3 Macau SIM Cards and eSIM – Detailed Guide for Tourists

Whether you’re exploring Macau’s iconic landmarks, sampling its delectable cuisine, or trying your luck at the world-famous casinos, having reliable mobile connectivity is crucial. With 3 Macau SIM cards, you can enjoy high-speed internet access, affordable voice calls, and convenient data packages tailored to meet your specific needs.

We will delve into the features and benefits of 3 Macau’s prepaid SIM cards designed for tourists, discussing coverage, data plans, activation procedures, and more. Additionally, we will explore the advantages of utilizing an eSIM as a seamless and hassle-free alternative to traditional physical SIM cards.

I. Quick Facts about 3 Macau

“Three”, operating under Hutchison Telephone (Macau) Company Limited, is one of the leading mobile service providers in Macau. Established in 2003 in Hong Kong, “Three” offers superior voice and data services, innovative mobile content, IDD, and roaming services through its extensive 4G LTE and 3G networks.

With a commitment to advancing mobile technology and delivering customer-focused services, “Three” also provides an exceptional communications experience by offering advanced mobile devices, unique service offerings, and collaborations with phone suppliers, app developers, and service providers.

II. 3 Macau Mobile Operator Services

3 Macau offers a comprehensive range of mobile communication services to satisfy its customers, which includes

• Voice services: such as smart voice mail, missed call alert, voice messaging, conference calls and other local and international voice calls.
• Data services: The company provides a variety of data packages, including unlimited 3G and 4G/LTE and add-on data plans. 
• Value-added services:  Popular offerings include mobile entertainment, online payments, account top-ups, and new phone sales. 3 Macau also facilitates mobile payments and partnerships for discounts.
• Roaming services: Customers can use their 3 Macau lines in over 280 countries and regions worldwide wherever coverage is available.

III. 3 Macau Network Coverage & Speed in Macau

3 Macau launched its 4G LTE network in December 2015, achieving outdoor coverage of over 95% throughout Macau by 2022. To further drive 4G adoption, the company has increased included data allowances for its 4G plans. In addition, 3 Macau introduced the “3G Macau – Hong Kong Unlimited Data Plan” in 2022, allowing customers unlimited data roaming when visiting Hong Kong. The operator has also expanded its international data roaming services, which can now be used without additional charges in 25 countries popular with Macau tourists.

3 Macau 3G and 4G Performance from 2022 - 2023

All speeds shown are within typical ranges for mobile data performance. Download speeds are decent for general web browsing and content streaming. Upload speeds may be more limited for activities like file sharing.

Overall the data indicates Hutchison’s 4G network performance has been stable to improving slightly over the past year, while their 3G network remains steady but slower. This is likely reflective of their continued investment in and upgrades to 4G infrastructure.

IV. Top 3 Macau SIM Cards for Tourists

3 Macau has no eSIMs but instead, they focus on providing several prepaid sim card options specially designed for tourists visiting Macau

Tip: Ensure your phone is unlocked – SIM will only work if your phone accepts Macanese SIM cards. Ask your carrier if phone is unlocked.

V. Calls and SMS Rate of 3 Macau in Macau

VI. How to Top up Your 3 Macau SIM

1. Recharge

Here are instructions on how to recharge your 3 Macau prepaid SIM card:

Go to the Recharges page on the 3 Macau website

Select the ‘How to recharge’ tab. Here are the options to top up your account:

• Online Recharge: select this choice to add funds via the website or my3 mobile app. Pick a value and payment method like Octopus card or credit card. Enter details and complete the transaction.
• Physical Recharge: visit any 3shop or authorised sales point. Inform the staff you want to recharge your 3 number. Choose a recharge card value and pay by cash or card. They will instantly process the top up for you.
• As alternative channels, some bank ATMs allow 3 Macau recharges. Self-service kiosks located around Macau offer recharges too. Press ##122 * + e-PIN code + # or call 66031212 and follow the instruction for entering the e-PIN. You can also top up online using Octopus or Alipay e-wallet apps.

Your selected amount will be credited within minutes. Be sure to recharge before your current plan expires to keep your connection uninterrupted. For issues, their Live Chat on the site provides support.

2. Data Top up

• Open the 3Macau website or app and log into your account. Click on “Data” on the menu bar and select “Top Up” from the dropdown menu.
• Choose the data pack you want to purchase. The data packs have options like 1.5GB for $30 MOP valid for 30 days.
• Select your payment method. You can pay by credit/debit card or e-wallet. Enter your payment details like card number, expiry date etc.
• Click “Pay” to complete the transaction. You will receive an SMS notification once your data top up is successful. The additional data will be available for use right away and will be added to your existing data balance.

