Mobile Internet and SIM Cards for Hong Kong in 2025
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Each month, approximately 4 million tourists choose Hong Kong as their desired destination. Among these visitors are nomads, students, business professionals, and explorers from all corners of the globe. While they may have little in common, they share a keen interest in experiencing the vibrant culture of Hong Kong and, of course, a strong desire to stay connected while exploring this bustling metropolis. If you are planning a trip to Hong Kong and want to enjoy a stable connection, this article is for you!
In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about where to buy a SIM card HK that fits your travel needs. We will explore options for Hong Kong prepaid SIM cards for travelers and the convenience of eSIMs for Hong Kong. With our help, you'll be able to navigate the mobile internet market in Hong Kong and choose the perfect solution for your communication needs.
SIM Cards in Hong Kong: Overview
When you're planning a trip to Hong Kong, one of the first things to consider is how to stay connected while you're there. Having reliable mobile internet can make your journey much easier, whether you're navigating the city, sharing your adventures on social media, or keeping in touch with friends and family. Let’s explore the types of Hong Kong data SIM cards for tourists, along with some handy tips on how to buy one and the documents you might need.
- Hong Kong Prepaid SIM Card for Travellers: This is the most popular option for travelers. A prepaid SIM Hong Kong allows you to pay upfront for a set amount of data, talk time, and text messages. It’s convenient and easy to manage since you don’t have to worry about monthly bills.
- Tourist SIM Cards: Specifically designed for visitors, these SIM cards often come with a bundle that includes generous data allowances and local calling options. They’re perfect for those looking for the best Hong Kong SIM card for tourists.
- eSIMs: If your device supports it, an eSIM for Hong Kong is a great option. It lets you activate a mobile plan without needing a physical SIM card. This is especially handy if you’re short on time or want to avoid the hassle of swapping cards.
With the best Hong Kong SIM card for tourists in hand, you’ll easily be able to enjoy the mobile internet in Hong Kong and stay connected throughout your travels.
Where to Buy a SIM Card in Hong Kong
If you're wondering where to buy a SIM card in HK, you’ll find shops and kiosks at the airport and throughout the city, making it super easy for you to get hooked up right away!
- Where to Buy a SIM card in HK: You can find SIM cards at the airport, convenience stores, and mobile shops throughout the city. Look for places like 7-Eleven, Circle K, and dedicated telecom stores for a good selection.
- Documents Needed: To purchase a SIM card for Hong Kong, you’ll need to provide a form of identification, such as your passport. Some shops may also request a photocopy of your ID, so it’s helpful to have a printed copy handy.
- Activation: Once you purchase your SIM card for tourist in Hong Kong, the staff will assist you with the activation process. If you opt for an eSIM, ensure your device is compatible and follow the instructions provided by the operator for installation.
Mobile Internet in Hong Kong: Data Plans and Coverage
As of today, Hong Kong is sitting at 47th place in the world for median mobile download speeds, clocking in at 86.76 Mbps.
That means you can expect fast internet for browsing, streaming, and staying in touch with friends and family back home. The upload speeds are decent too, with a median of 15.10 Mbps and a latency of just 16ms.
Now, let’s talk about the major mobile operators in Hong Kong. There are four big players in the game:
- Hong Kong Telecom (HKT): HKT offers a reliable 3G and 4G network under the Hutchison brand. They have fantastic coverage all over Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and even in some rural areas. In fact, their 4G network has coverage that reaches over 98% of the population.
- CSL Mobile: This is the second-largest operator in Hong Kong. They lease their network from HKT, so their coverage is quite similar. CSL has over 95% 4G coverage and offers the highest median upload speed of 16.89 Mbps among the operators.
- SmarTone: SmarTone operates both 3G and 4G networks, covering around 90% of the population mainly in urban areas. However, their coverage may not be as strong in rural parts, so keep that in mind if you’re heading out of the city.
- China Mobile Hong Kong: As a branch of China Mobile, they also lease capacity from PCCW and CSL. Their coverage is pretty much the same as CSL, with over 95% of the population covered. Notably, China Mobile Hong Kong showcased the best median 5G download speed at 177.96 Mbps in Q4 2023.
So, if you’re visiting Hong Kong, finding the best SIM card for tourists from one of these providers is no hassle at all.
