Hey there! Getting online easily while traveling is so important these days. If you’ve got an upcoming trip to Macau lined up, one of the top mobile providers to consider is SmarTone. As one of the major telcos in Macau, SmarTone is known for its reliable 4G LTE network covering over 99% of the area.
In this handy guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about SmarTone’s services. From popular prepaid SIM card packages to topping up and checking your balance – it’s all covered. We’ll also compare SmarTone to other local options and recommend some eSIM solutions for international visitors. By the end, you’ll have all the info required to pick a connectivity plan that fits your needs and budget perfectly.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts about SmarTone Macau
SmarTone is one of the largest mobile network operators in Macau, providing both residential and enterprise telecommunication services. As a subsidiary of the renowned SmarTone Telecommunications Holdings Limited from Hong Kong, SmarTone Macau has made a significant impact in the market since its establishment in 2001.
With a strong presence in Macau, SmarTone Macau strives to provide extensive network coverage across the region. Its dedication to quality service and customer satisfaction has earned it a solid reputation in the telecommunications industry in Macau.
II. SmarTone Mobile Operator Services
SmarTone offers a comprehensive range of services to meet the communication needs of its customers. Here are some key services provided by this mobile carrier:
- Data service: SmarTone provides its customers with 4G/LTE high-speed mobile data services and a variety of date packages, including unlimited and add-on data plans.
- Voice Services: SmarTone offers reliable voice services, allowing customers to make and receive calls both locally and internationally. They strive to provide clear and high-quality voice calls to ensure effective communication.
- Value-Added Service: SmarTone offers a range of value-added services to enhance the mobile experience. These may include services like caller ringback tones, mobile TV, music streaming, cloud storage, and other entertainment or productivity features that customers can opt for to personalize their mobile usage.
- Mobile Broadband: For devices like laptops and tablets, a portable wireless broadband service allows sharing of the SIM card Internet connection via WiFi or cable.
- Roaming service: An international roaming package can be added to enable data, call and SMS services while traveling outside of Macau. Over 140 destinations are covered across Asia, America, Europe and more.
III. SmarTone Network Coverage & Speed in Macau
SmarTone has invested heavily in building a robust telecommunications network. It currently covers:
- Over 98% of Macau’s total land area with 4G connectivity. This includes all major cities like Macau Peninsula, Taipa and Coloane islands.
- Indoor coverage is still ongoing but expected to reach over 80% by the end of 2015 as per SmarTone’s CEO Patrick Chan Kai Lung.
- Key locations like casinos, hotels, shopping malls and tourist attractions already have 4G signals. The government’s goal is full indoor coverage by 2016.
In terms of speeds, SmarTone’s 4G network is said to provide downloads at:
- Up to 150 Mbps based on real user testing so far in 2015. This is projected to increase as the network optimizes.
- At least 20-30% faster speeds than the existing 3G network, as 4G LTE has greater bandwidth and spectrum efficiency.
- Comparable or slightly higher speeds than competitor CTM which has also rolled out a 4G trial service in Macau.
SmartTone Network Performance from Q3/2022 to Q2/2023
| Item | Performance Target | Q3 2022Actual Performance | Q4 2022Actual Performance | Q1 2023Actual Performance | Q2 2023Actual Performance |
| 1 | Network Performance | ||||
| a | 3G Outdoor | ≥99% | 99.47% | 99.39% | 99.31% |
| b | 4G Outdoor | ≥99% | 99.02% | 99.01% | 99.01% |
| 2 | Voice Quality | ||||
| a | Drop Call Rate | <1% | 0.46% | 0.55% | 0.36% |
| b | Connectivity Rate | >99% | 99.15% | 99.2% | 99.13% |
| 3 | Average Data Upload & Download Speed | ||||
| a | 3G Upload Speed | ≥1.5Mbps | Complied | Complied | Complied |
| b | 3G Download Speed | ≥3Mbps | Complied | Complied | Complied |
| c | 4G Upload Speed | ≥7Mbps | Complied | Complied | Complied |
| d | 4G Download Speed | ≥15Mbps | Complied | Complied | Complied |
SmarTone is committed to further expanding and enhancing its 4G infrastructure to keep up with Macau’s growing data consumption patterns. Subscribers can experience the benefits of high-speed mobile broadband for work and entertainment everywhere in Macau.
