If you’re planning a trip to China, you’ve probably thought about how to stay connected while you’re there. Navigating the mobile network landscape can be tricky, but an eSIM makes it simpler than ever. Imagine skipping the stress of buying a physical SIM card and switching it out – an eSIM can be set up in minutes, giving you access to data without the need for a local SIM.
In this article, we’ll consider 11 best eSIM for China Cellularboard. Whether you’re looking for the best data rates, coverage, or ease of use, we’ll break down the details to help you find the right option. Ready to make staying connected in China easier than ever? Let’s get to it!
11 Best eSIM for China Cellularabroad
1. Holafly
Holafly is known for its convenient, unlimited data plans, which can be ideal for travelers wanting consistent, worry-free internet access throughout China. Holafly provides seamless installation with options for 5G speeds, making it a good choice for users looking for high-speed connectivity. They also include a VPN service to ensure secure access to sites that may be restricted in China, which is a big advantage for many users.
One of Holafly’s major benefits is its user-friendly setup process—purchasing and activating your eSIM is straightforward, and the company provides 24/7 customer support in multiple languages, including English. Holafly’s unlimited data plans do not limit daily usage, making it perfect for data-intensive activities like streaming, video calls, and GPS navigation. However, it’s worth noting that unlimited plans do not support tethering or sharing data with other devices. Holafly also operates at competitive prices compared to roaming fees, saving users up to 30% overall.
Holafly’s customer support is available in 19 languages, which is helpful if you encounter any issues abroad
Plan and Pricing
2. Airalo
Airalo is a well-known eSIM provider with affordable data plans specifically for China. Airalo offers a variety of budget-friendly plans with limited data, making it a great choice for light internet users who need connectivity primarily for essentials, like messaging and maps. The company’s eSIMs come with different data package options for China, ranging from 1 GB to 20 GB, and are available in various durations (up to 30 days). Unlike Holafly, Airalo allows data-sharing (hotspot) for many plans, giving you flexibility if you want to connect other devices. Airalo also features an intuitive app that simplifies data top-ups while traveling.
Plan and Pricing
Their plans start at 1 GB for 7 days and go up to 20 GB for 30 days, making them suitable for various trip lengths. Airalo has a reputation for easy setup and a reliable network that bypasses internet censorship without needing a VPN. It’s a straightforward option for travelers who prefer simplicity and affordability.
With flexible data plans starting as low as $5, Airalo is perfect for both short and extended stays. Other plans start from $5 for 1 GB over seven days, with larger options such as 10 GB for 30 days priced at $28. It provides reliable internet for common travel activities like navigation and streaming, and it’s an ideal pick for those exploring both urban and rural areas of China.
3. Truphone
Truphone is well-regarded for its global eSIM coverage and has partnerships with major companies like Apple, making it particularly user-friendly for iOS devices. The service offers regional, country-specific, and global data plans. Truphone is a good choice for multi-country travelers in Asia, as they provide Asia-Pacific plans covering 13 countries, including China. Data plans are affordable, but most are capped at 5 GB, which may be insufficient for extended use. Truphone’s eSIMs also support data-sharing on some devices and feature 24/7 customer service through the app.
Plan and Pricing
Truphone offers flexibility with its data plans across multiple devices, and it’s particularly popular with travelers needing consistent global access. Truphone’s eSIMs for China support high-speed internet with flexible data packages, ranging from a few days to monthly options, so you can customize it based on your trip length. Plans start around $10 for a basic data package, and they often include competitive rates on larger plans, which is great for data-heavy users or those needing hotspot functionality.
The setup is simple—after purchasing, you install it via a QR code, and once you land in China, it automatically connects to a local network, ensuring instant connectivity. Additionally, Truphone offers strong customer support, which is invaluable for troubleshooting abroad.
READ: What is eSIM and How does it Work?
4. SimOptions
SimOptions operates as a marketplace for multiple eSIM providers, offering a wide range of data plans. The marketplace allows users to compare various carriers, data limits, and prices for China. Options range from short-term plans with limited data (as low as 1 GB) to more substantial packages for longer trips. While prices are competitive, it’s important to note that customer support and speeds can vary based on the selected provider. SimOptions allows for some plans to include voice and SMS, although data-sharing capabilities depend on the brand.
