Are you planning a business or private trip to China?
But you don’t want to bother with exchanging your SIM card? You don’t speak Chinese and a visit to the cell phone store would be too much of a hassle? No problem – we have compared the best eSIM providers for China for you so that none of this is necessary.
In our article, you’ll find everything you need to know about activation, installation, which data tariffs are available and how good the network coverage is. From Airalo to Holafly, these are the best providers for China!
Which are the best eSIM providers for China?
Top 6 providers for China
- Saily – Good network coverage
- Airalo – Good overall package
- Holafly – Best provider for unlimited data
- Nomad – Wide selection of plans
- eSIM.sm – Easy to use
- Jetpac – 4 countries in one package
The best eSIMs for China
Saily
- Data volume: 10 GB
- Validity: 30 days
- Hotspot: Yes
- Calls and text messages: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5G/4G/LTE network
- Prices: USD 26.99
5% discount with coupon code: TRAVELASTRONAUT
Newcomer Saily is a modern, secure, and affordable solution for mobile data. You can save on expensive roaming charges without having to go through the hassle of swapping out your physical SIM card.
Saily offers five different data-only packages. There is no combination of data and calls. When you purchase a package, it has a 30-day activation period. After this period, it is automatically activated.
What makes Saily so special is that it places a high value on security. The Nord VPN developers have equipped the virtual cards with an integrated VPN, ad blockers, and special web protection.
The VPN is a big advantage, especially in China, where some websites are blocked.
The following data plans are available on the website:
- 1 GB: Valid for 7 days, price 4.49 USD
- 3 GB: Valid for 30 days, price 10.99 USD
- 5 GB: Valid for 30 days, price 15.99 USD
- 10 GB: Valid for 30 days, price 26.99 USD
- 20 GB: Valid for 30 days, price 47.99 USD
Unfortunately, Saily does not yet offer prices in Euros
Which mobile network Saily uses in China is not specified on the website.
What are the pros and cons of Saily eSIMs for China?
✅ Pros
✔️ Five local data tariffs for China – you have a flexible choice
✔️ No hidden fees – pre-paid tariffs without surprises
✔️ Supports tethering – mobile hotspot sharing possible
✔️ Quick and easy activation – ready to go in just a few minutes
Cons
❌ Not compatible with all older devices – Some older models do not support Saily
❌ No calls possible – There are no tariffs with call and data usage
Conclusion: Experience with Saily China
Saily offers a good selection of tariffs at reasonable prices. The additional security options with DNS tracker and ad blocker are very positive. Unfortunately, there is no unlimited tariff. Calls and text messages are not possible with Saily’s tariffs.
Airalo - Best eSIM China
On the Airalo website you will find six data tariffs for China. Here is an example:
- Data volume: 10 GB
- Validity: 30 days
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: Use of the 4G/LTE network
- Price: EUR 26.50
The renowned provider Airalo is offering the opportunity to test an eSIM with a free welcome package. This is valid for 3 days and includes 500 MB of data. In addition, there are five tariffs from 1 GB for seven days to unlimited data. Airalo is repeatedly praised in reviews for its excellent customer service.
The following tariffs are listed on the Airalo website:
500 MB: Valid for 3 days, price €0.00 (free eSIM)
1 GB: Valid for 7 days, price €5.00
2 GB: Valid for 15 days, price €8.50
3 GB: Valid for 30 days, price €11.00
5 GB: Valid for 30 days, price €16.00
10 GB: Valid for 30 days, price €26.50
20 GB: Valid for 30 days, price €46.50
Unlimited data: Valid for 10 days, price €33.50
Mobile network: China Mobile
Network coverage: Very good
Pros and Cons of Airalo
✅ Pros
✔️ Eight different tariff options for China – Flexible selection options
✔️ Affordable tariffs – Good prices for different needs
✔️ User-friendly interface – Simple operation and quick activation
✔️ Wide range of tariff options – Different plans for different usage needs
Cons
❌ No pay-as-you-go options – Only fixed data tariffs available
Airalo experience: Best eSIM for China
Airalo offers a range of data plans. The prices are quite reasonable and there is also a tariff with unlimited data. Another very positive aspect is that you can test Airalo in China with a free tariff, which can make for a positive experience. There is also very good network coverage. In our experience, Airalo is the best eSIM for China.
