Using your cell phone in China can be a bit tricky due to internet restrictions and different mobile network infrastructure. However, it’s definitely possible, and there are several things you can do to ensure your phone works smoothly. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to use your cellphone in China:
China is a country that attracts travelers all around the globe, it offers a fascinating blend of ancient history, modern innovation, and vibrant culture. However, traveling to China also requires some planning due to its unique regulations and cultural norms.
Here we will give you a comprehensive guide on how to use your cellphone in China, so you can make the most of your time there!
Is my cell phone compatible in China?
1. Check Compatibility
- Cellular Bands: Ensure your phone supports the necessary frequency bands for China. Chinese carriers primarily use 4G LTE (FDD-LTE Band 3, 7, 8, 20) and 3G (TD-SCDMA) networks, so verify that your phone supports these bands.
- SIM Lock: If your phone is locked to a specific carrier (e.g., Verizon or AT&T), you’ll need to unlock it before using a Chinese SIM card. Contact your carrier to unlock your phone if necessary.
It is important that you choose a services that includes a VPN, so you can continue using apps that are not available in China.
Roaming with Your Home Carrier in China
- Check Roaming Plans: Many international carriers offer international roaming in China, but roaming charges can be high. Check with your carrier to see if they provide international roaming options and the costs involved. Some carriers also have partnerships with Chinese telecom operators like China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom.
- Activate Roaming: If you’re using roaming services, make sure you activate them before leaving your home country.
- Data Roaming: Be cautious with data roaming charges, as these can rack up quickly. It’s often cheaper to use Wi-Fi or buy a local SIM card.
Using a Chinese SIM Card
- Purchase a SIM Card: You can buy a local SIM card from one of the three major carriers in China: China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom. These SIM cards typically offer data, calls, and text messaging services. You’ll need to bring your passport when purchasing a SIM card.
- China Mobile: Often has the best coverage across the country.
- China Unicom: Offers competitive prices for data and good coverage in urban areas.
- China Telecom: Known for offering good service in some parts of the country but may be less widely available than China Mobile.
- Activation: After purchasing the SIM card, it may take a few hours for it to become active. You’ll need to insert the SIM card into your phone, and it should work for calls, texts, and data.
- Top-up: You can top-up your balance using online platforms, stores, or ATMs.
Accessing the Internet
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Many popular services like Google, Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp are blocked in China. To access these websites and apps, you will need to use a VPN before arriving in China. Download a reliable VPN app (e.g., ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Astrill) while still in your home country and set it up before you arrive. Keep in mind that the Chinese government frequently targets and blocks VPNs, so some may not work as well inside China.
- China’s Internet Landscape: Apps like WeChat, Weibo, and Baidu are widely used in China, and you might want to download these in advance.
- Wi-Fi: Most hotels, restaurants, cafes, and other public places in China offer Wi-Fi. You’ll need to register with a Chinese phone number for Wi-Fi access in some cases (especially at airports or public hotspots).
Messaging and Calling
- WeChat: WeChat is the most popular messaging app in China. You can use it for texting, calling, and even making payments. Download and set up WeChat before arriving in China.
- International Calling: To make international calls, you may need to buy a calling card or use a VoIP service (such as Skype or WhatsApp) while on Wi-Fi. Keep in mind that traditional international calling rates can be expensive when using roaming.
Data and Internet Usage
- Data Limits: Chinese mobile carriers typically offer affordable data plans with daily or monthly limits, so it’s good to check the details when purchasing a SIM card.
- Wi-Fi Calling: If your carrier supports Wi-Fi calling, you can make calls over a Wi-Fi network to avoid international charges. However, this requires a stable Wi-Fi connection.
Important Considerations to use your cell phone in China
- Security Concerns: China has strict cybersecurity laws, and some apps may collect personal data or be monitored. Be cautious when using unfamiliar apps or services and make sure your data is secure.
- Backup Plan: If your VPN or internet service doesn’t work, having a backup plan for communication (e.g., relying on WeChat or using a hotel’s local landline) might be helpful.
Alternatives
- Mobile Hotspot: If you don’t want to switch SIM cards, consider renting a mobile hotspot device. This can provide data to multiple devices, such as laptops and tablets.
- eSIM: Some international carriers offer eSIM plans for China. If your phone supports eSIM, this could be a convenient option.
eSIM China
Using International eSIM in China is a convenient and modern alternative to physical SIM cards, especially for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of swapping SIM cards in and out of their devices. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind regarding eSIM usage in China.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card embedded directly into your phone, which allows you to switch carriers or activate cellular plans without the need for a physical SIM card. It’s becoming more common on smartphones, including many recent models of iPhones, Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, and other modern smartphones.
Can You Use an eSIM in China?
Yes, you can use an eSIM for China, but there are some important factors to keep in mind:
1. eSIM Compatibility
- Device Compatibility: First, check if your phone is compatible with eSIM functionality. Most recent models (e.g., iPhone XS and later, Google Pixel 3 and later, and certain Samsung Galaxy models) support eSIM technology.
- Carrier Compatibility: Ensure that the carrier you are using (either your home carrier or a global eSIM provider) supports eSIM activation in China. Some international eSIM providers may have limited service in China, so it’s best to check this in advance.
2. Using an International eSIM in China
Some global eSIM providers offer data plans for travelers in China. These eSIMs allow you to connect to local networks without needing a physical SIM card. Examples of international eSIM providers that offer data services in China include:
- Simsolo: the best eSIM for travel to China. It has a fast data connection in China and you can Surf super fast with 5G. You can select the number of days and how many eSIM cards you need.
- GigSky: Another provider that offers data services via eSIM in China, with options for both short-term and long-term usage.
- Truphone: Offers international eSIM services and may include coverage in China.
- Ubigi: Provides global data plans with eSIM compatibility, and their plans may cover China as well.
Advantages of Using International eSIMs in China
- No Physical SIM Card: With an eSIM, you don’t have to worry about losing or replacing a physical SIM card, making it much more convenient for frequent travelers.
- Instant Activation: You can often activate an international eSIM immediately, without needing to visit a store or wait for a SIM card to arrive.
- Multiple Countries: Many international eSIM providers offer multi-country plans, so you can use the same eSIM for other destinations as well (ideal if you’re traveling around Asia or globally).
- Flexible Data Plans: International eSIM providers often offer flexible data plans, from short-term (1 week or 1 month) to longer options, depending on your needs.
How to Set Up an International eSIM in China
- Before Arrival:
- Ensure your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM.
- Download the eSIM provider’s app (such as SIMSOLO APP, GigSky, or Truphone) from the App Store or Google Play.
- Purchase a data plan that includes China coverage. Some providers may offer a global plan or a regional plan (Asia).
- After Activation:
- Upon arriving in China, make sure you are in an area with good network coverage. Most international eSIM providers will use local networks like China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom.
- You may need to restart your phone or manually choose the network to ensure the eSIM is active and connected.
Conclusion
The best way to use cellphone internet in China depends on your needs. International eSIMs are a convenient and flexible option for short-term stays, while local SIM cards and mobile hotspots offer solid alternatives for longer stays or if you need to share internet across multiple devices. Just make sure to use a VPN if you need access to restricted websites, and check in advance to ensure your chosen solution will work smoothly in China’s internet environment