SimOptions is another widely recommended option and is one of the best eSIM for China Cellularabroad; It offers budget-friendly eSIM plans that range from 1 GB for 7 days to 20 GB for 30 days. Their plans are data-only and do not support voice or SMS, but they are affordable and provide a good balance of coverage and price. Although they don’t offer 5G, their 4G/LTE network coverage is sufficient for most travelers’ need.
Plan and Pricing
SimOptions provides budget-friendly eSIM plans, with packages such as 1 GB for 7 days at $4.50 and 20 GB for 30 days at $34.90. While these eSIMs are data-only, they provide reliable 4G/LTE coverage throughout China. SimOptions is ideal for travelers on shorter trips who need affordable and efficient internet access. This eSIM can be set up quickly and is compatible with most smartphones.
5. Nomad
Nomad provides flexible eSIM plans powered by major Chinese networks like China Unicom and China Mobile, delivering strong 4G/5G connectivity across the country. Nomad’s plans include unlimited or capped data packages with VPN capabilities, which is helpful for bypassing the “Great Firewall” to access restricted sites. Nomad’s lightweight app and easy setup make it a user-friendly choice for various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
Plan and Pricing
Nomad’s eSIM offers reliable connectivity at competitive rates, making it one of the most popular choices for China. It covers key urban centers as well as some less-trafficked locations, giving travelers consistent internet access even when they’re off the beaten path. Nomad’s plans include 1 GB for 7 days starting at $4, up to larger plans for extended stays, making it easy to select a plan that fits both short vacations and longer travel needs.
A standout feature of Nomad is its user-friendly app, which makes setup straightforward. You can purchase and activate the eSIM in advance, and data begins once you connect to a local network in China. Nomad also provides the flexibility of switching networks (such as between China Unicom, China Telecom, and China Mobile) if coverage is spotty. This feature ensures you’re not stuck if one network experiences downtime, making it a great choice for seamless connectivity across different parts of China.
6. BNESIM
BNESIM is known globally for its competitive pricing and widespread coverage, BNESIM is a popular option for international travelers. With data plans ranging from 250 MB to 20 GB, it connects smoothly to local networks, ensuring strong signal strength even in rural areas. BNESIM also has a referral program and promo codes that make it budget-friendly. This provider is an excellent choice for anyone needing reliable coverage and simple installation.
Plan and Pricing
BNESIM offers flexible data options with no expiration policies, allowing users to utilize data when it’s most convenient. With plans ranging from 10GB for €32.30 to 100GB for €294.76, you can select a package that aligns with your usage and budget needs. Notably, the “no expiry” plans are excellent for travelers who anticipate returning to China intermittently and want to keep unused data intact.
Monthly plans like the 20GB (€51.14/month) and 50GB (€150.80/month) provide robust data allowances ideal for users needing consistent connectivity. BNESIM also caters to multi-country travelers, with regional plans for Asia that allow data usage across borders without additional charges.
7. Jetpac
Jetpac offers a highly affordable “$1 for 1GB” plan, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Jetpac’s eSIM packages are simple to set up, and the service provides coverage across China, with the added benefit of complimentary airport lounge access in case of flight delays. Jetpac is particularly convenient for those with short visits or minimal data needs.
What stands out with Jetpac is its optimized connectivity within major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. However, if you travel to more remote areas, you may experience slower speeds or more intermittent coverage. Jetpac’s eSIM is compatible with both iOS and Android devices and does not require you to switch out your physical SIM card, allowing you to keep your home line active for calls or texts while using Jetpac for data. Installation involves a QR code scan, with data immediately available once you connect.
8. Yoho Mobile
This provider offers extensive data plans with competitive rates and 24/7 technical support. Yoho Mobile’s quick setup and user-friendly activation make it a good choice for travelers needing reliable connectivity right from their arrival. Its network quality and customer support have received positive reviews, making it a reliable option for frequent travelers.
