Israel – the only Jewish country in the world. It is known for its many religious sites, museums & beaches.
While there is plenty to be said about the political situation in the country, it is irrelevant (for this guide) ;)
Despite the fact that some nations in the Middle East are crazy cheap (for travel – that is), Israel is, surprisingly, not so cheap.
Sure, it is much cheaper than many Western or Northern European nations.
Still, many neighboring countries have lower livign costs, especially for travelers.
So, any way to save some money in Israel is always appreciated.
One way to keep costs contained is by using a local SIM card – an Israeli one.
International roaming can be expensive. And in most cases, it is not worth it.
With a local SIM card, however, you can enjoy local rates.
So, how expensive are SIM cards in Israel?
You can buy an Israeli SIM card for between 38.60 ILS (12 USD) to 90 ILS (28 USD) in the stores of the mobile network operators (Cellcom/Golan Telecom, Partner, Pelephone & HOT Mobile), or other stores, such as grocery stores (also for the MVNOs – 012mobile and 019 Mobile).
Yeah, those SIM cards are not cheap at all.
However, Israel has the lowest mobile data rates worldwide.
The average cost of 1 GB of data is just 0.05 USD!
That is mostly because the mobile operators are GENEROUS with their data allowances.
So, expensive SIM cards but dirty-cheap mobile data rates. Worth the trade-off? You decide.
In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Israel. Let’s go.
Original publication: 23rd of December 2019. Last updated: 27th of October 2021.
Table of Contents
Can You Buy a SIM Card in Israel?
Anyone living in or visiting Israel can buy an Israeli SIM card from the mobile network operators (Cellcom Israel/Golan Telecom, Partner, Pelephone & HOT Mobile) and the Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs – 012mobile & 019 Mobile) without restrictions.
You do have to comply with the SIM card registration regulations.
Moreover, you need a phone that supports the frequencies used in the country (preferably all of them to have the most optimal experience while in Israel).
Furthermore, you need to have a SIM-lock-free device.
Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in Israel?
You can get an Israeli SIM card in Cellcom/Golan Telecom, Partner, Pelephone & HOT Mobile stores or other retailers, including grocery stores, electronic stores & convenience stores (for the mobile network operators or MVNOs, like 012mobile and 019 Mobile). Tel Aviv-Ben Gurion Airport sells SIM cards too.
You can expect to pay the following for Israeli SIM cards:
- Cellcom Israel/Golan Telecom: 49 ILS (19 ILS for the SIM card + 30 ILS activation fee)
- Partner: 60 ILS & 90 ILS
- Pelephone: 40 ILS
- HOT Mobile: 49 ILS
- 012mobile: 38.60 ILS
- 019 Mobile: around 50 ILS (stores decide the price)
The following mobile operators also have SIM cards targeting tourists:
- 019 Mobile: 29 USD, 49 USD & 59 USD (at Tel Aviv-Ben Gurion Airport only)
Can You Use Your Phone in Israel?
Israel uses GSM technology for mobile communications. CDMA phones will not work in Israel. However, there is a 99% chance your phone supports GSM (if your phone has a SIM card slot, then it supports GSM).
Besides that, you need to be aware of the ITU regions to determine whether your phone will work in other parts of the world.
Although there are three ITU regions, you only need to know these two terms: American Frequencies and European Frequencies.
Africa, Asia (including the Middle East), Europe, and Oceania (ITU Regions 1 & 3) typically use European Frequencies, meaning phones bought in those regions can be used in countries using European Frequencies without issues.
The Americas (North-, Central, and South America + the Caribbean), ITU Region 2, use American Frequencies, which are different from the European Frequencies.
Israel uses primarily European frequencies for 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE & 5G NR. However, some mobile operators use an American Frequency for 3G (850 MHz).
If you bought your phone in the Americas (ITU region 2) and have a low/medium-end device (without Tri-Band or Quad-Band) support, then you can get a SIM card from Cellcom, Golan Telecom, or Pelephone and use its 3G network on 850 MHz.
If you purchased your phone in Africa, Asia, Europe, or Oceania (ITU regions 1 & 3) and have a low/medium-end device (without Tri-Band or Quad-Band) support, you can go with any mobile operator. They support traditional European Frequencies on 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE & 5G NR.
