What’s the best eSIM for China in 2025?

As you travel around the country, you can stay connected to the outside world with generous data allowances.

And, you won’t break the bank!

Mobile data is usually a fraction of the cost of using your own phone carrier in China.

Plus, you don’t need to worry about finding a local SIM on arrival and figuring out a Mandarin SIM card.

Read on for my review of the two best eSIM providers for China based on my experience, followed by some important info about using eSIM and SIM cards in China.

Option 1 – Airalo

I love how easy it is to install an Airalo eSIM on my phone.

I shouldn’t even use the word ‘install’ as it’s just a few clicks!

You can do it all via the Airalo app or simply scan their QR code to get started.

Just wait until right before you travel to install it, then when you arrive in China you can turn on your eSIM to connect to a network and get online.

Here are the data allowances and how long the data lasts for.

If you extend your trip, you can simply top up or purchase another eSIM.

All the latest handsets are compatible (you can see the list here) making it way more convenient than trying to figure out a local, physical SIM in Mandarin when you get to China.

Why it’s great for your trip to China:

• Very affordable
• Easy to install
• No lengthy ID checks
• Uses the China Unicom network (one of the best in China)

Disadvantage:

• Includes data only – no calls

Click on the button below to get my discount of 15% off:

If your trip includes other countries, choose an Airalo regional or global eSIM instead.

Already enjoyed an Airalo discount before? Then use this link instead which will give you 10% off.

Option 2 – SimOptions

With SimOptions, you choose your package (see table below) and receive your China eSIM instantly by email.

Then, install the eSIM by scanning the QR code you receive.

SimOptions works with iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel and all the other major devices. You can see the list of compatible phones here.

One of the biggest advantages is being able to use your eSIM’s data while keeping your existing physical SIM for any emergency calls.

Why it’s great for your trip to China:

• Great value
• Easy to install
• Track your data use in real time, so you never run out
• 24/7 customer support

Disadvantage:

• Includes data only – no calls

Click on the button below to get it:

It’s a good idea to sort it out just before you arrive so you’re all set to go on arrival.

Key things to remember about using eSIM in China

On my first trip to China, way back in 1999, there was no such thing as an eSIM.

I remember sending postcards to let my family know I was alive and well!

If you’re middle-aged like me, you may not be across all the nitty gritty of eSIMs. So, please take note of my important tips:

• Your phone needs to be unlocked
• You need your own phone number
• You should install the eSIM before you arrive (otherwise you must have a China VPN pre-installed)
• You’ll have access to a local Chinese network
• Calls and text usually aren’t included, it’s just data
• Major foreign websites and apps may be blocked – more on this below.

Are there any restrictions when using mobile data?

With an eSIM, you’ll be connected to a local Chinese phone network. There are three big ones – China Mobile, China Telecom and China Unicom.

This means you may not be able to access major foreign websites and apps, like Google, Gmail, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. It’s colloquially known as The Great Firewall of China.

This is why I always recommend a virtual private network (VPN) for China, even if the eSIM provider says otherwise.

Trust me: I’ve lived, worked, and traveled extensively throughout China and you’d be crazy to try surviving without a VPN.

The exception to this is if you rely solely on your home phone carrier (i.e. global roaming, but this is going to cost you an arm and a leg) or a VPN is explicitly included with your eSIM plan.

Do I really need an eSIM for China?

To be honest, you don’t need an eSIM or a physical travel SIM card for China provided:

1. You use your phone carrier from home, or
2. You have a VPN app on your phone and then use an app like WhatsApp in China to stay in touch, or
3. You buy a physical Chinese SIM card when you arrive.

However, these all come with drawbacks. Let me explain:

Option 1 could cost you an insane amount – so best avoid this if you can.

I’ve used my own data on a trip to Asia once. Massive bill shock when I got home!

Option 2 means you can enjoy Wi-Fi access at your Chinese hotel and at places like restaurants and coffee shops, but you won’t have access while you’re out sightseeing or in the middle of nowhere.

That’s why having both an eSIM and a VPN app is an ideal combo. (Check my China VPN review for ones that work.)

As for Option 3, you will need to understand Mandarin or get someone to help you do this in China. I’ve done this before but needed local help – major drainer!

Your phone also needs to be unlocked, and if you want to access Western websites and apps you’ll still need a VPN pre-downloaded on your phone.

This is because physical Chinese SIM cards use local Chinese networks, which are bound by the local media and internet laws.

What if I want to make phone calls in China?

I recommend making calls via WhatsApp with a VPN connection.

Otherwise, you could go old-school and buy a prepaid, physical travel SIM card before you leave your country. Some of these can be quite expensive though, so do your research.

Another option is buying a physical Chinese SIM card on arrival but that’s even trickier and you won’t have access to foreign websites and apps as mentioned earlier, unless you already have a VPN.

So, what’s the best eSIM for China?

If I could only choose one, it would be Airalo because my personal experience with it traveling in China has been excellent.

The only thing is that it’s usually a bit pricier than SimOptions. But as the saying goes, you get what you pay for.

Have an incredible time in China!

I hope my article on the best eSIM for China has helped you. If there is anything you need to know about traveling to China, just ask a question below. I enjoy answering them.

Main image credit: DenPhotos on Shutterstock.

FAQ about China eSIM