For real, What is the best eSIM for China?

"Tired of hunting for SIM cards in unfamiliar airports? Or paying outrageous roaming fees just to check Google Maps in Beijing?"

Welcome to your no-fluff, fully practical guide to the Best eSIM for China in 2025.

Whether you’re a digital nomad, business traveler, or an adventurer exploring the Great Wall — this post breaks down everything you need to stay connected in China without the headaches.

Let’s dive in.

What Is an eSIM (And Why You Should Care)

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built directly into your device. Unlike traditional SIM cards, you don’t need to physically insert or replace anything.

Instead, you simply scan a QR code or download a profile — and you’re online in minutes.

Why eSIM > Traditional SIM in China:

  • ✅ No need to find physical SIM shops

  • ✅ No paperwork or ID required in most cases

  • ✅ Avoid the Great Firewall with VPN support

  • ✅ Perfect for short trips or long stays

  • ✅ Plans start from as low as $3 USD

📊 According to GSMA Intelligence, eSIM adoption has skyrocketed — with over 400 mobile operators now supporting it globally.

Special Considerations When Using eSIM in China

China's network and internet infrastructure is unique. Here's what you should know before choosing an eSIM provider:

1. The Great Firewall

Many websites and apps (Google, WhatsApp, YouTube) are blocked in China.

  • ✅ Use an eSIM with VPN-friendly routing

  • ✅ Consider providers that offer servers outside mainland China for uncensored access

2. Network Compatibility

Some global eSIMs don’t connect well inside China. Choose providers that explicitly offer China Unicom, China Mobile, or China Telecom access.

3. Device Compatibility

Your phone must be:

  • eSIM compatible (e.g. iPhone XS and above, Pixel 4+, Galaxy S20+)

  • Carrier-unlocked

📱 "Check your phone's compatibility on our device guide on Strong eSIM."

Best eSIM Providers for China in 2025

We tested and reviewed 15+ eSIMs across pricing, speed, activation, support, and reliability in China.

Here are the Top 5 picks for 2025:

1. Strong eSIM — Best for Value + Flexibility

 

Visit Plans for China

Strong eSIM offers a range of China-specific packages — without hidden fees, slow speeds, or KYC hassles.

China 3GB 30Days

$4.90
  • Data - 3GB
  • Duration - 30 Days
  • 5G High Speed
  • Full Refund if Not Working
  • Compatible with all devices
Buy now

China 10GB 30Days

$10.90BEST OFFER
  • Data - 10GB
  • Duration - 30 Days
  • 5G High Speed
  • Full Refund if Not Working
  • Compatible with all devices
Buy now

China 50GB 30Days

$38.90
  • Data - 50GB
  • Duration - 30 Days
  • 5G High Speed
  • Full Refund if Not Working
  • Compatible with all devices
Buy now

Why we recommend it:

  • ✅ Works with China Unicom

  • ✅ Instant delivery via email

  • ✅ VPN-friendly data routing

  • ✅ 24/7 live chat support

  • ✅ Built-in hotspot/tethering

Customer Review:

 

"Strong eSIM worked great for me in China"

I had good success using Strong eSIM, and got fast support from Onur on WhatsApp for any troubleshooting. I would definitely use it again when traveling to China."

- Michael Northrop | Trustpilot

"🔗 Also check: Strong eSIM Reseller Panel — for agencies, students, or influencers selling eSIMs for profit"

2. Nomad eSIM — Good UI, Moderate Pricing

Nomad offers decent coverage in China with competitive pricing, especially for short trips.

  • Plans from $4 USD

  • UI/UX is beginner-friendly

  • Lacks advanced VPN support

  • Occasional activation delays

3. Airalo — Popular but Inconsistent in China

Airalo is the most well-known eSIM brand. While they offer China plans, speed and coverage were hit or miss in remote regions like Guilin or Chengdu.

  • Wide selection

  • Works great in cities

  • Some reports of blocked services (e.g. Gmail)

4. Saily by NordVPN — Best for Unrestricted Access

If you’re worried about censorship, Saily (built by the NordVPN team) gives you a built-in VPN layer.

  • Slightly more expensive (starts at $9)

  • Best for secure browsing and business trips

5. Ubigi — Corporate-Friendly, Pricey

Ubigi works with premium business travelers and offers China Telecom access. However:

  • Requires ID for activation

  • Expensive: $19.99 for 1GB

How to Install Your eSIM (Step-by-Step)

"Whether you’re setting up an eSIM on iPhone or Android, setup is dead simple."

  1. Buy a Plan
    Visit strongesim.com/shop and choose your China eSIM, initiate checkout.

  2. Scan QR Code or Click quick install link
    You'll receive a unique code via email.

  3. Activate Plan
    On iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM
    On Android: Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM

  4. Connect Instantly
    Done! No ID, no kiosk, no roaming fees.

Use Cases: Which Plan Should You Choose?

Tourists (7–15 Days in China)

  • 🔹 Recommended Plan: China 10GB / 30 Days

  • 🔹 Reason: Easy browsing, maps, social media

Business Travelers (Longer Stay)

  • 🔹 Recommended Plan: 50GB / 30 Days

  • 🔹 Reason: Daily usage spread evenly; reliable access, not worrying on running out of data mid-day

Digital Nomads

  • 🔹 Recommended Plan: China + HK + Macao / 3GB

  • 🔹 Reason: Roam between cities + border regions

Pro Tips Before You Land in China

  • 🔐 Download a VPN before you arrive

  • 📲 Turn on eSIM only mode to avoid roaming charges

  • 🔄 Keep physical SIM in dual-SIM phones for emergencies

  • 🔌 Carry a power bank — hotspot sharing drains battery fast

Final Verdict: Which eSIM Should You Choose?

Need Best Option            
Quick Trips  Strong eSIM            
Extended Stay  Strong eSIM            
Freedom to Roam  Strong eSIM            
VPN Built-In  Saily            
Premium Business Use  Ubigi            

Ready to Stay Connected in China?

Skip the stress. Skip the kiosk. Go digital with a plan built for travelers.

Use the discount code "DISC10" on your first purchase to get additional 10% Discount

Get your China eSIM now from
Strong eSIM

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