However, one of Cellcom's, Golan Telecom's & Pelephone's 3G frequencies (850 MHz) is a traditional American Frequency. Luckily, the other one (2100 MHz) is a traditional European Frequency.
If you have a medium/high-end device with Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, you can use your phone in Israel without (major) issues – also on 4G/LTE and 5G NR.
Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Israel
Israel has four/five Main Operators and two Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) offering prepaid options:
- Cellcom Israel/Golan Telecom
- Partner
- Pelephone
- HOT Mobile
- 012mobile
- 019 Mobile
The following frequencies are used in Israel:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 850 MHz, 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 1800 MHz (Band 3)
- 5G NR: 700 MHz (n28), 2600 MHz (n7) &3500 MHz (n78)
You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.
To check whether your phone will work in Israel, check out this page by Will My Phone Work (may be outdated or inaccurate at times).
Again, make sure your phone is unlocked. Otherwise, you will not be able to use any SIM card except the one from your home operator (meaning you have to roam internationally or buy another unlocked phone that does support the frequencies listed above).
If you want to learn how international roaming works, this guide explains it in-depth. If you wonder why it is often so expensive to roam, this article explains the hidden reason they do not want you to know.
5G NR in Israel
Commercial 5G NR has been available in Israel since September 2020. it is available on the Cellcom Israel/Golan Telecom, Partner, Pelephone & HOT Mobile. Golan Telecom does not offer 5G NR to prepaid customers. The MVNOs, 012mobile and 019 Mobile do not have access to Partner's 5G NR network.
Best SIM Card in Israel
If you want to buy the best SIM card in Israel, I recommend going with Pelephone or HOT Mobile. Pelephone has generous data allowances, 5G NR for prepaid customers, extensive nationwide coverage & the fastest speeds. HOT Mobile has the best 4G/LTE availability.
SIM Card Registration in Israel
SIM card registration, with the use of your passport information, is mandatory in Israel. This will be done at the point of sale.
There are still many sites claiming registration is not mandatory. (Un)fortunately, that is not true (anymore).
Many small shops, so not the official stores of the mobile operators, may not register your personal details.
You should be wary of this, as they may sign you up for a postpaid plan.
Although postpaid plans are cheaper than prepaid packages in Israel, they may not be favorable (in this situation).
The shopowner may delete your line within a few days baking you will not visit their shop anymore.
Then, you will be out of a plan and out of the money you spent there.
To be sure, get your SIM card from the official stores of the mobile operators.
That way, you will always be in the right.
Israel Mobile Speeds, Mobile Internet Prices & Insights
In the introduction, I already said that Israel has the cheapest mobile data rates worldwide.
In 2020, India held this title, but Israel was not having it.
But how cheap was mobile data again?
The average price for 1 GB of data in Israel is 0.05 USD, far below the Middle Eastern average of 3.94 USD. The world average is 4.07 USD.
Just like some other countries in the region, the mobile operators are liberal with their data allowances – even for prepaid customers.
Let's talk about mobile data speeds.
Will you get fast speeds in Israel?
Yes, but not blazing-fast speeds.
Israel‘s average mobile download speed is around 46 Mbps.
While these speeds are not far from the global average, they could be much faster.
Especially if you look at other countries in the region.
The United Arab Emirates (196 Mbps), Qatar (169 Mbps), Saudi Arabia (150 Mbps) & Kuwait (141 Mbps) are all countries in the Middle East with average mobile download speeds over 100 Mbps.
Luckily, with the introduction of 5G NR in Israel, the speeds have improved significantly – it has doubled within a year.
With alright-priced SIM cards, dirty-cheap mobile data rates, fast mobile data speeds, and extensive nationwide coverage, you should have a smooth network experience in Israel.
Currency in Israel
Israel uses the Israeli Shekel, also known as the Israeli New Shekel, with the symbol ILS (which will be used throughout this guide). The symbol NIS is also used unofficially.
However, prices are often listed as ₪.
