Buying Three SIM Cards and eSIM for Tourists in 2024

When traveling abroad, staying in touch with friends and family back home is essential. For visitors to Macau, Three SIM cards and eSIM offer a smart solution. These SIMs allow tourists to access fast and reliable mobile service across the tiny region of Macau. In this guide, we will explore the best options from Three, how to buy and activate, and the best alternative for getting online during your trip to Macau.

THREE sim card & eSIM

I. Overview about Three in Macau

Three Macau is one of the largest cellular network carriers in this region. Below are some facts about Three Macau you may need to know:

Established in 2000, Hutchison Telephone (Macau) Company Limited, known as Three Macau, has grown to serve 31% of Macau’s mobile users. They provide 3G/4G services through about 15 shops across the region, with customer support available 24/7 in English, Mandarin, Portuguese, and Cantonese.

Three is one of the largest carriers in Macau
Three – One of the largest mobile network carriers in Macau

II. Three Coverage & Speed in Macau

1. Three Coverage in Macau

Three coverage map in Macau
Three coverage map in Macau (source: nPerf)

Three provides reliable 4G service throughout Macau’s main areas, including downtown peninsula, Taipa, and Coloane islands. The network is strongest in populated zones thanks to numerous cell towers, though signal may weaken in remote locations.

2. Three Speed in Macau

Three operates 4G LTE networks across Macau, delivering speeds over 100 Mbps in most areas. While coverage is generally excellent, speeds may decrease indoors or in buildings far from cell towers.

So in summary, Three provides Internet access across Macau with 4G speeds focused on the main urban centers for now. Remote areas can access basic Internet services.

III. Where to Buy Three SIM Cards for Macau?

Tourists can purchase Three SIM cards for Macau at:

  • Three stores: Three has around 10-15 shops and dealers around Macau so you can easily buy at these shops.
  • Major airport: Buy Three SIM cards at Macau International Airport (MFM) – 7-Eleven Convenience Store, Arrival Hall.
Buy Three SIM cards at 7-Eleven convenience store, Macau International Airport
Buy Three SIM cards at 7-Eleven convenience store, Macau International Airport
  • Online: Visit the Three official website to book Three SIM cards online and then your new SIM will be delivered to your address.

Important Note: Airport rates are more expensive than SIMs at carrier stores, retailers, or online channels.

IV. Top Three SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost

The table below shows some of the best Three SIM cards options for visitors to Macau.

DataValidityPriceLocal call tariffLocal message
2 GB of data30 daysMOP 48 – USD 5.95MOP 0.4/ minute– Intra local sms: free;
– Inter local sms: MOP 0.25/ sms
4 GB of data + 1.000 local airtime30 daysMOP 88 – USD 10.91MOP 0.4/ minute– Intra local sms: free;
– Inter local sms: MOP 0.25/ sms
12 GB of data for Macau data usage + 10.000 Macau call minutes + 3 GB of data Mainland China365 daysMOP 198 – USD 24.55 MOP 0.4/ minute– Intra local sms: free;
– Inter local sms: MOP 0.25/ sms

Pro Tips:

  • Remember to opt for the Three SIM plan that suits your data needs and trip length.
  • Prepare your passport/ ID card for ID verification and MOP cash/credit card for payment.
  • Regularly check Three’s official website for the latest details on Three SIM cards.

V. Does Three have eSIM in Macau?

No. Three Macau does not support eSIM. 

eSIM (embedded SIM) is a small chip inside your phone or device that allows connectivity instead of a Macau physical SIM card. Though Three Macau does not offer eSIM, tourists to Macau can easily buy eSIM from a trusted third-party reseller like Gigago for flexibility and reliable Internet access.

So why choose Macau eSIM from Gigago?

Gigago offers a wide range of eSIM plans for tourists to Macau
Gigago eSIM plans for Macau

Buying and activating your eSIM is entirely digital. After purchase, you’ll receive a QR code by email. Just scan it with your phone and follow the setup guide – you’ll be connected within minutes.

You can do everything from home without visiting a store or handling physical cards. Your device can even handle multiple eSIM plans at once, and there’s no ID verification needed.

Gigago eSIM plans for Macau work on CTM network – The largest carrier with the widest coverage across Macau. These plans start at only $2.90 for 1GB a day, used in 5 days and range between $2.90$65.50 . Regardless of how much GB of data you need and how long your Macau trip is, there is always an eSIM solution for you with Gigago.

VI. Alternatives to Macau Three SIM cards

Besides Three SIM cards, tourists to Macau can also use SIM cards/eSIM from other carriers in Macau such as CTM or SmarTone.

  • CTM has the widest coverage and delivers high-speed data across Macau. The prepaid plans from CTM start at around USD 9 for unlimited data in 3 days.
  • SmarTone boasts good coverage across Macau. Their plan options are also very affordable.
  • Gigago eSIMs for Macau are budget-friendly and diverse, catering to every traveler’s needs.

VII. How to Activate Your Three SIM Card

Activating your new Three SIM card is a straightforward process that takes just a few minutes. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Insert SIM into your unlocked phone
  • Restart your phone
  • Wait for “Three” or “3” to appear on screen

If your SIM doesn’t activate automatically, check your package for:

  • Activation codes
  • Special dialing numbers
  • Setup instructions

VIII. FAQs about Three SIM cards and eSIM

Can travelers to Macau get a Three SIM card at the airport?

Yes, Three SIM cards are available for purchase at the 7-Eleven store in Macau International Airport. Tourists can easily get connected to Three’s network upon arrival.

Do I need a passport to buy a Three SIM card in Macau?

Yes, you will need to present your valid passport when purchasing Three SIM cards, as all customers are required to complete a verification process for regulatory reasons.

What payment methods can I use to top up a Three SIM card in Macau?

The most common methods to top up a Three SIM card are by cash in Macau Pataca at authorized retail stores or by debit/credit card via the Three app or online account top up pages.

IX. Final Words

In conclusion, buying a Three SM card or eSIM is highly recommended for visitors to Macau. Three SIM cards allows tourists to access wide 4G network around Macau, offering an easy ways to make calls, send texts, look up information, navigate the locations, and much more. In addition, signing up for a prepaid eSIM plan from Gigago is also an excellent option to stay online while exploring Macau.