SBI offers two co-branded options partnered with IndiGo Airlines, which offer value to frequent flyers. The IndiGo SBI Credit Card and the IndiGo SBI ELITE Credit Card are two choices that are offered by SBI. These cards help you earn travel rewards, access lounges, and enjoy bonuses for frequent flyers.
The SBI Credit Card has a lower annual fee of about ₹1,499. The ELITE card is a premium option with a higher fee of around ₹4,999, but it comes with better travel benefits and reward potential. Both cards offer BluChips as rewards for spending. These Accelerated rewards are earned on spends made through the IndiGo website and app.
In this article, we are going to compare the IndiGo SBI Credit Card and the IndiGo SBI ELITE Credit Card in detail, covering fees, rewards, travel privileges, and overall value to help you determine which card aligns better with your spending habits and travel goals.
Fee Structure
When applying for a credit card, fees are usually the first thing users think about. Annual fees, late payment charges, and hidden costs can impact how affordable and useful a card is for everyday use. Most applicants look at cards not just for rewards or perks, but also for the total costs over time. A card with high fees can quickly outweigh its benefits. That’s why clear fees and lower costs are important in a user’s choice.
| Particulars | IndiGo SBI Credit Card | IndiGo SBI ELITE Credit Card |
| Joining Fee | ₹1,499 + GST | ₹4,999 + GST |
| Annual Fee | ₹1,499 + GST | ₹4,999 + GST |
| Welcome Benefits | 2,500 IndiGo BluChips | 5,000 IndiGo BluChips & 1 6E Eats Voucher |
Which Card Offers the Most Value for Joining Fees?
When comparing the joining fees, the IndiGo SBI Credit Card is more affordable at about ₹1,499 for the first year. This makes it a good choice for budget travelers who still want airline perks. On the other hand, the IndiGo SBI ELITE Credit Card has a higher fee of ₹4,999, but it offers better welcome benefits like 5,000 BluChips and a 6E Eats voucher. These benefits provide value that matches the fee and improve travel rewards. The ELITE card is meant for frequent flyers who want more comfort and higher rewards on IndiGo bookings, while the IndiGo SBI Credit Card focuses on being cost-effective. If you want to save money upfront, the IndiGo SBI card is the better option. However, travelers who can make the most of the premium benefits may find that the ELITE card is worth its higher fee because of its better rewards and travel perks.
Which Card Has the Better Reward Structure?
| Spending Category | IndiGo SBI | IndiGo SBI ELITE |
| IndiGo app/website bookings | 3 BluChips per ₹100 | 7 BluChips per ₹100 |
| Hotel, lodging, and travel expenses | 2 BluChips per ₹100 | 3 BluChips per ₹100 |
| Everyday Spending | 1 BluChip per ₹100 | 2 BluChips per ₹100 |
The IndiGo SBI ELITE Credit Card has a better rewards program compared to the IndiGo SBI Credit Card. It earns more BluChips per ₹100 spent on IndiGo bookings, travel, hotel expenses, and everyday spending, often more than double the rewards of the IndiGo SBI Credit Card. Since both cards credit BluChips after each statement cycle, the higher earning rates of the ELITE card help you accumulate rewards faster and in greater amounts. This makes it the more beneficial option, especially for frequent flyers and regular spenders.
Airport Lounge Access
Airport lounge access is an important feature for frequent travelers looking for comfort before a flight. The IndiGo SBI Credit Card and the IndiGo SBI ELITE Credit Card both offer lounge benefits, but they differ in the level of access. The IndiGo SBI Credit Card mainly supports domestic travel with limited complimentary visits based on how much you spend quarterly. In contrast, the ELITE card offers more benefits, including higher limits for domestic visits and exclusive access to international lounges, making it a better choice for frequent travelers.
| Feature | IndiGo SBI Credit Card | IndiGo SBI ELITE Credit Card |
| Domestic Lounge Access | 4 complimentary visits per year on a spend of ₹50,000 in the previous quarter | 8 visits per year (Max 2 per quarter) on a spend of ₹1,00,000 in the previous quarter |
| International Lounge Access | N/A | 6 visits per year (Max 2 per quarter) |
Milestone Benefits
The IndiGo SBI Credit Card is great for moderate spenders because it offers benefits at lower spending levels. Cardholders earn 2,500 IndiGo BluChips after spending ₹2 lakh, ₹4 lakh, and ₹6 lakh in a year. They can earn a total of 7,500 BluChips each year if they reach all milestones.
The IndiGo SBI ELITE Credit Card is for higher spenders and provides bigger rewards, but it requires higher spending. Users earn 6,000 BluChips after reaching spends of ₹3 lakh, ₹6 lakh, ₹9 lakh, and ₹12 lakh. This allows them to earn up to 24,000 BluChips each year through milestone benefits. The IndiGo SBI Credit Card focuses on easier goals with smaller rewards, while the ELITE version offers much higher BluChip earnings for those who spend more.
Bottom Line
Both the IndiGo SBI Credit Card and the IndiGo SBI ELITE Credit Card enhance your travel experiences, but each caters to different types of travelers.
The IndiGo SBI Credit Card is an excellent option for individuals who are about to travel on a budget or those who travel moderately. It provides essential airline benefits, such as discounts on flight bookings and reward points for every purchase made on the card, all while maintaining a lower annual fee. This card is perfect for occasional travelers who appreciate rewards but don’t want to spend high costs just to enjoy some travel perks.
In contrast, the IndiGo SBI ELITE Credit Card is for frequent flyers and those who spend considerably on travel and lifestyle purchases. This premium option comes with a range of enhanced rewards and benefits. Cardholders can earn milestone rewards, such as complimentary flight tickets and upgrades, which are accessible after reaching a certain spending threshold. The ELITE card offers wider lounge access in airports, allowing for a more comfortable travel experience before boarding a flight. This makes it an ideal choice for those who prioritize convenience and luxury while traveling.
When choosing between these two options, it’s essential to evaluate your travel habits and financial situation. Consider how often you travel and your typical spending patterns. If you travel frequently and enjoy premium amenities, the IndiGo SBI ELITE Credit Card could offer significant value through its extensive perks. However, if your travels are less frequent and you prefer to keep your costs low, the IndiGo SBI Credit Card might be the more advantageous choice, allowing you to enjoy travel benefits without a hefty annual fee. Ultimately, your selection should match your lifestyle.