Eleanor McGleenan
To stay connected effortlessly while traveling, securing the best eSIM for China is a must.In a country where access to many popular Western apps and websites can be restricted, having a reliable and simple connectivity solution is more important than ever. We’ve meticulously researched and reviewed the top eSIM providers, helping you find the perfect one for a seamless, stress-free trip.
For most people, figuring out data plans and network carriers in a foreign country is a big headache. The goal here is simple: to cut through the confusion and give you the clear, direct information you need. We’ll show you exactly which providers offer the best value, coverage, and features, so you can stop worrying about your phone and start enjoying your travels.
Here’s a fast look at our top picks for eSIM China and what makes each one stand out.
Saily is quickly gaining traction as a go-to choice for travelers, especially those heading to China. Owned by a reputable security company, it offers more than just data—it provides peace of mind. We found its plans to be incredibly straightforward and easy to manage, which is a huge plus when you’re on the go and don’t want to spend time troubleshooting. It’s a reliable option that balances cost with performance, making it one of the best choices for an eSIM for China travel.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2024 | 190+ Countries | Built-in security, ad blocker, flexible plans | Varies by region, from 1GB to 20GB+ | China Mobile, China Unicom | Live chat, email (responsive) | Yes (iOS, Android) | 9.0/10 |
The provider’s main strength lies in its blend of security and ease of use. Saily connects to top local networks like China Mobile and China Unicom, giving you solid 4G and 5G connectivity in major hubs like Beijing and Shanghai. Its performance on day trips to places like the Great Wall was consistently strong. This makes it an ideal option for travelers who need a stable connection to use navigation, messaging, and access their essential apps, all while knowing their data is secure. For travelers considering an eSIM for Asia in general, Saily’s regional plans also offer seamless connectivity for multi-country trips, say if you’re also visiting eSIM for Japan or eSIM for Korea.
Saily’s plans stand out because they’re not just cheap; they’re smart. You get the benefits of a cheap eSIM China without compromising on network quality. The app is clean and simple, making it easy to see how much data you have left and to top up if you need to. We’ve seen firsthand how useful it is to have a secure connection in China, and Saily delivers on that promise.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| China Explorer | 5 GB | 15 Days | ~$15 | Mainland China | Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou |
| China Unlimited | 10 GB (FUP) | 30 Days | ~$35 | Mainland China | All major cities and tourist areas |
| Asia Traveler | 3 GB | 7 Days | ~$10 | Asia | China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, more |
Airalo is one of the most well-known names in the eSIM game, and for good reason. Its platform is polished, and the sheer number of countries it covers is impressive. For China, Airalo offers straightforward, data-only plans that are perfect for tourists who just need to get online. The app makes installation a breeze, which is a major advantage for travelers landing at a busy international airport. This is a very solid option for an eSIM for China.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2019 | 200+ Countries | User-friendly app, global & regional plans, Airmoney rewards | Varies widely, from 1GB to 20GB | China Unicom, China Mobile | 24/7 live chat | Yes (iOS, Android) | 8.8/10 |
Our Airalo Asia eSIM review shows that the provider’s strength is in its reliability and convenience. Its network partnerships with carriers like China Unicom mean you’ll get consistent high-speed data, whether you’re in the middle of Beijing or on a fast train to Shanghai. We found that Airalo’s plans work well for typical tourist activities: using maps, messaging family, and looking up opening hours for attractions. The simplicity of the app and activation process really makes a difference.
Airalo offers a stress-free entry point into using an eSIM China. You can buy your plan before you even leave home and activate it the moment you land. This eliminates the need to find a store to buy a local Chinese SIM card. The plans are priced competitively, making it a viable alternative to expensive international roaming.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| Hubei | 1 GB | 7 Days | ~$5 | Mainland China | All of Mainland China |
| Jingdong | 5 GB | 30 Days | ~$18 | Mainland China | All of Mainland China |
| Data Pack 1 | 20 GB | 90 Days | ~$40 | Mainland China | All of Mainland China |
Holafly is a game-changer for travelers who need a truly unlimited data plan. Forget about watching your data usage or worrying about running out. This provider is perfect for those who want to post lots of photos, stream video, or simply have the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ll never hit a data cap. The focus here is on a worry-free experience, which is why a Holafly Asia plan is often the top choice for heavy data users.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2018 | 160+ Countries | Unlimited data plans, built-in VPN, 24/7 multilingual support | Unlimited, from 5 days to 90 days | China Mobile, China Unicom | 24/7 live chat, email | Yes (iOS, Android) | 9.2/10 |
The main selling point for Holafly is, without a doubt, its unlimited data. It means you can use your phone in China just like you would at home. The unlimited plan often includes an integrated VPN, which is a massive bonus. This lets you bypass the “Great Firewall” and access apps like Google, Instagram, and WhatsApp without any extra setup. For travelers who rely on these services for everything from navigation to staying in touch with friends, a Holafly plan is a must. We’ve used it and can confirm that the speeds are stable and the freedom of having unlimited data is invaluable.