IV. Top SmarTone SIM Cards for Tourists
SmarTone offers two main prepaid SIM types: the 30 Days Prepaid Card and Spot Prepaid Card, which are versatile options for short and long stay visitors respectively to stay connected affordably in Macau.
| Plan | SmarTone Spot | 30 Days Prepaid Card | |||
| SIM Price ($US) | 6.19 | 12.39 | |||
| Network | 4G/3G (No less than 256kbps. However, the actual data transmission speeds may vary) | 4G/3G (No less than 384 kbps. However, the actual data transmission speeds may vary) | |||
| Validity | 30 Days | 30 Days | |||
| Data | 3GB | 5GB | 10GB | 450MB | Unlimited |
| Charge ($US) | 4.71 | 7.18 | 9.66 | 5.94 | 12.14 (First month: 9.04) |
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Important Note:
According to Macau Cyber Security Law, prepaid card users must register their personal information and identification
V. How to Register SmarTone SIM Cards?
Here are the steps to register your prepaid SmarTone SIM cards on the real name registration system:
- Go to the registration website https://www.smartone.com/jsp/mo/english/real_name_registration.jsp ↗ or scan the QR code provided.
- If you are a new user, insert or scan the 15-digit number found on your prepaid SIM card. If you are an existing user who has registered before, insert your prepaid card mobile number and the SMS verification code sent to that number.
- Upload a clear copy of your valid government-issued photo ID such as passport or ID card. You will also need to take and upload a selfie photo for identity verification purposes.
- Fill in the required personal information fields such as name, ID number, date of birth etc. Read and agree to the Terms and Conditions of the registration.
- Once you have submitted all the required information and documents, your registration will be processed. You will get a confirmation message if registration is successful.
- Your prepaid SIM card will now be properly activated for use upon successful registration.
- You can contact SmarTone customer service at 1628 if you face any issues or have additional questions during the registration process.
VI. Calls and SMS Rate of SmarTone in Macau
| Value Added Services | Charges (US$) |
| Local Voice Minute | $0.04 / minute |
| Local SMS | $0.031 / message |
| International SMS | $0.062 per message for sending to Philippines $0.12 per message for sending to other destinations |
| Miss Call Alert | $0.62 / month |
| Call Forwarding | $0.04 / min (or fee calculation according to per-minute rate after value-added discount) |
| Voice Mail | $1.25 / month |
| Local MMS | $0.19 (1-11KB) $0.25 (11.1-30KB) $0.37 (30.1KB or above) |
| International MMS | $0.56 (1-11KB) $0.62 (11.1-30KB) $0.75 (30.1KB or above) |
VII. How to Top up SmarTone SIM Cards
1. Using Top-up Vouchers
Top-up vouchers are available across Macau at SmarTone retail stores, corner shops and convenience stores.
| Recharge Voucher Amount (US$) | Extra Free Bonus (US$) |
| 6.23 | 2.49 |
| 12.45 | 1.87 |
| 24.91 | 3.74 |
SmarTone top-ups are available in the following denominations:
– Dial *137*VoucherCode# to top up your SmarTone SIM card.
If your voucher code is 123456, for example, dial *137*123456#.
2. Physical Recharge
If you visit a SmarTone store, tell the salesman your phone number, how much you want to top-up, and they will do the top-up for you via POS system.
3. Mobile Application
You also have the option to utilize the SmarTone CARE mobile application on your smartphone for various purposes. This app allows you to:
- View account details such as available stored value and remaining data allocation on your SIM card.
- Locate the nearest shop or authorized reseller.
- Access information on roaming and IDD (International Direct Dialing) rates.
- Stay updated on the latest promotions and exclusive offers.
- Conveniently recharge your SIM card using a credit card.
- Manage your data packs and additional services.