For example, 25 ILS = ₪25. For reference, below are some exchange rates between ILS and USD (US Dollars):
- 1 ILS = 0.30 USD
- 10 ILS = 3.10 USD
- 100 ILS = 31.20 USD
- 1000 ILS = 312.40 USD
For up-to-date ILS:USD exchange rates, search ILS to USD on Google, or replace USD with the currency you use.
If your credit/debit card charges you foreign exchange fees, get yourself a Wise Borderless Account and Debit Card.
Their fees are MUCH lower than banks, and credit card companies charge you (and Wise is transparent about their fees, unlike banks).
I have saved literal THOUSANDS of Euros, my main currency, when using Wise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards. Open a Wise account FREE!
Israeli Prepaid SIM Cards
Below, I will guide you through Cellcom Israel/Golan Telecom, Partner, Pelephone, HOT Mobile, 012mobile & 019 Mobile, and go through:
- Background information
- Mobile coverage
- SIM card types, prices, and availability
- Recharge / top-up information
- Combo plans, data plans, and special packs (such as social media packs)
With that being said, let’s see what Israel has to offer to us.
Cellcom Israel & Golan Telecom (סלקום & גולן טלקום)
Cellcom Israel, also known as סלקום and not to be confused with Cellcom in Canada, Guinea, or the United States, or Celcom, with one L, in Malaysia, is the largest mobile operator in Israel.
In 2020, Cellcom purchased Golan Telecom (גולן טלקום), one of its competitors.
It is expected that both brands will operate separately, with Golan Telecom becoming a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO).
However, they could also be merged, with the Golan Telecom brand vanishing from the market.
Nevertheless, it looks like Cellcom dropped its prepaid line, Talkman, after purchasing Golan Telecom.
Golan Telecom still offers prepaid services with its prepaid brand called GOLANtalk.
As a result, you have to get a GOLANtalk SIM card by Golan Telecom if you wish to be on the Cellcom network.
Cellcom and Golan Telecom have the best voice app (VoIP) experience.
Golan Telecom also has the best online games experience and has one of the best upload speeds.
Cellcom and Golan Telecom use the following frequencies:
- 2G: 1800 MHz
- 3G: 850 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G: 1800 MHz (Band 3)
- 5G NR: 700 MHz (n28), 2600 MHz (n7) & 3500 MHz (n78) – all for Cellcom only
This is what you will learn about Golan Telecom:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Golan Telecom SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Cellcom Israel & GOLANtalk by Golan Telecom
Cellcom and Golan Telecom have extensive coverage throughout Israel.
Coverage in the south, however, is primarily on 2G or 3G.
But this applies to all mobile operators in Israel.
Below are Cellcom's and Golan Telecom's coverage maps:
SIM Card Price – Cellcom Israel & GOLANtalk by Golan Telecom
You can buy a GOLANtalk by Golan Telecom SIM card for 19 ILS in Golan Telecom stores and many other establishments, such as grocery stores, convenience stores & electronic shops. A 30 ILS activation fee applies too, meaning the total cost of a SIM card is 49 ILS.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Cellcom Israel & GOLANtalk by Golan Telecom
GOLANtalk by Golan Telecom top-up vouchers are sold in Golan Telecom stores and many stores, including grocery stores, kiosks & gas stations throughout Israel.
Dial *998# to check your GOLANtalk by Golan Telecom balance.
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Cellcom Israel & GOLANtalk by Golan Telecom
GOLANtalk by Golan Telecom/Cellcom has two data-featured plans: Packages (combo) & Add-Ons (data).
Packages – Cellcom Israel & GOLANtalk by Golan Telecom
The Packages are combo plans with data, minutes & SMS.
These Packages are available:
| Price | Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 39 ILS | 10 GB | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 45 ILS | 9 GB | 2000 minutes | 1000 SMS | 30 days |
| 49 ILS | 40 GB | 2000 minutes | 1000 SMS | 30 days |
| 69 ILS | 75 GB | 2000 minutes | 1000 SMS | 30 days |
Add-Ons – Cellcom Israel & GOLANtalk by Golan Telecom
The Add-Ons are data add-ons. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
These Add-Ons are available:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 3.90 ILS | 1 GB | Until plan expires |
| 5.90 ILS | 2 GB | 1 month, auto-renews |
| 6.90 ILS | 2 GB | Until plan expires |
| 9.90 ILS | 5 GB | 1 month, auto-renews |
| 10.90 ILS | 5 GB | Until plan expires |
APN/Internet Settings – Cellcom Israel & GOLANtalk by Golan Telecom
- Name: Golan Telecom
- APN: internet.golantelecom.net.il
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Bigtalk by Partner (פרטנר)
Partner, also known as פרטנר, is the second-largest mobile operator in Israel.
