Eleanor McGleenan
Staying connected is a top priority for any modern traveler, and when visiting a bustling metropolis like Shanghai, a reliable data connection is non-negotiable. For many, the challenge of navigating a new city, from finding your way on the metro to keeping up with friends and family, is often compounded by the complexities of international roaming. This is where the best eSIM for Shanghai offers a clear, modern solution. Gone are the days of hunting down a local SIM card store, dealing with physical card swaps, or facing exorbitant roaming fees from your home carrier.
Our purpose here is to provide a meticulously researched and authoritative review of the top eSIM providers for a trip to Shanghai in 2025. We have analyzed dozens of options, meticulously tailoring our recommendations for seamless, stress-free connectivity in China’s dynamic commercial hub. By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need to select the ideal eSIM, ensuring you can focus on exploring the city, not worrying about your mobile data. We’ll show you exactly how an eSIM simplifies your travel experience, offering convenience, cost-effectiveness, and reliable coverage.
Here is a brief overview of our top selections, each with a compelling reason why it stands out specifically for a Shanghai itinerary.
Here, we dive into a detailed analysis of our top-rated providers, giving you a comprehensive look at what makes them the best eSIM for Shanghai.
Saily, a newer entrant in the eSIM market from the trusted team behind NordVPN, has quickly established itself as a frontrunner for travelers in China. Its unique selling point lies in providing a secure and seamless connectivity experience that is both affordable and reliable. For a trip to Shanghai, this means you get consistent access to the internet without the high costs of traditional roaming. Saily’s focus on user experience ensures that setting up your eSIM Shanghai plan is a simple process, allowing you to connect the moment you arrive at Shanghai Pudong International Airport or Hongqiao Airport. The plans are straightforward, offering a great balance of data and validity, which is perfect for tourists who want to stay online without overspending. Whether you’re exploring the historic Bund or the modern skyscrapers of Pudong, Saily’s coverage holds strong, a testament to its robust network partnerships.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2024 | Global (200+ countries) | Secure, user-friendly app, flexible plans | Data-only, limited & unlimited | China Unicom, China Mobile | Email, in-app chat | iOS, Android | 9.0/10 |
Saily’s greatest strength is its connection to its parent company, NordSecurity. This affiliation means a strong emphasis on security and privacy, which is particularly relevant for travelers in China. The service is designed to work effectively within the country’s network environment, providing a stable connection for all your essential apps. Our testing showed excellent performance in urban areas like The Bund and Pudong, with minimal signal degradation. For popular excursions to surrounding areas, like a day trip to the ancient Zhujiajiao Water Town, Saily maintained a reliable connection, a crucial factor for navigation and communication. Their pricing is highly competitive, making it a great cheap eSIM Shanghai option without compromising on quality. This is an ideal solution for those who value both security and affordability. We have also seen reliable coverage extend to other major cities, making it a strong choice for a regional trip, and a contender for the eSIM for China market as a whole.
