Buying GO Malta SIM cards & eSIMs: Detailed Guide

Daisy Rodriguez

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Published: July 2024

GO Malta SIM card options provide essential connectivity for travelers in Malta.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the GO Malta SIM card, including coverage, speed, types of SIM cards available for tourists, and pricing. You’ll also learn where to buy these SIM cards and eSIMs, how to top them up and discover a better alternative for your connectivity needs.

I. Overview about GO Malta – What you need to know

GO Malta is one of the leading telecommunications providers in Malta, offering a range of services, including mobile, fixed-line, internet, and television.

• Foundation: GO, established in 1997 as Maltacom, rebranded in 2007.
• Popularity: Operates mainly in Malta with a limited international presence.
• Rank: Among Malta’s top three mobile network operators, with Epic and Melita.
• Coverage: GO provides 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G coverage in Malta. Coverage is especially strong in urban areas like Valletta and Sliema. It is weaker in rural regions such as Gozo and Comino.
• Speed: GO is the fastest mobile network in Malta based on Speedtest Awards™ for Q1-Q2 2021. GO has a speed score of 47.56 and an average speed of 58.01 Mbps. GO had 3,457 tests during this period.

Highlights:

• GO is a quadruple-play provider offering mobile, fixed-line, internet, and television services.
• In 2016, Tunisie Telecom purchased a majority stake (60%) in GO Malta for €200 million.
• As of July 2019, Tunisie Telecom held a 65.42% company share.
• In 2008, GO significantly increased Malta’s fiber-optic capacity by activating a second submarine cable connecting to Mazara, Italy.

II. GO Coverage in Malta

Source: nperf.com

GO Mobile’s coverage in Malta is extensive, covering most of the populated areas across the main island and Gozo.

Based on the nPerf coverage map:

• GO provides robust 4G/LTE coverage in major urban areas and tourist hotspots such as Valletta, St. Julian’s, Sliema, and Mdina.
• Coverage appears slightly weaker in some rural parts of Malta and Gozo but is still generally available.
• Popular coastal areas like Golden Bay and Mellieha Bay have good coverage.
• The map indicates some 5G coverage, particularly in densely populated areas, suggesting GO is investing in next-generation networks.

GO’s coverage generally appears comparable to Epic and Melita, with all three providers offering widespread coverage across Malta.

III. GO Speed in Malta

GO dominates the mobile network market in Malta based on Ookla’s Speedtest Awards™ data for Q1-Q2 2021. Its speed score, download speed, and upload speed are significantly higher than its competitors, “epic” and “Melita,” suggesting a superior network infrastructure and optimization by GO.

• Speed Score: GO’s 47.56 outpaces “epic” (43.29) and “Melita” (19.06).
• Download Speed: GO’s 58.01 Mbps nearly doubles “epic” (26.46 Mbps) and far exceeds “Melita” (18.32 Mbps).
• Upload Speed: GO’s 18.32 Mbps beats “epic” (6.12 Mbps) and “Melita” (2.29 Mbps).
• Latency: GO’s 20 ms is slightly higher than “epic” (18 ms) but much lower than “Melita” (24 ms).

Based on the available data, GO is the clear leader in mobile network performance in Malta.

IV. Types of GO Malta SIM Card Options for Tourists

GO Malta offers three types of SIM card options for tourists:

• Standard SIM Card
• Micro SIM Card
• eSIM

The table below will show you their basic differences.

As you see, using eSIM is more convenient for tourists as it offers digital activation, eliminates the need for a physical card, and provides the most hassle-free setup experience.

V. Top GO Malta SIM cards for Tourists & Prices

For travelers visiting Malta, GO Malta offers a selection of SIM cards tailored to your needs, ensuring you stay connected without hassle.

• Smart S: 500 MB, 30 days, EUR 4.99
• Smart M: 10 GB, 30 days, EUR 9.99
• Smart L: 12 GB, 30 days, EUR 15.99
• Smart XL: 14 GB, 30 days, EUR 34.99

In general, GO Malta’s plans are pretty diverse, covering all sorts of data needs. Whether you need just a bit or a lot, GO Malta has you sorted. Prices are fair, especially the Smart M plan, which gives you 10 GB for EUR 9.99 – a great deal.

