HelloRoam offers eSIM data plans for China from S$4.47 a day. Your e SIM connects to local 4G/5G networks the moment you land, no roaming fees. Activate by QR code in under two minutes, fuss-free. Keep your Singtel, StarHub, or M1 number active on dual SIM while your e-sim handles data across 185+ countries.
- networks
212+- 5G support
5G- activation
under 2 minutes
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China travel sim options for China travellers
Affordable eSIM for China, starting from S$4.47. Local 4G LTE and 5G data on trusted carrier networks in China. Works on all eSIM compatible handphones. An eSIM in China plan from HelloRoam runs on the China Unicom 5G network configured for full mainland access across Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen from S$4.47. Activate by QR before your Changi departure. HelloRoam backs every order with a 180-day refund guarantee on unactivated eSIMs.
China eSIM with fast 5G coverage
HelloRoam offers eSIM plans for China from S$4.47. Connect on 5G networks including China Unicom. China is a major destination for Singapore travellers visiting family, doing business, or exploring Shanghai, Beijing, and Chengdu.
- Plans start at S$4.47 with 5G speeds
- Coverage from China Unicom and 1+ other operators
- Instant activation in under 2 minutes
- 180-day money-back guarantee
- China coverage across major cities
- Network
- 5G
- Plans From
- S$4.47
- Activation
- Under 2 min
- Guarantee
- 180 days
How to Set Up an eSIM in China
Follow these steps to set up your eSIM on iPhone or Android handphone. Works for any eSIM for international travel from Singapore. No replacement SIM, no store visit.
Set up an eSIM on your iPhone with the HelloRoam app
Set up an eSIM on your Android handphone with the HelloRoam app
- 1
Choose your plan and checkout online
Select a data plan for your destination and complete checkout.
2Scan the QR code
Scan the QR code to install your eSIM straight away.
- 3
Activate in minutes: ready on arrival
Your eSIM installs instantly and activates when you land.
4Manage it all from our app
Track usage, top up data, and manage all your eSIMs in one place.
Trip changed? No worries, we've got you covered!
Plans can change anytime, and that's fine. With HelloRoam, you can request a refund on any unactivated eSIM within 180 days of purchase.
Learn more about our refund policyHelloRoam China eSIM vs Singtel, StarHub and M1
When comparing eSIM vs a travel SIM card for China, HelloRoam wins on price. It beats Singtel DataRoam, StarHub RoamEasy, and M1 international roaming add-ons. The cheapest eSIM plan starts from S$4.47, with no activation fee and a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Local provider | Limited data eSIM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refund on unactivated eSIMs |  Feature available |  Feature not available | Feature not available |
| 24/7 live chat support | Feature available |  Feature available | Feature available |
| $0 activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available |
| Automatic data alerts at 80% usage | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| No data overage charges | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Instant QR code delivery | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available |
| Premium China carrier networks | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
China SIM card vs HelloRoam eSIM: which is the right choice for Singapore visitors?
A SIM card for China bought at the airport needs in-person passport registration and can take 20 minutes on a busy arrival day. A HelloRoam eSIM activates before your Changi departure and has data live at Beijing Capital or Shanghai Pudong from the first step through arrivals. Runs on China Unicom 5G from S$4.47 with no lock-in.
A tourist sim card China from a domestic carrier requires understanding Chinese-language contracts and configurations. HelloRoam handles the setup in Singapore-English before you fly. Data is active across Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen from S$4.47 with no physical card swap.
A prepaid SIM card China option from a Changi vendor is convenient but typically tied to one carrier and one data tier. HelloRoam lets you compare plans online, pick the right volume for your stay, and activate by QR. No contract and no airport counter visit required.
A data sim card China plan covers basic browsing but full mainland speeds need a configured carrier eSIM. HelloRoam ensures your plan is set up correctly before you board. Data runs on the China Unicom 5G network from S$4.47 with a 180-day refund guarantee on unactivated eSIMs.
The cheapest eSIM for China from HelloRoam removes the worry of hitting a data cap mid-trip in Beijing or Shenzhen. One flat plan for the full mainland visit, activated by QR at home in Singapore. No roaming fees on your Singtel or StarHub number. No contract.
