SBI Card Pulse Vs SBI Cashback Credit Card

Last Updated : April 8, 2025, 6:14 p.m.
Choosing the right credit card in today's financial landscape can be overwhelming with numerous options available. The SBI Card Pulse and SBI Cashback Credit Card represent two distinct offerings from SBI Cards, each designed to cater to different lifestyle needs and spending habits. While the SBI Card Pulse focuses on health and wellness with its fitness-oriented benefits including a complimentary ColorFit Pulse 4 Pro smartwatch worth Rs. 7,999 and annual FITPASS PRO memberships, the SBI Cashback Credit Card delivers straightforward value with an impressive 5% cashback on all online purchases without merchant restrictions and 1% on offline spends. With different annual fees of Rs. 1,499 for the Pulse and Rs. 999 for the Cashback variant, these cards offer distinct pathways to maximize returns based on whether you prioritize fitness benefits or direct cashback rewards on your everyday transactions. After you decide which card to apply for, check your CIBIL score for free on Wishfin, since the credit score is a very important eligibility criterion which card issuers will look into.
Comparing the features of SBI Card PULSE and SBI Cashback Credit Card
Feature | SBI Card PULSE | SBI Cashback Credit Card |
---|---|---|
Annual Fee | Rs. 1,499 + taxes | Rs. 999 + taxes |
Renewal Fee | Rs. 1,499 + taxes | Rs. 999 + taxes |
Fee Waiver Condition | Annual spend of Rs. 2 lakh | Annual spend of Rs. 2 lakh |
Target Audience | Health and fitness enthusiasts | Online shoppers |
Welcome Benefits |
| None |
Reward Structure |
(4 reward points = Re. 1) |
|
Cashback Exclusions | N/A | Exclusions include.
|
Milestone Benefits | Rs. 1,500 voucher on annual retail spends of Rs. 4 lakh | Renewal fee reversal as mentioned above. |
Lounge Access |
| No complimentary lounge access |
Insurance benefits |
| Not applicable |
Fuel benefits |
|
|
Add-on Cards | Available for family members above 18 years | Available for family members above 18 years |
Other Benefits |
|
|
Which Card Should You Choose?
Choose SBI Card PULSE if:
- You lead an active lifestyle and value health and fitness benefits
- You frequently spend on pharmacy, dining, and entertainment
- You travel frequently and would benefit from travel insurance and lounge access.
- You appreciate comprehensive insurance coverage
- You value welcome gifts like a smartwatch and fitness memberships
Choose SBI Cashback Credit Card if:
- You shop online frequently across various merchants
- You prefer direct cashback rather than reward points
- You want straightforward rewards without category restrictions for online shopping
- You're looking for a card with a slightly lower annual fee
- You prioritize maximum returns on everyday online purchases.
Conclusion
Both cards offer excellent benefits but are designed for different types of spenders. The SBI Card PULSE is ideal for health-conscious individuals who spend significantly on dining, entertainment, and fitness-related purchases. On the other hand, the SBI Cashback Credit Card is perfect for frequent online shoppers looking for straightforward cashback benefits without merchant restrictions. Consider your spending habits, lifestyle preferences, and which benefits would be most valuable to you when making your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)