Cellphone & SIM Card

When traveling to China, many visitors are curious about whether their cellphones will work in the country. They also want to know the most cost-effective ways to make phone calls and access the internet while traveling. To ensure that your cellphone will work in China, you need to check if it is compatible with the main frequencies used by Chinese telecommunication carriers. Once you have confirmed compatibility, you can then decide whether to activate international roaming services or purchase a Chinese SIM card for your phone.

Do You Have a Compatible Phone

Many travelers often encounter issues with their cellphones, such as iPhones, not working in China. This can be frustrating, especially when seeing many Chinese individuals using their phones on the street without any problems. The reason for this discrepancy is that most cellphones are locked to a specific carrier, such as T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon, and others. When a phone is locked to a carrier, it can only use the SIM card provided by that carrier. To resolve this issue, travelers can contact their carrier and request to have their handset unlocked.

In addition to unlocking the phone, travelers must ensure that their cellphone is compatible with the local networks in China. This means that the phone must support the frequencies used by China’s major telecommunication carriers, which are typically 900 Mhz and 1800 Mhz. To determine if a phone is compatible, travelers can refer to the user guide of the phone or search online for the phone’s specifications.

Once these technical issues are addressed, travelers can then decide whether they want to use an international roaming service or purchase a local SIM card while in China. This decision will depend on factors such as cost, convenience, and the length of stay in the country.

For reference:In China, there are three major telecommunication carriers: China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. These carriers utilize different communication standards, including:

China Mobile: GSM, TD-SCDMA, TD-LTE

China Unicom: GSM, WCAMA, FDD-LTE, TD-LTE

China Telecom: CDMA2000, EVDO, TD-LTE, FDD-LTE

International Roaming or Local SIM Card

Carriers often impose exorbitant fees for international roaming services. It is highly recommended that you carefully review the detailed rates for international roaming with your carrier before embarking on your trip. You may be shocked by the prices you encounter. Therefore, unless it is absolutely necessary to maintain contact with your current number while traveling, we advise that you consider obtaining a local SIM card instead.

One of the most popular and cost-effective options is to use a local SIM card in China. By utilizing a Chinese SIM card, you can enjoy incredibly low rates for calls within China, as well as when calling back to the US, Canada, or other countries. Communication costs can be as low as $0.05 per minute, and international call charges are also quite affordable.

How to purchase a Chinese SIM card

If you prefer to purchase a SIM card on your own, you have the option of buying a Chinese SIM card at the airport upon arrival in China. This allows you to start using the card right away. However, it’s important to note that the cards sold at the airport tend to be more expensive than those available at the stores of China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. These stores are easily found throughout China, making it convenient to purchase a SIM card there. It’s worth mentioning that not all SIM cards allow for international calls, so be sure to inform the store staff of your needs when making your purchase.

If you need to top up your cellphone, you can visit the carriers’ retail stores or simply buy a top-up card at convenience stores or street vendors. Another option for purchasing a Chinese SIM card is through online retailers such as Amazon or stores specializing in international SIM cards. While this method allows you to have the SIM card ready before your trip, it may come at a higher cost compared to buying from Chinese carriers.

The most popular and cost-effective way to stay connected in China is by using a local SIM card. With incredibly low rates for domestic and international calls, you can enjoy communication for as little as $0.05 per minute. Whether you’re calling within China or back to the US, Canada, or elsewhere, a Chinese SIM card offers affordable rates for all your communication needs.

Alternative Options: Renting or Buying a Cellphone

If your cellphone does not work in China, you may be considering renting or purchasing a new one. Purchasing a cellphone in China and using a local SIM card is often more cost-effective than dealing with expensive roaming charges. In China, there are many affordable options available, such as Android smartphones for less than $100, or basic “dumb” phones for under $40.

Renting a cellphone is a convenient option for those visiting China for a short period, such as less than a month. You can rent an unlocked phone before leaving home or upon arrival in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. If you choose to rent in China, simply ask your guide or hotel for recommendations on where to find a rental store.

Overall, whether you decide to purchase or rent a cellphone in China, there are plenty of affordable options available to suit your needs.

Data Services: MiFi

For travelers who rely on their laptops for work, upload photos to social media, make video calls, or simply surf the internet while on the go, a portable MiFi device is an essential tool. A MiFi device is a compact and portable wireless hotspot, measuring just 3 inches wide. It allows up to five devices to connect simultaneously, enabling cell phones, tablets, and laptops to access the internet through a single international data plan. With a MiFi hotspot, you can easily connect to the internet no matter where you are.

While purchasing a local SIM card with the right data plan can meet your data needs in China, having a MiFi device is especially beneficial when roaming. In many major cities, establishments like shopping malls, KFC, coffee shops, and hotels offer free Wi-Fi to customers. However, free Wi-Fi can be scarce in rural areas of China. Renting a MiFi device is a convenient solution to this issue, ensuring you have reliable internet access wherever your travels take you.