How does the Kotak Royale Signature Credit Card compare to other cards you’ve used, especially in terms of rewards, benefits, and overall value? I’ve used a few premium cards, and I can’t help but feel that the Kotak Royale Signature falls short in a few areas. The reward rate of just 2 points per ₹150 isn’t great compared to others like the HDFC Regalia or American Express Membership Rewards Card, which offer better rewards for similar spending. Plus, the lack of international lounge access feels like a big drawback, especially for someone who travels abroad often. I do appreciate the fuel and railway surcharge waivers, but they don’t make up for the relatively low value of the reward points. How would you compare this card to others in your experience? Does it hold up, or do you think there are better options out there?
In my experience, the Kotak Royale Signature Credit Card doesn’t quite measure up to some other premium cards I’ve used. The rewards structure is decent, but when you compare it to cards like the HDFC Regalia or American Express Membership Rewards, it feels lacking. The reward rate of 2 points per ₹150 is pretty low, and with the value of each point being just ₹0.25, you’re not getting much back for your spending. Cards like the HDFC Regalia offer higher rewards, and Amex cards give you much more value per point, which makes a significant difference in the long run.
Another area where this card falls short is international lounge access. I travel abroad frequently, and the lack of access to international lounges is a big downside. Other premium cards, like the HDFC Infinia or American Express Platinum, provide extensive lounge access, which is a huge plus for travelers.
That said, the Kotak Royale Signature does have some redeeming qualities, like the fuel and railway surcharge waivers, but they don’t make up for the card’s other shortcomings. If you’re primarily using it for domestic benefits and don’t mind a lower rewards return, it could work. But if you’re someone who travels often or values higher reward points, I’d say there are better options out there.
The Kotak signature credit card is a mid-premium lifestyle card and includes some exclusive features:
- Travel, dining, and foreign purchases can earn you up to 4X reward points, while all other purchases can earn you 2X (1 RP = ₹0.25).
- Two free domestic lounge visits every three months out of a year.
- The annual fuel surcharge waiver is up to ₹3,500.
- You can get PVR and BookMyShow ticket discounts.
- A yearly fee of ₹999 is waived for yearly expenditures of ₹1 lakh.
Comparison with other cards:
| Features | Kotak Royale Signature | HDFC Regalia | SBI Prime | ICICI Sapphiro |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | Rs. 999 | Rs. 2,500 | Rs. 2,999 | Rs. 3,500 |
| Lounge Access | 8 Domestic | 12 Domestic+ 6 international | 8 Domestic | 4 Domestic+ 2 international |
| Forex Mark up | 3.5% | 2% | 3.5% | 3.5% |
| Best for? | Rewards & Dinning | Travel & Luxury | Shopping & Dinning | Travel & Entertainment |
Is It a Good Purchase?
Excellent for frequent Indian travelers seeking reasonable benefits and lounge access at a reasonable cost.
Not the best option for foreign visitors (no international lounges and higher FX markup).
HDFC Regalia and SBI Prime are better than ordinary credit cards, but they have more robust travel and incentive benefits.
The Kotak Royale Signature Credit Card is great if you want a reward-centric card for domestic travel and everyday spending.
but if you want international lounge access or better cashbacks, other cards would be better