Traveling to China soon? You should not skip the information shared in this article because it will save you not only the time for researching how to stay online in China but also the money by helping you avoid common mistakes that travelers to China often make.
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Note: It is important to know that the Internet can be strictly restricted in China.
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Yes, for affordable rates, fast speeds and unrestricted access to apps, it’s advisable to purchase a China SIM card to have internet access fully covered on arrival.
Here are a few things to consider when deciding whether to buy a SIM card in China or use your existing one:
When traveling to China, using a local SIM card offers several advantages over relying on your home network’s roaming services or renting a portable Wi-Fi device. Here are some compelling reasons to consider purchasing a China SIM card:
International roaming costs with your home carrier can be very expensive if you need mobile data or make/receive calls in China. Per MB data costs overseas may exceed $10-$15 which adds up quickly.
Many local prepaid SIM cards available in China offer generous data packages at much lower costs than roaming. You can get SIMs with around 5-15GB of data valid for 7-15 days for $5-15.
China’s mobile networks are generally reliable and offer good coverage, especially in major cities and tourist destinations. By using a local SIM card, you can ensure a consistent internet connection for navigation, social media, and other online activities.
China has extensive internet censorship and blocks many global websites and services like Google, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc. A SIM card purchased locally in China will be subject to these blocks and restrictions.
While the advantages of using a China SIM card are numerous, it’s important to consider a few potential drawbacks:
Good to know:
Staying online in China is easy. But, this country has certain restrictions on telecommunications and the internet. Chances are, you will not be able to use all apps in China like you use in your hometown. However, there are still alternatives allowing you to have VPNs to use all the apps you want.
► See more details about Internet restrictions in China.
China offers various types of SIM cards, each catering to different needs and usage scenarios. Let’s explore the different categories and determine which option is best suited for tourists visiting the country.
| Criteria | Type of SIM Card | Description | Benefit for Tourists |
| By Form | Physical SIM Card | A plastic card that inserts directly into the phone. Available from China’s major carriers like China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom. Require registration with ID. | Wide availability from carrier stores. Required for some older phones that don’t support eSIM. |
| eSIM | A digital SIM embedded directly into the phone. No physical card. | More convenient than physical SIM card. Avoids registration process with Chinese carriers. Supports latest iPhones and devices. | |
| By Function | Data-only SIM Card | Provides only mobile data and internet access. No voice/SMS services. Available from Chinese and international carriers. | Sufficient for tourists mostly using data and apps. More cost effective if not needing voice/SMS. |
| Voice and Data SIM Card | Provides both voice calls and SMS in addition to data. Available from Chinese carriers and roaming options from HK carriers. | More full-featured option if also needing basic calling/messaging in addition to data. | |
| Tourist SIM Card | Special plans targeted at tourists with higher data allowances and validity periods. Available from international roaming providers and HK carriers. | Caters plans specifically to temporary travel needs. More cost effective than standard Chinese SIMs for short stays. |
For most tourists an eSIM plan from an international provider or a tourist SIM card from a Hong Kong carrier would provide the best overall experience. It avoids the registration hassles with Chinese carriers while offering flexible data-centric plans suitable for traveling.
Wondering how much data to get on your China SIM card? Here is a table summarizing some recommended data package sizes for tourist SIM cards in China based on estimated usage:
| Estimated Weekly Data Usage | Recommended Data Package Size |
|---|---|
| 1-2 GB (light browsing/maps) | 3 GB |
| 2-4 GB (occasional photos/videos) | 5 GB |
| 4-6 GB (regular social media use) | 8 GB |
| 6-8 GB (streaming music/videos) | 10 GB |
| 8+ GB (heavy streaming/gaming) | 15 GB or multi-week package |
Start with a mid-sized package of around 3-5GB for average usage and upgrade if needed. With careful monitoring and offline caching, you should be able to stay within your data limits and stay connected during your China trip.
The cost of a SIM card in China can vary depending on the mobile carrier and data plan selected. In general, the starter SIM cards themselves are very affordable or even free in China. However, you will need to purchase a data package to activate the SIM and access the cellular network.
Below is a comparative table showing the typical costs of SIM cards and monthly data plans from China’s three major carriers – China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom:
| Carrier | SIM Card Cost | Monthly Data Plans |
|---|---|---|
| China Mobile | Free | Starting at $13 USD per month for 3GB data. Plans go up to $88 USD for 300GB. |
| China Unicom | Free | Starting at $12 USD per month for 2GB data. Plans range from $14 USD for 4GB up to $87 USD for 100GB. |
| China Telecom | Free | Plans unavailable without Chinese ID number. Recommended to use China Mobile or Unicom. |
Tips:
Make your trip to China or Southeast Asia stress-free with chinaesim.com!
Traveling to China and need a hassle-free way to stay connected? Consider a China eSIM from Chinaesim.com, a convenient alternative to traditional physical SIM cards.
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
Purchasing a China SIM card is relatively straightforward, with several options available for travelers to acquire a prepaid plan that suits their needs. Whether you prefer the convenience of buying a SIM card at the airport upon arrival or exploring local stores for competitive deals, here are some common places to buy a China SIM card:
Many international airports in China, including Beijing Capital International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, have dedicated kiosks or stores where you can purchase SIM cards upon arrival. These airport vendors typically offer tourist-friendly packages with varying data allowances and validity periods.
