Staying connected in Hong Kong is essential for navigation and communication. SmarTone offers reliable SIM card and eSIM solutions with high-speed connectivity, making it easy for tourists to stay online throughout their visit. This guide covers plan options and activation tips to ensure a seamless travel experience.

smartone esim

I. Quick facts about SmarTone 

SmarTone is a leading telecommunications provider in Hong Kong, offering voice, multimedia, and mobile broadband services, as well as fixed fibre broadband for both consumer and corporate markets.

  • As a subsidiary of Sun Hung Kai Properties Limited, SmarTone has been listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange since 1996 under the stock code 0315.HK.
  • The company has been at the forefront of 5G development in Hong Kong, launching its territory-wide 5G services in May 2020.
  • SmarTone’s network infrastructure is supported by over 30 stores across Hong Kong, providing customer service and technical support.

SmarTone now continues to innovate in the telecommunications sector, focusing on delivering high-quality network services and customer-centric solutions.

SmarTone Store
SmarTone Store

II. SmarTone Mobile Operator Services

Here are some of the typical services offered by SmarTone:

  • Mobile Voice Services: SmarTone provides high-quality voice services, ensuring clear and reliable communication across Hong Kong. Their network supports advanced features such as VoLTE (Voice over LTE), enabling high-definition voice calls with faster call setup times.
  • Mobile Broadband Services: With the launch of its territory-wide 5G services in May 2020, SmarTone offers high-speed mobile broadband, facilitating seamless internet access for activities like streaming, gaming, and real-time communication. Their 5G network enhances user experience with faster download and upload speeds, lower latency, and greater connectivity.
  • Multimedia Services: SmarTone delivers a variety of multimedia services, including music and video streaming, mobile TV, and other value-added services that enrich the mobile experience for their customers.
  • Fixed Fibre Broadband Services: Beyond mobile services, SmarTone offers fixed fibre broadband solutions for both consumer and corporate markets, providing high-speed internet connectivity for homes and businesses.

III. SmarTone Coverage and Speed in Hong Kong

1. SmarTone coverage in Hong Kong

SmarTone offers extensive 3G, 4G, and 5G coverage throughout Hong Kong, ensuring reliable connectivity for both residents and visitors.

  • Their network encompasses key urban areas, suburban regions, and popular tourist destinations, providing users with consistent service across the territory.
  • According to nPerf’s coverage map, SmarTone’s network spans major districts, including Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories. This widespread coverage ensures that users can maintain strong connections whether they are in bustling city centers or more remote areas.
SmarTone mobile internet coverage
SmarTone coverage in Hong Kong

2. SmarTone speed in Hong Kong

SmarTone asserts its position as the leading 5G network coverage provider in Hong Kong, offering the region’s best 5G network experience.

  • SmarTone wins the Availability award, according to OpenSignal, slightly ahead of 3HK and csl statistically tied in second place, and CMHK in third place.
  • With its stable data availability and top-notch video performance, tourists can stay connected and entertained throughout their stay. Despite the many options available, SmarTone’s quality service and reputation make it a smart choice for those looking for a hassle-free mobile experience.
Hong Kong Mobile Experience Awards Report in May 2023

IV. Best prepaid SmarTone SIM cards and eSIMs for tourists & costs

SmarTone offers both prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs for locals and travelers to Hong Kong as well. And this section will be only focused on SmarTone SIM card and eSIM cards for tourists.

1. SmarTone SIM cards for tourists in Hong Kong

✨ Here are our recommendations about top SmarTone SIM card plans:

lan NameValidity PeriodData AllowancePrice (HKD)
$48 Local Prepaid SIM CardPay as you goN/A$48
$65 Local Prepaid SIM Card1 monthN/A$65
$118 Local Prepaid SIM CardN/AContinue receiving SMS/OTP overseas$118
$78 HK-Macau Prepaid SIM cardN/AShared data and calls in HK & Macau$78
$98 China-HK-Macau Prepaid SIM cardN/AShared data and calls in China, HK & Macau$98
Use Freely / 8 days8 daysMainland, HK, MacauHK$88
Use Freely / 8 days8 daysTop 9 APAC destinationsHK$158
Use Freely / 15 days15 daysUSA, Canada, Australia, NZHK$268
Use Freely / 30 days30 daysMultiple destinations in EuropeHK$298
10GB / 1 year1 yearMainland, HK, MacauHK$298

In conclusion, the best option for regular short-term travel in the area is the $98 China-HK-Macau package. The best option for keeping HK numbers abroad is the $118 local plan. The 10GB/1-year package is the most economical choice for longer journeys.

2. SmarTone eSIM for tourists 

SmarTone offers eSIM service for designated devices that allows them to connect to the 4G/5G network independently and enjoy the local data and voice entitled under your service plan. You still can use the Dual SIM function on smartphones with a SmarTone eSIM.

Consider esimhongkong.net provides eSIM Hong Kong from SmarTone as the supported network. You can choose from various packages according to your needs. See our Hong Kong SmarTone eSIM plans here:

Skip the roaming fees with Hong Kong eSIM!

V. Where can you buy a SmarTone SIM card and eSIM for tourists?

1. Where to buy a SmarTone SIM card

  • SmarTone SIM cards cannot be purchased at Hong Kong International Airport. You have two options: buy online and have it delivered to your location or purchase it at a physical store to have it immediately. 
  • You can buy SmarTone SIM cards online or at any SmarTone store in Hong Kong. You can also find them at some convenience stores like 7-Eleven or Circle K stores, supermarkets, or vending machines. You can choose from different types of SmarTone SIM cards.
  • With SmarTone Prepaid Travel Data Card, you can buy online or at any SmarTone stores or SmarTone direct sales team. Only China, Hong Kong and Macau – 1 Year Prepaid Data Card is available at 7-Eleven convenience stores.