When it comes to an eSIM China unlimited data plan, Holafly is the undisputed leader. For a single price, you get as much data as you can use, removing one of the biggest travel anxieties. The built-in VPN feature is a huge benefit that many other providers don’t offer, making it a truly seamless solution for Browse the open internet.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| China Unlimited 5 | Unlimited | 5 Days | ~$19 | Mainland China | All of Mainland China |
| China Unlimited 15 | Unlimited | 15 Days | ~$44 | Mainland China | All of Mainland China |
| China Unlimited 30 | Unlimited | 30 Days | ~$64 | Mainland China | All of Mainland China |
Nomad stands out by giving you a ton of choices. They offer a wide range of plans from different carriers, letting you pick the exact amount of data and validity period you need. This is perfect for travelers with specific needs, whether it’s a short city break or a long trip exploring remote provinces. The platform is transparent about network partners, which gives you confidence in your connection.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2020 | 160+ Countries | Highly flexible plans, network selection, auto-renewal options | Varies widely, from 1GB to 50GB | China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom | Email, in-app support | Yes (iOS, Android) | 8.7/10 |
The key feature of Nomad is the ability to choose from a variety of plans, including regional ones. A Nomad eSIM Asia plan, for instance, is great if your journey takes you beyond China’s borders. This flexibility is what we love about Nomad. You can find a plan that’s a perfect fit for your itinerary, whether you’re spending a week in Shanghai or a month traveling through rural areas. The plans are often very cost-effective, and you can easily top up if your plans change.
Nomad’s biggest strength is its customization. You can choose a plan based on price, data amount, or validity. This makes it an ideal choice for the budget-conscious traveler or anyone who needs a very specific plan. Plus, the ability to top up from anywhere makes it a reliable eSIM card China option.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| China 1GB | 1 GB | 7 Days | ~$6 | Mainland China | All of Mainland China |
| China 10GB | 10 GB | 30 Days | ~$25 | Mainland China | All of Mainland China |
| China 20GB | 20 GB | 60 Days | ~$45 | Mainland China | All of Mainland China |
Billion Connect is a great solution for those who need a lot of data for a short period. Their focus is on high-data and daily unlimited plans, which is perfect for business travelers or short-stay tourists who need to be constantly online. If your trip is a week or less, and you plan on using your phone for everything from navigation to work, Billion Connect is a fantastic option.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2021 | 180+ Countries | Daily unlimited plans, high data bundles, strong 5G connections | Daily Unlimited, 1GB to 30GB | China Unicom, China Telecom | Live chat, email | Yes (iOS, Android) | 8.5/10 |
We’ve found that Billion Connect excels in providing robust and high-speed connections in China’s metropolitan areas. Their plans are often designed around daily usage, which gives you the freedom to use as much data as you need each day without worrying about a total cap for the entire trip. This is a big win for anyone who needs to tether their laptop or stream video on the go. The daily plan structure means you pay for what you use on the days you need it most.
Billion Connect is the ideal eSIM China provider for those who have a short, data-heavy trip. Their focus on daily unlimited plans means you’ll never be left without data, which is a major advantage. This provider offers a simple, powerful solution that lets you get connected fast and stay connected with peace of mind.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| China Daily 500MB | Daily 500MB | 5 Days | ~$8 | Mainland China | All of Mainland China |
| China Daily 1GB | Daily 1GB | 10 Days | ~$18 | Mainland China | All of Mainland China |
| China Data 20GB | 20 GB | 30 Days | ~$38 | Mainland China | All of Mainland China |
Ubigi is a standout option for the discerning traveler. While its plans might not always be the cheapest, they offer a premium experience with a single eSIM profile that works in almost any country you can think of. This is especially useful for those with complex, multi-stop itineraries that include a trip to China. With Ubigi, you install one eSIM and can manage plans for any number of countries from one app.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2017 | 200+ Countries | Single global profile, 5G-ready, monthly recurring options | Varies, from 1GB to 50GB | China Mobile, China Telecom | Live chat, email (business hours) | Yes (iOS, Android) | 8.6/10 |
What we appreciate most about Ubigi is the sheer convenience. Imagine a trip that takes you from eSIM for Japan to eSIM for Korea, and then to China. Instead of juggling three different eSIMs, Ubigi lets you buy regional or even single-country plans all under one profile. For China, Ubigi partners with top networks like China Mobile and China Telecom, ensuring a stable and fast connection. While their customer support isn’t 24/7, we found their in-app help and email support to be very thorough and helpful when we needed them.