Interested in buying SIM cards at Chinese major airports upon arrival? Check out our guide:
Visit official stores or authorized retailers of major Chinese mobile operators such as China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom to buy a prepaid SIM card. You can find these stores in shopping malls, commercial districts, and tourist areas throughout China, where staff can assist you in selecting a suitable plan and activating your SIM card.
Alternatively, consider purchasing a China SIM card online through official websites or reputable third-party platforms. Many mobile operators offer online ordering and delivery services, allowing you to receive your SIM card before your trip or have it conveniently shipped to your accommodation in China.
In urban areas and neighborhoods across China, you’ll find convenience stores like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or local shops that sell prepaid SIM cards. While the selection may be more limited compared to dedicated mobile operator stores, these stores offer a quick and accessible option for purchasing a basic SIM card for short-term use.
If you’re unsure where to buy a China SIM card or need assistance in choosing the right plan for your travel needs, visit tourist information centers in popular cities or tourist attractions. The staff can provide recommendations, help you navigate the activation process, and ensure you have reliable connectivity during your stay.
Purchasing a China SIM card is one of the first things you’ll need to do when visiting the country. Here is a guide on how to purchase and use China SIM cards during your trip:
There are 3 main mobile network providers in China – China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. China Mobile has the best coverage nationwide but uses unique TD-LTE 4G frequencies that some devices may not support. China Unicom has slightly less coverage but uses more globally compatible 3G and 4G frequencies. China Telecom’s network is smaller and only really recommended if you need CDMA.
Visit a branded store of the provider you chose and purchase either a prepaid SIM card or a mobile plan package. You’ll need to present your passport and accommodation details for registration. SIM cards cost around 30 yuan with an initial top up. Popular prepaid plans range from 80-300 yuan per month with data and call allowances.
Follow the instructions to activate your SIM card. On iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > SIM PIN Management to set the PIN. Insert the nano-SIM into your phone and restart it. Your device should detect the new network.
Go to Settings > Cellular or Mobile Network and ensure cellular/mobile data is switched on. Select the correct APN settings for your provider. For China Mobile use ‘cmnet’.
Top up credit using WeChat Pay by searching for ‘手机充值’ and entering your number. Top up amounts at post offices, convenience stores using scratch cards, or carrier stores. Keep enough credit for calls and data usage.
Familiarize yourself with your plan allowances and rates for overuse. Check balances by texting special codes to 10086. Roaming networks can help bypass censorship but cost more for usage.
If you encounter network connectivity issues or have trouble accessing data services, restart your device, reinsert the SIM card, or manually select a network operator in your device settings. Contact the mobile operator’s customer support for further assistance if problems persist.
When choosing a mobile operator for your China SIM card, consider factors such as network coverage, data speeds, customer service, and pricing to determine the best option for your needs. Here are some of the top mobile operators in China known for providing quality SIM card services to travelers:
| Operator | Network | Compatible Phones | 4G/LTE Frequency | Coverage | Plans |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| China Mobile | Largest network, own TD-SCDMA 3G standard | Phones with FDD-LTE only will have limited coverage, newer phones support TDD-LTE | 1900MHz, 2300MHz, 2500MHz TDD-LTE. Also 1800MHz, 900MHz FDD-LTE but limited | Best coverage nationwide | Range of monthly plans with data and minutes. Also daily/weekly data packages. “Unlimited” packages with fair use limits. |
| China Unicom | Second largest network | Compatible with any unlocked phone that supports 2100MHz 3G/4G | 1800MHz, 2100MHz FDD-LTE. Some 2600MHz TDD-LTE | Good coverage, smaller than China Mobile | Monthly plans, data Top-ups, prepaid “Ice God” plan for heavy users |
| China Telecom | Smallest network, uses CDMA | Only certain “global” CDMA phones compatible | 850MHz, 1800MHz, 2100MHz FDD-LTE. Some 2600MHz TDD-LTE | Coverage mainly in big cities | Monthly unlimited data “Wuyi” plans. Combi plans with data and minutes. Higher prices than competitors |
By researching the offerings of different mobile operators, comparing coverage maps, and reading reviews from fellow travelers, you can select the best China SIM card provider that aligns with your preferences and ensures a seamless communication experience during your trip.
Not sure which China mobile operator to choose for your trip? Click here to learn more about the top 3 mobile networks in China and find the best option for travelers.
To make the most of your data allowance and avoid unnecessary charges while using a China SIM card, consider implementing these practical tips for saving data during your travels:
By incorporating these data-saving tips into your daily routine and being mindful of your data usage habits, you can maximize the value of your China SIM card, stay within your data limits, and enjoy uninterrupted connectivity throughout your journey.
The three major cellular networks in China are China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. China Mobile is the largest.
Yes, Chinese law requires all mobile users to provide their real name, identity document, and photo during SIM card registration since 2013 for surveillance purposes.
Yes, you can buy a SIM card in China at the airport or in local phone stores in the city center. However, buying at the airport, be it Beijing airport or Shanghai airport, is an easier option which allows you to get connected right away after arrival without having to go to local phone stores.
Using VPN is legal in China. Although China has restrictions in VPN usage and blocks a number of VPN providers, customers can legally use VPNs that work in China.
Common plans include ~100 RMB/month for 30GB 4G data and unlimited calls on China Mobile, or ~50 RMB for 2GB daily data add-on. China Unicom has similar plans at comparable prices.
Yes, many foreign websites are blocked. A VPN is required to access unrestricted internet, though VPNs do not always work smoothly due to blocking efforts.
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