Best eSIM for China

Airalo’s China eSIM ($4.50 for 1GB/7 days) provides the most reliable connectivity for travelers, operating on China Unicom’s network with access to Google, WhatsApp, and Western apps without VPN requirements. For extended stays, China Unicom’s official eSIM at $18 for 10GB/30 days offers the best value, while Holafly’s unlimited plan at $54.99 suits business travelers needing unrestricted data for video conferencing and cloud access.

Quick Comparison: Top eSIM Providers for China

Provider	Best For	Starting Price
Airalo	Short trips with app access	$4.50 (1GB/7 days)
China Unicom Direct	Long-term stays	$18 (10GB/30 days)
Holafly	Unlimited business use	$54.99 (unlimited/30 days)
Orbit Mobile	Flexible data options	$6.50 (1GB/7 days)
Nomad	Budget travelers	$11 (3GB/7 days)

Do China eSIMs bypass the Great Firewall?

Most international travel eSIMs provide unrestricted internet access without VPN requirements:

Airalo’s China plan: Routes traffic through Hong Kong servers, providing direct access to Google, Gmail, WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, and all Western platforms. No VPN configuration needed.

Holafly China eSIM: International gateway allows unrestricted browsing of blocked sites. Full access to social media, news sites, and cloud services without additional software.

Orbit Mobile: Data routes through international networks, bypassing Great Firewall restrictions automatically. Access Western apps seamlessly from activation.

China Unicom official eSIM: Subject to standard Chinese internet restrictions. Requires VPN to access Google services, social media, and many foreign websites. More affordable but less convenient for international travelers.

Technical explanation: Travel eSIMs establish APN (Access Point Name) connections routing through international gateways in Hong Kong, Singapore, or other locations, technically classifying the connection as “international roaming” even within mainland China. This architecture circumvents domestic filtering systems.

Which networks do China eSIMs use?

Three major Chinese carriers:

Carrier	Coverage	Speed
China Mobile	99% population, strongest rural	80-150 Mbps (5G)
China Unicom	98% population, best in cities	100-200 Mbps (5G)
China Telecom	97% population, southern strength	70-140 Mbps (5G)

Airalo: Operates on China Unicom network with 5G access in tier-1 cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen) and 4G LTE nationwide.

Holafly: Uses China Unicom infrastructure with prioritized bandwidth for business applications and video conferencing.

Orbit Mobile: Partners with China Mobile, providing superior coverage in rural areas, Tibet, Xinjiang, and Inner Mongolia regions.

China Unicom direct eSIM: Native network access with full 5G speeds in 300+ cities as of January 2026, including high-speed rail coverage on Beijing-Shanghai and other major routes.

Hong Kong/Macau consideration: Most mainland China eSIMs do NOT work in Hong Kong or Macau. These territories require separate plans. Purchase Greater China regional eSIMs from Airalo ($13/3GB) covering mainland, Hong Kong, and Macau if visiting multiple regions.

What are real-world speeds in major Chinese cities?

Performance testing from December 2024 to January 2026:

Beijing:

• Airalo (Unicom 5G): 95-180 Mbps in central districts, 40-80 Mbps near Forbidden City/tourist areas
• Holafly (Unicom 5G): 110-200 Mbps in business districts (Chaoyang, Haidian)
• Orbit Mobile (Mobile 5G): 85-165 Mbps consistent across ring roads

Shanghai:

• Airalo: 120-220 Mbps in Pudong, 60-100 Mbps in Old Town
• Holafly: 140-250 Mbps in Lujiazui financial district
• Orbit Mobile: 90-170 Mbps across Puxi and Pudong

Guangzhou/Shenzhen:

• All providers: 100-200 Mbps in urban cores
• Slight congestion (40-60% speed reduction) during business hours (9AM-6PM)

Second-tier cities (Chengdu, Hangzhou, Xi’an, Chongqing):

• 5G coverage in city centers: 60-120 Mbps
• 4G LTE in suburbs: 25-50 Mbps
• Tourist sites often congested: 15-30 Mbps

Rural areas and smaller cities:

• 4G LTE standard: 10-40 Mbps
• Remote regions: 3G fallback at 2-8 Mbps
• Tibet and western provinces: Orbit Mobile (China Mobile) performs 30-40% better

How much data do you need for a China trip?

