For travelers visiting China, having a reliable and affordable mobile data connection is crucial. China Unicom, one of the country’s three major telecommunications providers, offers a range of SIM card and eSIM options tailored to meet the needs of tourists.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about China Unicom SIM cards, including pricing, coverage, and where to purchase them.
China Unicom is one of the three major mobile network operators in China, along with China Mobile and China Telecom. According to the Speedtest Global Index data for March 2024, China Unicom ranks among the top mobile and broadband providers in China in terms of speeds and coverage.
For mobile coverage, China Unicom operates 3G/UMTS networks on the 900MHz and 2100MHz bands. This provides compatibility with most unlocked international phones. As of 2023, China Unicom’s 3G network coverage reaches over 97% of towns and villages in China.
In addition, China Unicom has extensively rolled out 4G/LTE networks nationwide. It uses frequency bands 1, 3 and 41 for FDD-LTE, and bands 41 and 46 for TD-LTE. This allows 4G access in most major cities and tourist sites. According to Speedtest data, China Unicom achieved 4G availability in over 80% of urban areas in 2022.
China Unicom is also actively deploying its 5G network infrastructure. It operates SA and NSA 5G on several mid-band and mmWave frequencies. Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen already enjoy blanket 5G coverage from China Unicom. The network is focusing on improving rural 5G availability going forward.
On the mobile front, China Unicom delivered median download speeds of 143.68Mbps in Q4 2023 according to Speedtest Intelligence. This was comparable to China Mobile but faster than China Telecom. Unicom’s network is quite consistent too, with over 93% of tests reaching minimum thresholds.
For 5G specifically, China Unicom saw median 5G speeds reach 230.41Mbps in Q4 2023. This puts it in third place but still provides very fast internet for tourists with 5G handsets. Major cities see 5G speeds exceeding 250Mbps.
In terms of fixed broadband, China Unicom achieved median home internet speeds of around 245Gbps download and 55Gbps upload in 2023. It has the second fastest broadband network nationwide. Tourist hotspots like Beijing and Shanghai easily surpass 200Mbps on China Unicom fiber.
When it comes to choosing the best China Unicom SIM card for tourists, there are several factors to consider, including data allowance, validity period, and cost. Here are some popular options:
This plan offers generous data allowances at affordable prices. A sample price plan is shown below:
| Price (RMB) | Price (USD) | Data |
|---|---|---|
| 88 | 13 | 8GB |
| 128 | 19 | 15GB |
| 188 | 28 | 25GB |
| 238 | 36 | 35GB |
Targeted at heavy data users, this plan offers even higher data caps:
| Price (RMB) | Price (USD) | Data |
|---|---|---|
| 128 | 19 | 20GB |
| 188 | 28 | 30GB |
| 288 | 43 | 50GB |
| 388 | 58 | 80GB |
A budget option for basic internet access without voice calls:
| Price (RMB) | Price (USD) | Validity | Data |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18 | 3 | 30 days | 1GB |
| 38 | 6 | 30 days | 3GB |
The exchange rate used is 1 USD = 6.5 RMB. These plans provide affordable mobile data access for travelers visiting China from abroad.
It’s important to note that prices may vary based on promotional offers and location, so it’s always best to check the latest pricing information when purchasing a SIM card.
China Unicom has introduced eSIM profiles on select Apple devices recently. However, there is no clear information on widespread eSIM support for smartphones across their network yet.
China Unicom is currently the only supported eSIM carrier for the new iPad (10th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular model (A3162) in mainland China. No other devices have been officially confirmed to work with Unicom eSIM currently.
If you want an hassle-free eSIM solution in China without the compatibility uncertainties, consider purchasing from Chinaesim.com instead.
Chinaesim provides affordable multi-day data packages covering the entire country. Our eSIM plans work seamlessly on any GSM network, compatible with a wide range of smartphones and tablets.