An unlimited data eSIM China plan gives Singapore travellers full mainland speeds at a fixed rate from S$4.47 on China Unicom 5G. Activate by QR at home before your Changi departure. Direct access and no roaming fees on your Singapore number.
Why Singaporean Travellers Choose an e SIM for China
24/7 live chat support
Need assistance at 2 am before a flight from Changi? HelloRoam support is available 24/7. Message us and a real person responds in under 2 minutes. No bots, no hold queue. Whether you need help with eSIM installation, plan changes, or troubleshooting a connection drop, the support team handles it in real time.
Best eSIM for China: skip Singtel roaming charges
HelloRoam connects to local 4G/5G networks in China from the moment you land, at a fraction of what Singtel, StarHub, or M1 charge for international roaming. Plans start from S$4.47 with no lock-in contract and no activation fees. You pay once and use data freely without surprise overage charges.
Keep your Singtel, StarHub, or M1 number
Keep your Singtel, StarHub, or M1 number active for calls and texts. HelloRoam handles your data through a second eSIM line on any dual SIM compatible handphone. Family and colleagues reach you on the same Singapore number while your travel data runs on a separate prepaid eSIM plan.
212+ carrier networks including China
HelloRoam connects to 212+ carrier networks across 185+ countries. Fixed data and unlimited data plans available. Your handphone switches to the strongest available 4G/5G or 5G signal automatically, where offered by the local network. That means consistent speeds whether you are in a major city, a highway rest stop, or a rural area.
Data alerts before you run out
HelloRoam alerts you at 80% data usage so you are never caught mid-trip without data. Top up instantly from the app without reinstalling your eSIM or visiting a store. Additional data activates in under a minute, keeping your connection live through navigation, video calls, and streaming.
Local 4G/5G speeds
Your China eSIM connects to trusted local 4G/5G networks. HelloRoam picks the strongest available signal for navigation, streaming, and video calls. You get local network speeds comparable to a prepaid SIM card purchased in-country, without the airport queue.
Regional and global eSIM plans
Travelling to multiple destinations? HelloRoam regional eSIM plans cover Southeast Asia, Europe, the Americas, and 185+ destinations in one purchase. Short holiday or long-term stay: choose fixed data or unlimited data plans. One account, no SIM swaps. A single regional plan replaces the hassle of sourcing a new local SIM card at every border crossing.
Hotspot and data sharing at no extra cost in China
Share your China eSIM data with a laptop or tablet using your handphone's built-in hotspot. No extra fees, no setup required. Works on all eSIM compatible devices. This is particularly useful for business travellers who need a consistent mobile broadband connection for their work laptop while abroad.
China eSIM Prices in 2026
Compare HelloRoam eSIM plans for China. Plans start from S$4.47 with local 4G/5G access. No Singtel or StarHub roaming surcharges.
| Number of days | Price (AUD) |
|---|---|
| 1 day | S$4.47 |
| 3 days | S$12.74 |
| 7 days | S$27.54 |
| 15 days | S$53.65 |
| 22 days | S$72.78 |
| 30 days | S$91.20 |
HelloRoam vs Other eSIM Providers for China
See how HelloRoam compares to Airalo, Holafly, and other eSIM providers for China travel. HelloRoam offers a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days, 24/7 live chat support, and plans from S$4.47.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Airalo | Holafly | Nomad | Saily | Ubigi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refund on unactivated eSIMs | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| 24/7 live chat support | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature available |
| A$0 activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Automatic data alerts at 80% usage | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| No data overage charges | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Instant QR code delivery | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available |
| Premium China carrier networks | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Own branded carrier identity (SPN) | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature available |
e SIM Explained: Setting Up eSIM for China
An eSIM card is a digital SIM built directly into your handphone. There is no physical chip and no SIM tray to deal with. Scan a QR code to activate your e SIM in under 2 minutes on any eSIM compatible iPhone or Android. An eSIM for China works as a prepaid data plan with no airport SIM counter, no replacement SIM card, and no carrier contract. Follow the step-by-step setup guide to get connected before your flight from Changi. guide
Mobile connectivity guide for China
China has extensive 5G coverage across all major cities. China Unicom provides fast 5G in Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, and throughout the country.
