Credit card EMI vs personal loan — which is cheaper?
Subhashree Rajput
Asked 7 Mar 2026
I need to finance a purchase of ₹2,00,000. Should I convert the transaction to credit card EMI or take a personal loan? Which is actually cheaper after all charges?
4 Answers
I've been using this card for over a year now. In my experience, the rewards are decent but the real value is in the lounge access and the milestone benefits. Make sure to read the fine print on the welcome benefit — most banks only credit it after the first transaction, not on approval.
On credit limit increase: most banks auto-review every 6 months. If you use 30-70% of the limit and pay in full, you'll get an automatic increase. Don't call and ask for it explicitly — banks take it as a sign of credit hunger and sometimes lower the limit instead.
Two cards from the same bank usually share credit limit, not stack it. So if bank gives you ₹2 lakh total, splitting between two cards doesn't increase your available credit. That's a common misconception people carry when applying for their second card.
Credit score impact: each hard inquiry (which happens on card application) drops your score by 5-15 points temporarily. Applying for 3 cards in 2 months is fine IF you get all 3 approved. If 2 get rejected, you've taken a hit with nothing to show for it. Apply smart, not fast.
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