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Find out how to connect Changi Airport WiFi for FREE and alternative connectivity options to stay connected at the airport and in Singapore securely.
Use Cell Phone in Singapore: Will Your Phone Work & Best Ways to Use?
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This article is aimed at helping tourists from overseas easily use their cell phones when visiting Singapore. It will provide understanding about the cellular networks and frequencies used, and ways to reduce roaming charges. By reading our “Use cell phone in Singapore” guide, travelers can have all they need to stay fully connected during their Singapore trip without high roaming bills on their phone.
In this article
I. Highlights of Phone Compatibility, Frequencies and Networks in Singapore
Let’s explore the common characteristics of Singapore’s phone network:
- Frequencies: Singapore’s main cellular networks are 3G (850MHz/2100MHz) and 4G (1800MHz/2100MHz/2600MHz). Most modern phones will work.
- Phone lock status: Phones must be SIM unlocked to work on any Singapore network. Check with your home provider.
- Carriers: Singapore has 3 main carriers – Singtel, StarHub and M1 which all use the above frequencies nationally.
- Data Packages: Carriers offer data-only SIMs or plans with monthly allotments perfect for short stays.
II. Checklist of using cell phone for travelers to Singapore
To see if you can use your phone with a Singapore SIM Card, take steps below:
- Check your phone’s compatibility: Check if your phone adapts with frequencies used in Singapore.
- Check if phone is unlocked: Your phone can use a Singapore SIM card only if it is unlocked. Refer our guide to check your phone lock status on your own here.
- If it is unlocked, you can buy a Sing eSIM for tourists (either before or upon arrival)
- If it is locked with a specific carrier, you either need to buy a new phone or use international roaming.
Note: Also check your charger plug as well to make sure you can use your phone in Singapore without hassle.
- Singapore uses Type G sockets (different from North American/Asian plug standards).
- Travelers need plug adapters for devices to fit Singapore's 230V Type G sockets. Public areas have USB ports but private sockets require Type G adapters.
III. Will My Cell Phone Work In Singapore?
Yes, you totally can connect your phone with mobile networks in Singapore. As long as your phone supports the right 4G bands, it will connect to cellular networks in Singapore without issues.
Below is the detail of frequency bands used by Singapore cellular networks:
| Mobile Network | 5G Frequency Bands | 4G Frequency Bands | 3G Frequency Bands | 2G Frequency Bands |
| Singtel | n78 (3500 MHz) | B1 (2100 MHz); B3 (1800 MHz); B7 (2600 MHz); B8 (900 MHz); B28 (700 MHz) | B1 (2100 MHz); B8 (900 MHz) | 900 MHz1800 MHz |
| StarHub | n78 (3500 MHz) | B1 (2100 MHz)B3 (1800 MHz)B7 (2600 MHz)B8 (900 MHz)B28 (700 MHz) | B1 (2100 MHz); B8 (900 MHz) | 900 MHz1800 MHz |
| M1 | n78 (3500 MHz) | B3 (1800 MHz)B7 (2600 MHz)B8 (900 MHz)B28 (700 MHz) | B1 (2100 MHz); B8 (900 MHz) | 900 MHz1800 MHz |
Note: Remember, these details may change over time, but it's always a good idea to stay updated by checking with the official sources or the mobile network operators themselves.
IV. Do I Need An International Plan In Singapore?
Yes. An international plan will be the best choice for travelers when it comes to convenience and affordable prices.
You can rely on free WiFi in hotels, cafes, shopping malls, but it comes with some disadvantages like limited coverage, unreliability and low speed.
If you use an international plan, you can enjoy smooth access no matter where you are traveling in Singapore, stay connected all time, and avoid high roaming charges.
Advice: To ensure reliable and uninterrupted connectivity, as well as to avoid high roaming fees, it is recommended to have an international plan for your mobile phone while in Singapore.
V. How to Use Cell Phone In Singapore – Top 3 Options For Tourists
If you are still wondering what options you have to connect to Singapore’s mobile network, this section will provide an overview of 04 main options to consider. These include eSIM, SIM card, and pocket Wi-Fi.
1. eSIM Singapore
eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card that is built into your device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch.
Suitable for: If you have a device that supports eSIM technology, using an eSIM will be the bestt option for easy and convenient connectivity.
Where to buy eSIM for Singapore: You can buy online, at the airport when arriving in Singapore, or from authorized resellers.
Pros:
- Various plans available: There are many packages with many different prices to meet the different needs of travelers
- Convenience: enjoy the convenience of activating and managing your mobile plan digitally, have multiple eSIM profiles on one device which also means you can use both your main number and travel number at the same time
- Flexibility: you don’t need to worry about physically swapping SIM cards to switch between different mobile network carriers/plans.
- Instant Activation: just scanning a QR code, 100% online
Cons:
- Device Compatibility: not all smartphones or devices support eSIM technology.
► Read more eSIM compatible devices list
2. International SIM card for Singapore
An international SIM card for Singapore is a SIM card specifically designed for travelers who are visiting Singapore from another country. It allows you to stay connected to a mobile network while in Singapore, providing voice, text, and data services.
Suitable for: Travelers visiting Singapore who prefer a physical SIM card solution for their international connectivity needs.
Where to buy International SIM cards for Singapore: from online retailers, mobile network providers, airport kiosks, or authorized resellers.
Advice: Before your departure , you should research and compare different options to find the most suitable plan and pricing for your specific requirements.
Pros:
- Convenience: An international SIM card allows you to easily insert it into your device and start using it immediately upon arrival in Singapore. There’s no need to rely on Wi-Fi or hunt for local SIM cards.