For Singaporeans, China is a major travel destination: many Singapore Chinese families visit relatives in China, and business travel to Shanghai and Shenzhen is very common. Be aware that Google services, WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook are blocked in China.
A VPN must be downloaded BEFORE you enter China.
- HelloRoam connects to China Unicom 5G, China Telecom 5G in China
- 5G on China Unicom across Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and nationwide
- Connect at Shanghai Pudong or Beijing Capital immediately on landing
- Covers the Bund, Forbidden City, West Lake, and high-speed rail corridors
eSIM Travel Tips for China
Download your VPN before entering China: this is critical
Google Maps, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and most Western apps are blocked in China by the Great Firewall. You must download a reliable VPN app on your phone BEFORE your Singapore Airlines or China Eastern flight departs from Changi. Once inside China, you cannot download VPN apps. This is the most important preparation for any Singapore traveller visiting China.
WeChat is essential for China travel
WeChat (微信) is used for everything in China: messaging, payments, maps, and ordering food. Set up WeChat Pay if you plan to pay digitally in China. Your HelloRoam eSIM provides the data connection for WeChat and Alipay to work throughout your China trip.
Baidu Maps is the best navigation app in China
Google Maps is blocked in China. Baidu Maps is the most accurate and widely used navigation app on the mainland. Download Baidu Maps before your Changi departure. Your HelloRoam eSIM provides the data for Baidu Maps to function from the moment you arrive at Shanghai Pudong or Beijing Capital Airport.
High-speed rail is the best way to travel between Chinese cities
China's high-speed rail (高铁, gaotie) network is world-class. The Shanghai to Beijing bullet train takes around 4.5 hours. Your HelloRoam eSIM keeps entertainment, messaging, and navigation apps running during rail journeys. Large stations in major cities have good 4G and 5G coverage.
Visiting relatives in China: sort data and communication before you fly
Many Singapore Chinese families visit relatives in Fujian, Guangdong, or other provinces. Set up your HelloRoam eSIM and a working VPN at home before your Changi departure. Data is active from the moment you land at Guangzhou Baiyun or Fuzhou Changle airports.
Mobile networks in China: what Singapore visitors need to know
HelloRoam connects on China Unicom in China. China Unicom is one of China's three major state-owned operators with 5G coverage across all major cities and high-speed rail corridors. Rural and remote areas may have limited signal but tourist destinations are well covered.
- China Unicom
- 5G
- China Telecom
- 5G
HelloRoam eSIM vs Singtel, StarHub, or M1 China roaming
Your data options for a China trip from Singapore.
| Category | HelloRoam eSIM Recommended | Chinese SIM | Singtel, StarHub, or M1 China roaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | From SGD 4.52 total | SGD 17.99–SGD 35.97 total | SGD 12.85–SGD 25.69/day |
| Details | Plans from S$4.47. Buy before your SIA or China Eastern flight from Changi, activate at home, and land in Shanghai or Beijing already on local China Unicom 5G. Remember to download your VPN before departure. | Tourist SIMs in China require passport registration. A HelloRoam eSIM avoids this. But remember: download your VPN app before entering China regardless of your SIM. | Singapore carrier China roaming packages can cost $5 to $15 per day. A week in Shanghai or Beijing on SG roaming adds up significantly compared to a HelloRoam eSIM. |
Prices approximate as of . Actual savings vary.
Best time to visit China from Singapore
Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are the best times to visit China for weather and sightseeing. Chinese New Year in January or February is a major travel season for Singapore families visiting Chinese relatives. Summer is hot and rainy. Winter in Beijing and northern China is very cold.
Reviewed by the HelloRoam Editorial Team
Reviewed by the HelloRoam Editorial Team
Top Destinations in China
Beijing
HelloRoam works across Beijing, China. Pick your data plan and connect the moment you arrive.
China Mobile and Unicom run 5G in Beijing. Note that many foreign apps need a VPN to function in China.
