Buying KPN the Netherlands SIM cards & eSIMs: Detailed Guide

Olivia Brown

|

Published: August 2024

KPN the Netherlands SIM cards & eSIMs make it super easy for travelers to stay connected while they’re here!

If you’re planning a trip to the Netherlands and need reliable mobile connectivity, this guide on KPN the Netherlands SIM cards & eSIMs is your go-to resource. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about KPN’s coverage, speed, and the different SIM card options available for tourists. Learn where to buy KPN SIM cards and eSIMs, the top choices for travelers, and how to top up your SIM easily.

I. Overview about KPN the Netherlands – What you need to know

KPN (Koninklijke PTT Nederland) is the largest telecommunications company in the Netherlands, offering mobile, fixed-line, and internet services.

• Foundation: Established in 1989 when the state-owned PTT was privatized.
• Popularity: KPN primarily operates in the Netherlands. It previously had international operations but has since focused on its home market.
• Rank: KPN is often one of the top mobile operators in the Netherlands, competing for the #1 spot in network quality.
• Coverage: Covering 99.3% of Dutch land, this wide reach comes from adding 100+ new antenna masts in cities and countryside, greatly boosting capacity and coverage.
• Speed: Very fast.
• Highlights:
  • KPN launched a new plan called “Connect, Activate & Grow,” planning to invest nearly €5 billion over the next three years to expand its fiber network to 80% of the Netherlands by 2026.
  • KPN’s service revenue is growing, with a 3.7% rise in Q2 2024, thanks to strong performance in consumer postpaid and broadband.
  • KPN plans to return €3.8 billion to shareholders in the next four years through dividends and share buybacks.

II. KPN Coverage in the Netherlands

Source: nperf.com

KPN offers extensive coverage across the Netherlands, competing closely with other major carriers. According to the Opensignal’s report in September 2023:

• Availability: KPN ties for second place with T-Mobile at 98.1-98.5%, showing nearly ubiquitous service.
• 5G Availability: KPN ties with T-Mobile at 19-21.5%, ahead of Vodafone’s 13.6%.

Strengths:

• Robust coverage in major cities and tourist areas like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht provinces.
• Along transportation routes, there is strong performance in rural areas such as Friesland, Groningen, and Drenthe.

Weaknesses: 5G coverage is still limited compared to overall network reach.

III. KPN Speed in the Netherlands

Source: opensignal.com

KPN is one of the leading mobile carriers in the Netherlands, and it is known for its reliable and fast mobile network.

• Median Download Speed: 87.6 Mbps (ranked #1)
• Median Upload Speed: 15.9 Mbps (ranked #2)

In summary, KPN provides high-speed internet, making it a good choice for users who need fast and reliable mobile connections.

IV. Types of KPN the Netherlands SIM Card Options for Tourists

There are two main types of KPN SIM card options for tourists in the Netherlands: Prepaid SIM cards and eSIM.

• Prepaid SIM cards
• eSIM

Comparison Table of KPN SIM Card Options for Tourists

► Recommendation: For tourists visiting the Netherlands, using a KPN eSIM is more convenient. It offers instant activation, no need for a physical SIM card, and flexible data plans that can be managed easily online. 

V. Top KPN SIM cards for Tourists & Prices

As you can see, KPN offers various plans with different data and speed options, providing good value, especially for unlimited plans. However, they may not have specialized options for heavy data users or travelers. 

VI. Where can tourists buy KPN the Netherlands SIM cards?

Tourists in the Netherlands can buy KPN SIM cards in a few different ways: at the airport when they arrive, in city centers after entering the country, or online before they leave. Let’s take a closer look at each option.

1. Buy KPN SIM at the Netherlands airport

KPN SIM cards can be purchased at major international airports in the Netherlands, including Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and Rotterdam The Hague Airport.

• KPN counters are typically located in the arrivals hall or main concourse.
• You’ll need to present your passport for registration.
• Prices tend to be higher at the airport. Various data packages are usually available.
• Risks include long queues and potential closure of shops during late-night arrivals.

Price range: €20-€50 for packages with 5GB-20GB data

2. Buy a KPN the Netherlands SIM Card in the city center

Visitors can purchase KPN SIM cards after reaching major cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or Utrecht. Options include:

• KPN flagship stores 
• Electronics retailers like MediaMarkt 
• Some convenience stores and supermarkets 
• Train stations in larger cities

Use Google Maps to find nearby locations. Some specific places include:

• KPN Store Amsterdam Centraal Station
• MediaMarkt Rotterdam Centrum
• KPN Store Utrecht Centraal

Buying in city centers usually requires personal registration, which can take a bit more time. Although prices are typically lower than at the airport, all that extra effort makes this option less popular with tourists.

3. Buy KPN the Netherlands SIM card online before departure

This proactive approach is usually the easiest for travelers. You can grab KPN-network SIMs from different online travel SIM providers and sites like Amazon and eBay.

• Simply provide basic info like name, phone number, and shipping address.
• No need for complex personal registration.
• SIM cards are delivered to your home before you leave.
• Often more cost-effective than airport purchases.
• Allows you to be connected as soon as you land.

This method is becoming a favorite among smart travelers because it’s super easy and offers great value. It takes the hassle out of hunting for a SIM when you arrive, so you can dive right into enjoying your Dutch adventure from the moment you step off the plane!

VII. Where to Buy KPN the Netherlands eSIM for Tourists?

Are you looking to stay connected during your Dutch adventure? Don’t wait until you land to sort out your mobile data! The smart move is to grab a Netherlands eSIM online before packing your bags. Here’s why:

• No need to deal with complicated registration processes or show your passport at a physical store.
• Get connected as soon as you touch down in the Netherlands.
• One less thing to worry about when you arrive!

For a smooth Netherlands eSIM experience, look no further than Gigago. Our user-friendly platform makes getting connected a breeze:

• With a Trustpilot score of 4.6/5 from 600+ reviews, travelers love Gigago’s service.
• Receive your eSIM details via email within minutes of purchase.
• Gigago partners with top Dutch carriers like KPN for nationwide connectivity.

For the Netherlands, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 500MB/day for 3 days with $3.00 . What is great about Gigago’s Netherlands eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $3.00 – $95.90 . Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you have and how long your trip is in the Netherlands; there is always an option for you with Gigago.

VIII. How to top up a KPN the Netherlands SIM Card?

You can top up your KPN SIM card in four easy ways:

Top-up Vouchers:

• Buy a top-up voucher from KPN stores, supermarkets, or online.
• Send a text with the code and the word “Opwaarderen” to 1266, or call 1244 and follow the voice instructions.

KPN Website:

• Visit the KPN website.
• Select your desired pack or bundle and complete the payment process online.

Third-Party Websites:

• Use websites like Recharge.com to top up your KPN balance.
• Select the amount, enter your KPN phone number, and pay using methods like iDEAL or PayPal. Your top-up code will be sent to your email.

KPN Prepaid App:

• Download the KPN Prepaid app from the App Store or Google Play.
• Log in, select your top-up amount, and complete the payment. Your details are saved for future top-ups.

IX. FAQs about KPN the Netherlands SIM Cards

X. Conclusion

To wrap things up, getting a KPN the Netherlands SIM card means you’ll enjoy reliable service and great coverage throughout the Netherlands. KPN has simple SIM packages that fit different needs, making it super easy to stay connected. If you want even more convenience and added security, think about going for an eSIM instead. Enjoy the perks of digital SIMs and kick off your journey with Gigago the Netherlands eSIM for a smooth connection!