HDFC Regalia Gold vs SBI Card ELITE: Which Premium Card Offers Better Lifestyle Value

When it comes to premium credit cards , both HDFC Regalia Gold and SBI Card ELITE stand out with travel benefits, luxury privileges, and high reward value. But each card caters to a slightly different type of spender. Let’s explore the key features, differences, and which one offers more value for your lifestyle.

Feature Comparison

Feature HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card SBI Card ELITE Credit Card

Annual Fee

₹2,500 (waived on spends above ₹3 lakh/year)

₹4,999 (waived on spends above ₹10 lakh/year)

Welcome Benefits

Complimentary memberships (Amazon Prime, Swiggy One, MMT BLACK, Times Prime)

₹5,000 worth of welcome e-gift vouchers

Reward Points

4 reward points per ₹150 spent

5 reward points per ₹100 on dining, groceries, and department stores

Lounge Access

12 domestic + 6 international per year

8 domestic + 6 international per year

Travel Benefits

Complimentary flight vouchers and insurance cover

Complimentary Club Vistara membership and Trident Privilege membership

Dining Benefits

Up to 15% off at partner restaurants via Good Food Trail Program

Up to 10% off at partner restaurants

Movie Benefits

Not included

2 free movie tickets per month (worth ₹500 each)

Fuel Surcharge Waiver

1% on transactions between ₹400–₹5,000

1% on transactions between ₹500–₹4,000

Key Differences

  • HDFC Regalia Gold: Ideal for frequent travelers who value international lounge access, travel insurance, and complimentary memberships.
  • SBI Card ELITE: Focuses on lifestyle, dining, and entertainment with additional movie and shopping benefits.
  • Annual Fee: Regalia Gold has a lower fee and easier waiver conditions.

Which Card Should You Choose?

  • Choose HDFC Regalia Gold if you travel often, prefer premium memberships, and want strong travel insurance and lounge access.
  • Choose SBI Card ELITE if you enjoy dining out, movies, and shopping and want high lifestyle rewards and extra vouchers.

Tips to Maximize Benefits

  1. Use HDFC Regalia Gold for flights, hotels, and international transactions to earn higher points.
  2. Use SBI ELITE for dining, entertainment, and large retail spends to unlock maximum reward points.
  3. Redeem points for air miles or vouchers to get the best value.

Track spending to ensure you meet fee waiver thresholds and maximize rewards.