china travel guide3 min read

China Telecom eSIM: What Alt eSIM Actually Gives You

Discover what you get when you buy a travel eSIM from Alt eSIM for China Telecom network access, and what you don't get.

Reviewed by · Last updated 2026-08-28

What You Get and What You Don't

When you buy from Alt eSIM, you get access to China Telecom's network in China. This means you can use data on your device with our eSIM roaming onto their network. However, it's important to note that we are not China Telecom and do not sell their official products. We offer our own travel eSIM that connects to their network. You won't get a physical SIM card or any direct services from China Telecom. Our eSIM is designed for travelers who need data access in China without the hassle of finding a local SIM. For example, if you're visiting for a week and need reliable data, our eSIM can provide that, but it's not an official China Telecom product.

Applicable Destinations

Our eSIM works in China, where it roams onto the China Telecom network. This includes all regions of China, such as major cities and rural areas. The Chinese name for these destinations is '中國'. Whether you're in Beijing, Shanghai, or any other part of China, our eSIM will connect you to China Telecom's network. However, it's crucial to understand that this eSIM is specifically for China and does not work in other countries. For instance, if you're traveling to both China and Japan, you'll need a separate eSIM for Japan, as our eSIM won't function there.

Choosing the Right Plan Shape

When selecting a plan, you have two main options: daily plans and total data tiers. Daily plans are perfect for travelers who need consistent data access throughout their trip. These plans offer daily allowances of 1GB, 2GB, 3GB, or 5GB, costing from US$0.83 per day. On the other hand, total data tiers are ideal for those who prefer a set amount of data for their entire trip. The tiers range from 1GB to 30GB, with the cheapest plan starting at US$1.84. For example, if you're on a short trip and need a lot of data, a daily plan might be best. Conversely, if you're traveling for a longer period and need a fixed amount of data, a total data tier could be more suitable.

Getting Connected

Connecting with our eSIM is straightforward. Once you receive the eSIM, you'll need to scan the QR code using your device's settings. After scanning, the eSIM will be installed on your device, and you can activate it by selecting the plan you purchased. The connection process is quick and doesn't require any physical SIM swapping. For instance, if you're at the airport and need to connect immediately, you can do so within minutes. However, it's important to ensure your device is eSIM compatible before purchasing, as not all devices support eSIM.

What Happens When the Allowance Runs Out

Once your data allowance is used up, your connection speed will drop to 128 or 384 kbps, depending on the plan. This speed is still usable for basic tasks like browsing, email, and messaging, but it may be too slow for streaming or downloading large files. For example, if you're in the middle of a video call and your data runs out, the call might become choppy or disconnect. It's advisable to monitor your data usage and top up if necessary. However, if you prefer not to deal with speed reductions, you can purchase additional data packages before your allowance is depleted.

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