It used to be known as Orange until 2016.
Its prepaid brand is called Bigtalk.
Partner uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2100 MHz (Band 1)
- 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78)
This is what you will learn about Partner:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Partner SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Bigtalk by Partner
Partner has the best 4G/LTE coverage throughout Israel.
Coverage in the south, however, is primarily on 2G or 3G.
But this applies to all mobile operators in Israel.
Below is Partner's coverage map:
SIM Card Price – Bigtalk by Partner
You can buy a Bigtalk by Partner SIM Card for 60 ILS with 53 ILS credit or 90 ILS with 83 ILS credit in Partner stores and many other establishments, such as grocery stores, convenience stores & electronic shops. It is also possible to get SIM cards at Tel Aviv-Ben Gurion Airport.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Bigtalk by Partner
Bigtalk by Partner top-up vouchers are sold in Partner stores and many other stores, including grocery stores, kiosks & gas stations throughout Israel.
To top up your Bigtalk by Partner SIM card, dial *222*VoucherCode#.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *222*123456#.
You can also recharge online with debit and credit cards.
Dial *#054 or *#222 to check your Bigtalk by Partner balance.
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Bigtalk by Partner
Bigtalk by Partner has five data-featured plans:
- Bigtalk Unlimited (combo)
- Bonus (combo)
- Bigtalk 5G (combo with 5G NR access)
- Data Packages for Devices of 2.5G or Higher (data at slow(er) speeds)
- Data Packages for Modems and Advanced Devices of 3G or Higher (data at fast(er) speeds)
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Bigtalk Unlimited – Bigtalk by Partner
The Bigtalk Unlimited plans are combo bundles with credit, data, minutes & SMS.
The following Bigtalk Unlimited Plans are available:
| Price | Credit | Data | Social Media Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 29 ILS | N/A | 1 GB | N/A | “Unlimited”, 3000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 3000 SMS | 2 days |
| 50 ILS | N/A | 10 GB | N/A | “Unlimited”, 5000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 5000 SMS | 7 days |
| 59 ILS | N/A | 70 GB | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 3000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 3000 SMS | 30 days |
| 99 ILS | 40 ILS | 100 GB | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 5000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 5000 SMS | 30 days |
| 140 ILS | N/A | 150 GB | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 5000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 5000 SMS | 30 days |
| 145 ILS | N/A | 200 GB | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 5000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 5000 SMS | 30 days |
| 159 ILS | 110 ILS | 200 GB | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 5000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 5000 SMS | 30 days |
1 Facebook, Instagram, Waze & WhatsApp
Bonus – Bigtalk by Partner
The Bonus plans are combo plans with credit, data, minutes & SMS.
The following Bonus plans are available:
| Price | Credit | Data | Social Media Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 70 ILS | N/A | 5 GB | N/A | 1000 minutes | 1000 SMS | 30 days |
| 75 ILS | 40 ILS | 5 GB | N/A | 500 minutes | 500 SMS | 30 days |
| 79 ILS | 30 ILS | 80 GB | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 3000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 3000 SMS | 30 days |
| 80 ILS | N/A | 10 GB | N/A | 1200 minutes | 1200 SMS | 30 days |
| 85 ILS | 50 ILS | 10 GB | N/A | 600 minutes | 600 SMS | 30 days |
| 150 ILS | 300 ILS 2/100 ILS 3 | 200 GB | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 5000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 5000 SMS | 30 days |
1 Facebook, Instagram, Waze & WhatsApp
2 for local use
3 for local and international use
Bigtalk 5G – Bigtalk by Partner
| Price | Credit | Data | Social Media Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 79 ILS | 40 ILS | 200 GB | Unlimited | 5000 minutes | 5000 minutes | 30 days |
| 99 ILS | 50 ILS | 500 GB | Unlimited | 5000 minutes | 5000 minutes | 30 days |
| 149 ILS | N/A | 1000 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 150 ILS | 300 ILS 2/100 ILS 3 | 1000 GB | Unlimited | 5000 minutes | 5000 minutes | 30 days |
| 159 ILS | 110 ILS | 1000 GB | Unlimited | 5000 minutes | 5000 minutes | 30 days |
1 Facebook, Instagram, Waze & WhatsApp
2 for local use
3 for local and international use
Data Packages for Devices of 2.5G or Higher – Bigtalk by Partner
The Data Packages for Devices of 2.5G or Higher are data-only plans at slow speeds.