Ubigi is the definition of seamless global connectivity. For a traveler visiting multiple countries in Asia, Ubigi’s single profile is an absolute lifesaver. You don’t have to worry about activation or managing multiple accounts. It’s a premium, no-fuss solution that just works.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| China 1GB | 1 GB | 30 Days | ~$9 | Mainland China | All of Mainland China |
| China 3GB | 3 GB | 30 Days | ~$18 | Mainland China | All of Mainland China |
| China 10GB | 10 GB | 30 Days | ~$40 | Mainland China | All of Mainland China |
We don’t just pick names out of a hat. We have a clear methodology to ensure our reviews are trustworthy and useful for travelers like you. Our process focuses on what really matters when you’re on the ground in China.
This is our top priority. A data plan is worthless if you can’t get a signal. We check which local carriers the eSIM providers partner with. For China, that means looking for connections with China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. We evaluate how these providers perform not just in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, but also during popular day trips and excursions to landmarks like the Great Wall. A good provider needs to offer robust 4G and 5G availability to keep you connected wherever you go.
We scrutinize the variety and value of the plans offered. This includes everything from small, cheap eSIM China options for short trips to eSIM China unlimited data packages. We check for transparency on fair usage policies, making sure that “unlimited” really means what you think it does. We also compare the prices to buying a local Chinese SIM card to ensure you’re getting a good deal and avoiding expensive roaming fees.
The whole point of an eSIM is convenience. We test the entire process: buying a plan, receiving the QR code, and activating it on arrival. The best providers have a seamless app experience with clear, simple instructions. This is crucial for travelers who want to set up their connectivity at the airport without any fuss.
If something goes wrong, you need help, and you need it fast. We evaluate the availability and responsiveness of customer support. We look for providers that offer 24/7 support via live chat or email and that have multilingual agents who can effectively troubleshoot problems.
We look for extra benefits that make a difference. This includes hotspot capability for sharing data with other devices, the importance of getting a Chinese phone number for local contacts or bookings, and whether the service helps you with access to VoIP apps for calls.
Let’s put all our top providers side by side so you can see the key differences.
| eSIM Provider | Key Feature Highlight | China-Specific Plans Available | Unlimited Data Options | Validity Range | Best For |
| Saily | All-around value & security | Yes | FUP on some plans | 7 to 30 days | Value-conscious travelers |
| Airalo | User-friendly app & wide coverage | Yes | No | 7 to 90 days | First-time eSIM users |
| Holafly | Truly unlimited data & VPN | Yes | Yes | 5 to 90 days | Heavy data users |
| Nomad | Flexible, customizable plans | Yes | No | 7 to 60 days | Travelers with specific needs |
| Jetpac | Budget-friendly with perks | Yes | No | 4 to 30 days | Budget-focused travelers |
| aloSIM | Phone number inclusion | Yes | No | 7 to 30 days | Those needing a local number |
| Instabridge | Competitive rates & security | Yes | No | 1 to 30 days | Budget-conscious with security needs |
| Ubigi | Single global profile | Yes | No | 1 to 30 days | Frequent & multi-country travelers |
| Yesim | Flexible & pay-as-you-go | Yes | Yes | 1 to 30 days | Flexible-plan seekers |
| Billion Connect | High-data & daily unlimited | Yes | Yes | 5 to 30 days | Short, data-heavy trips |
An eSIM offers a ton of advantages over traditional roaming or buying a physical SIM card for China. The convenience is a huge factor. You don’t have to hunt for a SIM card kiosk at the airport, and you can get connected the moment your plane lands.
You also get to keep your home number active for calls and texts, which is a lifesaver for two-factor authentication or emergencies. This eliminates the need for expensive international roaming charges from your home carrier. You can also pick and choose your plan based on your itinerary, giving you more flexibility and control over your data usage and costs. For a trip to a city like Shanghai, this means you can get a plan just for a few days, and if you decide to extend your trip, it’s easy to top up.
The eSIM landscape is changing fast. In 2025, we’re seeing some interesting trends that will make connectivity in China even better. AI-powered tools are starting to suggest personalized data plans based on your travel style and itinerary, which is a huge help. We’re also seeing a deeper integration of eSIMs with local Chinese apps, making things like ride-hailing and mobile payments smoother.
Another big trend is the widespread availability of 5G across the region, which means faster speeds and more reliable connections. We expect to see a greater focus on digital security and privacy features, which is especially important for travelers in China. It’s all about making your connectivity smart, fast, and secure.
