6 Best China SIM Cards & Where To Buy Them: 2024 Guide

When visiting China, it’s cheaper to get a local SIM card (or eSIM) than to rely on roaming. Additionally, a local SIM card allows you to sign up for services like WeChat Pay or Alipay, which many businesses prefer or exclusively accept over cash or international cards.

I shortlisted the most reliable and convenient China mobile SIM cards. Since you can't test them before you travel, I've outlined the pros and cons of each one so you get the best balance of coverage, data, and pricing for your trip.

You can buy these SIM cards at airports, convenience stores, and the official stores of major telecom providers like China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom. However, I recommend setting up an eSIM like Saily before arriving in China for immediate access to GPS, translation apps, and communication services.

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Best Prepaid and Data SIM Cards for China — Full Analysis for 2024

You have two main options for mobile connectivity in China: Prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs. Prepaid SIMs often include voice minutes in addition to data, while eSIMs typically focus on data-only plans, appealing to travelers who primarily need internet access. You’ll need a passport to activate either category of cards.

However, it's crucial to check whether your phone supports the exact bands used by your chosen carrier in China to avoid connectivity issues. China’s mobile networks use specific frequency bands, and not all international phones support these frequencies. Without support, you may only be able to access slower 2G networks or experience limited coverage​.

1. Saily — Simple eSIM Setup Without Local Telecom Challenges

Unlike other China SIM providers, you don’t need an ID or passport to activate Saily. For non-Chinese speakers, it simplifies getting a China SIM by avoiding language barriers and the hassle of visiting local telecom stores. Additionally, you can install your eSIM remotely using a QR code, making it easy to connect to the mobile network as soon as you land.

To start using the eSIM when you arrive in China, simply turn off data switching and enable data roaming in your phone settings. Your device should automatically connect to a local telecom provider like China Unicom on their 5G network, allowing you to access the internet immediately. This is crucial in China, where online payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are prevalent.

Saily routes your connection through Hong Kong, which makes it possible to use Google and other international services. Saily owned by Nord Security, a reputable company that also owns the popular NordVPN. If you’re a NordVPN subscriber, the service often gifts members free eSIM travel data.

You can easily adjust and top-up your data plan through Saily’s app and website. While it doesn’t provide live chat support on its website, you can get help 24/7 through the app or email. Additionally, Saily accepts various payment methods, including credit/debit cards, Google Pay (or Apple Pay if you’re an iOS user), and PayPal.

Plans & Pricing:

• 1GB valid for 7 days — from $3.99
• 3GB valid for 30 days — from $7.99
• 5GB valid for 30 days — from $10.99
• 10GB valid for 30 days — from $17.99
• No additional fees for incoming calls or SMS messages.

Visit Saily >>

2. China Mobile — China SIM Card With Extensive Coverage & Comprehensive Connectivity

China Mobile has over 2 million base stations, so it can maintain reliable coverage across the country. Its 4G network covers the mainland along with Hong Kong and Macau, and if you’re visiting major urban areas, you’ll also have access to 5G for faster speeds. There are also SIM cards that work in other parts of Asia if you’re an outbound traveler from China.

If you’re getting a physical SIM card, you’ll have to activate it in one of China Mobile’s 1.5 million stores across the country. Be sure to bring your passport with you to complete this process. You can also purchase and set up an eSIM on compatible devices before your arrival in China. The eSIM is available online or in-store and you can activate it with a QR code.

What I liked the most is that all prepaid plans include free incoming calls and SMS messages. These China Mobile SIM Cards also offer the fastest 5G download speeds of all other local providers. However, after data caps are reached, speeds slow down unless you top up.

I liked that the network uses text commands to check data and account balances, removing the need for translations or speaking to customer service. To top up your account, you can visit any China Mobile retail outlet, convenience store, or kiosk. Alternatively, use the MyChinaMobile app or website to recharge your account digitally.

Plans & pricing

• 10GB data. Valid for 10 days for around HK$110 (around USD $15).
• 15GB data. Valid for 90 days for around HK$260 (around USD $35).
• 20GB data. Valid for 180 days for around HK$240 (around USD $30).
• Additional outgoing calls are ¥0.19/minute.
• Additional fees may apply depending on your chosen SIM card.

Visit China Mobile >>

3. China Unicom — Seamless 3G & 4G Compatibility With Foreign Smartphones in China

Unicom is the best SIM for China travelers using international smartphones, thanks to extensive 3G and 4G compatibility with most devices. You can get a physical SIM card or buy an eSIM directly from their website or app. Plus, China Unicom can even deliver the SIM card to most hotels in China at no additional cost. You’ll just need a passport, Visa, or stamp page.

