7 Best China eSIMs for Tourists to Get Around in 2024

#1. Airalo

— Best China eSIM Overall

Founded in Singapore in 2019,Airalo is the world's first and largest eSIM store with eSIM plans for 200+ countries and regions world-wide.It’s an eSIM provider powered by a user-friendly platform and wide network coverage. Users often praise its helpful customer support, competitively priced plans, and reasonable connection speeds across multiple continents. It offers eSIM plans that can be easily purchased and installed through its mobile app or website.With Airalo eSIMs, travelers can get connected the moment they land in their destination and avoid nasty data roaming charges.

Airalo is an excellent eSIM provider for China. Its online platform offers global access to eSIMs through collaboration with big local telecom providers. In China, for example, Airalo works directly with China Unicom to provide you with high-speed coverage directly from their networks.In pretty much all the amazing places to visit in China you will find a 5G signal. The data speed is amazing, even on 4G/LTE it is super fast.

Airalo eSIM Pros and Cons

Airalo China eSIM Plans

Airalo offers Local eSIMs, which are available in China only.It also offers Regional eSIMs (covers data by continents) and Global eSIMs (available around the globe). However, these choices are pricier.

Airalo gives its users a chance to choose between 7, 15, and 30-day plans. Depending on your data needs, 1GB, 2GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB and 20GB plans are available. The plan price starts at $5 for 1GB for 7 days in China and goes up to $49 (20GB).Here are China eSIM plans from Airalo for 2024:

• All the Airalo eSIMs are data-only sim cards without a phone number, so any phone/sms service is NOT supported. However, you can still call via VoIP apps like WhatsApp and Line.
  

• An Airalo eSIM has to be installed within 1 month and after activation the credit validity starts when it connects the first time to a supported network. 

>>Get Airalo China eSIM

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#2. Holafly

— Best China eSIM for Unlimited Data

Founded in 2018, Holafly is considered one of world best eSIM.Holafly now offers eSIMs in over 175 countries.Whether you're seeking local or regional eSIMs, Holafly offers a comprehensive range of options. You'll find unlimited data plans in multiple destinations.

While both Holafly and Airalo offer eSIM solutions, Holafly distinguishes itself by focusing on carefully curated regional plans, ensuring excellent coverage and service quality within those specific areas. This approach makes Holafly an ideal option for travelers who are planning trips predominantly within regions where Holafly has a strong presence, such as Europe, North America, or Asia.

Holafly shines above Airalo by offering unlimited data to its customers.Thanks to China Mobile, Holafly also ensures you get a high-speed connection in the country, with up to 5G data speeds and great coverage in Mainland China. Multiple payment methods in their online store and even options such as Alipay in China for purchases within the Holafly mobile app.High-end support in 19 languages, a super flexible refund policy, and an iOS and Android app to manage and buy your eSIM cards are also key features of Holafly.

Holafly eSIM Pros and Cons

Holafly China eSIM Plans

The main feature of the Holafly eSIM cards for China is that you can share unlimited data — up to 500 MB daily!You can choose from 1 to 90 days with Holafly and the number of eSIM cards, just in case you are not traveling alone.And the VPN is added to all Holafly eSIM cards for better service in China.

The Holafly eSIM for China Mainland cost between $5.90 and $138.90 once off and are valid from one to 90 days.Holafly is undoubtedly expensive, but the tradeoff is enjoying unlimited data, unlike most other eSIM packages with capped data plans.

>>Get Holafly China eSIM

#3. Nomad

— Versatile and User-friendly China eSIM

Founded in 2020, Nomad has quickly become a popular eSIM provider thanks to its easy-to-use app, wide coverage, and competitive pricing.Nomad provides affordable prepaid data plans for travelers in over 170 countries worldwide.Users praise the simplicity of purchasing and activating eSIMs through the Nomad app, the variety of data plans available for different countries and regions, and the affordable prices compared to roaming with domestic carriers. Whether you're seeking local, regional, or global eSIMs, Nomad offers a comprehensive range of options. You'll find unlimited data plans in some destinations, too.

Like Airalo, Nomad offers varying prepaid plans for China with different durations, data caps, and costs. You can also opt for multi-country plans, and the eSIM will connect automatically to a local carrier as you move from country to country.Nomad has gained ground on the eSIM market with some great deals. Especially for China eSIMs they have amazing offers.

