Suppose you’re traveling to Hong Kong and looking for affordable mobile internet. China Telecom Hong Kong (CTHK) is one of the leading providers for tourists, business travelers, and mainland visitors. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about using their SIM cards and eSIMs while in the city.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts About China Telecom Hong Kong
- Company Name: China Telecom (Hong Kong) International Limited
- Brand for Tourists: CTExcel
- Type: MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator)
- Operates on: Local networks (usually HKT or CMHK infrastructure)
- Target Users: Mainland Chinese travelers, tourists, students, short-term visitors
- Languages Supported: Chinese (Simplified/Traditional) and English
- eSIM Available: Yes
- Roaming Capabilities: Cross-border plans (Mainland China, Macau, HK)
II. China Telecom Hong Kong Mobile Internet Services
China Telecom HK offers a variety of mobile data services for travelers, including:
- Prepaid SIM cards
- Tourist eSIMs
- Cross-border data plans (covering HK/Mainland/Macau)
- Unlimited daily plans
III. China Telecom Hong Kong Coverage and Speed in Hong Kong
As an MVNO, CTHK doesn’t own its towers but partners with major networks like HKT or CMHK, ensuring strong coverage:
- Network Quality: Excellent urban coverage
- Speed: 4G LTE and 5G supported (on compatible plans/devices)
- Main Areas Covered: All districts in HK, including Central, TST, Mong Kok, Causeway Bay, Lantau, and the New Territories
For most travelers, the speed is more than sufficient for navigation, social media, video calls, and streaming.
IV. Best Prepaid China Telecom Hong Kong SIM Cards and eSIMs for Tourists & Costs
China Telecom Hong Kong allows users to register SIM packages online. You can also choose the SIM type (eSIM or SIM cards) when purchasing SIM plans on the China Telecom Hong Kong website.
1. Top China Telecom HK Physical SIM Cards for tourists
| Plan Name | Data | Validity | Price (HKD) | Notes |
| HK 8-Day Plan | 5GB 4G + 128kbps | 8 days | $88 | Includes China & Macau roaming |
| Greater Bay Area 15-Day SIM | 10GB | 15 days | $118 | Covers HK, Macau, Mainland China |
| 30-Day Local SIM | 15GB + 300 mins | 30 days | $148 | Local use only |
2. Top eSIM for Tourists
To save time and inconvenience, consider using China Telecom Hong Kong eSIM plans from esimhongkong.net to save time and inconvenience.
V. Where to Buy a China Telecom Hong Kong SIM Card/eSIM?
You can easily buy China Telecom HK eSIM and SIM cards through several channels, such as:
- Hong Kong International Airport: Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Circle K)
- Official China Telecom shops
- CTExcel partner counters in Mong Kok, TST, Central
- Local electronics shops and SIM card kiosks
- eSIM & SIM card providers: A variety of eSIM providers offer China Telecom HK eSIM with diverse customized options and competitive prices. Choosing a Hong Kong eSIM from a local provider gives you more flexibility in selecting data packages and validity periods that align with your travel schedule.
✨Note: If you choose eSIM for data plans, your phone needs to support eSIM service. Check out full eSIM-compatible device list.
VI. How to Top-Up Your China Telecom HK SIM/eSIM
You can recharge using:
- CTExcel website (with credit card or Alipay/WeChat Pay)
- Top-up vouchers (sold in convenience stores)
- Mobile apps (CTExcel App or eTop-up portals)
- Self-service kiosks in shopping malls and MTR stations
VII. How to Check China Telecom Hong Kong Balance (USSD Code)
To check your balance:
- Dial: *#130#
- Or send SMS: YE to 10001
- Alternatively, check via the CTExcel app or the website dashboard.
VIII. China Telecom Hong Kong SIM Card Alternatives for Tourists
If China Telecom HK doesn’t meet your needs, here are alternatives:
| Provider | Strengths | Notes |
| CMHK | Great for mainland travelers | Owns infrastructure, good cross-border plans |
| Three HK | Budget-friendly, wide coverage | Strong local prepaid options |
| SmarTone | High-speed, flexible tourist SIMs | Good for short visits |
| HKT / CSL | Premium quality, excellent coverage | Slightly more expensive |
| Hong Kong eSIM from esimhongkong.net | Simple, convenient, and cost-effective data solution for visitors. | Not all of the phone models support eSIM service. |
IX. FAQs About China Telecom Hong Kong
Does China Telecom HK support 5G?
Yes, some plans do, you may check the description clearly before making a purchase.
Do I need to register my ID?
If you are buying China Telecom HK eSIM via esimhongkong.net, you don’t need to provide ID or passport.
Can I recharge with international cards?
Yes, especially online (Visa/MasterCard supported).
Is China Telecom HK suitable for long stays?
Yes, they have 30-day and renewable plans for longer visits.
X. Final Words
China Telecom Hong Kong is an excellent option for visitors seeking affordable mobile internet, especially if you’re traveling between Hong Kong, Macau, and Mainland China. Their flexible SIM/eSIM plans, wide availability, and focus on cross-border travelers make them highly convenient.
Still, compare offers and choose the one that best suits your travel habits, whether that’s CTExcel, CMHK, or a global eSIM.