Shanghai
HelloRoam keeps you connected in Shanghai with fast mobile data. Browse our Shanghai eSIM plans for China.
China Mobile 5G blankets Shanghai. Activate your eSIM before landing and have your VPN ready at Pudong Airport.
Chengdu
HelloRoam provides reliable data coverage in Chengdu, China for travelers on the go.
China Mobile 5G covers Chengdu well. The metro has excellent signal, but bring a VPN for standard apps.
Guangzhou
HelloRoam delivers mobile data in Guangzhou, keeping you online throughout China.
China Mobile 5G covers Guangzhou and the metro network. Use a VPN to access apps like Google and WhatsApp.
Shenzhen
HelloRoam connects you in Shenzhen via China Mobile and China Unicom 5G networks. Coverage is strong at Bao'an International Airport and across the Futian CBD. A china esim plan works from the moment you cross the border from Hong Kong.
Turn on your HelloRoam eSIM before crossing from Hong Kong at Futian or Luohu checkpoints to stay online without a gap.
Suzhou
Arrive in Suzhou ready to connect. HelloRoam covers all of China with fast data.
Suzhou near Shanghai has China Unicom 5G. The high-speed train from Shanghai has consistent signal.
Zhengzhou
Stay connected in Zhengzhou with HelloRoam eSIM data plans that work across China.
Zhengzhou has China Mobile 5G in the city and around Zhengzhou East high-speed rail station.
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Reviews
Trusted by Singaporean Travellers
Real reviews from Trustpilot and the App Store, quoted as written.
40k+ travellers have used HelloRoam
Cat
On a trip to Europe, my hotel Wi-Fi was so slow and outside Wi-Fi was unreliable. I couldn’t take it anymore so I got helloroam for a few days. It was tricky to set up correctly because of the primary settings (with my original number). But I reached out to their customer service via WhatsApp. Super responsive and helpful, with specific and clear steps to troubleshoot. Appreciate having 4G roaming instead of being stuck with in and out Wi-Fi during my trip!!
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Very good experience! The eSIM was easy to set up and worked great in London. It was much cheaper than it would have been to use my own operator there.
Ilona
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
metulker
Hard to set up but help was good
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Reuben
Really happy with HelloRoam. Everything worked as expected, from messaging and Google Maps through to streaming without any issues. Easy to use, reliable and affordable. Would happily use them again when travelling.
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Angeline
Reliable connection. Reasonable pricing.
Rated 4 out of 5 by this reviewer
Updated
FAQs About eSIM in China
How much does a prepaid SIM card China cost from Singapore?
An eSIM card China plan from HelloRoam starts at S$4.47 on China Unicom 5G. HelloRoam activates by QR code before your Changi departure so data is live from the moment you clear mainland arrivals. No physical SIM needed. No contract.
What is a data SIM card China plan and how does it work for Singapore visitors?
A travel eSIM China plan from HelloRoam gives Singapore travellers full mainland speeds. Scan the QR code at home before your Changi flight and arrive at Beijing Capital or Shanghai Pudong already connected. Set up takes two minutes. No contract and no local vendor needed.
Which eSIM is best for Singaporeans travelling to China?
For trips to China, HelloRoam is a simple eSIM choice. Plans start from S$4.47 in SGD with access to local 4G/5G networks across 212+ carrier networks. Activate via QR code in under 2 minutes before departing from Changi Airport. Your Singtel, StarHub, or M1 number stays active through dual SIM while HelloRoam handles data abroad. You get a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days and 24/7 live chat support.
How much does a China eSIM cost compared to Singtel and StarHub roaming?
A China eSIM from HelloRoam costs from S$4.47 for the full plan. Compare that to Singtel DataRoam daily passes and StarHub RoamEasy rates, which typically cost S$15 to S$30 per day. HelloRoam connects to local networks in China at local data prices, with no daily roaming surcharges and no carrier contract. All plans include local 4G/5G access with no overage charges.
Which local mobile networks does an eSIM use in China for Singapore travellers?