✨Get  more insights with our guide Hong Kong SIM Cards: Updated Prices and Where to Buy

You can buy 3HK SIM cards at local stores
You can buy 3HK SIM cards at local stores

2. Where to buy a SmarTone eSIM

Customers can request eSIM when they visit SmarTone stores or authorized resellers in their Major SmarTone Authorized Resellers list. If you are already a SmarTone customer, you can go to a SmarTone store to apply to convert your existing physical SIM card to an esIM card, for which a fee will be charged.

Hong Kong eSIM from SmarTone also can be found at esimhongkong.net as one of the most reliable eSIM providers in Hong Kong. They provide data solutions for your travel with SmarTone eSIM at a cheap price.

Reliable Hong Kong eSIM plans below

Airport Hong Kong eSIM plan
Airport Hong Kong eSIM plan
$5.00
Hong Kong eSIM Fixed Data Plan
Hong Kong eSIM Fixed Data Plan
$5.00
Hong Kong eSIM Unlimited Data Plan
Hong Kong eSIM Unlimited Data Plan
$7.50

For exclusive use in Hong Kong, choose esimhongkong.net. You can easily get your hands on one of these eSIMs and enjoy the convenience without the hassle of purchasing a physical SIM card. Plus, esimhongkong.net is a reliable and trustworthy provider that ensures your privacy and security.

VI. How to use SmarTone eSIM/SIM Card as Tourists in Hong Kong

1. Use SmarTone Hong Kong SIM Card

  • Step 1: Insert the prepaid SIM into your mobile device to activate the service.  
  • Step 2: After activation, you will receive a confirmation SMS from the system with the mobile number, SIM card stored value, expiry date, and another SMS stating your 6-digit PIN.

2. Use SmarTone eSIM

The SmarTone eSIM may be different based on your device and mobile version. Once you place your order, you will receive an email that will tell you when and how to install the eSIM. Ensure you have WiFi or mobile data before starting the installation process.

  • Step 1: Install the eSIM on your eSIM-compatible device by going to its settings and scanning the eSIM QR code with your camera.
  • Step 2: After reaching your destination, disable your other SIM cards and only activate eSIM and data roaming to access the internet normally. 

Do not use any other apps or cameras to scan the QR code. Instead, go to your phone’s settings.

VII. Call & SMS rates of SmarTone in Hong Kong

Call & SMS rates of SmarTone vary depending on the type, the destination of the message, and the service plan. The rates often are among the following: 

ServiceRate
Local data1 HKD/hour
Local calls0.15 HKD/min
Local SMS0.1 HKD/SMS
Roaming callsVaries by destination
Roaming SMS3 HKD/SMS
Roaming MMS (receiving)15 HKD/MB
Call & SMS rates of SmarTone in Hong Kong

VIII. How to check SmarTone Balance (SmarTone USSD code)

SmarTone USSD code

Service Quick Access Code
Main balance checking *109#
Subscribed service status checking *101#
Roaming Data Usage checking (Overseas) *101*2#
Remaining stored value & validity (enquiry in HK and abroad) *111#
Language Setting
English *111*13*1#
Cantonese *111*13*2#
Mandarin *111*13*3#

You can check by calling 1628 – 24-hour SmarTone Hotline. After selecting “Account information and payment methods”, press 1 to check “the airtime and account balance”, and simply press 1-2-1 for checking the balance.

You also can view your account information and manage your account by logging into My Account via the SmarTone website or SmarTone CARE app:

  • Via the SmarTone website: Key functions and features in My Account: My Statements – Check your statement balance, your detailed bill for up to the last 12 months, and the latest data and voice minutes usage details.
  • Via the SmarTone CARE app: With My Account on the SmarTone CARE app, you can check your usage, bill, and subscription information from your smartphone.

Use the SmarTone CARE app on your smartphone for the following functions: 

  1. recharge your SIM with a credit card;
  2. check account information, the nearest store and authorized reseller, roaming and IDD tariffs, the latest promotions, and exclusive offers;
  3. manage your data packs and value-added services.

IX. FAQs about SmarTone in Hong Kong 

Does Smartone offer eSIM?

Yes, visitors can use SmartTone eSIM to stay connected in Hong Kong.

Can I buy SmarTone eSIM in SmarTone website? 

Right now you cannot buy SmarTone eSIM online on the SmarTone website. You can ask for SmarTone eSIM in SmarTone stores or major SmarTone authorized resellers.  

Can I install SmarTone eSIM outside the eSIM package destination?

Yes, you can install it, but it cannot be activated. If you install the eSIM outside the package destination, please disable the eSIM, and then turn on the eSIM directly after arriving at the destination.

Can I buy SmarTone prepaid SIM cards online?

Of course, Hong Kong visitors can buy SmarTone prepaid SIM cards via their official website. For an alternative, consider choosing Hong Kong eSIM from esimhongkong.net.

X. Final words

Even while conventional SIM cards have been around for a while and are reliable, eSIM technology offers several advantages, including increased security, simplicity, and flexibility. It is anticipated that eSIM technology will become more accessible as technology develops, and other mobile network operators will probably follow SmarTone’s example and provide their own customers with this choice.