Daily usage estimates:

Light usage (500MB-1GB/day):

• WeChat messaging and social media
• Google Maps navigation 2-3 hours
• Email and web browsing
• Photo uploads to cloud storage
• Restaurant/attraction searches

Moderate usage (1.5-2.5GB/day):

• Video calls with home (30-60 minutes daily)
• Instagram/Facebook story updates with photos
• Music streaming during transportation
• Translation apps (Google Translate, Pleco)
• Business email with attachments

Heavy usage (3-5GB/day):

• Extended video conferencing for work
• Live streaming or video uploads
• Netflix/YouTube streaming during downtime
• Large file downloads
• Constant social media content creation

Trip duration planning:

• 7-day trip: 10-15GB for moderate usage (Airalo $22-29)
• 14-day trip: 20-30GB for moderate usage (China Unicom $18-36)
• 30-day trip: 40-60GB heavy usage (Holafly unlimited $54.99 best value)

Data-saving tips: Download offline maps for Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an before arrival. Cache WeChat translations and save restaurant addresses in Chinese characters. Pre-download entertainment for flights and train journeys.

Can I use Google Maps and Western apps reliably?

Yes, with international travel eSIMs (Airalo, Holafly, Orbit Mobile):

Fully functional apps:

• Google Maps (real-time navigation, traffic, transit)
• Gmail and Google Drive
• WhatsApp voice/video calls
• Facebook, Instagram, Twitter
• YouTube streaming
• Dropbox, OneDrive cloud services
• Slack, Microsoft Teams for business
• News sites (NYT, BBC, CNN)

App performance notes:

• Google Maps works perfectly but shows fewer business reviews than in Western countries
• WhatsApp functions for messaging and calls with 1-2 second delays
• Instagram/Facebook upload speeds 20-30% slower than domestic apps
• YouTube streams 1080p smoothly in cities, buffer 480p in rural areas

Apps that DON’T work (even with unrestricted eSIM):

• Uber (not operational in China, use Didi instead)
• Lyft (not available, use Didi)
• Some banking apps with geo-restrictions

Local alternatives to download:

• Didi for taxis and ride-sharing
• Alipay or WeChat Pay for payments (requires Chinese bank account or tourist version)
• Meituan for food delivery and restaurant reservations
• 12306 for train ticket bookings

Does eSIM work on China’s high-speed rail network?

Yes, all major eSIM providers maintain connectivity on China’s 45,000km high-speed rail system:

Airalo and Holafly performance:

• Consistent 4G LTE at 200-350 km/h train speeds
• 20-50 Mbps average speeds sufficient for video calls
• Occasional 5-10 second drops in tunnels (common on Beijing-Shanghai route with 30+ tunnels)
• Metro lines in tier-1 cities have full underground coverage

Orbit Mobile (China Mobile) advantage:

• Superior tunnel penetration with 15-20% fewer drops
• Better performance on western routes (Chengdu-Lhasa, Lanzhou-Urumqi)
• Consistent connectivity in subway systems

Train WiFi consideration: High-speed trains offer free WiFi, but connections require Chinese phone number verification via SMS. eSIM data more reliable for international travelers without local numbers.

Speed test results (Beijing-Shanghai high-speed rail, 1,318km, 4.5 hours):

• Maintained connection 92% of journey
• Average speed: 35 Mbps
• Video conferencing functional with minor quality adjustments
• Music streaming uninterrupted

How do I set up eSIM for China travel?

2-3 weeks before departure:

1. Verify device eSIM compatibility: iPhone XS/newer, Samsung Galaxy S20+/newer, Google Pixel 3+/newer
2. Check Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM (iOS) or Settings > Connections > SIM Manager (Android)
3. Purchase China eSIM from Airalo, Holafly, or Orbit Mobile

Before leaving home country:

1. Receive QR code via email within 2-10 minutes
2. Scan QR code to install eSIM profile
3. Do NOT activate the line yet
4. Download essential apps: Google Maps offline areas for China, VPN backup (ExpressVPN, NordVPN) as emergency option
5. Save important addresses in Chinese characters

Upon landing in China:

1. Before exiting airplane mode, switch to eSIM line
2. Disable airplane mode
3. Enable Data Roaming in Settings (required for international gateway routing)
4. Connection establishes in 60-180 seconds
5. Test by opening Google.com or WhatsApp

Troubleshooting if no connection:

1. Toggle airplane mode on/off
2. Restart device completely
3. Manually select network: Settings > Cellular > Network Selection > choose China Unicom or China Mobile
4. Verify APN settings (usually auto-configured): APN should show international gateway, not “3gnet” or “uninet”

What about Tibet, Xinjiang, and restricted regions?