VIII. How to Check SmarTone Balance – All SmarTone USSD Codes that You Need to Know
To check your SmarTone balance, simply dial *111# on your phone to verify.
| Short Codes | What It Does |
| ＊ 1 3 7 ＃ | Card balance and due date checking |
| ＊ 1 2 3 ＊ 2 # | Local data usage checking |
| ＊ 1 2 1 ＊ 00 [Country Code] [Area Code] [Local Tel. No.] | International Call Forward Activation |
| Call 1662 | Voice mail |
| ＊ 1 3 8 | Access your voice mail |
IX. Where to Buy SmarTone SIM Cards?
Important Note: Regarding the implementation of the Cyber Security Law in Macau SAR, individual customers can only register a maximum of 10 prepaid cards, while associations can register up to 25 prepaid cards.
Here are a few options for where you can buy SmarTone SIM cards in Macau:
- SmarTone Stores – SmarTone has their own retail stores located throughout Macau where you can purchase SIM cards. Some locations include Shoppes @ Four Seasons, Macau Forum shopping mall, and Venetian Macao.
- Major Carriers Stores – While SmarTone-branded, SIM cards are also sold at major carrier stores run by other companies. Try stores operated by China Telecom or China Mobile.
- Convenience Stores – Convenience stores like 7-Eleven often carry a selection of prepaid SIM cards from all the major carriers, including SmarTone. Check larger branches.
- Mobile phone shops – Independent mobile phone shops throughout Macau will usually stock Smartone and other carrier SIM cards for sale. Try shops in Senado Square or near hotel casinos.
- Airport – Upon arrival at Macau International Airport, you can purchase a SmarTone SIM from vending machines located past customs and baggage claim.
- Online – SmarTone’s website ships SIM cards to a Macau address, but in-person purchase is easier. Consider asking your hotel concierge to assist if ordering online.
X. SmarTone Mobile Operator Pros and Cons
SmarTone Mobile Operator has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some to consider.
1. Pros
- Wide 4G network coverage reaching 98% of Macau already. Coverage is reliable in both cities and tourist sites.
- Established brand with over 20 years of experience in Macau’s telecom market ensuring stable services.
- Good variety of prepaid and postpaid plans suited for both residents and short-term visitors. Affordable plan pricing.
- Large number of service centers and distributors across Macau make SIM cards easily accessible.
- 24/7 customer support hotlines provide quick assistance in English, Portuguese and Chinese.
- Ongoing network expansion and upgrades to deliver faster 4G speeds as data usage grows.
2. Cons
- Competition is intense from the two other major operators CTM and China Telecom who offer similar services.
- Due to the competitive landscape, SmarTone has fewer extensive plan bundles compared to CTM particularly.
- 4G network coverage within some densely populated residential districts still needs strengthening for full indoor access.
- No eSIM support yet for digital SIM activation flexibility like competitor providers are starting to offer.
- No exclusive value-added services for frequent foreign visitors traveling between Macau and China.
XI. SmarTone SIM Cards Alternatives for Tourists
Besides using SmarTone SIM Cards, travelers have some other reliable connectivity choices while visiting Macau:
1. SIM cards by Other Macanese Mobile Operators
CTM and 3 Macau are another major service providers that have deals for travelers.
| Plan | Provider | Network | Plan Validity | Data | Charge ($US) |
| 5G Chill Card | CTM | 5G/4G | 30 Days | 12GB | 11.21 |
| 20GB | 23.66 | ||||
| 30GB | 36.11 | ||||
| “Online Everywhere in Macau” prepaid SIM card plan | 4G/3G | 3 Days | Unlimited | 9.71 | |
| 7 Days | 23.41 | ||||
| Tri-city Unlimited Plan | Hutchison Telecommunications Macau (3 Macau) | 4G | 30 Days | 5GB | 13.49 |
| 8GB | 17.48 | ||||
| 12GB | 20.73 | ||||
| 18GB | 28.22 | ||||
| 70GB | 38.46 | ||||
| 120GB | 58.45 |
Network coverage is the main differentiator among operators. CTM has the largest 4G network in Macau, covering over 99.5% of the population. They generally have the most reliable coverage across the territory.
