Will My Phone Work in China?
Select your phone model and origin to check network compatibility.
Quick facts:
• China's 4G uses Band 1 (2100), Band 3 (1800), Band 8 (900), Band 40 (2300), Band 41 (2600)
• China's 5G uses n1, n41, n78, n79
• Most iPhones and flagship Androids from outside China work fine
• US carrier-locked phones (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile) are hit-or-miss — check here first
• eSIM works on iPhone (mainland China models lack eSIM!) and some Androids
• China's 4G uses Band 1 (2100), Band 3 (1800), Band 8 (900), Band 40 (2300), Band 41 (2600)
• China's 5G uses n1, n41, n78, n79
• Most iPhones and flagship Androids from outside China work fine
• US carrier-locked phones (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile) are hit-or-miss — check here first
• eSIM works on iPhone (mainland China models lack eSIM!) and some Androids
📱 Best SIM options for travellers
- eSIM (Airalo / Holafly): Buy before you go. Works on eSIM-compatible phones (non-China iPhone 14+, Pixel, Samsung flagships). Cheapest for short trips.
- Airport SIM kiosks: China Mobile / China Unicom / China Telecom. Prices from ¥30–100 (7–30 days). Bring your passport.
- Nomad / Ubigi: eSIM providers with China data plans. Good middle-ground option.
Related: Essential Apps for China · eSIM & SIM Guide