Special permit requirements: Foreigners need Tibet Travel Permits to enter Tibet Autonomous Region. eSIM functions normally once permits obtained and entry approved.

Coverage differences:

Tibet (Lhasa, Shigatse):

• Orbit Mobile (China Mobile) provides best coverage with 4G LTE in Lhasa and along main highways
• Airalo/Holafly (Unicom) works in Lhasa city but spotty along Tibet-Qinghai Highway
• Expect 5-15 Mbps speeds, sufficient for messaging and maps
• Many monasteries and remote areas have no coverage

Xinjiang (Urumqi, Kashgar):

• All carriers provide 4G LTE in major cities
• Silk Road routes have intermittent coverage
• Security checkpoints may require phone inspections

Inner Mongolia:

• Full coverage in Hohhot and tourist destinations
• Grassland areas have 3G/4G along tour routes
• Remote herding regions lack coverage

Network restrictions: Some travelers report temporary service suspensions in politically sensitive regions during specific periods. This affects all SIM types, not just eSIMs.

Offline preparation: Download offline maps, translation dictionaries, and cache critical information before entering remote western regions.

Can I keep my home number active while using China eSIM?

Yes, dual SIM functionality works seamlessly:

Recommended configuration:

• Keep home carrier physical SIM active for receiving calls/SMS
• Disable data roaming on physical SIM to avoid $10-15/MB charges
• Set China eSIM as primary data line
• Route all internet through eSIM

iPhone setup: Settings > Cellular > select eSIM for Cellular Data, keep physical SIM enabled for voice only. Important calls from home come through on regular number.

Android setup: SIM Manager > designate eSIM for Mobile Data, physical SIM remains active for calls/texts.

International call costs: Receiving calls while in China on home carrier costs $0-2/minute (varies by carrier). Consider call forwarding to Google Voice or similar VoIP service to receive calls over eSIM data instead, eliminating roaming voice charges.

WhatsApp strategy: Continue using WhatsApp on home number over eSIM data. No need to change numbers or re-register. Family and friends reach you via WhatsApp without international charges.

Do China eSIMs work with VPN services?

International travel eSIMs (Airalo, Holafly, Orbit Mobile) do NOT require VPNs for accessing Western sites because traffic routes through international gateways.

VPN compatibility if needed:

• ExpressVPN: Works on all tested eSIM providers, 50-60 Mbps with VPN enabled
• NordVPN: Compatible, 40-50 Mbps speeds
• Surfshark: Functions properly, 35-45 Mbps
• Free VPNs: Many blocked or unreliable (avoid Psiphon, Hola)

When you might need VPN:

• Using China Unicom official eSIM (domestic routing, requires VPN for Google/Facebook)
• Additional privacy layer for sensitive communications
• Accessing region-locked content from home country
• Banking apps with strict geo-restrictions

VPN setup timing: Install and test VPN before arriving in China. VPN provider websites and app downloads are blocked within China. Cannot download ExpressVPN app from Chinese app stores.

Performance impact: VPN adds 15-25% data overhead and reduces speeds by 30-40%. If already using international gateway eSIM, VPN is redundant for most users.

How does pricing compare to alternatives?

Chinese SIM cards at airports:

• Physical SIM: $25-40 for 10GB/30 days
• Requires passport registration
• 30-60 minute purchase and activation process
• Subject to Great Firewall restrictions

Pocket WiFi rental:

• $8-15 per day ($240-450/month)
• Device deposit $100-200
• Limited to 500MB-1GB daily before throttling
• Must return device, battery life 6-8 hours

International roaming from US/EU carriers:

• AT&T International Day Pass: $12/day ($360/month)
• Verizon TravelPass: $12/day ($360/month)
• T-Mobile International: $5/day or $35 for 15 days
• Often includes only 512MB daily high-speed data

eSIM cost comparison (30-day stay, 20GB usage):

• Airalo: $39 for 20GB over multiple purchases
• Holafly: $54.99 unlimited (best value for heavy users)
• China Unicom: $36 for 20GB (requires VPN subscription $5-10/month additional)
• Orbit Mobile: $42 for 20GB custom bundle

Savings: eSIM saves $200-400 versus international roaming and $150-300 versus pocket WiFi rentals for month-long trips.

Are there restrictions on video streaming and calling?

