Each dream starts with a choice. For thousands of applicants in India who want to work in banking, the choice is often between SBI Clerk and IBPS Clerk. Both exams promise a stable job in the government with respect and stability. But every candidate has the same thought:

"Which exam is more difficult? SBI Clerk or the IBPS Clerk?"
The truth is, the answer is not just about exam difficulty – it’s about what you want from your career. 

SBI Clerk vs IBPS Clerk: Which Exam is Tougher? 

Think of it in this way: 

SBI Clerk is like a fast-moving train. It gives you speed, brand value, and faster career growth—but you must be ready for the competition, and the challenges that come with it.
IBPS Clerk is like a steady journey. It offers balance, localized postings, and comparatively easier cut-offs—but growth may be slower, and the prestige slightly lesser than SBI. 

Both trains lead to the same destination: a respected job in the banking sector. The difference lies in how you choose to travel. 

Remember, exams are not walls built to stop you; they are doors meant to test your courage. SBI Clerk might demand a little extra effort, while IBPS Clerk might give you a smoother path, but success in either exam depends on how prepared and determined you are. 

In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about SBI Clerk vs. IBPS Clerk Bank Exam

Conducting Body and Job Role - SBI Clerk vs. IBPS Clerk

Note: If you get an SBI Clerk job, you can only work for SBI. If you get an IBPS Clerk job, you can work for a number of public sector banks. If you want more bank choices, IBPS Clerk is better.

How to Tackle Quantitative Aptitude in IBPS Prelims: Speed, Accuracy & Shortcuts

Selection Process - SBI Clerk vs. IBPS Clerk

Observation: The recruitment process is almost the same, but SBI has extra language tests that makes it a little harder.

Exam Pattern - SBI Clerk vs. IBPS Clerk

IBPS Clerk Mains: Topic-Wise Weightage & Scoring Strategy

Note: The exam structure in SBI Clerk Prelims and IBPS Clerk Prelims is almost the same, so the toughness depends more on the difficulty level of questions rather than exam pattern.

On the other hand, the exam pattern in SBI Clerk Mains is more challenging because candidates have to solve more questions (190 vs. 155) within only 40 extra minutes.

This increases speed and accuracy pressure in SBI Clerk compared to IBPS Clerk.

In short the IBPS Clerk Mains bank exam tests knowledge, while the SBI Clerk Mains tests both knowledge + speed under pressure.

Master Time Management for SBI Clerk Prelims – Strategy Inside!

Exam Difficulty Level - SBI Clerk vs. IBPS Clerk

Observation: 

In SBI Clerk, the English section has trickier comprehension, reasoning puzzles are complex, and quant involves lengthy calculations

In IBPS Clerk, questions are relatively direct and beginner – friendly.

Conclusion: SBI Clerk Bank exam has a higher difficulty level, especially in mains.

IBPS Clerk Study Material PDF Free Download – Quantitative Aptitude  

Vacancies - SBI Clerk vs. IBPS Clerk

Observation:

IBPS Clerk generally announces higher vacancies than SBI Clerk, ensuring more changes for aspirants. However, in 2024, SBI Clerk released more seats than IBPS, slowing fluctuations. 

Conclusion: A Vacancy trend directly affects competition level. Even though IBPS Clerk offers more stable opportunities, SBI brand value attracts a larger pool of applicants, making its exam tougher despite fewer seats in most years.

Salary and Perks - SBI Clerk vs. IBPS Clerk

Observation: SBI Clerk offers slightly high pay, as compared to the SBI Clerk. Remember, your career growth depends on you, not on your first posting.

Posting and Transfers - SBI Clerk vs. IBPS Clerk

SBI Clerk: Pan India postings. Transfers are most frequent. 

IBPS Clerk: State – wise recruitment. More chances to stay near my hometown.

If Students want brand value and exposure – SBI Clerk 

Comprehensive SBI Clerk Preparation Strategy 2025: Subject-Wise Tips for Success

If Students want local stability – IBPS Clerk

Career Growth - SBI Clerk vs. IBPS Clerk

SBI Clerk Career Growth: Clerk → Officer → Manager → AGM → DGM → GM (Fast Promotions through exams)

IBPS Clerk Growth: Clerk → Officer (though exams) → Manager Roles (slightly slower than SBI)

SBI bank exam is tougher because it offers faster promotions, but also demands higher performance.
Which Exam is tougher?

General Awareness for IBPS Mains – Best Sources & Weekly Revision Plan

SBI Clerk is tougher than IBPS Clerk because:

• Brand value attracts more competition 
• Higher cut-offs 
• Slightly difficult mains paper
• Higher workload with faster promotions

IBPS Clerk Bank Exam is Easier Because:

• Balanced work life 
• Vacancies spread across multiple banks 
• Lower cut-offs
• Local posting reduce stress 

Pros and Cons - SBI Clerk vs. IBPS Clerk

SBI Clerk gives you brand and growth. IBPS Clerk gives you balance and stability. Both are opportunities – the choice depends on your goals.

To Conclude:

Don’t get stuck thinking about which bank exam is tougher - SBI Clerk or IBPS Clerk. Focus on becoming tougher yourself. The exam is only a doorway; your determination decides how far you will go.

Appear for both SBI Clerk and IBPS Clerk. Preparing for one cover the other. This way, you double your chance and keep multiple options open.
 

FAQs 

Q: Which section should I attempt first in the SBI Clerk prelims bank exam?
Ans. The order is fixed due to sectional timing, but within each section, start with your strongest topic. This builds momentum and saves time for the tricky question of the bank exam SBI Clerk prelims 

Q. How many mock tests should I take in the last month? 

Ans: One month before an exam, ideally 10-15 mock test papers are necessary for familiarizing yourself with the exam format.

Q: Can I apply for both SBI Clerk and IBPS Clerk?
Ans: Yes, absolutely! Many aspirants apply for both to maximize their chances of selection.

Q: Do both SBI Clerk and IBPS Clerk bank exams have interviews?
Ans: Selection is based on Prelims and Mains performance. There is no interview round in IBPS Clerk and SBI Clerk bank exam.

Q: Which bank exam should I prepare for if I want faster promotions?

Ans: If you want faster promotions and career growth, you should prepare for the SBI Clerk bank exam.

Also Check:

• Accuracy vs Speed in IBPS Clerk – Which Should You Prioritize
• IBPS vs. SBI vs. RBI: Which Bank Exam Should You Choose?
• IBPS Clerk vs. IBPS PO: Which Exam is Easier to Crack?
• 8 Essential Tips for Cracking the IBPS Exam
• Common Mistakes to Avoid in IBPS Clerk Prelims
• 30-Day Study Plan for IBPS Clerk Prelims: Crack the Exam in One Month
• SBI Clerk vs. SBI PO: Key Differences and How to Choose Your Path
• SBI Clerk Last Month Preparation Strategy
• Comprehensive SBI Clerk Preparation Strategy 2025: Subject-Wise Tips for Success
• Master Time Management for SBI Clerk Prelims – Strategy Inside!