Staying connected in China is easier than you think with a local SIM card. Whether you need maps, translation apps, or social media, a China travel SIM card gives you affordable data without roaming fees. The country’s three main providers—China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom—offer prepaid plans tailored for tourists, with options for short trips or longer stays.
Before buying, check your phone’s compatibility and compare plans—some include unlimited data (with fair usage limits), while others offer calling credit. You can purchase a China SIM card online before your trip or pick one up at airports, convenience stores, or official provider shops. With reliable coverage across cities and rural areas, it’s the smartest way to stay online while exploring China.
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What is a China SIM Card?
A China SIM card is a small chip you put in your phone to get mobile data, calls and texts while in China. For travellers, it’s the easiest way to stay connected without expensive roaming charges.
There are three main China SIM card types, offered by the country’s biggest providers:
- China Mobile – Largest coverage, especially in rural areas
- China Unicom – Best for 4G/5G speeds, works with most foreign phones
- China Telecom – Less common for tourists, uses CDMA network
Most travellers choose a China travel SIM card – these are prepaid, easy to buy and don’t require long-term contracts.
Where to Buy a China SIM Card
Buy China eSIM/SIM card online
You can compare different eSIM/SIM card plans on Trip.com and make your purchase from the comfort of your home. Trip.com provides detailed information on coverage, data plans and detailed activation procedures to help you make the best decision for your trip to China.
Buy China eSIM/SIM card on-site
You can also buy a China eSIM after arriving in China. SIM cards and eSIM cards are available at many airports, train stations and travel counters. Buying on-site gives you access to immediate support. However, prices and data plans may be limited, so it's advisable to research beforehand to check.
China SIM Card Compatible Devices
To use a China SIM card, your device must meet these requirements:
Essential Requirements
✔ Unlocked – Not restricted to a foreign carrier (check with your provider if unsure).
✔ Supports China’s 4G/LTE Bands – Must include Band 1 (2100MHz), Band 3 (1800MHz), and/or Band 41 (2500MHz) for reliable coverage.
Best Compatible Phones
✅ iPhones – XR and newer models (iOS 12+)
✅ Samsung Galaxy – S10 and later, Note 10+
✅ Google Pixel – Pixel 3 and newer
✅ Global Huawei/Xiaomi – Most models sold outside China
Devices That May Not Work
❌ Locked phones – Carrier-locked devices (unless approved for international use).
❌ Older phones – Missing China’s key 4G bands (e.g., iPhone 6 or earlier).
❌ CDMA-only devices – Unless using China Telecom (rare for tourists).
Tip: Please verify your phone's compatibility and band before travelling.
How to Use a SIM Card in China
1. Check phone compatibility (see above section).
2. Insert the SIM card upon arrival.
3. For most smartphones, the SIM card will activate automatically by enabling "Data Roaming". No extra settings are needed. If it does not activate automatically, please follow these steps to set up APN:
Android APN Settings:
Insert SIM card → Settings → Mobile Network → Enable Mobile Data→ Access Point Names (APN) → Set APN to 3gnet.
iOS APN Settings:
Insert SIM card → Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data Options→Set APN to 3gnet.
If you cannot connect to the network after inserting the SIM card, as slow speeds, or other connectivity issues, please check your phone and network settings.
Before placing an order, please ensure your mobile device is compatible with the local network provider.
4. Most travel SIM China options include data only. For calls, buy a plan with credit or use apps like WeChat.
Comparison of eSIM, SIM Card, and Wi-Fi
Feature | Physical SIM Card | eSIM | Pocket Wi-Fi / Public Wi-Fi |
Setup | Requires inserting a physical SIM | No physical card, embedded in device | Needs Wi-Fi hotspot or public network access |
Flexibility | Must manually swap SIM cards | Switch providers remotely via app | Depends on Wi-Fi availability |
Cost | Cheapest option for data | Mid-range (some plans pricier) | Expensive (rental fees or high roaming costs) |
Coverage | Reliable 4G/5G nationwide | Same as SIM (depends on carrier) | Limited to urban areas (slow in rural zones) |
Device Compatibility | Works with most unlocked phones | Newer smartphones (iPhone XS+, Pixel 3+, Galaxy S20+) | Any WI-Fi-enabled device |
Multi-Device Use | No (single device) | No (single device) | Yes (connects phones, laptops, tablets) |
Speed | Fast LTE/5G where available | Same as SIM (4G/5G speeds) | Unstable (shared/public networks) |
Best For | Budget solo travellers needing reliable data | Tech-savvy travellers avoiding SIM swaps | Families/groups needing multiple connections |
Best choice: A China data SIM card is cheapest for solo travellers. Families might prefer Wi-Fi.
Why Buy a China SIM Card?
1. Avoid Expensive Roaming Charges
Using your home SIM in China can lead to huge roaming fees for data, calls, and texts. A local China SIM card gives you much cheaper rates.
2. Better Coverage Than Wi-Fi
While hotels and cafes offer Wi-Fi, connections can be slow or unreliable. A China travel SIM card ensures fast 4G/5G even in remote areas like the Great Wall or rural villages.
3. Convenience for Navigation & Translation
Google Maps doesn’t work well in China, but local apps like Baidu Maps and WeChat require data. A SIM keeps you from getting lost.
4. Cheaper Than International Roaming Plans
A China prepaid SIM card costs just 10–10–30 for 1–4 weeks of data, while roaming with your home provider can cost 5x more.
5. No Registration Hassle (For Short-Term Use)
Unlike some countries, China’s tourist SIM cards are easy to buy at airports without lengthy paperwork—just show your passport.
👇 If you want reliable, affordable internet in China, a local SIM is a must.
Trip.com China SIM Card User Reviews
Because the SIM is very convenient, I always issue SIM and travel abroad! This trip to Hong Kong also issued SIM, but in Hong Kong, there is no tic tok at all. ㅠㅠ Still used well 🙂
It is convenient and fast to buy in Trip.com. It can be found at the outside counter and opened at once. There is no problem at all. The price of Trip.com is cheaper, so it is recommended.
The signal is stable, the price is very affordable compared to other platforms, and the phone number can be reserved. It is also very convenient to pick up the card. After exiting the customs, you can see the card pick-up counter. You can pick up the card until 23:30 in the evening.
Best SIM Card for China
For most tourists, the China Unicom travel SIM card is the best balance of price, speed and coverage. Buy it at the airport or online before your trip.
Before you go:
- Check your phone works in China.
- Compare sim card cost for your trip length.
- Download a VPN (for accessing restricted sites).
A China SIM card is a must-have – don’t land without one!
China SIM Card FAQ
Q: What's the best SIM card for China?
A: China Unicom's tourist SIM offers the best balance of coverage and foreign phone compatibility.
Q: Can foreigners get a China SIM card?
A: Yes, with just a passport – available at airports, official stores, or online (eSIMs).
Q: What's the most used SIM in China?
A: China Mobile dominates, but China Unicom works better with foreign phones.
Q: Why are SIM-only plans so cheap?
A: Government-subsidised networks and fierce competition between providers keep prices low.