SIP vs FD — which actually builds more wealth?
A Fixed Deposit gives you a locked-in, fixed rate. A SIP into equity mutual funds gives you no guarantee at all, but a historically higher long-run return. Neither answer is right for every horizon — run both on the same starting amount and time period below to see the actual gap for your numbers.
SIP Calculator vs FD Calculator — 15-year comparison
Opens Compare Lab pre-loaded with both, in your own currency — adjust any input and the chart updates instantly.
Compare now →A fixed amount invested into equity mutual funds every month, automatically, regardless of whether the market is up or down.
Best for: Long-term goals (7+ years) where you can tolerate volatility for higher growth potential.
A lump sum deposited with a bank for a fixed tenure at a fixed, fixed interest rate.
Best for: Capital you can't afford to risk — an emergency fund, or a short-term goal within a couple of years.
Is SIP always better than FD?
Not for every horizon — FDs are lower-risk and can beat SIPs over very short periods or when markets are down. SIPs generally pull ahead over longer horizons (10+ years) because of compounding on a historically higher average return, but that return isn't guaranteed the way an FD's rate is.
Can I put my emergency fund in a SIP instead of FD?
No — an emergency fund needs to be there when you need it, without the risk of a market dip forcing you to sell at a loss. That's what FDs (or a savings account) are for; SIPs are for money you won't need to touch for years.
Where do these numbers actually come from?
The same calculation engine that powers our standalone calculators and Compare Lab — nothing here is a separate or simplified estimate. Every assumption (rate, tenure, tax) is visible and adjustable once you open the comparison with your own numbers.