Unless your phone does not support 3G, 4G/LTE, or 5G NR, you should avoid any of these plans.
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 26.95 ILS | 25 MB | 1 month |
| 34.95 ILS | 200 MB | 1 month |
Data Packages for Modems and Advanced Devices of 3G or Higher – Bigtalk by Partner
The Data Packages for Modems and Advanced Devices of 3G or Higher are data-only plans.
The following Data Packages for Modems and Advanced Devices of 3G or Higher are available:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 26.95 ILS | 100 MB | 30 days |
| 59 ILS | 2 GB | 30 days |
| 79 ILS | 4 GB | 30 days |
| 99 ILS | 8 GB | 30 days |
| 149 ILS | “Unlimited”, 25 GB | 30 days |
| 149 ILS | 200 GB 1 | 30 days |
| 189 ILS | 500 GB | 30 days |
1 +unlimited social media data Facebook, Instagram, Waze & WhatsApp
APN/Internet Settings – Bigtalk by Partner
- Name: Partner
- APN: uinternet
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Pelephone (פלאפון)
Pelephone, also known as פלאפון, is the third-largest mobile operator. It is also the last mobile operator part of the Big Three.
Pelephone is the oldest mobile operator in the Israeli market. It is so old that Pelephone is synonymous with the word telephone in Israel.
It was also the first mobile operator to host a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) called Rami Levy, a supermarket chain in Israel.
Rami Levy used to be included in this guide. However, it got removed because it stopped offering prepaid services.
Pelephone mobile operator is the one with the best video streaming experiences and the fastest speeds.
Pelephone uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: N/A (used to be CDMA)
- 3G: 850 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 1800 MHz (Band 3)
- 5G NR: 700 MHz (n28) & 3500 MHz (n78)
This is what you will learn about Pelephone:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Pelephone SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Pelephone
Pelephone has extensive coverage throughout Israel.
Coverage in the south, however, is primarily on 2G or 3G.
But this applies to all mobile operators in Israel.
Below is Pelephone's coverage map:
SIM Card Price – Pelephone
You can buy a Pelephone SIM card for 40 ILS in Pelephone stores or services centers and many other establishments, such as grocery stores, convenience stores & electronic shops.
Pelephone SIM cards get deactivated if there has been no activity for 12 months (no top-up for 12 months or no activity for 12 months).
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Pelephone
Pelephone top-up vouchers are sold in Pelephone stores and many other stores, including grocery stores, kiosks & gas stations throughout Israel.
To top up your Pelephone SIM card, dial *151 and follow the instructions.
Dial *142 to check your Pelephone balance.
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Pelephone
Pelephone has one data-featured plan, which is a combo plan with credit, data, minutes & SMS.
The following options are available:
| Price | Credit | Data | Social Media Data 2 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 59 ILS | N/A | 70 GB | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 3000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 3000 SMS | 30 days |
| 70 ILS | N/A | 50 GB | Unlimited | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 70 ILS | N/A | 70 GB | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 3000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 3000 SMS | 90 days |
| 76 ILS | 30 ILS | 60 GB | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 3000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 3000 SMS | 30 days |
| 79 ILS | N/A | 80 GB | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 3000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 3000 SMS | 30 days |
| 99 ILS | N/A | 500 GB 1 | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 3000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 3000 SMS | 30 days |
| 140 ILS | 70 ILS | 1000 GB 1 | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 3000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 3000 SMS | 30 days |
| 150 ILS | N/A | 200 GB | Unlimited | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 658 ILS | N/A | 70 GB | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 3000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 3000 SMS | 365 days |
1 5G NR access
2 Facebook, Google Maps, Instagram, Netflix, Snapchat, TripAdvisor, Waze, WhatsApp & YouTube
APN/Internet Settings – Pelephone
- Name: Pelephone
- APN: internet.pelephone.net.il
- Username: pcl@3g
- Password: pcl
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
HOTALK by HOT Mobile (הוט מובייל)
HOT Mobile, also known as הוט מובייל, is the last Main Operator offering prepaid services in Israel.