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
China Unicom SIM cards can be purchased from various sources, including:
You can purchase a China Unicom SIM card directly from any of the company’s branded retail stores located throughout China. These stores are typically found in major cities, airports, and shopping malls.
China Unicom has a vast network of authorized resellers and agents where you can purchase SIM cards. These resellers may be independent mobile shops or convenience stores.
Several online platforms and travel agencies offer China Unicom SIM cards for purchase and delivery before your trip. These platforms often provide detailed information about data plans and pricing, making it convenient to plan ahead.
To activate and use a China Unicom SIM card, follow these steps:
All China Unicom plans already include free incoming calls and texts in China mainland.
Direct International Calling Plans (optional add-on):
| Calling Zone | Free Minutes | Additional Minute Rate (CNY) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| A (HK, USA, Canada, Singapore) | 100 minutes | 0.36 CNY/min | $10 |
| B (Taiwan, Macao, Korea, Malaysia, India, Thailand) | 60 minutes | 0.66 CNY/min | $10 |
| C (Japan, Vietnam, Colombia, Brunei) | 40 minutes | 0.96 CNY/min | $10 |
| D (Australia, France, etc) | 20 minutes | 1.96 CNY/min | $10 |
China Unicom provides various USSD codes that allow users to manage their SIM cards efficiently. Here are some useful USSD codes:
| Action | USSD Code | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Check Airtime Balance | Send text “101” to 100101 | Free of charge |
| Check Data Balance | Send text “2082” to 100101 | Free of charge |
| General Balance Check | Send text “ye” to 100102 | Free of charge |
To top up your China Unicom SIM card or eSIM, you can choose from various convenient methods:
By utilizing these top-up methods, you can ensure that your China Unicom SIM card or eSIM remains active with sufficient credit for your communication needs.
While China Unicom is a popular choice for travelers visiting China, there are alternative options to consider for connectivity:
China Mobile is another major telecommunications provider in China, offering a wide range of voice and data services. Travelers can explore data packages and SIM card options from China Mobile for their connectivity needs.
China Telecom is also a prominent telecom operator in China, providing competitive voice and data plans. Tourists can consider China Telecom SIM cards as an alternative to China Unicom for staying connected during their visit.
In addition to major telecom providers, travelers can opt for local SIM cards from smaller operators or MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) for cost-effective communication solutions in China.
Before choosing an alternative to China Unicom, it’s advisable to compare the coverage, rates, and services offered by different providers to select the most suitable option for your travel requirements.
China Unicom is one of the three major mobile network operators in China, along with China Mobile and China Telecom. It has around 20% market share.
For 2G, China Unicom uses 900MHz and 1800MHz. For 3G, it uses 900MHz and 2100MHz. For 4G/LTE, it uses 1800MHz, 2100MHz, and 2600MHz (TD-LTE).
China Unicom has reasonable nationwide coverage, though not as extensive as China Mobile. It’s a good option for those who cannot use China Mobile’s 3G/4G networks. Coverage is focused on major cities and towns.
Popular plans include the 4G Data King Plan, “Ice God” High Usage Plan, 4G Data-only/Web Surfing Pass, WO / Postpaid. Plans range from around 10-600 RMB depending on data allowance and validity.
SIM cards can be purchased at China Unicom stores within China. You’ll need your passport and proof of address. Initial top up of 30-50 RMB is required for activation.
You can top up via WeChat Pay using an international credit/debit card, or at convenience stores using voucher cards. Unused data rolls over to next month on most plans.
Like other Chinese networks, China Unicom is subject to the Great Firewall of China. A VPN will be needed to access internationally blocked sites and services while using China Unicom.
Whether opting for a travel SIM card for short-term visits or a local prepaid SIM card for extended stays, China Unicom provides flexible plans to cater to diverse communication needs. With convenient top-up methods, useful USSD codes, and reliable customer support, China Unicom remains a reliable choice for international visitors seeking connectivity in China.
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