An eSIM for China from HelloRoam connects to local 4G/5G carrier networks. Your handphone picks the strongest available signal the moment you land. Coverage spans major cities, highways, and most rural areas. HelloRoam has direct partnerships with local networks globally, so you get data speeds comparable to a local prepaid SIM card in China.
How do I set up a HelloRoam eSIM before departing Changi Airport?
Buy your China eSIM before you leave Singapore in three steps. First, select your plan at helloroam.com and complete checkout in SGD. Second, open your handphone Settings, tap Add eSIM or Add Mobile Plan, and scan the QR code from your email. Third, your eSIM installs in under 2 minutes. Set it up the night before your flight from Changi and land connected.
Does my iPhone or Android handphone support a China eSIM?
iPhone XS and all newer models support HelloRoam eSIM in China. iPhone 13 and later models support dual eSIM, so your Singtel or StarHub line stays active for calls while HelloRoam handles travel data. For Android, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, Google Pixel 3 and later, and most 2019+ Android handphones support eSIM. Check your handphone Settings for an Add eSIM option to confirm compatibility.
What is the best eSIM for China from Singapore?
HelloRoam is a good eSIM option for China from Singapore. Plans start at S$4.47 with 5G data on China Unicom. Buy before your SIA flight from Changi and activate at home. IMPORTANT: download a VPN app before you enter China as Google and WhatsApp are blocked on the mainland.
Does a HelloRoam eSIM work in China?
Yes, HelloRoam eSIM plans work in China on China Unicom 5G and 4G. Activate at home and connect on landing at Shanghai Pudong, Beijing Capital, or other major Chinese airports.
Can I use WhatsApp and Google in China with a HelloRoam eSIM?
Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook are blocked in China by the Great Firewall. A HelloRoam eSIM provides data connectivity, but you must download a VPN app BEFORE entering China to access these services. Do this before your Changi departure.
How much does a China eSIM cost from Singapore?
HelloRoam eSIM plans for China start at S$4.47. Good value for business travel to Shanghai or Shenzhen, or family visits to relatives in Guangdong or Fujian.
How much data do I need for a week in China?
A week in China using WeChat, Baidu Maps, VPN, and messaging back to Singapore typically uses 5 to 10 GB. VPN use increases data consumption. A 5 to 10 GB plan suits most Singapore-to-China trips.
Which network does HelloRoam use in China?
HelloRoam eSIM for China connects on China Unicom with 5G coverage. China has 2 network partners in the HelloRoam system. Your phone picks the strongest available signal automatically. Buy before your flight from Changi and connect the moment you land.
How many days does the China eSIM last?
HelloRoam eSIM plans for China last from 12 to 30 days depending on the data tier you choose. China has 5G coverage via China Unicom. A longer plan suits SG travellers on extended trips or business visits. Scan the QR code at home and connect from the moment you land.
Does China have 5G coverage?
Yes, China has 5G coverage through China Unicom. HelloRoam eSIM plans connect on the best available 5G signal across China. Buy your plan before your flight from Changi and connect immediately on landing.
What to Know Before You Buy
Handphone must be carrier-unlocked
Data only: make voice calls via WhatsApp or VoIP
Coverage varies by destination and local network
Wi-Fi required to download eSIM profile
Transparency Notice
- Service Provider Name (SPN)
- The SPN is a standard field in every eSIM profile, and it is why HelloRoam shows up as the carrier name on your handphone's status bar. Most travel eSIM resellers skip this step. HelloRoam provisions its own Service Provider Name.
- Public Network Name (PNN)
- The PNN is the network name field inside your eSIM profile, defined in the 3GPP standard TS 31.102 (EF_PNN). Your handphone can read this field to display the name of the network you are connected to.
- Access Point Name (APN)
- Your HelloRoam eSIM sets its Access Point Name automatically during installation. Your handphone picks up the strongest local network without any manual settings to fiddle with.
Prices shown are HelloRoam's retail rates across 185+ countries. Plan picks are based on real traveller feedback and network performance data, not guesswork. You can get a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days.
Future Syncs Limited 124 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX, UK +44 203 916 6249 help@helloroam.com Reg. No. 15950168