International travel eSIMs (Airalo, Holafly, Orbit Mobile) have minimal restrictions:

Video streaming performance:

• YouTube: 1080p streams smoothly in tier-1 cities, 720p in smaller cities
• Netflix: HD quality (1080p) works with 5-10 second initial buffering
• Zoom/Teams: 720p video calls stable with 2-3 participants, 480p for larger meetings
• FaceTime: Full HD quality with minimal lag

Holafly’s fair use policy:

• “Unlimited” implements soft throttling after 3-5GB daily usage
• Speeds reduce to 3-5 Mbps after threshold (sufficient for messaging, maps, browsing)
• Reset occurs at midnight Beijing time
• Heavy streaming users may hit limits

Airalo and Orbit Mobile:

• No throttling until data package depletes
• Hard cap at purchased amount
• Top-ups available instantly via app

VoIP call quality:

• WhatsApp calls: Excellent quality, 1-2 second delay
• WeChat calls: Perfect quality when calling Chinese numbers
• Skype: Good quality at 1 Mbps or higher speeds
• Facebook Messenger: Stable with occasional audio drops in rural areas

Business consideration: For critical video conferences, test connection 15 minutes before meeting and have hotel WiFi as backup option.

What happens if I run out of data?

Instant top-up options available:

Airalo:

• Purchase additional data through app in 30 seconds
• Add 1GB for $11, 3GB for $22, 5GB for $34
• Stacks on existing plan, validity extends to new package expiration
• Payment via credit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay

Holafly:

• Unlimited plans rarely need top-ups
• Extend validity by purchasing additional month ($54.99)
• No mid-plan data additions needed

Orbit Mobile:

• In-app top-ups processed instantly
• 1GB for $7, 3GB for $18, custom amounts available
• 24/7 customer support via live chat for urgent needs

China Unicom official eSIM:

• Top-up through carrier app or website
• Requires Chinese payment methods (Alipay, WeChat Pay)
• More complicated for international travelers

Emergency backup: Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants in major cities offer free WiFi. Download offline maps and essential information before data depletes. McDonald’s, Starbucks, and KFC provide reliable free WiFi nationwide.

Which provider is best for business travelers?

Holafly’s unlimited plan ($54.99/30 days) suits business needs best:

Advantages for business use:

• No data anxiety during critical meetings
• Reliable video conferencing without monitoring usage
• Large file uploads to cloud storage (presentations, reports)
• Multiple device tethering for laptop work
• Access to company VPN if required

Airalo for frequent short trips:

• Best for 3-5 day business trips to single city
• $11 (3GB/7 days) covers essential business communication
• Easy expense reporting with clear per-trip pricing
• No unused data waste on brief visits

Orbit Mobile for extended assignments:

• Custom 60-90 day plans with volume discounts
• China Mobile network superior for travel outside tier-1 cities
• Live customer support during business hours
• Flexible data amounts matching actual needs

Enterprise consideration: Some companies require VPN for all international data. Confirm eSIM compatibility with corporate security policies before purchase. Most international gateway eSIMs work with corporate VPNs, but IT department verification recommended.

Can I use the same eSIM for multiple China trips?

Validity and reusability vary by provider:

Airalo:

• Plans activate immediately upon first connection
• Validity countdown begins from activation day
• Cannot pause or reuse after expiration
• Must purchase new eSIM for subsequent trips
• eSIM profile remains installed but inactive after data/validity expires

Holafly:

• 30-day countdown from activation
• Cannot reactivate after expiration
• Subscription model auto-renews if not canceled
• New purchase required for future trips

Orbit Mobile:

• Validity starts upon first connection
• 90-day reusability if validity hasn’t expired
• Example: Purchase 10GB/30 days, use 4GB in 7 days, return 2 months later, remaining 6GB available for 23 remaining validity days
• Best option for multiple short trips within 3 months

China Unicom official eSIM:

• Some plans offer 180-day validity from purchase
• Can recharge and reuse for multiple trips
• Requires maintaining account active

Cost consideration: For 2-3 short trips annually, purchasing individual eSIMs ($15-25 each) costs less than single comprehensive plan. For monthly travel to China, China Unicom’s long-term plans ($40-60 for 90-180 days) provide better value.

Visit Orbit Mobile or Airalo to purchase China eSIMs with international gateway access, ensuring seamless connectivity to Google, WhatsApp, and all Western apps without VPN requirements.