Buying an eSIM for China: What You Need to Know

China is one of the most exciting corners of the world that’s just waiting for you to explore. So, why would you let something like technology hold you back?

While you’re exploring stunning temples and the bright lights of China’s biggest cities, you might want to make sure you’ve got access to mobile data. After all, those selfies aren’t going to post themselves!

That said, arranging mobile data when you travel to China isn’t always easy. For one thing, you might need to find a local SIM that’ll give you access to 3G or better. And, if you use your current SIM, you might face all kinds of expensive roaming charges.

Instead, why not use an eSIM? SIMOVO offers digital SIMs that you can install to your devices so you can automatically access mobile data affordably when you go exploring China.

Let’s explore what you need to know about getting a China eSIM and how SIMOVO works in practice.

What does an eSIM do?

eSIMs work much like physical SIM cards in that you can use them to connect to specific networks to get data coverage. SIMOVO’s eSIMs give you data only – with 4G and 5G available in some areas – and once activated, they will connect you to the best available service in China.

You can embed an eSIM alongside your current physical SIM, which means you don’t have to change your number. Just remember that, because SIMOVO only grants data coverage, you’ll need to make calls and send messages through data-driven apps like WhatsApp and Zoom.

SIMOVO eSIMs have expiry dates, meaning you’ll need to buy and install a new eSIM each time you travel. However, we make this really easy to manage – and you can embed eSIMs to phones, tablets, laptops, and even wearable tech!

Getting an eSIM for China

SIMOVO’s huge range of eSIMs let you explore a massive range of global territories and continents – you simply need to decide which eSIM will cover you best for where you’re heading.

So, if you’re set to travel to China, the best first step is to register with SIMOVO, purchase a China or Asia eSIM, and scan our QR Code to register it to your phone, laptop, tablet – or otherwise!

From there, a few quick settings tweaks – such as switching your device onto roaming – will ensure that you’re able to start connecting to mobile internet on the go as soon as you land in China.

That means you won’t have to worry about muddling around with networks or physical SIMs when you reach your destination – and, if you don’t speak fluent Mandarin yet, getting connected locally might not be easy!

What are the benefits of buying an eSIM while visiting China?

Buying and using a China eSIM means you can still keep your current phone number while you travel, and just use your eSIM to connect to the internet when you need to. This can even help you avoid certain data charges you’d normally expect from your network provider – just make sure to check what you’re covered for before you leave.

eSIMS remove the need for you to have to swap physical cards in and out, which also means you reduce the need for plastic waste. And, you don’t have to spend hours looking for the best possible Chinese SIMs when you arrive!

We’ve also priced our eSIMs fairly so that you’ll save considerable money with our service compared to using traditional SIM alternatives. That way, you don’t have to worry about your budget so much when you travel, either.

All we recommend you do before you buy is that you check our device compatibility list. If it’s on the list, you can buy and install an eSIM ready for you to use when you visit China.

How to activate your China eSIM

We’ve made it really simple to help you get started with your China eSIM as soon as possible. Setup instructions will vary from device to device, but the general process is to activate roaming on your phone, tablet, or computer, and scan the QR code provided once you’ve bought your SIMOVO eSIM.

Follow the instructions we provide from there, and you’ll be up and running with access to the best data connections across China – saving money while you go!

How much will it cost to use an eSIM in China?

Using an eSIM in China is demonstrably more cost effective than having to buy and run a local, physical SIM to connect to the internet on the go! Remember, too, that if you were to use your usual SIM when roaming, you’d likely incur extra costs, too.

Here’s a quick rundown of the costs you can expect when using a SIMOVO eSIM in China.

1GB - 7 Days - $2.00
3GB - 15 Days - $4.80
5GB - 30 Days - $7.60
10GB - 30 Days - $13.00
20GB - 30 Days - $22.80
50gB - 180 Days - $77.80

Click here to order your China eSIM

Why an eSIM is the best choice for mobile data in China

If you’ve ever visited China before, you might already have tried to find local data SIMs to help you stay connected on your travels. However, it can be a pain making sure you’re connected to the best possible network for coverage.

With SIMOVO eSIMs, you’ll connect to the best possible mobile data available based on where you are in China. That means you won’t have to worry about swapping out SIMs or even paying different networks!

Using a China eSIM means you’ll have access to top data networks such as China Unicom, China Mobile, and China Telecom. And, you won’t have to learn the local language to get connected – and we’ll grant you 4G and 5G access wherever possible!

FAQs About eSIMs in China

Can I call or text with my China eSIM?

SIMOVO eSIMs provide you with data connectivity only – but, you can call and send messages via mobile data using WhatsApp, Messenger, iMessage, FaceTime, Zoom, and other apps.

I’m having trouble using my eSIM, what should I do?

Contact our team at any time you’re experiencing problems with using your China eSIM – whether it’s getting set up or accessing networks in China, we’re here to help whenever you need us.

Do I need to buy new eSIMs?

SIMOVO eSIMs will expire, which means you’ll need to renew by purchasing and activating a new eSIM every time you travel.