Plan and Pricing
Yoho Mobile has designed its plans with shorter durations, making it suitable for travelers with specific trip durations. For instance, a 5GB plan for three days is available for around $9.40, while longer options such as 5GB for 30 days cost approximately $12.50. For heavier users, Yoho offers 10GB, 20GB, and 30GB packages priced up to $44.60, depending on the duration. Yoho’s flexible and affordable options make it attractive for tourists needing manageable data without a hefty upfront cost. The service includes coverage across major cities in China, delivering reliable connectivity for short-term travel needs.
9. Yesim
Yesim’s plans offer flexibility with both limited and unlimited options. For limited data, prices start at $15.60 for 3 GB over seven days, and unlimited data plans start at $8.40 for one day. Yesim’s eSIMs operate on major networks like China Mobile and China Unicom, offering up to 5G speeds. This provider also includes a VPN, which is crucial for accessing otherwise restricted content. Yesim is a solid choice for those seeking high-speed connectivity and the flexibility of both short- and long-term plans.
Plan and Pricing
Yesim emphasizes ease of use with plans that span a broad range of data allowances and validities. Prices are competitive, with options like a 5GB package for seven days priced at around $10, or a 10GB package valid for 30 days at $24. Additionally, Yesim offers 30GB for $55, giving users flexibility based on their browsing needs and length of stay. Its commitment to high-speed, seamless connectivity is particularly useful for business travelers or digital nomads who need uninterrupted access in major Chinese cities. The Yesim eSIM is versatile and easy to activate, making it a user-friendly option for those new to eSIM technology.
10. Flexiroam
Flexiroam provides both fixed and unlimited data plans, with fixed plans starting at $4.50 for 1 GB over seven days, while unlimited plans range from $21 to $75 for durations of five to 30 days. Flexiroam’s eSIM is unique for offering data sharing for fixed plans, allowing travelers to share data with others. Additionally, Mastercard holders can access exclusive benefits like discounts or extra data, making Flexiroam a good option for those looking for value-added features.
Flexiroam is another eSIM provider favored by international travelers, particularly those who want flexibility and a variety of plan options. Flexiroam provides local, regional, and global eSIM plans, giving travelers the choice to pick the best fit for their itinerary. For users visiting China, Flexiroam’s Local China Plan offers affordable, data-only options that cater to both short visits and extended stays.
Plan and Pricing
Flexiroam offers a range of plans tailored to specific regions, including options for single-country use or multi-country travel. The Local China Plan is designed for those primarily visiting China, while regional plans can cover multiple Asian destinations for those with broader travel needs. Flexiroam’s competitive rates and versatile data packages make it a good option for both frequent and occasional travelers (Flexiroam).
11. BetterRoaming
BetterRoaming provides travelers with straightforward, affordable eSIM solutions, known for flexibility and dual-SIM support. With dual-SIM functionality, users can keep their home number active while using a BetterRoaming eSIM for data in China. This is ideal for business travelers or tourists who want to maintain access to personal or work contacts while using local data services.
BetterRoaming specializes in limited data plans for longer stays; While BetterRoaming’s eSIMs only offer 4G/LTE speeds, they’re suitable for those who need basic connectivity and prefer an affordable, no-frills option for longer trips. The automatic activation feature means you’ll be connected as soon as you arrive in China, making setup hassle-free.
Plans and Pricing
BetterRoaming’s plans are flexible, allowing users to choose short-term or long-term options based on travel needs. Plans include a range of data amounts and coverage durations, with options to easily top up or extend via their app. Rates start around $2.49 for 1 GB over seven days, $17.99 for 10GB of data over 30 days and $34.99 for 20 GB over 30 days in select locations, offering a budget-friendly way to access reliable data.
READ ALSO: Got Questions About eSIM? Here are 50 FAQs [Answered]
Conclusion
Staying connected in China can be easy and stress-free when you choose the right eSIM. With various options available, you have choices tailored to different needs—whether it’s budget, coverage, or high data capacity. Each eSIM in this article offers reliable ways to stay online, navigate, and keep in touch, so you can focus on enjoying your journey. Pick the one that matches your travel style, and if you have questions or feedback, let us know in the comments! Follow us on social media for more travel tips and insights, and have an amazing time in China!