Nomad eSIM Pros and Cons

Nomad China eSIM Plans

Nomad has two different types of eSIMs for China: Regular Plans and Day Plans.A Nomad travel eSIM for China also allows you to freely surf the internet without any restrictions. You don't need to get an additional VPN, and you will be able to continue using your favourite social media apps, email services, and messaging apps like WhatsApp.

1) Regular Plans

2) Day Plans

If you are not sure how much data you need, consider getting a Nomad Day Plan for China instead. With a Nomad Day Plan, you define how much high-speed data you need per-day. This quota will reset every 24 hours,and in the event where you run out of your quota, you don't have to worry as you will still be able to use the Internet, though at a throttled speed of 512kbps.The Day Plans cost between $2.50 to $35.

• The Nomad eSIMs for China are 5G ready and they operate on the China Unicom network.

• Incoming and outgoing calls and sms are NOT supported.

• The Nomad China eSIMs have to be installed on your phone within 60 days and after installation its validity starts when it connects for the first time to a supported network in China. 

>>Get Nomad China eSIM

#4. Yesim

— Best eSIM for China Network Coverage

A smaller and newer company than Airalo and Holafly, Yesim is a Swiss-based eSIM provider offering highly-rated eSIMs for countries around the globe. Their website and app are simple, straightforward, and easy to use, and over 300,000 customers have chosen their eSIMs so far.

Yesim offers international eSIM data packages in over 160 countries plus three regional plans: Europe, the Caribbean, and the CIS countries of Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, and Uzbekistan.Yesim offers a range of eSIMs by size and validity time. When you select the country-specific eSIM, you can see the network operators that Yesim partners with, meaning if you’re heading to a remote spot you can check a network coverage map for your destination to make sure you’ll have a signal. 

Interestingly, alongside its eSIM service, Yesim also offers a virtual number service that allows you to get an online-only US (+1), Canadian (+1), or Israeli (+972) mobile phone number to use for apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram, OpenAI, Binance, Tinder, or TikTok. These virtual numbers can be used for a flat fee of $2.75 per month.

Yesim eSIM Pros and Cons

Yesim China eSIM Plans

Yesim offers two types of data plans: standard and unlimited, ranging from 1-day to 30-day plans.

1) Standard Plans

For standard plans, the options available include 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, and 20 GB, varying from $15.60 to $46.80 USD. The duration of these data plans ranges from seven days to 30 days.

2) Unlimited Plans

Prices for unlimited plans range from $8.40 to $85.20, and the available packages range from one to 30 days.

Yesim’s main feature is its connectivity. Their eSIM cards work with China Mobile and China Unicom, allowing up to 5G data speeds. The downside is that you can’t tell which one you’ll use on your trip.The eSIM plan includes a VPN if you need to access an app or website blocked in the country.

>>Get Yesim China eSIM

#5. Jetpac

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— Flexible eSIM Provider for International Travel

Jetpac is a Singapore-based eSIM provider that aims to simplify global connectivity for travelers. Founded in 2022, the company offers data plans covering over 100 countries, making it an attractive option for frequent jet-setters looking to avoid the hassle of physical SIM cards.Jetpac has quickly gained popularity thanks to its extensive coverage, which includes many of the world's top travel destinations. 

Jetpac is a fairly new player on the eSIM market and they are trying to gain ground by not only offering eSIM solutions, but add a couple benefits for travelers who order an eSIM via Jetpac. The provider's eSIM plans cater to various needs, with regional and global options available. Customers praise Jetpac for its affordable pricing, reliable service, and user-friendly app.An extra advantage of Jetpac China eSIMs is that they provide a free VPN subscription as well as free lounge access if your flight is delayed. However, you will have to register your flight before you travel and in case of a delayed or canceled flight a LoungeKey voucher will automatically be provided. This is a complimentary service that no other eSIMs offer. 

Jetpac eSIM Pros and Cons

Jetpac China eSIM Plans

Plans are typically available in 4 to 30-day durations, and data allowances range from 1GB to 40GB or more. Here are Jetpac's China eSIM plans: 

• The Jetpac China eSIMs are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls are not supported. 

• The eSIMs operate on the 4G/LTE network of China Unicom.

• There are no hidden fees as all packs are prepaid. You will not be charged for any additional cost or data.

• Each data pack is valid for 4 days once you are connected overseas. If you do not connect overseas, your data pack is valid for 1 year from purchase.
  

