The eSIM you take to Macau travel can have a major impact on your visit, so we’re here to help you decide.
We’ve tested three of the leading eSIM suppliers – Airalo, iRoamly, and Holafly.
And compared their data packages, prices, and service performance to help you pick the best for you, depending on your data requirements and budget.
What to Take Into Account When Buying an eSIM for Travel
Package Types:
When selecting an eSIM, you can typically choose from three types of data packages:
Total: Offers a fixed amount of data for the duration of the plan.
Daily: Provides a specific daily data allowance, which resets each day regardless of usage.
Unlimited: Allows unlimited data usage throughout the plan’s validity. Additionally, some packages may include options for making calls or sending messages.
Price:
The cost of eSIMs can vary, but be sure to cross-reference pricing with the amount of data you'll receive. A cheap deal is great, but it may not be so fantastic if you run out of data during your stay.
Coverage (Operator):
Coverage is key to remaining connected. Ensure your eSIM provider has a good operator partner in Macau to provide better service speeds, rather than slow or interrupted connections.
Hotspot Sharing:
If you plan to connect multiple devices or share your connection with fellow travelers, check if the eSIM supports hotspot sharing.
This feature can be incredibly valuable, providing internet access for laptops, tablets, and other phones without needing multiple eSIMs.
Customer Service:
Having good support can save you from a potential headache if something goes wrong. Look for eSIM sellers that have good customer service, whether through chatbots, WhatsApp, or email.
Top 3 Macau Travel eSIM Brand Recommendations
Airalo:
Airalo offers simple data plans, ranging from 1 GB to 20 GB, with a validity period of up to 30 days. They are partnered with the local operator CTM, so coverage is strong while in Macau, and feature hotspot sharing, backed by responsive online chat support.
iRoamly:
iRoamly offers a wider variety of plans to suit different needs, with daily, total, and unlimited options. Their service runs on network operators such as T-Mobile and AT&T, and customer support is accessible across multiple platforms, making them a versatile option for travelers.
Holafly:
Holafly focuses on offering unlimited data plans, perfect for those who don’t want to worry about running out. Its plans are available for 1 to 90 days, and they run on network operators like Hutchison, for reliability in Macau. But they have limitations on hotspot sharing.
Macau Travel eSIM Package Comparisons
Feature | Airalo | iRoamly | Holafly |
Types of Data Packages | Total Type | Unlimited/Daily/Total | Unlimited |
Data Range | 1/2/3/5/10/20 GB | 0.5/1/3/5/10/20/50/Unlimited GB | Only Unlimited |
Validity Period (days) | 7/15/30 | 1/3/5/7/10/15/20/30 | 1 to 90 days |
Speed | LTE | 4G | 3G/4G/LTE/5G |
Hotspot/Tethering | Yes | Yes | No |
Operator | CTM | T-Mobile / AT&T | Hutchison |
Customer Service | Online Chatbot | Chatbot/WhatsApp/Email/INS | Chatbot/WhatsApp |
Macau travel eSIM price comparison
Airalo | iRoamly | Holafly | |
7 Days | Total: 1 GB, $4.50 | Unlimited, $16.00 Total: 5 GB, $8.00 Total: 10GB, $11.50 Daily: 1GB, $7.00 | Unlimited, $29.00 |
15 Days | Total: 2 GB, $6.50 | Unlimited, $33.00 Total: 5 GB, $7.50 Total: 10 GB, $11.00 Daily: 1GB, $15.00 | Unlimited, $51.00 |
30 Days | Total: 5 GB, $11.50 Total: 10GB, $18.00 Total: 20 GB, $26.00 | Unlimited, $64.00 Total: 5 GB, $9.50 Total: 10 GB, $13.00 Total: 20 GB, $24.00 Daily: 1GB, $30.00 | Unlimited, $75.00 |
Summary
For Light Data Users:
Airalo is well-suited for tourists with modest internet needs during their Ireland trip. With plans like the 7-day, 1GB package for $4.50, Airalo provides an affordable solution for users who primarily require the internet for basic browsing and maps. However, the limitation to "total type" packages might not cater to those who occasionally need more substantial data volumes.
For Heavy Data Users:
iRoamly Macau travel eSIM shines for users who consume a lot of data. Their wide array of package types, including daily and unlimited options, ensures that heavy data users find something that perfectly matches their needs. For example, the 7-day unlimited plan for $16.00 offers freedom from worrying about data caps, and its price is competitive.
For Long-term Travelers:
Holafly is tailored for visitors to Ireland who plan extended stays and need continuous internet access. Their long-term packages, like the 30-day unlimited plan for $75.00, provide uninterrupted data service, but priced higher. This makes Holafly ideal for long-term travelers, despite the limitation on hotspot sharing which might restrict the usage of multiple devices.
FAQs
Can I use the eSIM in places other than Macau?
Not generally – these are country or region-specific virtual SIMs. Check the provider for global or regional packages if you need broader travel coverage.
Is my phone or tablet compatible with the eSIM?
Most modern smartphones and tablets support eSIMs now, but it's best to check your device settings, the manufacturer’s website or iRoamly eSIM-compatible list.
Can I make calls or send texts with a travel eSIM?
Most are data-only, as per these, so you may need solutions from elsewhere for voice and SMS.
How do you know how many GB to buy?
Work out how much data you expend on an average day using internet-based services like browsing, maps, and socials. Or check out a data calculator from an eSIM provider to figure out what you need. If you’re watching video or are a heavy user, budget for more.
Who are the biggest SIM Card & Mobile Network providers in Macau?
CTM and Hutchison primarily, followed by T-Mobile/AT&T for the best coverage and service as a customer in the region.