Best SIM cards for Tourists in Hong Kong
The Yesim team has gathered all the essentials about the best Hong Kong SIM cards for tourists. From affordable Hong Kong prepaid SIM cards for travelers to easy options to keep in touch while you explore, finding the right SIM card for tourists in Hong Kong has never been simpler.
China Mobile Hong Kong
China Mobile Hong Kong (CMHK) is a top carrier that offers a variety of prepaid SIM cards specially designed for tourists.
| SIM Card | Price | Data | Calls | SMS |
| 5G Hong Kong Tourist SIM (1-15 days) | 28 – 128 HKD (approximately 3.6 – 16.4 USD) | 5 GB daily for local use + 500 MB daily for Macau | Includes 30 minutes for local calls | Not available |
| 4G MySIM | 33 HKD (around 4.2 USD) | 60 GB at 42 Mbps (after that, speed drops to 128 Kbps) | Unlimited local calls (5,000 minutes) | Not available |
| 5G MySIM | 48 HKD (roughly 6.1 USD) | Flexible options with various data packages | Pay-as-you-go | Not available |
| Super Talk Prepaid SIM | 48 HKD (approximately 6.1 USD) | Additional packages available, adding up to 3 GB | Charged separately at $0.05/min | Not available |
| 30 GB Local 365-Day Data SIM | 148 HKD (about 19 USD) | 30 GB valid for a full year | Not included | Not available |
Their 5G Hong Kong Tourist SIM is one of the best Hong Kong SIM cards for tourists, providing coverage not only in Hong Kong but also in Macau. Other options focus solely on Hong Kong, making them perfect for travelers who need a reliable Hong Kong data SIM card during their visit.
SmarTone
SmarTone was established in 1992 and began operations in 1993. The company offers a variety of services, including mobile services, 5G home broadband, fiber broadband, roaming, and value-added services.
| Plan Name | Validity | Data Allocation | Price ($) |
| Local Prepaid SIM - HKD 48 | Pay-as-you-go | Not applicable | $6 |
| Local Prepaid SIM - HKD 65 | 1 month | Not applicable | $9 |
| Local Prepaid SIM - HKD 118 | Not applicable | Continued SMS/OTP reception abroad | $15,2 |
| HK-Macau Prepaid SIM - HKD 78 | Not applicable | Shared data and calls in HK & Macau | $10 |
| China-HK-Macau Prepaid SIM - HKD 98 | Not applicable | Shared data and calls across China, HK & Macau | $12,63 |
| Use Freely Plan - 8 days | 8 days | Mainland China, HK, Macau | $11,35 |
| Use Freely Plan - 8 days | 8 days | Top 9 APAC destinations | $22 |
| Use Freely Plan - 15 days | 15 days | USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand | $35 |
| Use Freely Plan - 30 days | 30 days | Various destinations in Europe | $39 |
| 10GB Plan - 1 year | 1 year | Mainland China, HK, Macau | $39 |
CSL Hong Kong
CSL, a subsidiary of Hong Kong Telecom (HKT), was established in 1983 as Hong Kong's first mobile communications operator. Notably, it was also the first network in the world to launch a dual-band 4G LTE network with DC-HSPA+. You can find a CSL store in Tuen Mun and a 1O1O store in Tsim Sha Tsui. CSL Hong Kong provides two tourist SIM options for visitors, both of which are noteworthy.
Discover Hong Kong Tourist SIM (10-Day): 88 HKD (~11.2 USD), 12 GB for HK & Macau, unlimited local voice in HK. Discover Hong Kong Tourist SIM (30-Day): 118 HKD (~15 USD), 32 GB for HK & Macau, unlimited local voice in HK.
With these data plans, you will also receive free access to CSL Wi-Fi throughout Hong Kong, a Top-up Day Pass that adds 3 GB of mobile data for an additional 5 days, and VoLTE service for faster call connections and improved video calling if your phone is compatible.