2. eSIM by International Providers
eSIMs are very convenient for travelers as they remove the need to swap a physical SIM card. It’s important to choose a provider that offers access to Macau’s major cellular networks to ensure good coverage during your trip.
Some top-rated eSIM options for visitors to Macau include esimmacau.net, Airalo, and Holafly. esimmacau.net may be the most cost effective for short stays. Airalo provides flexibility for longer trips. Holafly offers simplicity with unlimited data plans.
| Provider | Network Operator | Plan Validity | Data | Charge (USD) | Pros |
| Airalo | CTM | 7 Days | 1GB | 4.50 | Has the longest plan durations, offering options from 7 days up to 365 daysHas the highest data allowances, ranging from 50GB up to 500GB per planHas the highest maximum price at $379 for a 365 day planAllows unused data to rollover to the next plan, giving customers flexibility |
| 30 Days | 3GB | 9.50 | |||
| 5GB | 13 | ||||
| 10GB | 20 | ||||
| Holafly | Hutchison (3 Macau) | 5 Days | Unlimited | 19 | The simplicity of offering unlimited data for all plans could appeal to some customersHas the lowest starting price at $19 for a 5 day planOffers a wide range of plan durations from 5 days up to 90 days |
| 7 Days | 27 | ||||
| 20 Days | 54 | ||||
| 30 Days | 64 | ||||
| Nomad | CTM | 7 Days | 1GB | 4 | Has mid-range prices starting from $15 for a 7 day plan up to $179 for a 365 day planOffers flexibility with plan durations between 7 days up to 365 daysData allowances range from 30GB to 300GB per plan |
| 15 Days | 3GB - 5GB | 8 - 12 | |||
| 30 Days | 10GB - 50GB | 19 - 125 | |||
| eSIM Macau | CTM | 3 Days | 3GB - 50GB | 4.90 - 62.90 | Offers the most flexibility in terms of plan durations with options from 3 days up to 30 daysHas the lowest minimum price at $4.90 for a 3 day planAllows consumers to choose from a wide range of data allowances from 3GB to 50GB |
| 7 Days | 3GB - 50GB | 5.50 - 70 | |||
| 15 Days | 3GB - 50GB | 6 - 75 | |||
| 30 Days | 3GB - 50GB | 5.9 - 89.50 |
For hassle-free eSIM access, esimmacau.net is a great choice. They provide affordable eSIM packages for all trip lengths on Macau’s 4G/5G networks, with full regional coverage.
eSIM Macau key plans include:
Discover Macau Without Boundaries
Activation is easy – just scan the provided QR code using WiFi/data to instantly install on your compatible device. esimmacau.net supports customers 24/7 via WhatsApp, phone and email in multiple languages.
Note: Be sure to check your phone’s eSIM compatibility first before purchasing, as not all models support eSIM. And learn more about how to install an eSIM
XII. FAQs about SmarTone
Can I use my SmarTone SIM cards internationally?
You’ll need to purchase a global roaming pack. Otherwise calls/data will incur high roaming charges.
How do I top up SmarTone SIM cards?
Top ups can be done at retail stores, online or via the SmarTone mobile app using credit cards or payment platforms.
Is there a SmarTone welcome bonus for new users?
There are occasional promotional programs offering extra data or call credits for activating new SIM cards.
Which smartphones are compatible with SmarTone 4G network in Macau?
Most recent Apple and Android flagship devices work fine. Check device bands match SmarTone’s 800/900/1800/2100MHz frequencies.
How can tourists purchase a SmarTone SIM card in Macau airport?
SIM cards can be bought from vending machines in the arrival halls or you can ask for help at travel counters inside.
XIII. Final Words
Whether opting for a 30 Days Card, Spot Card or eSIM, connectivity allows seamless navigation, translations on the go, keeping in touch with loved ones, and fully immersing in Macau’s offerings. Mobile access handles real-time directions, language barriers, and status updates back home. Above all, it maximizes enjoyment of this unique place.
Have a wonderful time exploring everything Macau has to showcase. May the solution you select enhance your journey by creating recollections to cherish forever!
