ICICI, like many other card issuers, offers a few Lifetime Free (LTF) credit card options. Among them, the Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card, a co-branded offering, is quite popular. It’s often compared to another LTF card by ICICI, the ICICI Platinum Chip Credit Card. While people try to draw comparisons between the two, these cards are actually very different in terms of features and usage. Still, if a choice has to be made between them, let this guide help you decide. Below are the key factors to consider before making your pick.
Welcome Bonus
Credit cards often offer welcome bonuses to compensate for joining or annual fees. However, it’s common for Lifetime Free or First-Year Free cards to skip this benefit. ICICI follows this trend with the ICICI Platinum Chip Credit Card, which does not offer a welcome bonus.
On the other hand, the Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card comes with several welcome perks. These benefits, especially for Amazon shoppers, can add up to savings worth around ₹2,500. The table below highlights the welcome benefits available for both Amazon Prime and non-Prime users.
| For Non-Prime Members | For Prime Members |
| One Month of Eazy Diner Membership | One Month of Eazy Diner Membership |
| 50% Cashback (Up to ₹50) on Prepaid Recharges | 50% Cashback (Up to ₹50) on Prepaid Recharges |
| 100% Cashback (Up to ₹150) on Shopping with Amazon | 100% Cashback (Up to ₹150) on Shopping with Amazon |
| 25% Cashback of (Up to ₹500) on Postpaid Recharges | 25% Cashback of (Up to ₹500) on Postpaid Recharges |
| 20% Cashback (Up to ₹100) for Electricity Bill Payments | 20% Cashback (Up to ₹100) for Electricity Bill Payments |
| 25% Cashback (Up to ₹200) on DTH Recharge | 25% Cashback (Up to ₹200) on DTH Recharge |
| 25% Cashback (Up to ₹550) for Broadband Recharge | 25% Cashback (Up to ₹550) for Broadband Recharge |
| 10% Cashback (Up to ₹250) for LPG Cylinder Booking | 10% Cashback (Up to ₹250) for LPG Cylinder Booking |
| 10% Cashback (Up to ₹200) for LPG Cylinder Booking | 10% Cashback (Up to ₹200) for LPG Cylinder Booking |
| ₹500 off on Prime Membership |
Rewards Structure
The two cards differ significantly when it comes to how they reward users. The Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card offers cashback directly to your Amazon Pay balance, while the ICICI Platinum Chip Credit Card uses the traditional ICICI Reward Points system. This difference affects not only how you earn rewards, but also how you redeem them.
The table below compares the reward earning and redemption methods for both cards.
| Particulars | Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card | ICICI Platinum Chip Credit Card |
| Earning Rewards |
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| Reward Redemption |
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While ICICI Platinum Chip values one reward point (RP) at ₹0.25, the Amazon Pay ICICI card values each point at ₹1; however, these points can only be used on their respective platforms. Users who shop frequently at Amazon and are Prime members can take full advantage of this card for a straight 5% cashback on all purchases on Amazon India.
Other Lifestyle Perks
In addition to diverse reward structures, these two cards offer an introductory dining discount, which is available on every ICICI credit card.
| Particulars | Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card | ICICI Platinum Chip Credit Card |
| Dining Perks | 15% Off on Dining Bills at Restaurants Participating in Culinary Treats Program | 15% Off on Dining Bills at Restaurants Participating in Culinary Treats Program |
Who Should Get Which Credit Card?
The Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card is a great choice for regular Amazon shoppers, especially Prime members. With up to 5% cashback credited directly to your Amazon Pay balance, it offers excellent value on online purchases. It’s also ideal for those who prefer straightforward cashback over traditional reward points. The card is Lifetime Free and even comes with welcome benefits worth up to ₹2,500, making it a strong pick for digital-first users who shop often and want to save consistently without worrying about annual fees or complex redemption systems.
On the other hand, the ICICI Platinum Chip Credit Card is better suited for users wanting a basic, no-fuss credit card to manage everyday expenses or build credit. It doesn’t offer welcome bonuses or high rewards, but its Lifetime Free status and wide acceptance make it a practical option for offline spending. If you’re not a frequent Amazon user and don’t prioritize cashback rewards, this card offers simplicity and reliability. It’s best for individuals who want a dependable credit card without the bells and whistles, or those just starting out with credit.
You might not hear this advice often, but consider getting both credit cards, especially since they’re practically free. The Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card gives excellent returns (up to 5%) on Amazon purchases, but its cashback isn’t as rewarding on other platforms. That’s where the ICICI Platinum Chip Credit Card steps in, offering a fallback for everyday offline spending or for ICICI Bank offers that exclude co-branded cards. If you’re worried about managing multiple cards, don’t stress, we’ve got you covered. Check out our guide on How to Handle Multiple Credit Cards Like a Pro to stay organized and make the most of both.
Bottom Line
Both the ICICI Platinum Chip Credit Card and Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card offer unique advantages, and choosing the right one depends on your spending behavior. If you shop online frequently, especially on Amazon’s Indian website or app, the Amazon Pay ICICI Card offers unmatched value with 5% cashback for Prime users. However, for those looking for a simple, no-maintenance credit card for offline use or general expenses, the ICICI Platinum Chip Card fits the bill. Better yet, since both are Lifetime Free, getting both cards can help you maximize rewards without any additional cost. Use each strategically, and you’ll be earning savings on nearly every transaction.
FAQs
Are there any joining benefits with the ICICI Platinum Chip Credit Card?
No, the ICICI Platinum Chip Credit Card does not come with any welcome bonus or joining benefits.
What are the ICICI Platinum Chip Credit Card’s reward points worth?
You earn 2 points per ₹100 on most spends, and 1 point per ₹100 on utilities and insurance. Each point is worth ₹0.25.
What is the cashback rate for the Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card?
Prime members get 5% cashback on Amazon, while non-Prime users get 3%. Cashback ranges from 1% to 2% on other eligible transactions.
Is the Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card Lifetime Free?
Yes, this card has no joining or annual fees, making it a Lifetime-Free credit card.