Three Hong Kong
3HK, or 3 Hong Kong, operates as a telecom provider under the "3" brand by Hutchison. 3HK eSIM provides a Hong Kong phone number, free calls and Hong Kong tourist internet. However, it does require ID verification (eKYC) before activation, which might make it more suitable for tech-savvy users.
| Plan Type | Data | Calls (min) | SMS | Price ($) |
| 30-Day HK Voice Min Package | Not included | 10,000 | No | $1.60 |
| 30-Day Data Package | 2 GB | No | No | $6.40 |
| 30-Day Data Package | 12 GB | No | No | $12.80 |
| 30-Day Data Package | 20 GB | No | No | $19.10 |
| 30-Day Data Package | 36 GB | No | No | $25.50 |
| 365-Day Data Package | 24 GB (12 GB Social Media + Night Unlimited) | 10,000 local | No | $15.40 |
| 365-Day Data Package | 120 GB (100 GB Social Media + Night Unlimited) | 10,000 local | No | $34.60 |
| 24-Hour Data Pass | 1 GB (128Kbps after FUP) | 500 local | No | $1.30 |
| 30-Day Data Pass with VPN | 50 GB (384Kbps after FUP) | 1,000 local | Not included | $38.20 |
| 30-Day Data Pass with VPN | 100 GB (384Kbps after FUP) | 2,000 local | Not included | $63.80 |
| 30-Day Mainland China Number Service | Unlimited SMS Reception (10 SMS/month) | Incoming calls charged from local call allowance | Unlimited reception, 10 SMS/month sending | $2.40 |
| 300-Day Mainland China Number Service | Unlimited SMS Reception (10 SMS/month) | Incoming calls charged from local call allowance | Unlimited reception, 10 SMS/month sending | $24.40 |
You will receive a SIM card with a specific mainland China number that allows unlimited SMS reception in both Hong Kong and China. Some of the data plans come with a pre-installed VPN license, enabling secure internet browsing with no extra fee.
Top 3 Prepaid SIM Cards for Hong Kong
We have gathered 3 best options that collectively cover a range of needs for tourists, from data-centric users to those requiring local calling capabilities. Choose based on your specific needs and travel itinerary:
- Best for 5G & Macau Connectivity: CMHK 5G Hong Kong Tourist SIM Card is ideal for high-speed users needing data in both locations.
- Best for Heavy Data Usage: Three's 30-Day Data Package (36 GB) is excellent for those who prioritize data.
- Best for Local Calls and Wi-Fi Access: CSL's Discover Hong Kong Tourist SIM (30-Day) provides convenience for local calling and extra Wi-Fi benefits.
eSIM for Hong Kong
If you don’t feel like searching for a SIM card for travelers in Hong Kong and dealing with all the necessary paperwork, you should consider choosing an eSIM. It’s a perfect way to stay connected without the hassle of switching between different SIM cards. With an eSIM, you can easily access mobile data right from your phone, making your travels smoother and more convenient.
Yesim
Yesim offers a mobile internet solution with eSIM data plans designed for both tourism and business across over 200 destinations. With the best eSIM Hong Kong, you can avoid the hassle of installing multiple profiles when traveling to different countries. Yesim is user-friendly and accepts a variety of payment options, making it a convenient choice for travelers seeking reliable mobile data in Hong Kong.
- 500 MB for 3 days = $0,40
- 10 GB for 30 days = $16
- 15 GB for 30 days = $18
- 20 GB for 30 days = $20
- 30 GB for 30 days = $25
Yesim also offers several unlimited eSIM data plans for Hong Kong that are perfect for heavy data users like businessmen, bloggers and digital nomads.
- ∞ data for 1 day = $5
- ∞ data for 7 days = $25
- ∞ data for 15 days = $45
- ∞ data for 30 days = $62
Airalo
Airalo provides a good user experience with a variety of data plans suitable for different regions around the globe. However, it may have become slightly less competitive in pricing over the past few years.
- 500 MB for 3 days = $0.40
- 10 GB for 30 days = $16
- 15 GB for 30 days = $18
- 20 GB for 30 days = $20
- 30 GB for 30 days = $25
Note: The validity for Hkmobile plans starts as soon as you connect to the network in Hong Kong.
Nomad
Nomad is another travel eSIM provider that focuses on affordable pricing and offers a wide range of plans for over 100 destinations.
- 1 GB for 7 days = $4
- 3 GB for 30 days = $9
- 5 GB for 30 days = $12
- 10 GB for 30 days = $18
- 15 GB for 30 days = $20
- 20 GB for 45 days = $25
For those opting for plans with 10 GB or more, the price per GB drops below $2, making these options quite budget-friendly.
eSIMX
eSIMX is a newcomer in the travel eSIM market that has quickly gained popularity thanks to its competitively low pricing and straightforward purchasing process.