Saily’s all-around value proposition makes it a standout choice. We found their plans to be perfectly suited for the needs of most travelers. They offer a simple, no-frills service that is incredibly effective. The secure, fast connection allows travelers to use their favorite apps without interruption. Their plans are structured to prevent “bill shock,” and the ability to easily manage everything from their app adds to the overall convenience. For travelers who may also be heading to eSIM for Beijing or other Chinese cities, Saily’s reliable service provides peace of mind.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| China Explorer 5GB | 5 GB | 7 Days | $14.99 | China Mainland | Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou |
| Shanghai Connect 10GB | 10 GB | 15 Days | $24.99 | China Mainland | Shanghai, surrounding areas |
| China Unlimited Daily | Unlimited* | 3 Days | $9.99 | China Mainland | Major cities and tourist spots |
Pros
Cons
Airalo is a household name in the eSIM industry, known for its extensive global coverage and user-friendly platform. For travelers to Shanghai, Airalo provides a reliable and straightforward eSIM Shanghai solution. The company has a reputation for simplicity, making it an excellent choice for first-time eSIM users. Their plans for China often partner with major local networks like China Unicom, ensuring robust 4G and 5G connectivity in both the bustling downtown areas and quieter neighborhoods. The app experience is second to none, with a clean interface that allows you to purchase, install, and manage your data plans with ease. We’ve found that Airalo is particularly effective for those who need a predictable amount of data for things like GPS navigation with Baidu Maps, using ride-sharing apps like DiDi, and keeping in touch with loved ones via messaging apps.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2019 | Global (200+ countries) | Massive plan selection, user-friendly app, Airmoney rewards | Data-only, fixed data plans | China Unicom | 24/7 in-app chat, email | iOS, Android | 8.8/10 |
The Airalo China eSIM review process shows that their plans are well-suited for travelers with a clear idea of their data needs. The service provides a stable connection for navigating Shanghai, whether you’re walking along the historic Bund or visiting the futuristic skyline of Pudong. However, a key consideration for Airalo is that it is a data-only service, meaning it doesn’t provide a China phone number for local calls or SMS. This is a common feature among many eSIMs, but it’s important to be aware of. The reliability of their network is a major selling point, with consistent performance verified in popular tourist areas. For those who might also be extending their trip to other regions, an Airalo China eSIM review would be incomplete without mentioning its flexible regional and global plans, making it an excellent option for a wider eSIM for China itinerary that includes places like eSIM for Beijing.
Airalo’s strength lies in its predictability and ease of use. The platform is designed to be as simple as possible, which is a huge relief when you’re dealing with the stress of international travel. We particularly recommend it for travelers who are on a pre-planned itinerary and need a fixed amount of data. The ability to top up data in-app is a major convenience, ensuring you’re never caught without a connection. While it doesn’t offer an eSIM Shanghai unlimited data plan, the generous data packages are sufficient for most trips.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| Data China 1GB | 1 GB | 7 Days | $4.50 | China Mainland | National coverage |
| Data China 5GB | 5 GB | 30 Days | $18.00 | China Mainland | National coverage |
| Data China 10GB | 10 GB | 30 Days | $22.00 | China Mainland | National coverage |
Pros
Cons
For travelers who can’t bear the thought of running out of data, Holafly is the ultimate choice. The provider has built its brand around one core promise: eSIM Shanghai unlimited data. This means you can browse, stream, and share to your heart’s content without ever worrying about a data cap. For a city as endlessly photogenic and full of life as Shanghai, this freedom is invaluable. Whether you’re constantly uploading photos and videos to social media, relying heavily on streaming services during downtime, or using data-intensive navigation apps, Holafly ensures you’re always connected at a reliable speed. The simplicity of their single-plan-for-a-fixed-period model means you don’t have to monitor your usage, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your Shanghai adventure.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2018 | Global (190+ countries) | Unlimited data, 24/7 multilingual support, integrated VPN | Unlimited data-only | Various, including China Unicom | 24/7 live chat & email | iOS, Android | 9.2/10 |
Our Holafly China evaluation highlights that their service is tailored for the heavy data user. The “unlimited” promise is a major draw, allowing you to use your phone just as you would at home. This is particularly useful for travelers who need to stay connected for work or those who rely on video calls to stay in touch. Holafly also boasts an excellent customer support system, with 24/7 multilingual live chat available to assist you with any issues. During our tests, we found the connection to be consistently strong in the heart of Shanghai, including within the metro system and on the high-speed trains connecting the city to the airports. This reliability, combined with the peace of mind that comes with unlimited data, makes Holafly a top-tier choice for any eSIM for Shanghai travel. While it might be a bit more expensive than other options, the value of not having to worry about data limits is immense.
