China SIM Card for Tourists 2026: eSIM vs Physical SIM
Planning a trip to China and wondering how to get a SIM card? You have three options: a physical SIM card at the airport, an eSIM online, or pocket WiFi. Here is everything you need to know.
Best Option for Tourists: China eSIM
For most travelers, an eSIM is the best choice. You buy it online, receive a QR code by email, and scan it to activate. No need to visit a store or show your passport.
China eSIM Plans from OnlyLinkCard:
| Data | Validity | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2GB | 1-30 days | $3.12 – $5.38 |
| 5GB | 3-30 days | $6.47 – $9.91 |
| 10GB | 3-30 days | $10.84 – $16.38 |
| 20GB | 7-30 days | $22.83 – $28.15 |
| 30GB | 15-30 days | $35.77 – $38.49 |
| 50GB | 30 days | $60.80 |
Check latest China eSIM prices →
Option 2: Physical SIM Card at the Airport
You can buy a SIM card at major airports in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. China Mobile and China Unicom both have airport counters.
Pros: Get a local Chinese phone number, reliable network
Cons: Need passport for registration, 15-30 minute wait, expensive plans for tourists, and many western websites are blocked
Typical cost: $25-40 for 7-15 days
Option 3: Pocket WiFi
Portable WiFi devices available for rent online or at the airport.
Pros: Connect multiple devices, no SIM needed
Cons: $5-8 per day, must pick up and return, extra device to charge, many websites still blocked
Comparison: eSIM vs Physical SIM vs Pocket WiFi
| Data | Validity | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2GB | 1-30 days | $3.12 – $5.38 |
| 5GB | 3-30 days | $6.47 – $9.91 |
| 10GB | 3-30 days | $10.84 – $16.38 |
| 20GB | 7-30 days | $22.83 – $28.15 |
| 30GB | 15-30 days | $35.77 – $38.49 |
| 50GB | 30 days | $60.80 |
Which Phones Support eSIM in China?
- iPhone: XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and newer (all models)
- Samsung: S20, S21, S22, S23, S24 and newer
- Google Pixel: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and newer
- Huawei: P40, P50, Mate 40, Mate 50 and newer (international versions only)
- Xiaomi: 12, 13, 14 and newer
Step-by-Step: How to Get a China eSIM
- Go to OnlyLinkCard.com
- Choose your China eSIM plan
- Pay with credit card, PayPal, or Alipay
- Check your email for the QR code (arrives in 2 minutes)
- Open Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM on your phone
- Scan the QR code
- Done! You will have signal when you land in China
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to register my eSIM with my passport?
No. eSIMs from OnlyLinkCard do not require passport registration. Physical SIM cards at the airport do require your passport.
Will my eSIM work in Hong Kong and Macau?
China eSIM plans cover mainland China only. For Hong Kong or Macau, you need separate plans. OnlyLinkCard offers both.
Can I keep my home SIM card active?
Yes. eSIM works alongside your physical SIM. You can receive SMS on your home number while using data from the eSIM.
Is 5G available in China?
Yes. China has the largest 5G network in the world. Our eSIM connects to 5G in all major cities.
What if I need more data?
You can top up anytime through your account on OnlyLinkCard.com.
Get Your China SIM Card Before You Travel
Don’t waste time at the airport queue. Get your China eSIM from OnlyLinkCard and be connected the moment you land.
Last updated: July 2026. Plans and prices subject to change.