You can activate roaming on both SIM cards and eSIMs and use it in regions like Hong Kong, Macau, and other countries. While major urban areas are covered with a 5G network, it only supports 3G and 2G​ in more remote regions, plus signal strength may weaken in mountainous areas.

These SIM cards don’t expire as long as you use them once every 90 days. However, you’ll be charged monthly for the service as long as the card is active. You can top up the SIM card in-store at official outlets, online via the China Unicom app or website, through third-party platforms like MyChinaUnicom, or by using Alipay/WeChat Pay with local bank accounts.

With China Unicom's prepaid plans, you can access high-speed WiFi hotspots throughout mainland China. This complimentary WiFi service (SSID: ChinaUnicom) allows you to use fast internet in various public places such as parks, museums, and tourist hotspots. This is especially useful when you need to conserve mobile data or have weak cellular signals​.

Plans & pricing

• 10GB data for around USD $80/month
• 20GB data for about USD $100/month
• 30GB data for under USD $120/month

Direct International Calling add-on (optional): Price: $10

• Zone A (Hong Kong, USA, Singapore, Canada). Free calls up to 100 minutes, and all additional calls are under ¥0.40/min.
• Zone B (Taiwan, India, Macao, Korea, Malaysia, Thailand). Free calls up to 60 minutes, and all additional calls are under ¥0.70/min.
• Zone C (Japan, Vietnam, Brunei, Colombia). Free calls are up to 40 minutes, and all additional calls are under ¥1/min.
• Zone D (Australia, France, Spain, Greece, Egypt, Russia, Kazakhstan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Philippines, Ukraine, Mongolia). Free calls are up to 20 minutes, and all additional calls are under 2¥/min.

Visit China Unicom >>

4. China Telecom — Reliable Choice for Budget-Conscious China Tourists

While its coverage is more limited compared to China Mobile, Telecom offers competitive pricing on SIM cards to use in China, especially for short-term visitors. You’ll need your passport to buy a China Telecom SIM to verify your identity. Its SIM cards can only be purchased from official China Telecom stores and must be activated on-site.

With its extensive coverage, you can enjoy seamless web access nationwide. China Telecom offers top-up options at automated kiosks in their stores, ensuring you can easily recharge your SIM card. I recommend requesting a single-month SIM card if it suits your travel duration since it’s a good deal among the available options.

Another thing I like about this provider is that China Telecom provides access to unlimited WiFi hotspots. However, the main downside is that it uses CDMA technology, which is often incompatible with many international phones, especially those from regions like Europe and North America that primarily use GSM networks​.

Plans & pricing

• 30GB. 300 minutes and valid for 30 days for around ¥130 (under USD $20).
• 40GB. 800 minutes and valid for 30 days for around ¥170 (under USD $25).
• 100GB. 1500 minutes and valid for 30 days for around ¥300 (under USD $45).
• Outbound text messages are charged at ¥0.1/sent message, but inbound messages are free.

Visit China Telecom >>

5. Airalo — Great SIM Option If You Only Need Data

Airalo eSIM is the best choice if you don’t require minutes; it offers generous 3G and 4G mobile data options at lower rates than most other carriers. You can buy and activate your eSIM from anywhere in the world, but its validity starts only once the eSIM connects to a supported network in China. This lets you purchase it before your trip and activate it in China.

The Airalo eSIM doesn’t support 5G​, so the speeds don’t exceed 50Mbps. While this is slower than China Mobile, the connection speeds were fast enough for activities like web browsing, streaming video, and using social media in our tests.

Remember to check that your Android or iOS smartphone is compatible before you buy an Airalo eSim for China. Additionally, please note that the Airalo eSIM is exclusively for data usage and doesn’t connect you to cellular networks, meaning it does not support voice calls, SMS, or provide a local phone number​.

Plans & pricing

• 1GB data. Valid for 7 days for about USD $5.
• 2GB data. Valid for 15 days for under USD $9.
• 3GB data. Valid for 30 days for under USD $12.
• 5GB data. Valid for 30 days for under USD $17.
• 10GB data. Valid for 30 days for under USD $30.

Visit Airalo >>

6. Holafly — Best SIM for Unlimited Data

Holafly offers a specialized SIM for travelers looking for uninterrupted data for browsing, streaming, or online communication. Once you buy the data card online, Holafly promptly emails you a QR code to download and install the eSIM profile. Activation is automatic as soon as you arrive in China. Holafly’s plans only include data, so there’s no texting or calls included.

The Holafly eSIM generally works on newer models of iPhones, Samsung Galaxy devices, Google Pixel phones, and some recent models from Huawei and Oppo. Additionally, smartwatches like the Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) and iPads with cellular capability support eSIM technology​.

