Best China eSIM for Travellers: High-Speed Data from £0.65

The best China eSIM plans

What is China eSIM? - For eSIM beginners

eSIM, also known as embedded SIM, is a virtual SIM that can be used when travelling abroad. Different from the traditional physical SIM card, all you need to do with eSIM is to set up online. Once you buy an eSIM, you’ll be provided a QR code to install it for seamless connectivity.

The best China eSIM providers

Airalo

Airalo is a leading provider of eSIM, offering competitive rates and reliable connectivity for travellers worldwide. With a user-friendly app and extensive coverage, Airalo simplifies the process of staying connected while travelling around China.

Nomad

Nomad specialises in global eSIM connectivity, including China eSIM. Nomad is renowned for its flexible plans, which make it easy to stay connected. They also have an app to ensure hassle-free connectivity.

Holafly

Holafly offers multilingual support and a range of eSIM beyond just data, including calls and texts. Holafly has you covered with reliable connectivity anytime you’re in China.

Alosim

Alosim stands out for its affordability, making it an ideal choice for budget travellers visiting China. Whether you're a digital nomad or a casual tourist, Alosim provides reliable China eSIM tailored to your needs.

SimOptions

SimOptions offers easy online purchasing and flexible plans, especially for long-term visitors to China. SimOptions caters to a variety of travel durations and data requirements.

Which devices are compatible with China eSIM?

Mobile phones vary from country to country. Please first check your phone to see if the phone supports China eSIM.

Compatible iPhone models

• iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 13 Mini
• iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 12 Mini
• iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR
• iPhone SE 3 (2022), iPhone SE 2 (2020)

Note

The following Apple devices DO NOT support eSIM:

• Mainland China version
• Hong Kong and Macau versions (except for iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone SE 2020, and iPhone XS)

Compatible Samsung models

• Samsung Galaxy A54 5G, Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
• Samsung Galaxy S23, Samsung Galaxy S23+, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
• Samsung Galaxy S22 5G, Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G, Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G
• Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G, Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G
• Samsung Galaxy S20 5G, Samsung Galaxy S20, Samsung Galaxy S20+ 5G, Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra,. Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold, Samsung Galaxy Fold 2, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
• Samsung Galaxy Note 20, Samsung Galaxy Note 20 5G, Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra 5G

Note

The following Samsung Galaxy devices DO NOT support eSIM:

• China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan versions
• All Samsung S20 FE and S21 FE series
• USA versions (S20/S21, Galaxy Z Flip 5G, Note 20 Ultra, Z Fold 2, Galaxy S21 5G, S21+ 5G, S21 Ultra 5G, S20, Galaxy Z Fold 2, Z Fold 5)
• Most Samsung Galaxy devices purchased in South Korea do not support eSIMs (except for the Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra, Z Flip 4, Z Fold 4, Z Flip 5, Fold 5, A54 5G and Galaxy 23 FE)

Other compatible phone models

Where to buy China eSIM?

Buy China eSIM online

You can compare different eSIM plans on Trip.com and make your purchase from the comfort of your home. Trip.com provides detailed information about coverage, data plans, and detailed activation procedures, allowing you to make the best decision for your China trip.

Buy China eSIM/SIM card on-site

You can also buy a China eSIM after arriving in China. Many airports, train stations, and tourist counters offer SIM cards and eSIMs. Buying on-site allows you to receive immediate support. However, prices and data plans may be limited, so it's advisable to research beforehand to check.

How to use eSIM in China?

How to activate China eSIM?

• Open the eSIM activation email, and the eSIM activation QR code will be displayed in this email
• Click Settings on your mobile phone and open Cellular (iOS) or SIM Card Management (Android)
• Click to add a Cellular Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android), and then agree to download Cellular Plan (iOS)
• or SIM Card (Android), after that, use the mobile phone to scan the QR code to download

How to use the Internet?

• After the download is successful, close the primary card if you already have
• Enable the Cellular Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android), and the LTE logo will be displayed in the upper right corner after success
• Turn on roaming to connect to the network and then can surf the Internet normally

Please note that if there is no network after enabling, please turn on the aeroplane mode and then turn off or restart the phone

How to close?

• Open the open Cellular (iOS) or SIM Card Management (Android), and click to turn off the Cellular
• Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android) (the steps of enabling and disabling are the same)

Which is more convenient in China? - Comparison of eSIM, SIM and Wi-Fi

Why buy China eSIM for travelling?

Convenience & Flexibility

With a China eSIM, you can stay connected without a physical SIM card. eSIMs offer flexibility in data plans and duration. You can choose a plan that best fits your China trip. Most eSIM providers offer multi-country options, allowing you to use the same eSIM in multiple locations.

Instant connectivity

The China eSIM can be activated remotely, allowing you to access data as soon as you arrive in China. With a China eSIM, you can access high-speed data, without the need to queue at a local store to buy a physical SIM card.

Cost-Effective

China eSIMs often provide competitive rates compared to traditional roaming. Many devices support multiple eSIMs in one device. By choosing an eSIM, you can save money on connectivity expenses during your trip.

Trip.com recommendation: Check users' reviews on China eSIM

Easy to use and no need vpn to access whatsapp .etc apps. Strongly recommend

Worked perfectly, easy installation, no problems at all. Whatsapp, Google etc all accessible. Strong connection.

Very easy to install from the QR code and running well in Changsha Hunan China. Highly recommended 👍👍

Provided excellent data signal service through our stay in Yunnan. We used the service in Kunming, Lijiang, Shangri-La and Dali without any signal interruption. The eSIM was loaded in my home country and activated once we landed in Kunming. Just turning off and then on our phone activated the service. Great experience overall.

China eSIM conclusion: Your must-have to travel to China

In conclusion, a China eSIM is a must-have for anyone planning to travel to China. You can stay connected wherever in China. Whether you're exploring cities or remote regions, a China eSIM ensures you can navigate, communicate, and share your experiences with family and friends in one second. Have a try and find your ultimate China eSIM solution now!