A Complete Guide : Choosing the Best SIM Cards for Mainland China
Key Takeaway
Are you planning a solo trip to Mainland China and want to stay online without the hassle? There are tons of SIM card options available—popular choices include China Unicom, Lucky SIM, and SoSIM. You can choose between plug-and-play physical SIM cards or convenient eSIMs. Just watch out for price, data volume, coverage, and whether they offer firewall-free access. With simple applications and instant activation upon arrival, it’s perfect for stress-free travel.
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Top Mainland SIM Brands Recommended
Major Telecom Providers
No matter if you’re on a short trip or long stay, picking the right China SIM card means choosing one that’s reliable and fits your use case:
-
China Unicom:
Nationwide coverage. 5G available in 18 cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou. Offers various travel SIMs in eSIM and physical formats, with flexible data and some plans including firewall-free access. -
China Mobile:
With over 700 million users and 5G coverage in 12+ major cities, they offer competitively priced plans including daily, monthly, and prepaid options. -
China Telecom (CT):
Offers excellent stability and low latency. Great for gaming, video calls, and high-demand users. Especially strong in western China. Speedtest shows median download speeds around 143.68 Mbps.
| Telecom | Available Brands |
|---|---|
| China Mobile | CMHK, Mobile Duck, True 5G |
| China Unicom | CUniq, Lucky SIM |
| Hybrid Networks | 3HK, Birdie, csl, Club SIM |
Tip: All three telecom giants have been rapidly expanding 5G coverage since 2019, now available in over 40 cities.
Match Your SIM to Your Trip Needs
-
Short-Term Travelers (3–7 Days):
Opt for cheap, plug-and-play SIMs from Lucky SIM, SoSIM, or AIRSIM. Many offer built-in firewall bypass for instant WhatsApp and IG access. -
Long-Term Stays (28+ Days):
Choose monthly or top-up SIMs from China Unicom or China Mobile for more flexible and cost-effective use. -
Heavy Data Users:
Watching videos, live streaming, or hotspot sharing? Choose unlimited data plans, though be aware some throttle hotspot speeds. -
Light Users:
If you only need maps, web searches, or occasional social media, low-data short-term SIMs are your best value.
Tip: Think through your actual data needs and whether you need a phone number to choose the best option.
Mainland SIM Card Comparison Table
| Card Name | Price (HKD) | Valid Days | Data | Call Services | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| China Mobile HK 10-Day GBA Prepaid | $128 | 10 Days | 3GB high-speed + unlimited throttled | 100 mins cross-border + 100 SMS | Rechargeable |
| China Mobile HK 15-Day Travel SIM | $158 | 15 Days | 7GB | 30 mins cross-border + 30 SMS | Rechargeable |
| Mobile Duck 3-Day SIM | $38 | 3 Days (up to 4) | 3GB high-speed | None | Great for short trips |
| LuckySIM 365-Day SIM | $148 | 365 Days | 6GB high-speed + unlimited throttled | No calls; voice add-on available | Good for long or frequent use |
What to Look for When Buying
1. Price & Data
Make sure to balance price and data. Daily, monthly, and prepaid rates vary. Heavy users should go for unlimited plans. Light users can save money with smaller data packages.
Tip: Don’t just go for the cheapest—make sure the data fits your needs.
2. Coverage & Speed
Top brands like China Unicom and China Mobile offer solid 5G nationwide. Urban areas are fast; rural may be slower, but generally reliable.
3. Firewall-Free Access
Want to use Facebook, WhatsApp, or IG in China? Choose a SIM with built-in firewall bypass. These let you access international sites without needing a VPN. Note: Usually data-only, not for calls.
Tip: Not all SIMs have this feature—check product details before buying.
4. VPN Alternatives
If your SIM doesn’t include firewall bypass, use a reliable VPN app to access blocked content. Be aware that free VPNs may be slow or unsafe. Paid VPNs are more stable and secure.
5. Real-Name Registration
Some SIMs (especially those with phone numbers) require ID verification. Most travel SIMs and some eSIMs do not. Always double-check requirements before purchase.
6. Dual-Numbers on One SIM
Some prepaid SIMs offer a secondary Mainland number. But these may stop working if the card expires or runs out of balance. Not ideal for setting up key accounts.
Where to Buy & Apply
1. Buy in Hong Kong Before You Go
The easiest way is to buy online or from local shops. Brands like China Unicom, China Mobile, SoSIM, Lucky SIM, and AIRSIM are widely available.
Pros:
-
No ID needed (for most travel cards)
-
Transparent pricing and comparison
-
Some include firewall bypass, ready to use on arrival
Best For:
Short-term travelers, hassle-free users, and instant network access.
How It Works:
-
Choose and buy online or in-store
-
Get the physical SIM or eSIM QR code
-
Use immediately upon landing
2. Apply Locally in Mainland China
For long-term use or a local number, visit a telecom store to sign up.
Pros:
-
Flexible monthly/yearly plans
-
Local calls and SMS
-
Great for work, study, or extended stays
Cons:
-
Requires ID verification
-
More complex process
-
Activation delays possible
Best For:
Long-term visitors, local phone number needs, or heavy internet use
Tip: Most local SIMs don’t include firewall bypass—you’ll need a VPN.
Other Internet Access Options
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| SIM Card | Cheap, plug-and-play | May require ID |
| Roaming | Easy, no SIM swap | Expensive, limited data |
| Pocket WiFi | Good for groups | Bulky, needs charging |
Final Tip: Always disable roaming to avoid surprise charges.
Conclusion
If you’re traveling short-term, go with a travel SIM—simple and cost-effective. For longer stays, get a local card for better access. Heavy users should choose unlimited plans, while casual users can stick with small data packs. Always confirm whether the SIM offers firewall bypass and if ID verification is required. eSIMs are fastest for instant use. With so many options, there’s definitely one that suits your needs.
FAQ
we’ve gathered the most common questions here to make things simple. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out. We’re always happy to help!
Can I apply for a China SIM with a HK phone number?
No. You’ll need to visit a shop in person and bring your ID or passport for registration.
What’s the difference between eSIM and physical SIM?
eSIM activates instantly via QR code, no physical card needed. It’s ideal for newer phones.
Do VPN-free SIMs access all sites?
Most unblock WhatsApp, IG, and Facebook. Some less common sites may still be restricted—check with the provider before buying.
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