Choosing the right eSIM card China isn’t just about the data. Here are some other things you should think about.
eSIM providers don’t have their own networks. They work by partnering with the big local carriers in China to give you service. The main players are China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. Your eSIM will automatically connect to one of these networks, just like a local best SIM card for traveling China would.
This partnership is what ensures you get a strong signal. The network infrastructure in China’s mainland is extensive and robust, especially in the big cities. You can expect a good connection in most places, with some drops in signal in very remote or rural areas. It’s a reliable system that gives you the same kind of coverage a local would have.
| Pros | Cons |
| Convenience: No need to swap physical SIM cards; activate digitally. | Compatibility: Not all phones support eSIM technology. |
| Flexibility: Easily switch between plans and providers. | Data-Only: Many plans don’t include a local phone number for calls/SMS. |
| Cost Savings: Avoid expensive international roaming fees. | Provider Reliability: Coverage can vary slightly by provider. |
| Keep Home Number: You can use both your home SIM and the eSIM. | Setup: A small learning curve for first-time users. |
Before you buy a plan, you have to check that your phone can actually use an eSIM. The good news is that most newer smartphones do. If you have an iPhone XS or newer, or a recent Samsung Galaxy or Google Pixel, you’re probably good to go. The easiest way to check is to go into your phone’s settings and look for the “eSIM” or “Add Cellular Plan” option. If you see it, you’re ready to get the eSIM for China travel.
Most eSIM providers make paying super simple. You can use major credit and debit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and Amex. Many also accept digital wallets like Google Pay and Apple Pay, which makes the checkout process quick and secure. It’s a straightforward process that feels no different from any other online purchase.
| Feature | eSIM | Physical SIM Card |
| Convenience | Excellent (digital activation) | Poor (requires physical purchase and swap) |
| Cost | Very competitive | Often similar, but can have hidden fees |
| Flexibility | High (can easily switch plans) | Low (must buy a new card to switch) |
| Phone Number | Rare (some providers offer it) | Always included with a local Chinese SIM card |
| Compatibility | Limited to newer devices | Universal for most modern phones |
| Risk of Loss | None | High (easy to lose a small plastic card) |
| Installation | Instant (QR code or app) | Requires a trip to a store and ID registration |
The data plan you pick really depends on how you travel. Are you a social media addict who needs to post daily updates? Go for an eSIM China unlimited data option. If you just need maps and messaging for a few days, a smaller data bundle is a smarter, more cost-effective choice. Speeds are generally excellent in urban areas like Shanghai and Beijing thanks to widespread 4G and 5G networks, but can slow down in remote areas.
Using an eSIM is a smart way to connect, but you should still be mindful of online safety. Use a VPN if your eSIM doesn’t have one to access blocked services and protect your data. Avoid using public Wi-Fi where you can, as it can be less secure. Your eSIM provides a private and secure connection, which is much safer than an open Wi-Fi network.
After a thorough review, we believe Holafly is the best eSIM for China for most travelers. The peace of mind that comes with a truly unlimited data plan, combined with its built-in VPN, is an unbeatable package. You don’t have to worry about data caps or the hassle of setting up a separate VPN.
For a trip to China, where connectivity can be a challenge, Holafly removes the stress and lets you focus on your adventure. It’s a truly seamless and powerful solution.
Ready to secure your connection for your trip? Click here to explore Holafly’s plans and get connected for your China adventure today!
An eSIM is a digital SIM card that’s built into your phone. It lets you activate a mobile data plan without a physical card. For China, it’s a great solution because you can buy and activate a plan from home, and it starts working the moment you land, connecting you to a local network like China Unicom.
Yes, for most travelers, an eSIM is better. You avoid the hassle of finding a store and dealing with language barriers to buy a local Chinese SIM card. An eSIM also lets you keep your primary phone number active, and it’s impossible to lose.
Yes, you can. Providers like Holafly offer unlimited data plans specifically for China. This is a great option for travelers who plan to use a lot of data for social media, streaming, and navigation without worrying about running out.
eSIMs work best in major urban centers like Beijing and Shanghai, as well as popular tourist areas. Connections can be strong even on day trips to places like the Great Wall. In more remote rural regions, coverage might be less consistent, but that’s true for any mobile network.
You should purchase and install the eSIM profile before you go, ideally while you have a stable internet connection. However, the plan’s validity period usually only starts when it connects to a network in China, so you can set it up ahead of time and be ready to go.
Most travel eSIMs are data-only. If you need a Chinese phone number for local calls or texts, a provider like aloSIM might offer this feature, or you may need to look into a physical SIM card for China.