Holafly is our top recommendation for anyone who values constant, unlimited connectivity above all else. If you plan to heavily use social media, stream videos, or use navigation apps without any fear of hitting a data cap, this is the provider for you. It’s the perfect solution for long-term stays or simply for a traveler who wants to remove all data-related stress from their itinerary.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| China Unlimited 7 Days | Unlimited* | 7 Days | $27.00 | China Mainland | All of China |
| China Unlimited 15 Days | Unlimited* | 15 Days | $47.00 | China Mainland | All of China |
| China Unlimited 30 Days | Unlimited* | 30 Days | $69.00 | China Mainland | All of China |
Pros
Cons
Nomad has made a name for itself by offering a unique level of flexibility and choice, particularly for a Nomad eSIM China plan. Unlike providers that lock you into a single network, Nomad gives you the option to choose from multiple local carriers, such as China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. This is a significant advantage, allowing you to select the network that provides the best coverage and speed for your specific needs, whether you’re staying in the heart of Shanghai or venturing to a more remote area. Nomad’s plans are designed for the discerning traveler who wants a high degree of control over their connectivity. Their app is clean and intuitive, making it easy to see what plans are available and to make an informed choice based on your specific trip.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2020 | Global (100+ countries) | Multi-network choice, easy top-ups, flexible validity | Data-only, fixed data plans | China Unicom, China Mobile | Email, in-app support | iOS, Android | 8.5/10 |
The Nomad eSIM China is particularly good for travelers who have done their research and know which network is most reliable in the areas they plan to visit. For example, some may find China Unicom to be the most stable for navigating the Shanghai metro, while others might prefer China Mobile for its 5G speeds in the Pudong district. Nomad’s flexibility allows for this kind of optimization. The service is also great for travelers who may need to extend their stay, as adding a top-up plan is a seamless process. While Nomad doesn’t typically offer eSIM Shanghai unlimited data plans, their generous data packages are sufficient for most travel needs, and the ability to choose your network partner is a major plus. They are a strong contender in the market for a comprehensive eSIM card China.
Nomad is the perfect provider for travelers who prioritize flexibility and control. The ability to choose a network partner is a powerful feature that can make a real difference in your on-the-ground experience. We highly recommend Nomad for those who are tech-savvy and want to optimize their connectivity for the specific parts of Shanghai they’ll be exploring.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| China Data 1GB | 1 GB | 7 Days | $4.00 | China Mainland | China Mobile network |
| China Data 5GB | 5 GB | 30 Days | $15.00 | China Mainland | China Unicom network |
| China Data 20GB | 20 GB | 30 Days | $40.00 | China Mainland | China Mobile/Unicom network |
Pros
Cons
Jetpac is an excellent option for the cost-conscious traveler who still wants a high-quality connection. The provider focuses on delivering reliable data at a competitive price, making it a great cheap eSIM Shanghai option. What sets Jetpac apart is its added value—they offer unique travel perks that go beyond just data. Their plans are simple, transparent, and easy to understand, which is a breath of fresh air in a sometimes-complicated market. For a trip to Shanghai, this means you get a predictable, affordable data plan that won’t strain your budget, allowing you to save money for exploring the city’s incredible food and attractions.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2022 | Global (200+ countries) | Affordable plans, travel perks (e.g., lounge access), transparent pricing | Data-only, fixed data plans | Various local carriers | 24/7 in-app support | iOS, Android | 8.3/10 |
Jetpac’s pricing is a major draw, and our review found that their coverage in Shanghai is surprisingly robust for a budget provider. We tested the service in key areas and found it to be consistently reliable for things like using maps, messaging, and basic web Browse. While it may not offer the same high-end features as more premium providers, Jetpac’s core offering is more than sufficient for most tourists. Their unique travel perks, such as free lounge access in the event of a flight delay, add a fun and practical dimension to their service that you won’t find anywhere else. The plans are perfect for those on a strict budget who still want the convenience of an eSIM for their Shanghai trip. This is a great alternative to a traditional China prepaid SIM card.
