Getting connected with a reliable Macau mobile operator is essential for both travelers and residents. With the territory’s world-class casinos, shopping centers, entertainment venues and more, you’ll always want to stay in touch with friends and family or access information on-the-go.
We’ll provide details on coverage, plan pricing, exclusive perks and more for the major players. By comparing the features and fine print, you can choose the best network to keep you connected during your time in Macau.
Table of Contents
I. Mobile Internet in Macau: Convenient and Affordable Options for Visitors
Macau is one of Asia’s top tourist destinations, renowned for its casinos, world-class hotels and unique mix of Portuguese and Chinese influences. Planning to work, stream or communicate while in Macau? It’s important to be informed of your internet access alternatives.
- WiFi is widely available through public hotspots across the destination. However, hotspots may have limited range or reach capacity. Most hotels, guesthouses and Airbnbs in Macau offer in-room or lobby WiFi included for guests but speeds or data caps may vary.
Tip: When using wifi in public places, try to avoid doing security operations, such as operating online banking, credit card information, etc.
- Internet cafes scattered around Macau let you access the web for a low hourly rate, starting from MOP10. But they only offer desktop access versus mobile. Cafes also have limited seating and operating hours.
- International roaming rates charged by most carriers outside of Macau tend to be prohibitively pricey. Your home wireless provider will charge upwards of $1-2 per megabyte for data usage abroad and perhaps $2-3 per minute for calls and texts. These fees add up quickly and can burn through your budget in no time.
- The most versatile option is purchasing a prepaid SIM from a Macau operator, which offers affordable rates that won’t disappoint you. Not only does a Macau SIM card provide more affordable connectivity options within Macau itself, but it also gives you the ability to use data and call/text freely while visiting neighboring areas like Hong Kong. Macau is just a short ferry ride away from Hong Kong, making cross-border travel very convenient. Having the right SIM ensures smooth communication wherever your travels take you.
- Another worthy option to consider is activating an eSIM from international providers, if supported on your device. eSIMs digitally provision cellular plans, eliminating the need for a physical SIM. Some providers offer global data pass packages for use abroad. Though slightly more expensive than local SIMs, eSIMs leverage existing contracts and provide instant connectivity in Macau without changing devices or accounts.
So in summary, for most travelers, a pre-paid local SIM still delivers the best balance of an affordable, flexible internet solution tailored for Macau visits. And with eSIMs as an additional consideration, visitors have mobile options that keep them reliably connected throughout their trip.
Note: Macau does not censor the internet like mainland China. All social media and search engines are accessible without restrictions.
II. How Many Mobile Carriers are Operating in Macau?
Macau has a relatively small but highly competitive mobile market that is served by four main facilities-based network operators. These four companies fully own and manage their own mobile infrastructure including cell towers and core network equipment.
They are considered the major mobile network operators in Macau:
- CTM: formerly known as Companhia de Telecomunicações de Macau, is the largest with a 45% share. Launching mobile services in the early 1990s, CTM has an extensive fiber network and offers mobile, landline, and pay TV.
- SmarTone Macau: A leading telecommunications company in Macau, SmarTone provides voice, multimedia, and broadband services through its territory-wide 4G networks, as well as a fiber optic broadband network.
- 3 Macau: 3 Macau is Macau’s branch of Hutchison Telecom, also called 3Group. Beginning CDMA service in 1996 before upgrading, it distinguishes itself through affordable rates and flexible pay-as-you-go options for locals and visitors, as well as device retail locations.