Its prepaid brand is called HOTALK.
HOT Mobile has the best online game streaming experience, voice app (VoIP) experience & the best 4G/LTE availability.
HOT Mobile used to have, or perhaps still has, a domestic roaming agreement with Partner (2G & 3G) in locations where HOT Mobile's coverage was still spotty.
This agreement would stay in effect until HOT Mobile had built up its own (2G & 3G) network.
Right now, HOT Mobile's nationwide coverage is on par with the Big Three's, so I do not think this agreement is still effective.
HOT Mobile uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: N/A
- 3G: 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 1800 MHz (Band 3)
- 5G NR: 700 MHz (n28), 2600 MHz (n7) & 3500 MHz (n78)
This is what you will learn about HOT Mobile:
* Coverage
* How to Get a HOT Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – HOTALK by HOT Mobile
HOT Mobile has the best 4G/LTE availability throughout Israel.
Coverage in the south, however, is primarily on 2G or 3G.
But this applies to all mobile operators in Israel.
Below is HOT Mobile's coverage map:
SIM Card Price – HOTALK by HOT Mobile
You can buy a HOTALK by HOT Mobile SIM card for 49 ILS in HOT Mobile stores and many other establishments, such as grocery stores, convenience stores & electronic shops.
HOTALK by Hot Mobile SIM cards get deactivated if there has been no activity for 180 days (no top-up for 180 days or no activity for 180 days).
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – HOTALK by HOT Mobile
HOTALK by HOT Mobile top-up vouchers are sold in HOT Mobile stores and many other stores, including grocery stores, kiosks & gas stations throughout Israel.
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – HOTALK by HOT Mobile
HOTALK by Hot Mobile has one type of data-featured plan, which are combo plans with credit, data, minutes & SMS.
The following plans are available:
| Price | Plan | Credit | Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 59 ILS | Hotalk | 30 ILS | 100 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 month |
| 79 ILS | Hotalk 5G | 40 ILS | 1000 GB 1 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 month |
| 99 ILS | Hotalk משולב | 50 ILS | 500 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 month |
1 5G NR access
2 Includes NEXT TV+
APN/Internet Settings – HOTALK by HOT Mobile
- Name: HOT Mobile
- APN: net.hotm
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
012talk by 012mobile
012mobile is a prepaid-focused sub-brand by Partner. It offers cheaper prepaid rates than Partner itself.
It could be considered a budget brand.
012mobile's prepaid brand is called 012talk.
This is what you will learn about 012mobile:
* Coverage
* How to Get a 012mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – 012talk by 012mobile
012mobile is a Partner MVNO, meaning 012mobile uses the Partner network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.
To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with 012mobile, jump to the Partner Coverage section.
012mobile customers have access to Partners's 5G NR network. However, that only applies to postpaid customers (for now).
SIM Card Price – 012talk by 012mobile
You can buy a 012talk by 012mobile SIM card for 38.60 ILS in Yellow supermarkets or BestMobile stores.
Dial *678# to access the 012mobile menu.
Dial *678 to change the system language (1 for Hebrew, 2 for Russian, 3 for Arabia & 4 for English).
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – 012talk by 012mobile
012talk by 012mobile top-up vouchers are sold in various stores, including grocery stores, kiosks & gas stations throughout Israel.
To top up your 012talk by 012mobile SIM card, dial *678*VoucherCode#.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *678*123456#.
Dial *678# to check your 012talk by 012mobile Mobile balance.
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – 012talk by 012mobile
012talk by 012mobile has one data-featured plan, which is a combo plan with data, minutes & SMS.
