Best China eSIM: Cheap 30-Day Visa Free eSIM Plan from S$0.52

Arriving in China can be a shock for many Singaporeans — WhatsApp doesn’t work, Google Maps is blocked, and roaming charges are painfully high. Hunting for a local SIM card in a new city doesn’t help either. That’s where the best eSIM for China comes in. With an eSIM, Singaporean travellers can get instant mobile data access upon landing, unlocking essential Chinese apps like Baidu Maps, WeChat, and Didi right away. Enjoy high-speed 4G/5G data compatible with iPhone, Samsung, and more. It’s convenient, flexible, and great value for money — exactly what travelers need. Here’s everything you need to know about using an eSIM in China.

What is an eSIM?

Different from the traditional physical SIM card, the eSIM, also known as embedded-SIM, is a virtual SIM that can be used when going abroad or travelling overseas. It enables seamless access to the Internet.

Once you purchase it, you’ll be provided a QR code to install eSIM. It is now sold based on your destination. If you want to go to China, then China eSIM is your best choice to help you get connected when travelling.

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Must-have Apps for tourists in China

Having the right apps for China travel can make all the difference. With restrictions on apps like Google Maps and WhatsApp, local apps become essential for navigation, communication, and services. Additionally, China payment methods, like Alipay and WeChat Pay, might feel unfamiliar to Singaporean travelers. Downloading and familiarizing yourself with these apps before your trip ensures you’ll stay connected, easily navigate, and enjoy local services without any hassle.

💡 Pro tip for using Apps in China

Many of China’s apps are in Chinese, so setting the language to English in the app settings (where available) can make navigation easier. Alipay and WeChat Pay require linking a Chinese bank account or payment method, but you can also use international cards in some cases. Make sure to download all necessary apps before your trip and activate your eSIM as soon as you arrive to stay connected throughout your travels.

How to use China eSIM - 5 steps to get connected

Before setting up: Check whether your phone can use eSIM

Mobile phones vary from country to country. Please make sure your mobile phone supports eSIM before purchasing. This ensures a seamless experience when activating and managing your eSIM, allowing you to enjoy the benefits without any compatibility issues.

Check the compatible models below. 👇

Step 1: Choose the best eSIM plan

Step 2: Select the data package

Step 3: Receive activation email

You’ll receive the eSIM activation email and a QR code with installation instructions. You must have a network to install eSIM. Please ensure that there is available WiFi or mobile data before installation.

Step 4: Add your eSIM

Set as the instructions: System - Settings - Cellular (iOS) / SIM Card Management (Andriod) - add a Cellular Plan (iOS) / SIM Card (Android) - agree to download Cellular Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android), and then scan the QR code for activation (or enter SM-DP +Address and Activation Code manually).

Step 5: Connect the Internet

1. After the download is successful, close the primary card if you already have. Enable the Cellular Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android).
2. We recommend that you disable eSIM until you reach your destination. After arriving at the destination, please open your eSIM, turn on roaming to connect to the network and then surf the Internet normally.

How to close?

Open the open Cellular (iOS) or SIM Card Management (Android), and click to turn off the Cellular Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android) (the steps of enabling and disabling are the same).

Note

1. If there is no network after enabling, please turn on the airplane mode and then turn off or restart the phone.
2. The eSIM can only be installed one time by one phone or one device. If removed, it cannot be added again and must be purchased again.
3. If there are problems such as activation failure, please contact Customer Service without deleting the eSIM.

You can now connect to the Internet and enjoy the convenience of eSIM as per your selected plan.

Different China eSIM providers

Airalo

Airalo is known for its wide range of international eSIMs. It offers extensive coverage across major Chinese cities, catering to various needs with flexible data plans. Activation is straightforward via their app by scanning a QR code.

Holafly

Holafly offers unlimited data plans for China, making it ideal for heavy data users. The activation process is simple, with no need for registration or identity verification. Holafly provides plans for different durations, from 5 to 30 days.

Ubigi

Ubigi provides reliable network access with good coverage in both urban and rural areas. Ubigi's China eSIMs are easy to activate through their app, and they offer various data plans suitable for short and long-term stays.

What are the differences among eSIM, SIM and WIFI?

You can find the comparison below to gain a comprehensive understanding of eSIM, SIM and WIFI to make informed decisions about which option best suits your needs!

How can you benefit from China eSIM?

Convenience & Flexibility

With eSIM, you no longer need to swap SIM cards when travelling or switching networks. Now, a quick scan is all you need to get connected with the world. Wherever you’re travelling, eSIM empowers you with effortless connectivity.

Remote activation

eSIM can be remotely activated by network operators, which revolutionises the connectivity experience while also eliminating the need for physical SIM cards. Your wait times will be greatly reduced if having remote activation. This approach will help you quickly onboard, which marks a significant achievement.

Security

eSIM has lots of features to guard your security, such as authentication and encryption. Your user data will be protected to prevent unauthorised access. Thus, privacy is safely guarded in an increasingly connected world.

3 Disadvantages of China eSIM you need to consider

Compared with physical SIM cards, eSIM is widely accepted by travellers. However, there are still some disadvantages you need to consider.

Unavailability & Compatibility issues

Although no physical SIM card is required if you use eSIM, eSIM may not be supported by all operators in every country. And it is incompatible with some devices. Some older devices may not support eSIM.

Setup may be complex

eSIM is designed space-saving, so you don’t need to insert it into your phone. But you need to depend on the operators’ instructions to activate eSIM. Configuring eSIM profiles and settings may require additional steps compared to traditional SIM cards.

One device only

The eSIM can only be installed one time by one phone or one device. If removed, it cannot be added again. Not as traditional SIM cards, it is difficult to switch it between multiple devices.

Despite these disadvantages, the benefits of eSIM still adapt to a wide range of devices and networks.

4 Tips on choosing China eSIM

Plan flexibility

eSIM plans may vary from different operators. Find the plans that align with your needs most, including data package, validity periods, etc. Choose 1GB per day if you are a light user. We recommend choosing 2GB per day if you regularly use data for videos and navigation. If you stay longer in China, consider a fixed data package such as 50GB for 30 days.

Network coverage

Checking the availability and capability of eSIM is a must. You should make sure eSIM networks are available in the area you’re travelling to, and also your device is adapted to eSIM.

Reviews and recommendations

User reviews and recommendations from official platforms will help you know the experiences of others with different eSIM plans and providers.

Customer support

Prompt response and reliable assistance are necessary when confronting any issues that appear during setup or usage. The quality of customer support is one of the most important factors when purchasing eSIM.

The best China eSIM is on Trip.com

Source: Trip Moments

Trip.com is a one-stop travel service provider with a huge selection of hotels, flights, and attractions across the globe.

Multiple plans to satisfy your needs

Here on Trip.com, you can have multiple plans for your needs, including data package, validity period, quantity and more. What you can choose is flexible and customisable!

Good reviews and recommendations

Users’ voice is our voice. Check what people who used Trip.com's China eSIM say.

"Esim was great! Easy to configure and good reception everywhere I went in China!"

"Purchased esim or internet service from Trip.com. got very excellent service."

"It was available immediately if you roamed on, very convenient."

"Very easy to use! Use again!"

Worry-free with reliable support

Trip.com always prioritises your satisfaction and responds to any queries or concerns promptly. Whether you have questions about activation, plan options, or troubleshooting, count on us for reliable support that puts your needs first.

Click below and find your ultimate China eSIM solution now!