Best eSIM for China: Updated Buyer’s Guide

China eSIMs: Quick Guide

TL;DR Verdict: The eSIM4 China plan is recommended for its unbeatable coverage and value. Plans start at just $4.97 for 1 GB of data. You get an instant QR code for setup, access to both major Chinese networks (including 5G in main cities), and a unique app that lets you monitor data, recharge, and even make calls or send texts without roaming fees.

We’ve reviewed the top providers, compared their network coverage, performance, and features to name the definitive best eSIM for China.

This guide will provide a clear, data-driven recommendation to ensure your Chinese adventure is seamlessly connected, from navigating the futuristic streets of Shanghai to sharing your journey in real-time from the historic sites of Beijing.

Quick Comparison: The Best eSIMs for China

*Holafly’s “unlimited” plans are subject to Fair Usage Policies and have significant hotspotting restrictions.

In-Depth eSIM Reviews for China

eSIM4 China – Best Overall

After extensive testing and comparison, eSIM4.com emerges as the definitive best choice for travelers to China. It delivers an unmatched combination of comprehensive coverage, excellent value, and unique features that solve the most common travel connectivity problems. Trusted by over 100,000 global travelers, it’s the most robust and user-centric option on the market.

The standout feature is its access to both of China’s major mobile networks: China Mobile and China Unicom. This is a critical advantage. While other providers may partner with one, eSIM4 ensures your phone can intelligently switch to the absolute strongest signal available, providing superior and more consistent coverage whether you’re in a bustling city like Beijing or a remote village.

Performance:

During our tests, the connection was consistently fast and reliable. With access to top-tier networks, we experienced excellent 5G speeds in major urban centers, perfect for streaming video and making video calls. In more rural areas, the 4G/LTE connection remained strong, easily handling navigation and social media uploads. Our speed tests in Shanghai showed impressive results, with download speeds frequently exceeding 80 Mbps, ensuring a smooth, buffer-free online experience.

What Makes eSIM4’s Travel eSIMs Different?

Beyond its superior network access, eSIM4 distinguishes itself with its optional mobile app, Yabb. By default, eSIM4 offers data-only plans, but by downloading the Yabb app, you can monitor your data usage, recharge on the go, and purchase international calling minutes and text messages. This transforms your data plan into a complete communication package, a great feature for travelers who need to contact local hotels, restaurants, or tour operators.

Pros:

• Connects to all major China networks for the best possible coverage.
• Optional app provides calling, texting, data monitoring, and recharging.
• Competitive pricing with plans starting at just $4.97.
• 24/7 customer support and instant QR code delivery.
• Unrestricted personal hotspot and tethering.

Cons:

• To get calls and texts, you need to download the Yabb app.

See our China eSIM plans here and download the Yabb App here.

Airalo China

Airalo is one of the most well-known eSIM marketplaces, and its plan for China is a popular choice. It offers a reliable connection by partnering with China Unicom, which provides strong 4G/LTE and 5G coverage in most urban areas. However, its plans are strictly data-only, meaning you cannot make traditional calls or send SMS texts. More concerning is the significant volume of user reports detailing critical failures with essential local Chinese apps like Didi (ride-hailing), a crippling issue that can leave you stranded.

Holafly China

Holafly’s main selling point is its unlimited data plans, which appeal to travelers who don’t want to worry about monitoring their usage. They partner with China Mobile, ensuring good coverage. However, Holafly comes with two significant drawbacks. First, it is one of the more expensive options. Second, and more critically, its personal hotspot/tethering feature is severely restricted to just 500 MB of data per day. Furthermore, while the data is “unlimited,” it is subject to “Fair Usage Policies,” which can result in your connection speed being throttled.

Nomad China

Nomad is a strong contender, particularly for travelers who need large amounts of data at a competitive price. In China, Nomad partners with China Unicom and China Telecom, offering reliable 4G and 5G speeds. Like most competitors, Nomad plans are data-only. The primary drawback is a major operational hurdle: due to local regulations, you cannot purchase a new plan from within mainland China. This means you must perfectly estimate your data needs for your entire trip beforehand.