>>Get Jetpac China eSIM

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#6. aloSIM

— Flexible China eSIM with Prepaid Data Packages

aloSIM is a Canada-based eSIM provider that offers online data plans to keep travellers connected to a mobile network.  It has quickly become one of the most popular eSIM providers offering country specific and regional plans that cover over 175 countries.  The company emerged from AffinityClick’s experience in the internet messaging and mobile data sectors, with a history of successful ventures like the Hushed app, which provides temporary phone numbers.

aloSIM receives generally positive reviews from customers and reviewers. Some say it's a good option for travel because it's affordable, offers hassle-free data, and allows you to keep your regular phone number. 

aloSIM offers users the ability to have regional plans. Asia (covers 13 countries including China) and Asia Five Pack (covers 5 regions).Their data plan includes a free international phone number from Hushed that works over Wi-Fi or data. It starts with free credits (about 30 calling minutes or 50 texts).

aloSIM eSIM Pros and Cons

aloSIM China eSIM Plans

In terms of local China plans, aloSIM offers 6 plans from 1GB (7 days) and goes up to 2GB, valid for 15 days or 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, and 20GB for 30 days. The cheapest plan for China starts at $5 (1GB for 7 days) and goes up to $49 (20GB for 30 days), which offers great value for money.

• Includes a free international phone number. Learn more.
  

• No surprise fees or roaming charges.

>>Get aloSIM China eSIM

#7. GigSky

— Best For a Free 100 MB Test

GigSky is a Palo Alto, California-based mobile technology company that provides e-SIM and SIM card-based data services to international travelers. Users connect to public data networks using a mobile app and a GigSky e-SIM or Apple SIM card.

Like Airalo, GigSky offers fixed data plans (normally just 1 GB, 3 GB, or 5 GB) in around 200 destinations worldwide, including China. And like Holafly, it also offers unlimited plans. In addition, GigSky offers regional and global plans, with all of its data allowances competitively priced and its rates neck-in-neck with those of the other providers on this list.Regardless of what kind of data plan you're looking for, GigSky probably has you covered—and at great rates to boot.

GigSky's reach extends far beyond just land-based networks. They're the only eSIM provider offering service on 190 cruise ships, offshore locations like the Gulf of Mexico and North Sea, and on flights from 20 airlines.Although they're pricier than the normal plans, they could be useful for you if you'd like to connect in the air or at sea.

GigSky eSIM Pros and Cons

GigSky China eSIM Plans

GigSky lets you download and install a free eSIM with 100 MB of allowance so you can test how eSIMs work without being obligated to pay more once you've used up your data.

>>Get GigSky China eSIM

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The Best China eSIM Plans Compared

Conclusion

If you are planning a trip to China, eSIM is definitely an essential item for you. To find the right provider for eSIMs in China, you should compare the available options. As we've seen, I recommend looking primarily at the network provider and the price. Depending on how long you want to stay in China.Whether you're after budget-friendly data plans, effortless connectivity, or dependable customer support, the curated list of the best eSIMs is here to help you prepare for upcoming trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is eSIM illegal in China?

It is not illegal to use an eSIM or own an eSIM-compatible device in China. However, due to a range of internal security and economic measures, mainland Chinese-made mobile devices sold in China do not support eSIMs. So if you buy a handset once you've arrived, don't count on being able to use an eSIM with it.

Can I get an eSIM for China?

Yes. It is not illegal to use an eSIM or own an eSIM-compatible device in China.

How to Acquire a Chinese eSIM?

First, verify if your current mobile carrier supports eSIM technology and if your smartphone is eSIM-compatible. Not all carriers and devices have eSIM capabilities, so this step is crucial.Then activate the eSIM.To activate an eSIM, follow your carrier’s instructions. This usually involves scanning a QR code provided by the eSIM provider and then adjusting your phone settings to complete the setup.

Can you get an eSIM with a phone number?

Your eSIM phone number is either a phone number included with your eSIM data package, or an internet phone number you're using with your eSIM. Some people use their regular phone number for calls and texts, while using an eSIM for data.

Can China eSIM use WhatsApp?

Yes, Nomad's eSIM for China allows you to use access your social media accounts like Facebook, Instagram, X (previously Twitter), and messaging apps like WhatsApp without the need for an external VPN.

Which carriers in China support eSIM?

Within the country, there are two main operators supporting eSIMs. These two are China Mobile and China Unicom.

Do Chinese phones support eSIM?

eSIM is not available for iPhones or iPads purchased in China mainland, even if they appear on the list of eSIM-compatible iPhones and iPads. But eSIM is available on selected iOS devices purchased in Hong Kong and Macao: 

• iPhone XS

• iPhone SE (2nd gen or 3rd gen only)

• iPhone 12 mini

• iPhone 13 mini

【Read More】

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