Mobile internet

Will my phone work in China? 4 Methods

Wondering whether your phone will work in China? Learn more about using your phone in China through roaming services, pocket WiFi, local SIM cards, and virtual eSIMs.

While your phone will likely work in China, there are a few essential things to be aware of before traveling. Whether you want to use your phone for directions, communication, or just staying connected, several options are available to ensure reliable cell service while in mainland China.

In this blog, we’ll cover the main options, including international roaming services from your home carrier, a local China SIM card, a pocket WiFi device, and an unlimited data travel eSIM for China.

In this article

Can I use my phone in China?

Yes, you can use your phone in China. However, here are some things to double-check before your trip to ensure your phone works in China without any issues.

If you opt to use a local China SIM card, your phone must be unlocked. Contact your mobile carrier (T-Mobile, Verizon, or others) to confirm you have an unlocked phone so you can switch between foreign SIM cards and avoid high roaming charges.
Most mobile phones will work fine, but check your phone’s compatibility with Chinese mobile networks and frequency bands, including:

5G bands: n1 (2100), n41 (2500), n78 (3500), n79 (4700)
4G bands: B1 (2100), B3 (1800), B5 (850), B34 (TDD 2100), B39 (TDD 1900), B40 (TDD 2300), B41 (TDD 2500)
3G bands: B1 (2100), B8 (900), B39 (TD 1900+)
2G bands: B3 (1800), B8 (900), CDMA BC0 (800)

Be aware of internet restrictions in China. Due to the Great Firewall of China, you won’t be able to access popular apps like Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and even Google Maps. One way to get around this is to install a VPN before arriving in China to use the internet in China freely. Some eSIMs, like Holafly, offer a built-in VPN, eliminating the trouble of managing separate VPN apps.
Set up mobile payment on your phone. China uses QR code-based payment apps like WeChat Pay and AliPay. This will be helpful, especially if you plan to use a local SIM card for China or a China eSIM.

How to use your cell phone in China

After you’ve confirmed that your mobile phone will work in China, the next step is to choose how to stay connected and use your phone in China.

There are four main ways to use your mobile phone: international roaming, an eSIM for China, a physical SIM card for China, or a pocket WiFi device. Each option has pros and cons, depending on costs, data limits, and convenience.

Roaming in China

You can activate international roaming services through your home carrier. Many popular US mobile network providers offer roaming services in China, including:

With this option, you can keep your current number, but it often comes with expensive roaming fees and limited data plans. If you’re on a T-Mobile, AT&T, or Verizon mobile plan, here are some of the roaming plan options:

AT&T’s international roaming day pass: $12 for access to your regular balance of calls, texts, and data at your destination.
T-Mobile’s international pass: $5-50 for 512 MB-15 GB and unlimited calling
Verizon’s international TravelPass: $12 per day for unlimited data, talk, and text

China eSIM

If your phone supports eSIM technology (most do), using a China eSIM is the fastest and most convenient way to get connected. An eSIM is a virtual or digital SIM card that you can activate without the need to remove or swap physical SIM cards.

Other features of eSIMs typically include a quick setup (usually via a QR code), unlimited data plans, and no roaming fees. Holafly’s eSIM for China offers all this and a built-in VPN that makes navigating China’s internet censorship easy.

With the flexibility to match your plan to your vacation, you never have to pay for more than you need.

Here are some potential Holafly eSIM plans for China:

5-day trip to China: $20.90 for unlimited data
10-day trip to China: $36.90 for unlimited data
15-day trip to China: $50.90 for unlimited data

SIM card for China

Opting for a local SIM card for China will keep you online at local rates. To find the most suitable one, you can order one online through popular third-party retailers, including Amazon, Nihao Mobile, and Simify.

Or, you can visit a telecom retailer anywhere in China and choose a local SIM card that fits your needs from one of the official mobile provider shops, including China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom. Visit our China SIM card article to learn more about China’s best tourist SIM cards.

Top tip: You’ll need your passport and other forms of identification for the SIM registration process.

Pocket WiFi in China

The final option for using your mobile phone in China is through pocket WiFi. This is a portable WiFi router you can carry with you at all times; you can rent or purchase one before you travel.

It’s a good choice for using your phone in China, especially if you’re traveling in a group or carrying multiple devices. Simply turn it on and connect to the signal the portable router emits (like any other WiFi network).

Another digital alternative to a pocket WiFi device is one of Holafly Plan’s monthly eSIM subscriptions, available in over 170+ destinations. With this service, you won’t have to carry a physical device everywhere, adding convenience.

You can choose from three different data plans, including 10 GB, 25 GB, and the unlimited data plan for only $64.90 per month. This plan also comes with unlimited hotspot for any remaining devices.

Tips for using your cell phone in China

Your phone will work best in China if you:

Use free WiFi in cafes, hotels, and airports whenever possible
Check local service coverage in the cities or regions you’re visiting
Download VPN apps before arriving to access restricted websites
Install offline tools like Google Maps (offline mode) or offline translation apps
Carry your passport when buying a local SIM card
Ensure your phone is unlocked to switch between SIM cards
Switch off data roaming if you’re not using an international plan to avoid high charges
Use messaging apps that work in China, like WeChat or local alternatives

Will your phone work in China? The verdict

After evaluating each alternative for using your phone in China, Holafly’s eSIM for China seems like the best option.

It eliminates the need to pay expensive international roaming charges, search for a local SIM card, or purchase a separate portable device. You can also set up your eSIM in minutes by simply scanning a QR code — no paperwork, long lines, or store visits.

If you’re looking for a stress-free way to use your phone in China, Holafly’s eSIM for China is a traveler-friendly choice. On the other hand, Holafly’s regional eSIM for Asia allows you to stay connected across 16 destinations if you’re looking to tour Asia.

If you’d like to know more about using your phone in other countries, check out our blogs on:

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Mahnoor Bangush

SEO Content Writer

Born and raised in Queens, New York, I'm a Psychology graduate with a passion for writing that I've been nurturing since 2019. Over the years, I've enjoyed creating meaningful content across various niches, including sports, hospitality, and career development. At Holafly, I focus on crafting useful and inspiring pieces to make your adventures more effortless. One of the best perks of this role? Creating travel content always seems to inspire my next vacation destination!

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