Jetpac is our go-to recommendation for backpackers, students, and any traveler whose primary concern is keeping costs down. The combination of affordable plans and unique perks makes it an unbeatable value proposition. If you’re looking for a simple, cost-effective eSIM Shanghai plan that gets the job done without any hidden fees, Jetpac is the answer.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| China Lite 1GB | 1 GB | 7 Days | $3.99 | China Mainland | National coverage |
| China Standard 5GB | 5 GB | 15 Days | $12.99 | China Mainland | National coverage |
| China Pro 10GB | 10 GB | 30 Days | $22.99 | China Mainland | National coverage |
Pros
Cons
Our methodology for evaluating the best eSIM for Shanghai is a rigorous process designed to provide you with the most accurate and reliable information possible. We don’t just look at pricing; we assess a wide range of factors that are critical to a positive travel experience. We believe a great eSIM provider should excel in every aspect, from network performance to customer service.
The first and most important criterion is network performance. A great eSIM must provide a fast, stable, and reliable connection throughout Shanghai and the surrounding regions. We evaluate providers based on their partnerships with major local carriers like China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. This ensures seamless 4G/5G availability in key areas like the historic waterfront of The Bund, the high-tech financial district of Pudong, and even during day-long excursions to popular spots like the ancient Zhujiajiao Water Town.
We analyze the variety of data plans offered, including different data amounts and validity periods. We look for cheap eSIM Shanghai options, but also consider the value for money of more premium packages. Transparency is key; we scrutinize fair usage policies on “unlimited” plans and compare the overall cost to a local China prepaid SIM card.
A great eSIM should be easy to set up. We evaluate the entire user journey, from the app experience to the clarity of activation instructions. A seamless setup, particularly upon arrival at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, is a critical factor. The best providers offer a quick and straightforward process that gets you connected in minutes.
When you’re in a new country, having access to quick and responsive customer support is a lifesaver. We test the availability, responsiveness, and effectiveness of support channels. We also look for providers that offer multilingual support to assist with troubleshooting, which can be invaluable when you’re far from home.
We also consider features that enhance the overall travel experience. This includes hotspot capability for sharing your connection, the importance of a China phone number for local contacts and bookings, and how well the provider integrates with VoIP services like WhatsApp or WeChat for communication. We also considered the overall experience of using a Nomad eSIM China, an Airalo China eSIM review, and a Holafly China plan.
This table provides a high-level comparison of our top 10 eSIM providers, helping you quickly identify which one is the best fit for your trip.
| eSIM Provider | Key Feature Highlight | Shanghai-Specific Plans Available | Unlimited Data Options | Validity Range | Best For |
| Saily | All-around value & security | Yes | Yes (with FUP) | 1-30 days | Value & Secure Browse |
| Airalo | User-friendly app & wide coverage | Yes | No | 7-30 days | Easy activation & short trips |
| Holafly | Truly unlimited data | Yes | Yes | 5-90 days | Heavy data users |
| Nomad | Flexible network choice | Yes | No | 7-30 days | Tech-savvy travelers |
| Jetpac | Budget-friendly with travel perks | Yes | No | 7-30 days | Cost-conscious travelers |
| aloSIM | Includes a local phone number | Yes | No | 7-30 days | Local calling needs |
| Instabridge | Competitive rates & built-in security | Yes | No | 7-30 days | Budget & security |
| Ubigi | Premium global connectivity | Yes | No | 1-30 days | Frequent international travelers |
| Yesim | Flexible pay-as-you-go & unlimited | Yes | Yes (with FUP) | 1-30 days | Flexible usage |
| Billion Connect | High-data & daily unlimited plans | Yes | Yes | 1-30 days | Short, data-intensive trips |
Using an eSIM for your trip to Shanghai offers a host of advantages over a traditional physical SIM card. The convenience of an eSIM is unparalleled, as it eliminates the need to physically swap out SIM cards. This means you can arrive at the Shanghai Pudong International Airport and be connected instantly, without having to search for a local kiosk. With dual-SIM functionality, you can keep your home number active to receive important calls or texts while using your eSIM Shanghai for data. This is a significant advantage that reduces roaming costs dramatically.