Of these providers mentioned, CTM and China Telecom Macau are the mobile operators with functioning 5G networks across Macau to provide high-speed mobile connectivity and CTM has the most developed 5G footprint.
| Operator | Subscribers (in millions) | Network Service | Ownership |
| CTM | 554000(5G users: approximately 62,000) | 5G, 4G LTE, 3G | CITIC Telecom International (99%) Correios de Macau (1%) |
| China Telecom (Macau) | N/A | 5G, 4G LTE, 3G | China Mobile Limited |
| 3 Macau | N/A | 4G LTE, 3G, fiber optic broadband | Hutchison Telecom |
| SmarTone | N/A | 4G LTE, 3G, and GSM dual-band | Sun Hung Kai Properties |
III. Macau Mobile Network Comparison
To compare the different mobile networks available in Macau, we’ve put together this table:
| Mobile Operator | Network Coverage | Data Speeds (Q1/2023) (Mbps) | Technology | |||
| 3G Download | 3G Upload | 4G Download | 4G Upload | |||
| CTM Macau |
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10.7 | 2.3 | 175.4 | 46.8 | 2100 MHz UMTS, HSDPA 900/1800/2100/2600(B7) MHz LTE-A 2100/3500 MHz 5G NR |
| China Telecom |
|
2.3 | 0.9 | 96.7 | 39.3 | CDMA, CDMA2000, EVDO 850/1800/2600 MHz LTE 5G NR |
| SmarTone |
|
4.4 | 2.1 | 34.9 | 17.9 | 900/2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ 1800 MHz LTE |
| 3 Macau |
|
11 | 1.5 | 30.5 | 23 | 2100 MHz UMTS, HSPA+ 1800 MHz LTE |
In terms of overall network coverage, speed and consistency, CTM and China Telecom tend to be the most reliable choices for mobile service in Macau. While SmarTone has improved, its coverage is still not as extensive as the larger operators especially in rural areas. Customer reviews and tests consistently rate CTM as the top network for reliability in Macau.
IV. Best Macau Mobile Prepaid Plans
There are several options for tourist SIM cards in Macau, and the packages and prices vary. CTM, SmarTone and 3 Macau are most popular options.
1. CTM
| Plan | 5G Chill Card | “Online Everywhere in Macau” prepaid SIM card plan | ||||||
| Network | 5G/4G | 4G/3G | ||||||
| Validity | 30 Days | No Expiry Date | 3 Days | 7 Days | ||||
| Data | 12GB | 20GB | 30GB | 8GB | 18GB | 28GB | Unlimited | |
| Charge ($USD) | 11.21 | 23.66 | 36.11 | 10.96 | 23.41 | 35.86 | 9.71 | 23.41 |
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Tip: Click here to see CTM’s instructions on How to complete Real Name Registration to activate the service
2. 3 Macau
| SIM Card Types | Local/Tri-city 4G | SoSIM 4G | ||||
| Plan | 1-Day pass(Macau-HK) | 3-Day Pass (Macau-HK-Mainland China) | International Roaming Prepaid Card | Original Package | Special Package* | |
| Plan Validity | 1 Day | 3 Days | 30 Days | 30 Days | ||
| Data | Unlimited | 2GB | 4GB | 1GB | 10GB | |
| Charge ($USD) | 6.19 | 9.66 | 5.94 | 10.90 | 5.57 | 4.09 |
3. SmarTone
| Plan | SmarTone Spot | 30 Days Prepaid Card | |||
| SIM Price ($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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V. Where to Buy SIM Cards in Macau
Starting from 01/11/2021, each individual customer only can register up to 10 prepaid cards in Macau.
You can buy SIM cards from any of the mobile operators’ retail stores or authorized resellers throughout Macau, including at the airport. Simply bring your passport for identification and choose a plan that suits your needs.
VI. eSIM Macau – a Worthy Option to Consider
1. eSIM Macau at a Glance
CTM Macau was a pioneer in Macau by launching prepaid eSIM services in 2020. However, as the sole provider of this technology, their offerings may not best serve short-term visitors and tourists. Data packages, roaming, and extras match regular subscribers rather than tourists.
Travelers would benefit from more flexible daily/weekly passes and smaller data bundles priced affordably. Roaming add-ons built for exploring the region would also help simplify connectivity on the go.
However, there are international eSIM providers that run on Macanese network offering an alternative. Their pay-as-you-go plans include short term data bundles designed for the duration of users’ stays in Macau. Some plans also include data roaming in other destinations.