VII. How to Check 3 Macau Balance – All Useful 3 Macau USSD Codes

Here are the steps to check your 3Macau balance and some useful USSD codes:

To check your 3Macau balance via the website or app:

1. Log in to your 3Macau account online or open the 3Macau app.
2. Click on “Account” in the main menu.
3. Your current balance for calls/SMS/data will be displayed along with a breakdown of your usage.

Note: The defaulted SMS language is simplified Chinese

VIII. Where to Buy 3 Macau SIM Cards?

Here are a few simple ways to get your very own 3 Macau SIM card:

• Upon arrival: you can find SIM vending machines right in the arrival areas of the airport and ferry terminals. Simply insert your credit or debit card and you’ll walk away with a basic SIM all ready to go.
• Retail stores: Feeling like a wander? Pop into one of 3’s handy retail stores located around town. Stores like the ones in Avenida da Praia Grande and Rua do Campo malls have a great selection of plans to choose from. Pay cash or card and you’ll be all set before you leave. Click here to see 3 Macau retails’ exact locations
• Or You can also purchase a 3 Macau SIM online from the comfort of your own couch. Browse packages at 3Fans.mo, fill in your details and pay however suits you best. They’ll ship your SIM straight to you in Macau within a couple days. Then activate online or when it arrives – super simple!

Tip: Don’t forget to use currency tools to stay up-to-date MOP (Macau’s currency).

IX. 3 Macau Mobile Operator Pros and Cons

Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks of using 3 Macau:

1. Pros

• Wide network coverage across Macau. 3’s network reaches all major areas.
• Affordable plans and data packages available. Plan pricing is competitive compared to other Macau telcos.
• Good 4G data speeds for the most part. 4G network provides for fast mobile internet experience.
• Ease of purchasing local SIM cards. Can get 3 SIM cards easily at retailers or airport kiosks.

2. Cons

• Customer service response may vary. Waiting time or language barriers in some cases.
• Not as extensive international roaming support. May incur steep roaming charges outside Macau/China region.
• Network quality can be patchy indoors. Signal strength varies depending on location and buildings.
• Less lucrative promotions compared to competitors. Offers may not be as attractive as other Macau telcos.
• No optional English package. All communication and SIM packaging is in Chinese primarily.
• Handset selection limited to China brands. May not suit tourists preferring international brand phones.

X. 3 Macau SIM Alternatives for Tourists

 Besides relying on 3 Macau like locals, check out these swell SIM options to stay in touch worry-free:

1. SIM cards by Other Macanese Mobile Operators:

Macau offers visitors some flexibility when it comes to buying a temporary data package. CTM and SmarTone are another major service providers in the area that have deals tailored to travelers’ needs.

Doing research in advance will allow you to choose the mobile package that best suits your budget and internet requirements.

2. eSIM by International Providers

eSIM technology allows your smartphone’s embedded SIM card to activate a mobile data plan directly, removing the need for a physical SIM card. This makes eSIMs very convenient for travelers. It’s important to find a provider that offers access to major Macau networks to ensure good coverage during your trip.

Some highly rated eSIM options for visitors to Macau include:

Overall, The best provider depends on needs – esimmacau.net may be most cost effective for short stays, Airalo for flexibility on longer trips, and Holafly for simplicity with unlimited data.

If you’re looking for truly hassle-free eSIM options for your Macau trip, 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.

Some of their main eSIM options include:

Regional plans covering Hong Kong-Macau, Greater China and Asia are also available with 5 to 30 day validity.

Best of all, activation is effortless – just scan the provided QR code using WiFi/data to instantly install on your compatible device. No long registration required! esimmacau.net also provides 24/7 support via WhatsApp, phone and email in English, Chinese, Spanish, Italian and many other languages.

Tip: Check your phone’s eSIM compatibility – Not all smartphone models support eSIM, so make sure your phone is compatible before purchasing an eSIM plan. And learn more about How to install an eSIM.

XI. FAQs about 3 Macau

XII. Final Words

No matter which option you go for, a Macau SIM or eSIM will keep you in pocket with real-time navigation, on-the-go translations, up-to-date plans with friends and family back home. Most importantly, it will help you immerse fully into all the experiences Macau has to offer.

Have a wonderful trip exploring this one-of-a-kind destination. May the connectivity you choose serve you well and help create memories to last a lifetime!