Which is better: Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card or Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card?

Based on our analysis, Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card offers better annual returns for most spend profiles.

What is the annual fee of Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card vs Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card?

Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card has an annual fee of ₹20,000 + taxes (waived on ₹25,00,000/year spend, from 2nd year). Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card has an annual fee of ₹50,000 + taxes (waived on ₹35,00,000/year spend).

Which card has a better reward rate: Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card or Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card?

Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card offers 2% reward points on domestic spend; 2.5% on international spend. Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card offers 15 EDGE points per ₹200 on domestic spends (1.5%); 2X on international (3%).

Does Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card or Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card offer better lounge access?

Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card lounge access: Unlimited domestic + unlimited international (via Priority Pass, 1,400+ lounges). Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card lounge access: Unlimited domestic + international lounge access; guest visits included.

What is the forex markup on Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card vs Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card?

Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card charges 1.49% forex markup. Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card charges 0% forex markup.

Comparison · हिन्दी

ICICI Times Black vs Axis Reserve

Both cards compared on real rupee returns for ICICI Times Black vs Axis Reserve which ultra premium card is better. We ran the numbers so you can make the right call.

Last updated: August 2026 · Based on current card terms

ICICI

TIMES BLACK

ASHOK KUMAR

VS

AXIS

RESERVE

ASHOK KUMAR

Our verdict

Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card wins for most people

Card A wins with an annual benefit of -₹6,560 versus Card B's -₹36,860. For your ₹56,000 monthly spend, Card A's lower fee and simpler rewards structure deliver significantly better value despite negative net benefits.

Side-by-side comparison

Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card ✓ Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card

Annual benefit -₹6,560 -₹36,860

Annual feeThe yearly fee a bank charges for holding the card, often waived if you spend enough in a year.Full definition → ₹20,000 + taxes (waived on ₹25,00,000/year spend, from 2nd year) ₹50,000 + taxes (waived on ₹35,00,000/year spend)

Reward rateCashback pays you directly in rupees; reward points need converting first, and their real value depends on the redemption ratio.Full definition → 2% reward points on domestic spend; 2.5% on international spend 15 EDGE points per ₹200 on domestic spends (1.5%); 2X on international (3%)

Lounge accessFree entry to airport lounges, usually limited to a set number of visits per quarter or year.Full definition → Unlimited domestic + unlimited international (via Priority Pass, 1,400+ lounges) Unlimited domestic + international lounge access; guest visits included

Forex markupThe extra fee your bank adds on top of the real exchange rate for any spend in a foreign currency.Full definition → 1.49% 0%

Best for Ultra-high-net-worth individuals wanting unlimited global lounge access and genuine luxury lifestyle perks Ultra-HNI travellers wanting unlimited lounge access, hotel memberships and top-tier concierge

Min. incomeThe minimum income, credit score, and other conditions a bank requires before approving your application.Full definition → ₹24,00,000+/year (₹2,00,000+/month if salaried) ₹25L+/year

Credit scoreYour 3-digit credit score (300-900), higher scores make approval easier and can unlock better cards.Full definition → 750+ 800+

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When each card wins

Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card

Card A suits your profile when you value straightforward 2% domestic rewards without chasing fee waivers. The lower ₹20,000 annual fee makes it more forgiving for moderate spenders like you.

Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card

Card B makes sense only if you're a frequent international traveler willing to dramatically increase spend to ₹2.9M+ annually to justify its ₹50,000 fee through premium lifestyle benefits.

Who should get which card

Get Times Black ICICI Bank if you…

· Lower annual fee burden at ₹20,000 vs ₹50,000

· Consistent 2% rewards on your shopping and dining spend

· Realistic for mid-high spenders without fee waiver pressure

· Better for domestic-focused lifestyle

Get Axis Bank Reserve if you…

· Only if you're a frequent international traveler with significant forex spend

· Premium concierge and hotel memberships justify costs for ultra-luxury lifestyle

· Unlimited lounge access for frequent flyers

· Requires ₹2.9M+ annual spend to break even

Partner offer

IDFC FIRST Ashva Credit Card

Frequent travellers who book hotels and flights through the IDFC FIRST Bank app specifically, where the real redemption value is highest; weak for everyday spending outside the app

Apply now →

IDFC

ASHOK KUMAR

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