If you’re looking for truly hassle-free eSIM options, we’ll now highlight some Top International eSIM Providers for Macau. These third parties fill the gap by providing subscription-free connectivity through bundles focused on tourists with regional roaming included. While CTM paved the way for eSIMs, alternatives now exist designed specifically for short visits.
Some highly rated eSIM options for visitors to Macau include:
| 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 |
Overall, esimmacau.net is a great choice. They offer competitively priced eSIM data packages for visitors of all durations, providing fast 4G/5G data on Macau’s major networks with full regional coverage.
2. How to Get a Macau eSIM
Most eSIM providers offer dedicated apps or online portals where you can manage your eSIM, change plans, add or remove data packages, and monitor your usage. These platforms allow you to have control over your eSIM services and make adjustments based on your needs.
Activating an eSIM in Macau typically involves a straightforward process that can vary slightly depending on the specific eSIM provider. Here are the general steps to activate an eSIM:
- Check device compatibility: Ensure that your device supports eSIM functionality. Most newer smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches offer eSIM support, but it’s essential to verify compatibility with your specific device model. Check your phone’s Macau eSIM compatibility here
- Choose an eSIM provider and its eSIM plan: Select the eSIM provider that best suits your connectivity needs in Macau. Choose the plan that aligns with your data, voice, and duration requirements. Make the purchase, ensuring you have the necessary payment details ready.
- Access the eSIM settings: After purchasing the eSIM plan, the provider will provide you with either a QR code or an activation code. This code contains the necessary information to activate the eSIM on your device. On your device, navigate to the eSIM or cellular settings. This location can vary depending on the device and operating system. Look for the option to add a cellular plan or scan a QR code.
- Activation confirmation: Once the QR code is scanned or the activation code is entered, follow the instructions provided on your device’s screen. This typically involves confirming the activation, agreeing to terms and conditions, and waiting for the eSIM to be provisioned.
- Manage and customize your eSIM: Depending on the eSIM provider, you may have access to an app or online portal where you can manage your eSIM, change plans, monitor data usage, and perform other customization options.
If you’re having trouble activating your eSIM profile on your device, the provider’s support team can help troubleshoot the issue. Most eSIM providers offer multiple channels for customer support. For instance, esimmacau.net claims to offer 24/7 live chat support via WhatsApp and in different languages such as English, Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese and Spanish, which is convenient for quick resolution of issues.
Reliable Data Plans for Exploring Macau
VII. FAQs about Macau Mobile Operators
What are the biggest Macau mobile operators?
The top 3 mobile operators in Macau are CTM, SmarTone, and China Telecom. Together they dominate the market.
Which network has the best coverage in Macau?
CTM and SmarTone tend to have the most robust 4G/LTE coverage across Macau, including in most buildings. China Telecom’s coverage is very good but slightly behind the other two.
What kind of mobile plans do Macanese operators offer?
All operators offer prepaid SIM cards as well as postpaid plans with contracts ranging from 6 months to 2 years. You can get data-only plans or bundled plans with minutes/messages.
How can I buy a SIM card in Macau?
SIM cards for all major operators are readily available at the airport, major shopping malls, stores downtown and online. You’ll need your passport. Top-ups are available at convenience stores.
Can I use my non-Macau number/phone in Macau?
Yes, as long as your phone is unlocked/SIM-free you can simply insert a local Macau SIM for connectivity. You’ll get a Macau number to make calls/texts locally.
What payment methods do Macau mobile operators accept?
Most accept credit/debit cards as well as cash/Alipay/WeChat Pay. Postpaid plans often require an upfront security deposit paid by bank transfer.
How can I get help from the operators if needed?
Their stores have staff that can assist in English during business hours. You can also contact customer service via phone, online chat, Macau operator apps or social media.
VIII. Final Words
Choosing the right mobile operator in Macau can help ensure that you stay connected on your travels. Whether you’re looking for fast data speeds or affordable plans, there is an option out there for you. Before choosing, be sure to compare the different plans available from each operator and evaluate them based on your specific needs. With this guide, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and enjoy a reliable mobile connection during your time in Macau.