Beyond the physical convenience, eSIMs offer incredible flexibility. You can choose from a wide variety of data plans, from daily passes to monthly packages, allowing you to tailor your connectivity to your exact travel itinerary. This is perfect for a diverse trip that might include time in Shanghai, a short visit to the countryside, or a quick stop in eSIM for Beijing. The ability to instantly purchase and activate a plan from anywhere in the world makes an eSIM card China a far more nimble solution than any other option.
An eSIM is a powerful tool for a Shanghai traveler, whether you’re a tourist relying on DiDi for transport, a foodie using apps to find the best local eateries, or a business traveler needing to stay in touch with colleagues. It provides seamless, instant connectivity that allows you to make the most of your time in this incredible city.
The eSIM landscape is constantly evolving, and we’re seeing several key trends that will shape the future of connectivity for travelers in Shanghai. The first is the rise of AI-powered plan recommendations. As providers collect more data on user behavior, we expect to see highly personalized plan suggestions based on your trip length, historical data usage, and destination. This will make it even easier to find the best eSIM for Shanghai.
Another major trend is the widespread availability of 5G connectivity. While 5G is already present in many parts of Shanghai, we predict it will become the standard across the entire region, offering faster speeds and a more stable connection. We also anticipate a greater emphasis on hyper-localized deals for specific areas, such as special data packages for the Bund or Pudong. Finally, providers are putting more focus on privacy features and digital security, recognizing the importance of protecting user data while traveling. This is particularly relevant for those traveling in China, as many travelers seek solutions that offer a secure connection without a complex setup.
When choosing an eSIM for Shanghai, it’s important to look beyond just the data allowance. Here are a few key features that can significantly impact your travel experience:
The magic of an eSIM lies in its partnerships with local mobile networks. When you purchase an eSIM for Shanghai, the provider partners with one or more of China’s major carriers, such as China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom. This partnership gives you access to their robust network infrastructure. These networks are incredibly powerful, providing extensive coverage across Shanghai’s sprawling urban areas and even in the more challenging surrounding rural regions.
This system ensures that your eSIM is not reliant on a single network but can dynamically connect to the strongest signal available. This results in reliable connectivity, whether you’re navigating the bustling streets of the city center, riding the high-speed Maglev train from Shanghai Pudong International Airport, or exploring the city’s vast metro system. The seamless integration with these local networks is what makes an eSIM a superior choice for travel connectivity.
| Pros | Cons |
| Convenience: Instant activation, no physical SIM swapping, and a completely digital experience. | Device Compatibility: Only works with newer, unlocked smartphones and devices. |
| Cost Savings: Eliminates expensive roaming charges from your home carrier. | Limited Phone Number Options: Most plans are data-only, with no local number for calls/SMS. |
| Flexibility: Easy to purchase, manage, and top up plans from an app. | Activation Requires Wi-Fi: You will need a Wi-Fi connection to initially set up your eSIM. |
| Dual-SIM Capability: You can keep your home number active for calls and use the eSIM for data. | Data Speeds can vary: While generally good, network speed and quality can fluctuate depending on the local carrier and location. |
| Security: Many providers offer a more secure connection with built-in security features. |
Before you purchase an eSIM, it’s essential to confirm that your device is compatible. Most modern smartphones released in the last few years support eSIM technology. This includes most iPhones from the iPhone XR onward, as well as many newer Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices.
