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Internet in China 2025 – Prices, Operators
Added: 29.07.2025,
Updated: 29.07.2025,
In 2025, China remains one of the largest and most advanced mobile internet markets in the world. Thanks to its enormous population and dynamic development of telecommunications infrastructure, internet access in China is widespread, although it comes with certain challenges and specific solutions. Let’s take a closer look at the state of the internet in China, the main operators, prices, and modern options for travelers such as XOXO WiFi and XOXO eSIM.
Internet Operators in China
The Chinese market is dominated by three major state-owned operators:
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China Mobile – the largest operator in China with the widest coverage, including 5G networks in major cities and expanding into rural areas.
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China Unicom – known for competitive prices and good coverage in cities, offering 4G and increasing 5G availability.
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China Telecom – strong in fixed-line and mobile services, actively expanding its 5G network.
Operators offer a variety of data packages, often bundled with voice and SMS services. Purchasing a local SIM card requires registration with an identity document and may be difficult for foreigners due to government regulations.
Internet Quality in China
China boasts some of the fastest internet speeds in the world, especially in the largest metropolitan areas such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. In these cities, the telecommunications infrastructure is highly developed — 5G and 4G LTE networks with high bandwidth are available, allowing for fast web browsing, high-quality video streaming, and the use of modern mobile applications without major problems. Operators continuously invest in network expansion, improving coverage and connection stability.
In rural and less urbanized areas, connectivity can be significantly slower, and 5G coverage is not as widespread. In such places, users often rely on 4G or even 3G networks, which may affect the quality and speed of the internet.
It is also important to remember that internet access in China is heavily regulated by the government. As a result, many popular global websites and applications, such as Google, Facebook, YouTube, or WhatsApp, are blocked for users accessing local networks. However, thanks to solutions like XOXO, tourists can freely use all these services without any restrictions, having access to the full global internet.
Additionally, data packages for mainland China differ from those available in Hong Kong and Macau — these are separate jurisdictions with their own regulations and telecom operators. It is important to pay attention to this when planning internet access in China, especially if you intend to visit all three regions.
Fortunately, XOXO offers special packages that simultaneously cover mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau. This way, you can be sure that you have uninterrupted internet access without any formalities, regardless of where you are within these three areas.
Looking for eSIM for China? Check here
Internet for Tourists – What Are the Options?
Tourists typically have two main options: buying a local SIM card or using alternative internet solutions.
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Local SIM cards require passport registration and may face language barriers or activation delays.
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XOXO WiFi and XOXO eSIM are convenient alternatives that do not require registration in China and provide instant internet access through portable routers or embedded SIM technology.
XOXO WiFi – Portable Internet in China
XOXO WiFi is a modern, portable device that enables easy and fast internet access almost anywhere in China. The router automatically connects to the strongest available Chinese operator network, allowing users to enjoy stable, fast, and unlimited internet access regardless of location — both in large cities and less populated areas.
The biggest advantage of XOXO WiFi is that it requires no complicated configurations or SIM card changes on your devices. You simply turn on the router and connect to it via WiFi — just like any other hotspot. The device supports multiple simultaneous connections, meaning you can connect smartphones, laptops, tablets, and even cameras or other mobile devices. This is a great solution for families, groups of friends, or business travelers who want to have constant internet access on several devices at the same time.
The router is lightweight, compact, and easy to carry — it fits in your pocket or handbag, making it an ideal companion for trips, business meetings, or everyday sightseeing. Moreover, the device’s battery provides many hours of operation on a single charge, eliminating the need for frequent recharging.
With XOXO WiFi, you don’t have to worry about data limits, local SIM registration problems, or high roaming costs. It is a reliable and convenient solution that provides full freedom to use the internet during your stay in China.
Advantages:
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Unlimited data, ideal for heavy internet users.
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Simple operation — just turn on and connect via WiFi.
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Ability to connect multiple devices simultaneously.
XOXO eSIM – Digital SIM Card
XOXO eSIM is a modern solution that eliminates the need for a physical SIM card. Thanks to eSIM technology, you can instantly activate a data plan directly on your phone or other compatible device without visiting a store or waiting for a physical SIM card delivery.
With XOXO eSIM:
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Quick and convenient activation — just scan the provided QR code, and the eSIM will be automatically downloaded and configured on your device. It is an ideal solution for people who frequently travel and need instant internet access regardless of location.
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No need to swap physical SIM cards — your current SIM card stays in the phone, while the eSIM works alongside it, allowing you to use two numbers or operators simultaneously. This is especially convenient for those who want to keep their local number while having access to foreign data packages.
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Flexible data plans — XOXO eSIM offers a variety of data packages tailored to the length of stay and individual user needs, from short tourist visits to longer stays. You can choose the perfect plan with the appropriate amount of data and validity period.
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Security and convenience — using eSIM eliminates the risk of losing or damaging a physical SIM card. All settings and data are stored digitally, which makes managing the service and changing plans easier without physical device intervention.
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Compatibility with modern devices — an increasing number of smartphones, tablets, and laptops support eSIM technology, allowing internet use regardless of device model or brand.
XOXO eSIM is the perfect solution for those who value speed, convenience, and flexibility during travel and want constant and reliable internet access without unnecessary formalities.
Looking for eSIM for China? Check here
XOXO WiFi and XOXO eSIM – Unlimited Internet Bypassing the Great Firewall of China
Traveling in China, you may encounter strong internet restrictions known as the Great Firewall, which blocks many popular websites and applications. With XOXO WiFi and XOXO eSIM, you gain unrestricted access to the global internet. These services automatically route your connection through secure networks, bypassing local censorship, allowing you to browse websites, use social media, and all your favorite services without any limitations. Enjoy fast, reliable, and unlimited internet in China — without blocks and complications.
Internet Prices in China
Local SIM cards in China typically cost about $10–$20 for a package of several gigabytes of data, which is attractive for short-term users. Larger packages providing 20 to 30 GB or more are available for prices around $25–$40, but purchasing them involves formalities such as passport registration and sometimes waiting time for activation.
For those who value convenience and flexibility, an excellent alternative is renting a portable XOXO WiFi router. Rental prices start at approximately (around $9–$10) per day, providing unlimited internet access without additional charges for data transfer or the need for top-ups. The router supports multiple device connections simultaneously, making it ideal for families or groups traveling together. Additionally, the router does not require local registration and automatically connects to the strongest available signal.
Regarding XOXO eSIM, prices vary depending on the chosen data package and validity period. For example, short-stay packages of about 5–10 GB for 15 days start at around (7–9 USD), while more extensive long-term plans with larger data allowances can cost from (15–35 USD). eSIM offers the same convenience as the router — instant activation and no formalities related to purchasing a local SIM card, plus it doesn’t require a physical device, which is a big plus for travelers packing light.
In summary, the choice between a local SIM card, renting an XOXO WiFi router, or purchasing an XOXO eSIM depends on your needs, length of stay, and convenience preferences. All these options provide stable internet access in China, but XOXO WiFi and eSIM offer greater flexibility and comfort by eliminating the formalities and limitations of local operators.
Summary
In 2025, China offers fast and wide internet coverage, but foreigners may face obstacles when buying a local SIM card. Modern solutions like XOXO WiFi and XOXO eSIM are convenient, unlimited, and hassle-free options, ideal for tourists seeking reliable internet access.
Looking for eSIM for China? Check here
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