Holafly - Best eSIM Unlimited Data
- Data volume: Unlimited data
- Validity: 7 days
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5G/4G/LTE network
Hotspot function: Sharing of up to 500 MB of data per day possible
Price: EUR 26.90
5% discount with coupon code: TRAVELASTRONAUT
With Holafly, you are not limited to a certain amount of data, as there is only unlimited data. The price depends on the number of days in your package. You can choose between 1 and 90 days. The daily price decreases with the length of the data plan.
By using China Unicom’s well-developed network, you can expect very good network coverage and stable 4G/5G speeds in major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou.
Since some websites are blocked in China (e.g., Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook), Holafly’s integrated VPN is particularly useful here and a major advantage over other providers.
Data packages:
- 1 day: Unlimited data for €5.90
- 5 days: Unlimited data for €18.90 (€3.78/day)
- 7 days: Unlimited data for €26.90 (€3.84/day)
- 15 days: Unlimited data for €46.90 (€3.13/day)
- 30 days: Unlimited data for €68.90 (€2.30/day)
Mobile network: China Mobile
Network coverage: Very good
✅ Pros
✔️ Integrated VPN – Enables unrestricted Internet access in China
✔️ Unlimited data tariffs for up to 90 days – No volume limit
✔️ Regional tariffs for Asia – Flexible use in multiple countries
✔️ 24/7 support via various channels – Available around the clock
Cons
❌ Fair use policy can throttle speeds – Speed can be reduced with high data consumption
❌ Hotspot data limited to 500 MB per day – Restriction on tethering
❌ Relatively high costs – As only unlimited data plans are available
Conclusion: Holafly
Holafly uses the very well covered China Mobile network and offers time periods that are ideal for longer stays. Unfortunately, hotspot usage is limited. Nevertheless, we recommend Holafly for frequent users who don’t want to worry about their data.
Nomad
Nomad offers several mobile data plans for China.
Here’s an example:
- Data volume: 10 GB
- Validity: 30 days
- Hotspot: Yes
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5 G/4 G/LTE network
- Price: 26,00 EUR
Nomad is a well-established international eSIM provider that offers reliable connectivity for travelers heading to China. With a range of flexible data plans, including both limited and unlimited options, Nomad makes it easy to stay online without the hassle of a physical SIM card.
Activation is straightforward through the Nomad app, and users can manage their data usage and top-ups directly from their smartphone. Whether you are visiting major cities like Beijing or Shanghai or traveling across the country, Nomad’s eSIMs provide a convenient solution for staying connected.
Nomad is offering the following mobile data plans:
- 1 GB – 7 days → €4.00 / $4.00 / £2.96
- 2 GB – 15 days → €7.50 / $7.00 / £5.19
- 3 GB – 30 days → €10.50 / $10.00 / £7.41
- 5 GB – 30 days → €15.50 / $12.00 (on sale, was $22) / £8.89 (on sale, was £16.30)
- 10 GB – 30 days → €26.00 / $20.00 (on sale, was $30) / £14.82 (on sale, was £22.23)
- 20 GB – 30 days → €37.00 / $35.00 / £25.93
- 30 GB – 30 days → – / $35.00 / £25.93
- 50 GB – 45 days → – / $49.00 / £36.30
- 90 GB – 90 days → – / $90.00 / £66.68
Unlimited Plans
- 3 days → – / $12.00 / £8.89
- 5 days → – / $18.00 / £13.34
- 7 days → – / $24.00 / £17.78
- 10 days → – / $33.00 / £24.45
Network: China Unicom / China Telecom
Network Coverage: Good
Pros and Cons Nomad
✅ Pros
- Flexible data plans – suitable for short or long stays
- 10 data packages available for China – wide range of options for different needs
- Coverage in 200+ countries and regions – ideal for frequent travelers
- Supports mobile hotspot usage – share data across multiple devices
- Easy and guided setup process – quick activation via app or QR code
❌ Cons
- Customer support can be slow – responses may take longer than expected
- Not compatible with all devices – check supported models before purchase
Conclusion: Nomad one of the best eSIMs for China Travel
In our comparison, Nomad stands out particularly for its wide selection of data plans at reasonable prices. Several options are available for different durations, including unlimited plans.
The app is user-friendly, and setting up your mobile internet connection is quick and straightforward.
eSIM.sm
eSIM.sm offers six mobile data plans for China.
