Standard Chartered Smart vs HDFC MoneyBack+
Side-by-side comparison across fees, rewards, welcome bonuses, and eligibility.
HDFC MoneyBack+ wins 5-2. Entry-level cashback with very low waiver bar. Standard Chartered Smart is still the right call if entry tier alternative, flat 2% on online spends..
Side-by-side
| Criterion | Standard Chartered Smart | HDFC MoneyBack+ |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | ₹499 | · ₹500 |
| Joining fee | ₹499 | · ₹500 |
| Top reward rate | · 2% (shopping) | 5% (shopping) |
| Base reward rate | · 1% | 2% |
| Forex markup | = 3.5% | = 3.5% |
| Welcome bonus | = ₹500 Amazon voucher on first 30-day spend | = 500 CashPoints on first transaction |
| Fee waiver threshold | · ₹120,000 / yr | ₹50,000 / yr |
| Min income | · ₹250,000 | ₹240,000 |
| Min credit score | = 720 | = 720 |
| Editorial rating | · 4/5 | 4.1/5 |
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)
HDFC MoneyBack+
- 5% on Amazon, Flipkart, Big Basket, Reliance Smart Bazaar (capped ₹1K/month)
- 2% on EMI transactions
- 1 fuel surcharge waiver
- Quarterly milestone vouchers
FAQ
›Standard Chartered Smart vs HDFC MoneyBack+: which is better?
HDFC MoneyBack+ wins on more dimensions (5 vs 2). But the right answer depends on your specific spending pattern. Run your own monthly spend through the maximizer to see which one pays you more.
›Can I get both?
Yes, if your credit profile supports it, holding both is the optimal play. Use Standard Chartered Smart for online shopping, HDFC MoneyBack+ 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. HDFC MoneyBack+: 500 CashPoints on first transaction.