard Chartered Smart wins 6-0. Entry tier alternative — flat 2% on online spends. ICICI Rubyx is still the right call if step up from coral — adds dual-network and milestone rewards..
Side-by-side
| Criterion | Standard Chartered Smart | ICICI Rubyx |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | ₹499 | · ₹2,000 |
| Joining fee | ₹499 | · ₹3,000 |
| Top reward rate | 2% (shopping) | · 1% (general) |
| Base reward rate | = 1% | = 1% |
| Forex markup | = 3.5% | = 3.5% |
| Welcome bonus | = ₹500 Amazon voucher on first 30-day spend | = 5,000 PAYBACK points + Tata CLiQ voucher |
| Fee waiver threshold | ₹120,000 / yr | · ₹350,000 / yr |
| Min income | ₹250,000 | · ₹600,000 |
| Min credit score | 720 | · 760 |
| Editorial rating | = 4/5 | = 4/5 |
Benefits compared
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)
ICICI Rubyx
- Dual-network (Visa + Amex one card)
- 4 international + 6 domestic lounge visits/year
- 15% off Culinary Treats
- 25% off movie tickets
- Comprehensive insurance
FAQ
›Standard Chartered Smart vs ICICI Rubyx: which is better?
Standard Chartered Smart wins on more dimensions (6 vs 0). But the right answer depends on your specific spending pattern — see the calculator below.
›Can I get both?
Yes — if your credit profile supports it, holding both is the optimal play. Use Standard Chartered Smart for online shopping, ICICI Rubyx for its best categories. Just watch the combined annual fees against your spend.
›Which one has the better welcome bonus?
Standard Chartered Smart: ₹500 Amazon voucher on first 30-day spend. ICICI Rubyx: 5,000 PAYBACK points + Tata CLiQ voucher.