Here is an example:
- Data volume: 10 GB
- Validity: 30 days
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5G/4G/LTE network
- Price: EUR 15.20 / USD 18.00 / GBP 13.80
The eSIM provider eSIM.sm, which only launched in 2025, offers six different plans for China. China Mobile’s largest and best-developed network is used.
The virtual SIM cards are quick and easy to install and the website and app are clear and easy to navigate.
You will find a lot of useful additional information and instructions for an uncomplicated mobile data connection in China.
The following data plans are available for China:
- 1 GB – 7 days → €3.70 / $4.40 / £3.40
- 3 GB – 15 days → €6.30 / $7.50 / £5.80
- 5 GB – 30 days → €9.80 / $11.60 / £8.90
- 10 GB – 30 days → €15.20 / $18.00 / £13.80
- 20 GB – 30 days → €29.40 / $34.70 / £26.70
Network: China Mobile
Network Coverage: Very Good
Pros and Cons eSIM.sm
✅ Pros
- Good network coverage – reliable internet connection across major cities and many regions in China
- Easy activation – quick setup via QR code, no complicated registration required
- Clear and user-friendly website and app – simple navigation and helpful information for travelers
❌ Cons
- Only uses one network in China – less flexibility if the network has issues
- Limited choice of plans – no unlimited data option available
- No plans with calls or SMS included – data-only usage
Conclusion: eSIM.sm
The cards from eSIM.sm are easy to install and to activate. The website and app are very clear and can be navigated without any issues.
The coverage is due to the local China Mobile network very good and the connection is fast and stable.
Unfortunately there is no unlimited plan being offered.
Jetpac - 10 GB für 18 USD - 4 Countries
Jetpac has eight data tariffs available for China. Example:
10 GB data
No calls or text messages
Valid for 30 days
Uses the 5G/4G/LTE network
Price: USD 18.50
Jetpac offers a total of five different eSIM tariffs for China.
With the Jetpac eSIM for China travel, you can quickly and easily get mobile data without having to swap your physical card. You can install it before you leave and be online as soon as you arrive. It’s super convenient and you don’t even have to go to a store.
Jetpac offers a total of five data plans for China, ranging from 1 GB to 40 GB – from small packages for short trips to larger options for longer stays. Particularly practical: many of the plans cover Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan in addition to mainland China. This makes Jetpac ideal for round trips through East Asia.
A special feature of Jetpac is the additional travel benefits it offers. For example, there is free lounge access in the event of flight delays, a 30-day VPN trial (ideal in China, where many apps are restricted), and other discounts for frequent travelers.
Activation is easy via the Jetpac app using a QR code or manually (available for iOS and Android). There you can manage your data volume, keep an eye on your usage, and add another package if necessary.
The following data plans are available:
- 1 GB: Valid for 4 days, price USD 4
- 3 GB: Valid for 7 days, price USD 9
- 5 GB: Valid for 30 days, price USD 14
- 10 GB: Valid for 30 days, price USD 18
- 15 GB: Valid for 30 days, price USD 22
- 20 GB: Valid for 30 days, price USD 35
- 30 GB: Valid for 30 days, price USD 34.5
- 40 GB: Valid for 30 days, price USD 76
Network: These mobile networks are used in the countries:
China (China Unicom GSM), Hong Kong (CSL, PCCW), Macau (CTM), Taiwan (Chunghwa Telecom)
Pros and Cons of Jetpac eSIM for China
✅ Pros
✔️ Affordable data tariffs – Good value for money
✔️ Easy activation and top-up – Quick and uncomplicated
✔️ User-friendly app – Intuitive operation and simple management
Cons
❌ No tariffs for calls and SMS – Only data tariffs available
❌ Limited customer support channels outside the app – Customer service mainly available via the app
Conclusion: Why is Jetpac one of the best eSIM for China?
A very positive aspect is that new customers can test the 1 GB tariff for just 1 euro. In addition, the tariffs cover three more countries: Macau, Taiwan and Hong Kong. The second largest mobile network in China is used, which guarantees good network coverage. The selection of data tariffs is very extensive, although an unlimited tariff is not available.
Roamic - eSIM Review China
This Spanish provider offers wide selection of data volume packages.
Here is an example:
- Data volume: 10 GB
- Validity: 15 days
- Hotspot: Yes
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5G/4G/LTE network
- Price: GBP 12.50
This company offers a good selection of plans, ranging from data-only packages to unlimited options. Since multiple local networks are used, you can expect a stable and fast connection.