Compared to competitors like Epic and Melita, GO stands out with more flexible options, making it a solid choice for all kinds of travelers.

Complications of Buying a SIM After Arrival

Buying a GO Malta SIM card can be tricky and frustrating. You’ll usually need your passport for registration, which can be a trouble. Some stores might not sell SIM cards to tourists. This can be time-consuming and stressful, especially if you need quick connectivity.

► Recommendation: Buying a tourist SIM card before your trip is best. This way, you can easily use the carrier’s services once you arrive.

VI. Where to buy GO Malta SIM cards for tourists?

You can buy a GO SIM card in two ways – in the city and even before you leave home! Let’s explore each option in detail.

1. Buy GO SIM in Malta City Center

After arriving in Malta, you can purchase a GO SIM card in the city center. Visit popular tourist destinations like Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian’s, and look for network representative stores, convenience stores, or train stations.

Some specific locations that sell GO SIM cards include:

• GO Malta stores in Valletta and Sliema
• Convenience stores like Arkadia or Tower Supermarket
• Train stations like the Malta Railway Station

Remember to use Google Maps to find addresses that sell GO SIM cards near you.

To buy a GO SIM in the city center:

• Be prepared to register with your personal information, which can be complicated.
• Expect to pay a lower price than at the airport, around €10-€20.
• The process might take some effort, but it’s a more affordable option.
• Not many tourists choose this option due to the hassle, but it’s still viable.

2. Buy GO Malta SIM Card Online Before Departure

The most convenient way to get your GO SIM card is to buy it online before your trip! Look for travel SIM suppliers that sell SIM cards using GO Malta’s network. You can find them on websites selling tourist SIMs, Amazon, or eBay.

To buy a GO SIM online:

• No need to present personal information; just provide basic details like your name, phone number, and shipping address.
• Your SIM will be shipped to you before your trip.
• This method is proactive, convenient, and reasonably priced, making it a popular choice among tourists.
• You’ll have more time to plan and prepare for your trip without worrying about finding a SIM card in Malta.

So, there you have it! Three easy ways to get your GO Malta SIM card and stay connected during your trip. Choose the option that suits you best, and enjoy your Maltese adventure!

VII. A Better Alternative to GO SIM cards – Malta eSIM

Are you tired of dealing with physical SIM cards when traveling abroad? If your phone supports eSIM, you can consider a better alternative to traditional SIM cards – Malta eSIM.

Using eSIM saves you the hassle of removing your original SIM card, letting you stay connected with family and friends back home.

At Gigago, we offer a convenient and affordable solution for travelers. Our Malta eSIM plans are designed to allow you to explore Malta without worrying about data roaming charges. With our eSIM, you can stay connected with your loved ones, navigate unfamiliar streets, and share your travel experiences on social media.

For Malta, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 500MB/day for 3 days with $3.00 . What is great about Gigago’s Malta eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $3.00 – $95.90 .

Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Malta; there is always an option for you with Gigago.

VIII. How to top up GO Malta SIM Card?

There are several ways to top up your GO Malta SIM card:

1. Online via the GO Website:

• Visit the GO website and click on the “Top up” button.
• Select the top-up amount and enter your GO mobile number.
• Complete the process using your credit card details.

2. Using the GO App:

• Log into the GO app and click the “Top up” button.
• Select the amount and your mobile number.
• If you have a credit card linked, you can use it or enter new card details.

3. Auto Top-Up:

• Set up auto top-up rules in the GO app to automatically refill your balance.
• Enjoy extra data benefits on selected plans when using auto top-up.

4. Top-Up Card:

• Purchase a top-up card from GO outlets or authorized resellers.
• Follow the instructions on the card to add credit to your account.

5. Bank’s Online Portal:

Use your bank’s online services to top up directly through their portal.

IX. FAQs about GO Malta SIM Cards

X. Conclusion

In summary, choosing a GO Malta SIM card means getting reliable service with flexible, affordable plans that fit your needs. This network carrier offers good connectivity, great for travelers and locals alike.

For extra convenience and security, go for an eSIM—no physical card is needed, and it is super easy to set up. Want a better experience? Switch to Gigago Malta eSIM today and stay effortlessly connected!