Traveling to China can be an exciting adventure, but staying connected is crucial for navigating unfamiliar destinations, accessing online information, and staying in touch with loved ones. One of the most convenient ways to ensure seamless connectivity is by purchasing a China Telecom SIM card.
This guide will provide you with valuable information about China Telecom, its coverage, SIM card options, and where to purchase them.
China Telecom is one of the biggest names in the world of telecommunications. As the largest fixed-line provider in China, it has created an extensive network of fiber optics and infrastructure that connects hundreds of millions of users across the vast country. Here are some quick facts to understand better this mammoth state-owned Chinese telecom company:
In recent years, China Telecom has partnered with companies like Huawei, ZTE and Ericsson to keep enhancing and upgrading its 5G telecom infrastructure to provide advanced connectivity services.
As a tourist visiting China, here is what you need to know about China Telecom’s network coverage:
According to recent speed tests, here is how China Telecom’s network speeds compare:
In summary, China Telecom’s speeds remain respectable by global standards – good for everyday mobile use and light downloading while traveling in China’s major urban hubs where its 4G network currently has the best coverage. Consider China Unicom as an alternative for wider rural coverage on your China travels.
China Telecom uses a CDMA network which is not compatible with GSM phones from outside China. However, they do offer some options that are compatible with certain “global” CDMA phones.
China Telecom uses CDMA2000 1x (3G) network on band class 0. Their 4G network uses LTE bands 1, 3 and 5. So only CDMA2000/LTE dual-mode phones will work. Common options are recent Apple, LG, Motorola or Samsung phones with the right LTE bands.
China Telecom SIM cards can be purchased at stores displaying the China Telecom logo. Staff may not speak English, so show the names of plans below. Initial top up of 30-50 RMB is required.
Here are some China Telecom prepaid plans suitable for tourists:
| Plan Name | Price (RMB) | Price (USD) | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 低用量套餐 (Low-Usage Plan) | 18 RMB | 2.60 USD/month | 200 MB rolling over every month | N/A |
| 基本套餐 (Basic Plan) | 28 RMB | 4 USD/month | 2GB | 30 days |
| 流量包1 (Data Pack 1) | 38 RMB | 5.50 USD | 3GB | 30 days |
| 流量包2 (Data Pack 2) | 58 RMB | 8.40 USD | 6GB | 30 days |
| 流量包3 (Data Pack 3) | 88 RMB | 12.70 USD | 10GB | 30 days |
China Telecom operates GSM and CDMA networks in China and offers postpaid and prepaid plans. However, all their SIM cards are still in physical nano-SIM or micro-SIM formats that need to be inserted into the device. They do not let users activate an embedded eSIM profile on their network.
This can cause inconvenience for international travelers who visit China regularly. Since many latest iPhone and Android devices only support eSIM and not physical SIM slots. Travelers have to either purchase an additional physical SIM or rely on expensive roaming plans.
If you want to stay connected in China with an eSIM supported device but can’t use the local carrier eSIM, then an alternative is to opt for eSIM data plans from Chinaesim.com.
Chinaesim eSIM plans are very affordable starting from just $7. You get high-speed LTE data without worrying about the limitations of physical SIMs. It’s a hassle-free way to stay online during your China trip on any eSIM supported devices.
China eSIM 3GB total - 5 days
China eSIM 3GB total - 5 days
3GB
China eSIM 10GB total - 5 days
China eSIM 10GB total - 5 days
10GB
China eSIM 5GB total - 7 days
China eSIM 5GB total - 7 days
5GB
China eSIM 1GB/day - 7 days
China eSIM 1GB/day - 7 days
1GB/day
China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days
China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days
10GB
China eSIM 3GB/days - 15 days
China eSIM 3GB/days - 15 days
3GB/day
China eSIM 20GB total - 30 days
China eSIM 20GB total - 30 days
20GB
Greater China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days
Greater China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days
10GB
Greater China eSIM 4GB/day - 15 days
Greater China eSIM 4GB/day - 15 days
4GB/day
China Vietnam eSIM 8GB total - 7 days
China Vietnam eSIM 8GB total - 7 days
8GB
You can purchase a China Telecom SIM card at various locations throughout China:
To activate and use a China Telecom SIM card, follow these steps:
| Type of Call/Text | Rate Details |
|---|---|
| Local Calls/Texts (within China) | Free between China’s mobile networks |
| Calls to US, South Korea, Singapore | 0.99 RMB/min (approx. $0.16 USD) |
| Calls to most European countries, Japan | 1.99 RMB/min (approx. $0.31 USD) with China Mobile |
| Receiving Texts | Free worldwide |
| Sending Texts from US/Europe to China | 0.19-0.99 RMB ($0.03-$0.16 USD) |
Additional Notes:
China Telecom provides convenient USSD codes that allow you to access various services and information directly from your device. Here are some useful USSD codes for managing your China Telecom SIM card:
| USSD Code | Function |
|---|---|
| Text “101” to “10001” | Check balance |
| Send “Q” to “10001” | Receive a help message with more general available codes |
These USSD codes provide quick and easy access to essential services, helping you stay connected and informed while using China Telecom’s network.
To top up your China Telecom SIM card or eSIM, you can choose from various convenient methods depending on your preference and location. Here are common ways to recharge your balance:
Finally, don’t lose your passport photocopy you provided when signing up for your China SIM card- you’ll need it to purchase additional talktime and data. Safe travels!
While China Telecom is a popular choice for travelers due to its extensive coverage and reliable services, there are alternative telecom providers in China that you may consider based on your specific needs:
Before choosing a telecom provider in China, compare the coverage, data packages, and rates offered by different companies to find the best fit for your communication needs during your stay.
China Telecom uses a CDMA network which is incompatible with all GSM phones purchased outside of China. Only certain “global” CDMA devices can work on their network.
China Telecom uses CDMA on BC0 band (mostly voice-only) and EVDO on BC0 band (mostly discontinued). For 4G/LTE, they use bands 850 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2100 MHz (FDD-LTE) and 2600 MHz (TD-LTE).
To start a plan with China Telecom, you need to show your passport and proof of address in China when purchasing a SIM card from an official China Telecom store. SIM cards are available in the standard nano/micro/normal sizes.
Some key plans include:
– Low-usage Plan (无忧卡): Starting at 20 RMB/month for 30 minutes of talk time and 30MB data
– Combo plans bundling talk time and data
– Various add-on data packs that can be purchased
To check your balance, send an SMS with the text “dyyb” to 10010. To check your data usage, send an SMS with the text “1098” to 10010.
It’s recommended to properly terminate your China Telecom plan and account before leaving China to avoid any issues. Termination requires visiting a China Telecom store in person with your original ID.
Whether you’re navigating the bustling streets of Beijing, exploring the historic sites of Xi’an, or conducting business in Shanghai, staying connected with China Telecom ensures seamless communication and access to essential online services throughout your journey. Enjoy your travels in China with the convenience and reliability of China Telecom’s network.
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