Roamic’s website and app are easy to use, and with a Trustpilot rating of 4.6, they enjoy a high level of customer satisfaction.
The following data packages are being offered:
- 1 GB – 7 days → €0.99 / $1.00 / £1.00
- 3 GB – 14 days → €1.99 / $2.00 / £2.00
- 5 GB – 21 days → €3.99 / $4.00 / £3.00
- 10 GB – 30 days → €7.99 / $8.00 / £6.00
- 20 GB – 30 days → €14.99 / $15.00 / £11.00
- Unlimited – 1 to 30 days → price depends on length of stay (see website)
Network: China Unicom, China Mobile, China Telecom
Network Coverage: Very Good
Pros and Cons Roamic
✅ Pros
- Hotspot function available without restrictions
- Uses multiple local networks for stable and fast coverage
- Wide selection of data plans, including both limited and unlimited options
❌ Cons
- Fair usage policy may reduce internet speed on unlimited plans
- No plans available that include SMS or calls
Conclusion: Roamic
Roamic impresses with a great selection of mobile internet packages, offering both limited and unlimited options.
A big plus is that they work with several local network providers, ensuring a stable and fast connection.
On the negative side, the fair usage policy may reduce your internet speed when using unlimited plans.
eSIM.net
eSIM.net offers multiple mobile data plans for China.
Here is an example:
- Data volume: 10 GB
- Validity: 15 days
- Hotspot: Yes
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5G/4G/LTE network
- Price: GBP 12.50
This UK provider only started recently in 2025. What makes it unique is the option to purchase an SMS-only card, which can be used for verification purposes such as two-factor authentication.
In addition, they offer a VIP bundle package covering 75 countries, where users can make unlimited calls.
Following packages are offered on their website:
O2 SMS Only
SMS only – 30 days → £5.00
Vodafone Travel (VIP)
- 25 GB – 7 days → £16.50
- 25 GB roaming (plus 500 GB UK) – 30 days → £23.50
China Local Data eSIMs
- 5 GB – 10 days → £7.50
- 10 GB – 15 days → £12.50
- 15 GB – 30 days → £16.50
Network: NA
Network Coverage: NA
Pros and Cons eSIM.net
✅ Pros
- Hotspot can be used without restrictions
- Calls available in the VIP plan (unlimited calls in 75 countries)
- Quick and easy connection setup
- SMS-only option available, ideal for verification and two-factor authentication
❌ Cons
- No details provided about the local network used in China
- Limited selection of data plans compared to other providers
- Prices are listed only in GBP
Conclusion: eSIM.net
Der Anbieter bietet einige interessante Alternativen zu einer regulären Reisekarte. Die reine SMS-Option und die 75-Länder-eSIM mit unbegrenzten Anrufen sind ziemlich einzigartig.
Leider fehlen auf der Website detaillierte Informationen und die Auswahl an Datenplänen ist eher begrenzt.
Airhub - eSIM for China Travel
Airhub offers six pure data plans for China.
- 1 GB data per day
Valid in China - Calls or SMS: No
- Hotspot: Yes
- Valid for 30 days
- Uses the 4G/LTE network
- Price: USD 26.50
Airhub offers six different tariffs, all of which appear to be somewhat limited. The mobile network China Unicom is used.
The following plans are available on the website:
- 12 GB: Valid for 30 days, price 17 USD
- 1 GB per day: Valid for 5 days, price 14.5 USD
- 1 GB per day: Valid for 10 days, price 19.5 USD
- 1 GB per day: Valid for 15 days, price 26.5 USD
- 1 GB per day: Valid for 30 days, price 39.5 USD
- 4 GB: Valid for 30 days, price 6 USD
Activation: If you have installed your eSIM, it will be activated automatically after you land in China.
Pros and Cons Airhub eSIM
✅ Pros
✔️ Flexible tariffs – choice between fixed data volume or daily data limit
✔️ Affordable prices – particularly cheap options for short-term use
✔️ Easy activation – quick setup via QR code
✔️ Compatible with VPNs – enables access to blocked websites in China
Cons
❌ No unlimited data volume – All tariffs have a fixed data limit
❌ No call or SMS function – Only suitable for mobile data
❌ Fair-use rule for daily plans – Speed can be throttled with high consumption
❌ No regional Asia coverage – Only works in China, no multi-country option
Conclusion: Airhub
Airhub’s tariff structure is quite unique in this case, you get a certain number of GB per day. Everyone has to decide for themselves whether this is an appealing structure. We think that you are quite limited in your data usage here. The good mobile network of China Unicorn is used.
aloSIM
aloSIM offers 7 data tariffs for China.
