If you’re planning a trip to China, staying connected is essential for navigation, translations, booking taxis, or simply sharing your experiences online. While Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafes, the most reliable and flexible option for travelers is purchasing a prepaid SIM card in China.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about Chinese SIM cards, including availability, pricing, coverage, activation, and essential travel tips for staying connected throughout your trip.
Basics: How Prepaid SIM Cards Work in China
China has a well-developed telecom infrastructure, and SIM cards are widely available to both residents and tourists. However, due to strict regulations and internet censorship, access to global websites like Google, Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp is blocked unless you use a VPN.
Key Networks:
- China Mobile (中国移动) – Largest network, excellent nationwide coverage.
- China Unicom (中国联通) – Strong in urban areas, more foreigner-friendly.
- China Telecom (中国电信) – Great speeds in the south and west of China.
Official Websites
Note: These websites are mostly in Chinese. Consider using browser translation features or a local’s help.
Where to Buy a Prepaid SIM in China
You can purchase SIM cards at:
- International Airports: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, etc.
- Official Carrier Stores: Located in malls and on main streets.
- Convenience Stores: Some locations sell SIMs, but with limited options.
- Online: Some services like Klook and Amazon.cn offer tourist SIM delivery.
Tip: If you’re buying in a telecom store, bring your passport for registration.
Frequencies Supported in China
| Network | 2G | 3G | 4G/LTE | 5G |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| China Mobile | 900/1800 MHz | TD-SCDMA | TD-LTE (Bands 38, 39, 40, 41) | NSA/SA 5G (n41, n78) |
| China Unicom | 900/1800 MHz | WCDMA 2100 | FDD-LTE (Bands 1, 3) | NSA/SA 5G (n78) |
| China Telecom | 800/1900 MHz | CDMA EVDO | FDD-LTE (Band 3, 5) | NSA/SA 5G (n78) |
✔️ Most global phones work with China Unicom or China Telecom. Make sure your device supports the required bands.
Coverage & Speed
| Carrier | Coverage (Urban) | Coverage (Rural) | Speed (4G/5G) |
|---|---|---|---|
| China Mobile | Excellent | Very Good | Fast (great 5G) |
| China Unicom | Excellent | Good | Fast (reliable 4G) |
| China Telecom | Excellent | Excellent | Very Fast |
🏔️ If you’re going to remote areas or western China, China Telecom is your best bet.
At a Glance Comparison
| Feature | China Mobile | China Unicom | China Telecom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Coverage, Data | Easy Setup | Speed, Rural Areas |
| Language Support | Limited English | Better for Tourists | Chinese Only Mostly |
| Network Type | TD-LTE | FDD-LTE | CDMA / FDD-LTE |
| 5G Ready | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Biometric User Registration
As per Chinese law, all SIM cards must be registered with:
- A passport scan
- A facial photo or live verification
Registration is done at the time of purchase in-store. This is mandatory and SIMs will not work without it.
Device Registration
In most cases, foreign devices work fine for short-term use. If you’re staying longer than 30 days or using an eSIM, you may be asked to register your IMEI at a local store.
Carrier Apps with Links
Each provider has an app to manage your SIM:
- China Mobile: My China Mobile (Android)
- China Unicom: WO+ (Android)
- China Telecom: CT Client (Android)
Note: Some features may only be in Chinese.
SIM Card Price (as of 2025)
| Provider | SIM Card Only Price | Data Included |
|---|---|---|
| China Mobile | ¥50–100 | 10–20GB |
| China Unicom | ¥50–80 | 5–15GB |
| China Telecom | ¥60–100 | 10–20GB |
Prices vary based on the store and city.
Prepaid Plans
| Plan Name | Data | Validity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| China Mobile 20GB | 20GB | 30 Days | ¥100 |
| Unicom Tourist 15GB | 15GB | 30 Days | ¥80 |
| Telecom Flexi Plan | 10GB + 300 min | 30 Days | ¥120 |
Data Add-Ons
If you run out of data, you can buy top-ups through:
- Carrier apps
- WeChat or Alipay
- In-store (passport needed)
Prices range from ¥30 for 1GB to ¥100 for 10GB.
Tourist SIM Cards
Available at airports or via travel platforms:
- Unicom Tourist SIM – 10–20GB, starts at ¥80
- China Mobile 4G SIM for Tourists – 15GB, around ¥100
- eSIM Options – Available through services like Airalo, Nomad, or Klook
eSIM Support
- ✅ China Unicom and China Telecom now support eSIM for select devices.
- ❌ China Mobile does not currently offer eSIM for tourists.
eSIM is perfect for travelers who want to avoid switching physical SIMs. You can also get international eSIMs from:
- Airalo
- Nomad
- GigSky
SIM Activation Process
- Visit a physical store or airport booth.
- Provide your passport.
- Complete biometric registration.
- Insert SIM – Activation is usually instant.
- Test data or call balance using shortcodes.
How to Check Remaining Balance
| Carrier | Balance Code | Alternative Method |
|---|---|---|
| China Mobile | *#130# or *#122# | Use My China Mobile app |
| China Unicom | *#102# or 10010 | Use WO+ app |
| China Telecom | *#118# or 10000 | Use CT Client app |
Helpline Numbers
| Carrier | Customer Service Number | English Support |
|---|---|---|
| China Mobile | 10086 | Limited |
| China Unicom | 10010 | Moderate |
| China Telecom | 10000 | Rare |
For English support, it’s best to visit a flagship store in big cities.
Conclusion: Best SIM Card for Travelers to China
Choosing the right SIM in China depends on your travel style and coverage needs:
- 🏙️ City Traveler? → Go with China Unicom for easy setup and good speed.
- 🌄 Remote or Rural Explorer? → Choose China Telecom for broader coverage.
- 📶 High data usage? → Opt for China Mobile and enjoy extensive 5G.
Pro Tips:
- Bring a VPN installed before entering China.
- Verify your phone is unlocked and supports Chinese frequencies.
- Consider eSIMs if you’re tech-savvy or want to avoid queues.