- Wide Coverage: Mobile network operators in Singapore are totally up to tourists’ needs. Some popular operators such as: Singtel, Starhub, or M1.
- Good prices: With an international SIM card, you have greater control over your expenses as you can choose a prepaid plan that suits your budget. It helps to avoid unexpected roaming charges and manage your communication costs effectively.
Cons:
- Phone Compatibility: Ensure that your device is compatible with the network bands used in Singapore to ensure optimal connectivity with the international SIM card.
Advice: Check with the SIM card provider or refer to your device's specifications for compatibility information.
- Limited Local Benefits: International SIM cards may not offer the same local benefits or promotions as local SIM cards. You may miss out on certain deals or discounts available to local residents.
- Physical activation: Unlike eSIM, using an international SIM card requires a physical card that needs to be inserted and removed from your device. This can be slightly less convenient compared to eSIM solutions.
3. Pocket WiFi in Singapore
Pocket Wi-Fi, also known as a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, is a small device that allows you to create a Wi-Fi network and connect multiple devices to the internet simultaneously.
Suitable for: travelers who want to connect multiple devices simultaneously.
Where to rent Pocket Wi-Fi for Singapore: Pocket Wi-Fi devices can be rented from various sources such as online travel service providers, airport kiosks, or local telecommunication companies in Singapore.
Pros:
- Multiple Device Connectivity: Pocket Wi-Fi allows you to connect multiple devices, such as smartphones, tablets, or laptops, to a single portable hotspot. This is beneficial if you’re traveling with a group or need to use different devices simultaneously.
- Cost Control: Pocket Wi-Fi rentals often come with different data plans, allowing you to choose the one that suits your usage requirements. It can be a cost-effective option compared to relying on international data roaming or purchasing multiple SIM cards.
Cons:
- Additional Device to Carry: Renting a pocket Wi-Fi device means you’ll have an additional device to carry during your travels.
- Battery Life: Pocket Wi-Fi devices have their own battery life, which means you’ll need to ensure it’s charged and monitor its usage to avoid running out of power when you need it most.
- Coverage Limitations: The strength and coverage of the pocket Wi-Fi signal depend on the provider and the location. While most major cities and popular tourist areas in Singapore have good coverage, remote or rural areas might have weaker signals.
Advice: You should use eSIm as it’s the best choice for tourists because it offers many packages with affordable prices. Additionally, you can buy and activate it easily and instantly
VI. Will My Local Network Work In Singapore?
Most likely YES. However, there are a few important things to consider, such as high roaming charges and potential costs.
In general, your local network should have coverage in Singapore, meaning you can make calls, send texts, and use data services. It’s convenient because you can keep your existing SIM card and phone number while traveling. However, it’s crucial to be aware that using your local network abroad can be expensive due to roaming charges.
Roaming charges are the fees you’ll incur for using your local network in a foreign country like Singapore. These charges can add up quickly and make your phone bill much higher than usual. They apply to both incoming and outgoing calls, texts, and data usage.
If you don’t control your usage, the price paid at the end of your trip will be very expensive.
Tips: To help you manage costs and avoid unexpected charges, you can try these ways:
- Check with your network provider: Before your trip, contact your network provider to understand their international roaming charges and any available plans for Singapore. This will give you an idea of the potential costs and help you choose the most cost-effective option..
- Download before departure: download some necessary apps like translation or map apps to save the amount of data you will use
VII. Gigago eSIM – An Alternative To Get Internet In Singapore With Your Cell Phone
When it comes to reliable Singapore eSIM providers, Gigago would be a standout among those brands. Gigago offers a range of popular and highly recommended eSIM packages for travelers visiting Singapore. The following are the packages provided by Gigago:
- Data Plan: 3GB-50GB or daily 1GB-3GB
- Validity: 5, 7, 15, 30 days
- Coverage: Singapore
- Mobile network operators: Singtel / M1 / StarHub
- Hotspot/Tethering: Yes
These packages provide a variety of data options to suit different needs and travel durations. Gigago Singapore eSIM is considered one of the best options to get internet connectivity while traveling in Singapore due to its ease of purchase and setup, as well as the flexibility it offers in terms of plan selection.
VIII. Extra Tips To Use Cell Your Phone in Singapore
Here are some extra tips to help you use your cell phone in Singapore:
- Use Wi-Fi whenever possible: Take advantage of free Wi-Fi hotspots available in hotels, cafes, and public areas. This will help you save on mobile data usage and stay connected without incurring additional charges.
- Be mindful of data usage: Keep an eye on your data consumption to avoid exceeding your plan’s limits or incurring high charges. Disable automatic app updates and background data usage for apps that are not essential to conserve data.
IX. FAQs
Can I use my US/European cell phone in Singapore?
As long as your phone is unlocked and supports the right 4G frequencies, you should be able to use it on Singapore networks with a local SIM card.
Do I need a special SIM card for Singapore?
No, just buy a prepaid SIM online, from the airport or any carrier store when you arrive. Make sure your phone is unlocked first. If your phone works with eSIM, consider it.
Is it expensive to use my phone in Singapore?
f you sign up for a local prepaid plan, data and calling rates are reasonable. Avoid using your regular plan’s international roaming to prevent high bills.
Can I keep my home phone number when traveling to Singapore?
If using Singapore SIM card, you cannot, but you can use apps like WhatsApp to keep your home number accessible while having a separate Singapore number. IF using Singapore eSIM, you can remain your home phone number and use concurrently with the home SIM card.
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