- 1 GB for 7 days = $4.50
- 3 GB for 30 days = $8.00
- 5 GB for 30 days = $11.00
- 10 GB for 7 days = $13.50
- 10 GB for 15 days = $16.00
- 10 GB for 30 days = $18.00
- 20 GB for 7 days = $21.00
- 20 GB for 15 days = $23.00
- 20 GB for 30 days = $24.50
These plans provide a variety of options suited for different travel needs and durations, making eSIMX a strong contender in the travel eSIM market.
Ultimate Overview of eSIM for Hong Kong
For you to make the decision process easier, we have gathered the best eSIM in Hong Kong.
This overview will provide you with essential information on the top eSIM plans in Hong Kong, helping you choose the right data package that suits your needs.
| Brand | Plan Duration | Data Sharing | Unlimited Data | Calls | GB per Plan | Support | Price | Rating |
| Yesim | 3, 30 and unlimited | Yes | Yes | No | 500M, 10GB, 15GB,<br>15GB, <br>20GB<br>30GB<br>and unlimited date | Help center, FAQ, live chat | $0,40 - $60 | 5.0 ★★★★★ |
| Saily | 7, 30, 90, and 180 days | Yes | No | No | 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB, 50GB, 100GB | Help center, FAQ, live chat | $3.99 - $179.99 | 4.9 ★★★★★ |
| Airalo | 7, 15, 30, 90 and 180 days | Yes | No | No | 1GB, 2GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB, 50GB, and 100GB | Bot chat, help center, FAQ, email | $4.50 - $185 | 4.7 ★★★★★ |
| Jetpac | 4, 7, and 30 days | Yes | No | No | 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 15GB, 20GB, 30GB, and 40GB | Bot chat, email tickets, FAQs | $1 - $75 | 4.5 ★★★★★ |
| aloSIM | 7, 15, 30, 90. and 180 days | Yes | No | Yes | 1GB, 2GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB, 50GB and 100GB | Bot chat, technical support, FAQ | $4.50 - $185 | 4 ★★★★☆ |
| Nomad | 7, 30, and 45 days | Yes | No | No | 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 15GB, and 20GB | Email tickets, help center | $4 - $48 | 4 ★★★★☆ |
| GigSky | 7, 15, 30, and 90 days | Yes | No | No | 100MB, 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, and 50GB | Email tickets, help center | Free - $99.99 | 4.4 ★★★★☆ |
| Holafly | 1 to 90 days | Yes | Yes | No | Unlimited | Live chat, help center, FAQs | $6.90 - $219.90 | 4.4 ★★★★☆ |
| Roamless | Pay-as-you-go | Yes | No | No | Pay-as-you-go | In-app chat, FAQ, email | Free - $2.95/GB | 4.4 ★★★★☆ |
| Instabridge | 7, 15, and 30 days | Yes | No | No | 1GB, 3GB, 10GB, and 20GB | Email support, FAQs | $2.30 - $16.80 | 3.8 ★★★★☆ |
| BNESIM | 30 days to no expiration | Yes | No | No | 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB, 50GB, and 100GB | App-based support, help center, FAQs | $1.67 - $146.58 | 3.8 ★★★★☆ |
Stay Connected in Hong Kong
In summary, we've highlighted the best mobile connectivity options for travelers in Hong Kong. With flexible and affordable eSIM plans, you can enjoy seamless internet access without the hassle.
Don’t let connectivity issues hold you back—travel with ease using Yesim to stay connected in Hong Kong. Embrace your adventure and share unforgettable moments with friends and family!
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FAQ
Which SIM card is best for Hong Kong tourists?
The best SIM card for tourists in Hong Kong is provided by China Mobile Hong Kong.
Can I buy a local SIM card at Hong Kong airport?
Yes, local SIM cards are available for purchase at Hong Kong Airport.
Can you buy a pay-as-you-go SIM in Hong Kong?
Yes, pay-as-you-go SIM cards are readily available in Hong Kong.
How do I get a Hong Kong SIM?
You can get a Hong Kong SIM card at the airport, 7-Eleven stores, or carrier kiosks.
Can I get an eSIM for Hong Kong?
Yes, eSIMs are available in Hong Kong. Visit the Yesim website to select a suitable plan.
Can I buy an eSIM at Hong Kong airport?
Yes, you can purchase an eSIM at Hong Kong Airport with a stable internet connection.
Which eSIM card is best for Hong Kong tourists?
Yesim is the best eSIM option for tourists in Hong Kong.
Can a foreigner buy a SIM card in Hong Kong?
Yes, foreigners can buy a SIM card, but registration with a valid ID is required.
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