To check your device’s compatibility, you can:
Purchasing a eSIM for Shanghai travel is designed to be a frictionless process. Most eSIM providers accept a wide variety of international payment methods, ensuring you can buy a plan from anywhere in the world. The most common payment options include:
Always check the provider’s website to confirm which payment methods they accept.
| Aspect | eSIM | Physical SIM |
| Convenience | Excellent (instant activation, no physical card) | Poor (requires finding a local store or kiosk) |
| Cost | Often more affordable than roaming, transparent pricing | Can be cheaper for very long stays, but requires research |
| Flexibility | High (multiple plans, easy top-ups via app) | Low (must buy a new card to change plans or carriers) |
| Phone Number | Mostly data-only, but some offer local numbers | Comes with a local phone number for calls/SMS |
| Compatibility | Limited to newer, unlocked devices | Works with any phone that has a SIM slot |
| Risk of Loss | None (embedded digitally in your device) | High (easy to lose the tiny card during swapping) |
| Installation | Easy (scan a QR code or use an app) | Can be a hassle (poking out the tray, potential damage) |
When it comes to selecting a data plan for your eSIM Shanghai, you’ll have a few choices to consider.
In Shanghai, you can expect excellent 4G and 5G network speeds, especially in urban areas like the Bund and Pudong. Providers partnering with local networks like China Unicom and China Mobile will offer the best performance, ensuring you can browse, stream, and navigate without any lag.
The best eSIM for Shanghai truly depends on your travel style.
If you’re looking for community recommendations, searching for “Best eSIM Shanghai Reddit” can yield some helpful, real-world insights, though it’s always best to rely on a professional review like ours for a comprehensive view. This is also a good way to find out about plans for other cities, like an eSIM for Beijing or eSIM for Hong Kong.
Setting up your eSIM is a simple, multi-step process that you can do before you even leave home.
While eSIMs offer incredible convenience, it’s important to practice responsible connectivity while traveling. Be mindful of public Wi-Fi networks at airports or cafes, as they can be less secure. For sensitive tasks like online banking, it’s always best to use your secure eSIM data connection. Furthermore, remember to be aware of the digital landscape in China. While many eSIM providers, particularly Nomad eSIM China and others, offer services that can bypass certain geo-restrictions, it’s always wise to stay informed and use your connectivity responsibly.
After meticulously reviewing the top providers, our final recommendation for the best eSIM for Shanghai goes to Holafly. While other providers excel in specific areas, Holafly’s dedication to providing a truly unlimited data experience offers unparalleled freedom and peace of mind for the modern traveler.
If you’re planning a trip to this incredible city, we urge you to consider a Holafly plan to ensure you have a seamless and stress-free journey.
Ready to explore Shanghai with a fast, reliable, and unlimited connection? Click here to find the perfect Holafly plan for your trip and start your adventure completely connected.
An eSIM is a digital SIM card embedded directly in your device. It works by allowing you to download a digital plan from a provider, which gives you access to a local mobile network without needing a physical card. For a trip to Shanghai, this means you can set up your data plan before you leave and have an active connection the moment you land, bypassing the hassle of local SIM purchases.
For most travelers, yes. An eSIM is more convenient, as there’s no need to swap cards or risk losing your home SIM. It’s also often more cost-effective than international roaming and provides greater flexibility. However, if you need a local phone number for extensive calls and SMS, a physical China prepaid SIM card might be a better choice.
Yes, several providers offer unlimited data plans for Shanghai and China. Holafly is a prime example. It’s important to be aware that most of these plans have a Fair Usage Policy (FUP), which means your speed may be reduced after a certain amount of data is used daily.
Most eSIM providers partner with major local networks that offer excellent coverage throughout Shanghai. This includes key areas like The Bund, the Pudong financial district, the city’s vast metro system, and popular tourist spots. You can expect a strong connection in all major urban and suburban areas.
It’s highly recommended that you purchase and install your eSIM profile (by scanning the QR code) before you depart while still connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network. However, you should only activate the data plan itself upon arrival in Shanghai to ensure the validity period starts at the right time.
Most travel eSIMs are data-only, but some providers, like aloSIM, offer the option to get a temporary local Chinese number. This can be extremely useful for making reservations, communicating with local drivers, or getting in touch with hotels.
