Introduction
When comparing entry-level credit cards, the debate between AU LIT vs SBI SimplyClick often comes up among first-time users. Both cards carry the same annual fee of ₹499 and offer solid value, but they cater to different types of spenders. With its flexibility and cashback rewards, AU LIT lets cardholders select perks according to their lifestyle. On the other hand, SBI SimplyClick is better suited for online shoppers, especially those who frequently purchase from partnered websites. This guide walks you through all major aspects—fees, rewards, eligibility, and more—to help you decide which card suits your needs.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | AU LIT Credit Card | SBI SimplyClick Credit Card |
| Annual Fee | ₹499 (waived on ₹1 L yearly spend) | ₹499 (waived on ₹1 L yearly spend) |
| Bonus for New Customers | spending ₹5,000 will get you a ₹500 cashback | On initial use, a ₹500 Amazon voucher. |
| Rewards | Up to 5% cashback in user-selected areas | Up to 10× points on online purchases |
| Milestone Benefits | Flexible, category-based benefits | ₹2,000 Cleartrip voucher at ₹1L/₹2L |
| Fuel Surcharge Exemption | transactions between ₹400 and ₹5,000
are subject to a 1% charge. |
1% of transactions
between ₹500 and ₹3,000 |
| Lounge Access | Available on domestic terminals | Not included |
Fees and Charges
- Both cards come with an annual and joining fee of ₹499, which can be waived off upon spending ₹1 lakh annually.
- Foreign transaction charges are around 3.5% plus applicable taxes for both cards.
- Finance costs are approximately 3.5% each month, or 42% annually.
- Late payment fees and over-limit charges follow industry-standard slabs.
Eligibility Criteria
- AU LIT Card: The AU LIT Card is only available to those who are residents of India. Salaried individuals must be 21–60 years, while self-employed individuals should be aged 25–65 with a stable income.
- SBI SimplyClick: Applicants must fall within the age range of 21 to 65 as per SBI SimplyClick guidelines. A minimum monthly income of ₹15,000–₹20,000 is generally required. Having a strong credit score (730+) increases the likelihood of acceptance.
Milestone Benefit Comparison
- AU LIT: No fixed spend milestones; instead, users can select and pay for specific categories like travel, dining, or OTT subscriptions to unlock corresponding benefits.
- SBI SimplyClick: SBI SimplyClick: When users spend ₹1 lakh and ₹2 lakh in a year, they are awarded a Cleartrip voucher worth ₹2,000.
Rewards, Cashback & Redemption
AU LIT:
- Cashback ranges from 1% to 5%, depending on selected categories like fuel, shopping, dining, and travel.
- Cashback is credited automatically and doesn't require redemption through portals.
SBI SimplyClick:
- Earn 10× points on purchases made through selected online merchants (Myntra, BookMyShow, etc.).
- The amount of points earned online is 5 times greater than the amount earned in physical stores, while offline purchases are limited to 1x points.
- Reward points can be redeemed for vouchers, but a redemption fee applies.
- Points are valid for 3 years and are valued at around ₹0.25 each.
Lifestyle Benefits and Perks
AU LIT:
- Provides complimentary domestic lounge access at selected airports.
- On qualifying transactions, it provides a 1% fuel cost waiver.
- Lets you tailor the card with benefits like Prime subscriptions, fitness discounts, or shopping perks.
SBI SimplyClick:
- Designed for online transactions and digital use cases.
- Includes 1% fuel surcharge waiver.
- Does not include lounge access or additional travel/lifestyle perks.
Which Card is Better for You?
Choose AU LIT if:
- You want the flexibility to select benefits that match your lifestyle.
- Over reward points, you would rather receive cash back directly.
- You like the idea of personalized benefits and occasional lounge access.
Choose SBI SimplyClick if:
- You frequently shop online and can make use of accelerated rewards on partner platforms.
- You value milestone rewards like Cleartrip vouchers.
- You’re comfortable with reward point accumulation and redemption processes.
Final Thoughts and Recommendation
Both AU LIT and SBI SimplyClick offer solid value for an annual fee of ₹499, especially since the fee can be waived with regular usage. For consumers looking for customized cashback benefits in a variety of lifestyle categories, AU LIT is the best option. In contrast, SBI SimplyClick stands out for users who spend heavily online and prefer reward points, especially from partner brands. AU LIT is a good choice if flexibility and ease of use are the top priorities. For digital-savvy users looking for online shopping perks, SBI SimplyClick is the better pick.