Once your plan expires, you’ll need to buy a new plan, even if you haven’t used all the data​, as Holafly's eSIMs do not offer a top-up option. After your plan duration ends, the eSIM is no longer valid, and there’s no option to extend the validity period​.

Plans & pricing

• 5 Days. Unlimited data for less than USD $25.
• 7 Days. Unlimited data for less than USD $30.
• 10 Days. Unlimited data for less than USD $40.
• 15 Days. Unlimited data for less than USD $55.
• 20 Days. Unlimited data for less than USD $65.
• 30 Days. Unlimited data for less than USD $80.
• 60 days. Unlimited data for less than USD $110.
• 90 days. Unlimited data for less than USD $150.

Visit Holafly >>

Quick Comparison: China SIM Cards

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Where To Buy a China SIM Card — Step-by-Step Guide for 2024

The easiest and most convenient option for travelers is to buy a China SIM card directly at the airport. Another option is to visit a local mobile provider store, such as China Mobile, after arriving in the city. These stores typically offer lower prices compared to airport kiosks.

Before buying a China SIM card, ensure that your phone is unlocked and compatible with local networks. China requires all SIM card purchasers to provide a valid form of ID. You must have your passport with you to buy a SIM card, as it will be used for registration and activation.

If you prefer to have a SIM card ready before your arrival, you can buy one online through international retailers or digital SIM platforms like Airalo or Holafly.

Here’s how to do that:

1. Visit websites such as Saily, Airalo or Holafly, which sell China-compatible SIM cards or eSIMs.
2. Choose a SIM card package (data-only or with voice/SMS options).
3. Provide your shipping details if it’s a physical SIM or download the eSIM to your phone.
4. For physical SIM cards, insert it once you arrive in China. For eSIMs, activate them immediately upon landing.

How To Keep Your Conversations and Browsing Habits Private in China

With the strict internet regulations and extensive government surveillance in China, maintaining your privacy while communicating and browsing the web can be challenging. However, there are several effective methods to help safeguard your data and online activity. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

• Use a reliable VPN. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) makes it possible to securely access almost any website, app, and service from anywhere. It encrypts your data and gives you a new IP address. If you decide to choose a VPN that works in China, please make sure you’re aware of all current laws regarding using one in the country.
• Use encrypted messaging apps. Apps like Signal and Telegram offer end-to-end encryption, which means that only you and the person you're messaging can read your conversation.
• Use secure browsers. Standard browsers, especially those built into your smartphone or laptop, may not offer sufficient protection. Consider using privacy-focused browsers like Tor or Brave, which offer built-in protection against tracking and surveillance.
• Disable location services. Turn off location services on your phone or limit them to essential apps only to protect your whereabouts.
• Use strong passwords and Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). This extra layer of protection means that even if your password is compromised, hackers cannot access your account without the secondary verification method.
• Avoid using public WiFi without protection. If you must use public WiFi, connect to a VPN server first. You can test a VPN using its free trial to keep yourself safe on these networks where hackers like to prey on tourists.
• Be aware of local regulations. While these tools can help protect your privacy, it’s crucial to remain informed about China’s local regulations and restrictions on internet use.

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

FAQs on China Mobile SIM Cards

Is it legal to use a VPN with my China SIM card?

VPNs are heavily regulated in China. That’s why there are only a few providers that reliably work in the country. Additionally, there are several government-approved VPNs that are permitted on mobile phones. However, these are heavily monitored by the government.

Does a Chinese SIM card work in the US?

Yes, some Chinese SIM cards can work in the US. However, you need to make sure your plan includes international roaming and your phone supports US network frequencies. Compare the best China SIM cards to find the right one for your needs. Just note that roaming charges are high, so using a local or international SIM card might be more cost-effective.

How do I top up my Chinese SIM card?

To top up your China SIM card when you run out of credit, you have several options:

• Dedicated kiosks and local stores. One method is to visit your mobile operator's high-street store, provide them with your phone number and cash, and they will add credit to your China SIM card.
• Alipay or WeChat. You can use mobile payment platforms like Alipay or WeChat Pay, but you'll need a local Chinese bank account. A Chinese friend who can top up your China SIM card using their account might also help.
• Online or app. Another convenient option is to top up online through your SIM card provider's website or an app like Saily. Most providers accept payment via PayPal or major credit cards.
• Top-up card. Another way is to purchase a top-up card from stores with your operator's logo. These are known as "充值卡" (Chōngzhí kǎ) in Chinese and come with instructions in both Chinese and English on how to use them.

Conclusion

Options like Saily, China Mobile, and China Unicom provide extensive network coverage and compatibility, making them suitable for most travelers. However, all the SIM cards for China I listed offer strong value and reliability for visitors to China. Check them out to find a wide range of packages to suit the length of your stay and the amount of data you require.