- 10 GB data
- Calls or SMS: No
- Hotspot: Yes
- Valid for 30 days
- Uses the 5G/LTE network
- Price: USD 28.00
Network: China Mobile
alosSIM had a good selection of different data tariffs. You can choose between 1GB and unlimited. There is no combination of data and calls. If you buy an aloSIM, you do not have to verify yourself.
aloSIM data packages:
- 1 GB: Valid for 7 days, price USD 5.00
- 2 GB: Valid for 15 days, price USD 8.50
- 3 GB: Valid for 30 days, price USD 11.50 (Most popular)
- 5 GB: Valid for 30 days, price USD 16.50
- 10 GB: Valid for 30 days, price USD 28.00
- Unlimited data: Valid for 10 days, price 35.00 USD (Unlimited plan)
20 GB: Valid for 30 days, price 49.00 USD (Value plan).
Pros and Cons of aloSIM
✅ Pros
✔️ No KYC verification required – Quick and easy activation
✔️ Seven different tariffs for China – Flexible selection options
✔️ Competitive prices – Good value for money
✔️ Special tariffs for business travelers – Tailor-made options for business users
Cons
❌ No global plan for multiple regions – Only individual country plans available
❌ No 24/7 live chat support – Customer service not available around the clock
❌ No call and SMS function – Only data plans available
Conclusion: alosim one of the best eSIM for China
We recommend alosim, as it offers a good selection of data tariffs at fair prices (an unlimited tariff is also available). In addition, there is good network coverage thanks to the use of the China Mobile mobile network. It is also very convenient that you don’t have to verify yourself first.
Advantages of an eSIM for your trip to China:
Ready to use immediately: Activation via QR code, manually, or in the app is quick and easy. What’s more, you don’t have to visit a store or replace your physical SIM card.
Dual SIM possible: You can use your physical SIM card in parallel with an eSIM, whereby the eSIM is used exclusively for data.
No expensive roaming charges: By using local rates, you avoid any surprises at the end of your trip and have full control over your costs.
Flexible & controllable: You can quickly change rates, pause them, or purchase additional data directly in the app.
Stress-free travel: You can install your card before departure and have mobile data available immediately upon arrival. No stress and no hassle.
Hotspot/tethering: Many providers allow hotspot use, so you can also use the data with other devices.
Multiple networks: Many eSIMs use multiple networks per country, providing security and stability (better coverage/5G).
Secure & robust: You can’t lose your card and it can’t be damaged; Profiles can be deleted/deactivated remotely.
More environmentally friendly: No plastic, no shipping – less waste & logistics.
eID features: (depending on provider/device)
Some integrated extras such as data counters, ad blockers/VPN, auto-renewal, or additional services such as access to airport lounges.
How are the providers/eSIM rated in our comparison?
Network coverage: Network coverage is the decisive criterion when choosing an eSIM. We therefore recommend making sure that the provider you choose uses one of the renowned mobile networks.
Connection: A stable, secure connection is very important during your stay in China. Accordingly, we only recommend providers that meet this criterion.
Prices: A good price-performance ratio was important to us. The best eSIM providers must deliver this.
Plan selection: A flexible tariff selection must be given so that the customer can choose an appropriate offer according to his/her preferences.
Compatibility: eSIMs must be compatible with a wide range of devices. You can check whether your phone is compatible on the provider’s website or under your phone settings.
How do I activate my eSIM for China?
There are various ways to install and activate your eSIM. Some are very simple, others a little more complicated. The following options are available to you:
1. scanning a QR code:
One of the most common methods of activation is to scan a QR code, which you will receive by email after purchase.
On an iPhone, proceed as follows:
Settings > Mobile > Add eSIM, then scan the code.
For an Android device, proceed as follows (please note that the menu items may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer)
Settings > Network & Internet or Connections > Mobile network or SIM card management > Add eSIM > then scan the QR code.
2. manual entry:
You can also install your eSIM manually using an activation code. The procedure is the same as for the QR code, but select “Enter details manually” and enter the code there.
3. via the provider’s app:
Probably the easiest method: download your provider’s app, select the desired data plan for China and tap on “Activate”.
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