Buying Guide: Everything You Need to Know About Using an eSIM in China

How eSIMs Work in China

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital chip built directly into your smartphone. Instead of physically swapping a plastic SIM card, you simply download a digital “profile.” For China, travel eSIMs have a crucial built-in advantage: they automatically route your data traffic through servers outside the mainland. This process happens invisibly and places your phone’s internet connection outside the Great Firewall, giving you unrestricted access to all your favorite apps (Google, WhatsApp, etc.) without needing a VPN.

Coverage in China

China has a world-class mobile infrastructure with extensive 4G/LTE coverage and rapidly expanding 5G in all major cities. However, coverage varies between the main providers (China Mobile and China Unicom). This is why choosing an eSIM provider like eSIM4.com, which gives you access to both, is so crucial. It ensures your phone will automatically connect to the best available signal.

Step-by-Step Activation Guide for eSIM4.com

Step 1: Purchase Your eSIM Data Pack

Go to the eSIM4.com website and select the China data plan that fits your trip. You’ll receive an email with your eSIM QR code after purchase, no matter where you are in the world.

Step 2: Receive Activation Details

Open the confirmation email, which contains your unique QR code. On your phone, go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM. Choose “Use QR Code” and scan the code from your email. Follow the on-screen prompts. Important: Do this while you have a stable Wi-Fi connection at home.

Step 3: Install And Activate Your New eSIM

After installation, label the new eSIM “China Travel.” Set this new eSIM as your primary line for Cellular Data. Turn Data Roaming ON for your new eSIM4 plan. Crucially, ensure Data Roaming is OFF for your primary home SIM. Once you reach your destination, enable the data plan to start using the internet.

Tips for Using a Dual-SIM iPhone or Pixel

• For iPhone Users: Go to Settings > Cellular. Tap Cellular Data and select your eSIM4 plan. Tap your primary (home) line and make sure Data Roaming is toggled OFF. To prevent your phone from using your expensive home data if the eSIM signal is weak, go to Cellular Data and turn OFF Allow Cellular Data Switching.
• For Google Pixel Users: Go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs. Select your eSIM4 plan and ensure Mobile data and Roaming are toggled ON. Select your primary (home) SIM and ensure Roaming is toggled OFF.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is an eSIM and how does it work?

An eSIM is an embedded, digital SIM card built into your phone’s hardware. You download a data plan online and install it by scanning a QR code.

Will my phone work with an eSIM?

Most smartphones released since 2018 are eSIM-compatible (iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, etc.). Your phone must also be “unlocked.”

Can I make phone calls with an eSIM for China?

Most travel eSIMs are data-only. However, eSIM4.com is a standout exception. Their optional Yabb app allows you to make and receive calls and texts over your data connection.

How much data do I need for a trip to China?

• Light User (1-3 GB/week): For maps, messaging, and light browsing.
• Moderate User (5-10 GB/week): For regular social media use, photo uploads, and some music streaming.
• Heavy User (20 GB+/week): For video streaming, frequent video calls, and using your phone as a hotspot.

Can I use my China eSIM in other European countries?

A country-specific eSIM for China will only work in China. However, providers like eSIM4.com offer regional “Asia” or “Global” plans if your trip includes other countries.

What happens if I run out of data?

With eSIM4.com, you can easily top up your data directly through their website or the mobile app.

Is an eSIM cheaper than my home carrier’s roaming plan?

Yes, almost always. International roaming plans can cost $10 or more per day. A prepaid eSIM for a week can cost as little as $4.97, a massive saving.

Can I keep my home phone number active while using an eSIM?

Absolutely. You can keep your primary SIM active to receive calls and SMS messages while using the eSIM for all your mobile data needs.

Can I use my phone as a personal hotspot with an eSIM?

Yes, eSIM4.com plans fully support personal hotspot/tethering with no restrictions. This is a key advantage over competitors like Holafly.

The Verdict: The Best eSIM for Your Trip to China

For a seamless, reliable, and cost-effective connection in China, eSIM4.com is the clear winner.

Its single greatest advantage is its partnership with both major Chinese mobile networks—China Mobile and China Unicom. This multi-network access guarantees the strongest possible signal and most reliable coverage. While other providers offer solid data plans, eSIM4.com goes a step further with its unique app that enables calls and SMS. Combined with competitive pricing, 24/7 support, and an effortless setup process, it delivers the most complete and worry-free connectivity package for any traveler.

See Our eSIM Plans Here

PETER MOORE