The break-even question
Ignoring tax and exclusions, SBI’s ₹999 fee takes roughly ₹19,980 of incremental 5% spending to recover. Compare only the extra reward SBI earns over what your no-fee alternative would have earned.
Redemption and usability
SBI posts cashback to the card account. Amazon Pay ICICI transfers earnings to Amazon Pay balance. Both are simpler than miles, but Amazon Pay balance is not identical to cash in a bank account.
A two-card case
Holding both can make sense when Amazon is substantial and other eligible online spend also justifies SBI’s fee. It does not make sense merely to collect two cards with overlapping roles.
Questions people actually ask
Before you decide
Which is better for non-Prime Amazon customers?
ICICI lists a lower Amazon rate for non-Prime customers. Compare that rate with SBI eligibility, exclusions and the SBI annual fee.
Which card has unlimited cashback?
ICICI states no limit on eligible Amazon Pay card earnings. SBI applies statement-cycle caps under its current terms.
Which is easier to keep long term?
The no-annual-fee Amazon Pay ICICI card has less fee pressure, provided you continue finding its reward form useful.