The following plans are available:
| Price | Data | Social Media Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7.90 ILS | 3 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 9.90 ILS | 4 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 19.90 ILS | 12 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 29.90 ILS | 20 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 45 ILS | 10 GB | N/A | “Unlimited”, 3000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 3000 SMS | 30 days |
| 50 ILS | 50 GB | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 3000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 3000 SMS | 30 days |
| 65 ILS | 150 GB | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 3000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 3000 SMS | 30 days |
| 75 ILS | 75 GB | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 3000 minutes 2 | “Unlimited”, 3000 SMS | 30 days |
1 Facebook, Instagram, Waze & WhatsApp
2 +50 ILS call credit for calls to Palestine
APN/Internet Settings – 012talk by 012mobile
- Name: 012mobile
- APN: uinternet
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
019 Mobile
019 Mobile is a Partner MVNO.
It is also the only mobile operator to sell tourist SIM cards (at inflated prices) at Tel Aviv-Ben Gurion Airport.
This is what you will learn about 019 Mobile:
* Coverage
* How to Get a 019 Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – 019 Mobile
019 Mobile is a Partner MVNO, meaning 019 Mobile uses the Partner network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.
To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with 019 Mobile, jump to the Partner Coverage section.
019 Mobile customers do not have access to Partner's 5G NR network.
SIM Card Price – 019 Mobile
You can buy a 019 Mobile SIM card for around 50 ILS in various stores, such as grocery stores, convenience stores, and electronic shops. It is also possible to get tourist SIM cards at Tel Aviv-Ben Gurion Airport (at heavily inflated prices).
The following tourist SIM cards are available, priced in USD instead of ILS:
| Price 1 | Data | Local Minutes | International Minutes 2, 3 | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 29 USD | 10 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 10 days |
| 49 USD | 30 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 59 USD | 100 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
1 Online booking prices. On-location prices are higher
2 to fixed and mobile numbers to Canada, India & United States
3 to fixed numbers to 40 countries:
- Portugal
- Russia
- Singapore
- South Africa
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Taiwan
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Uruguay
- Venezuela
Dial *725 to see your 019 Mobile phone number.
019 Mobile SIM cards get deactivated if there has been no activity for 1 year (no top-up for 1 year or no activity for 1 year).
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – 019 Mobile
019 Mobile top-up vouchers are sold in various stores, including grocery stores, kiosks & gas stations throughout Israel.
To top up your 019 Mobile SIM card, dial *019 and follow the instructions
You can also recharge online with debit and credit cards.
Dial *019 to check your 019 Mobile balance.
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – 019 Mobile
019 Mobile has three data-featured plans:
- Packages (combo)
- Netflix Packages (as the name implies)
- Tourist Plans (combo for tourist SIM cards)
None of 019 Mobile plans have access to Partner's 5G NR network.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Packages – 019 Mobile
The Packages are combo plans with data, minutes & SMS.
The following Packages are available:
| Price | Plan | Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 ILS | חבילת עשר | 100 MB | 100 minutes | 100 SMS | 30 days |
| 12 ILS | SIM Data | 2 GB | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 19.80 ILS | לכל החיים | 12 GB | 5000 minutes | 5000 SMS | 30 days |
| 21.90 ILS | בול בפוני! | 30 GB | 5000 minutes | 5000 SMS | 30 days |
Netflix Packages – 019 Mobile
The Netflix Packages are, as the name suggests, data plans for Netflix.
The following Netflix Packages are available:
| Price | Plan | Netflix Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 ILS | חבילת נטפרי S | 10 GB | 30 days |
| 42 ILS | חבילת נטפרי M | 40 GB | 30 days |
| 50 ILS | חבילת נטפרי XL | 100 GB | 30 days |
Tourist Plans – 019 Mobile
The Tourist Plans are combo plans exclusively for the 019 Mobile Tourist SIM cards sold at Tel Aviv-Ben Gurion Airport.
Note that these plans are priced and charged in USD.
The following Tourist Plans are available:
| Price | Data | Local Minutes | International Minutes 1, 2 | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 USD | 10 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 29 USD | 10 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 10 days |
| 30 USD | 20 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 49 USD | 30 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 59 USD | 100 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
1 to fixed and mobile numbers to Canada, India & United States
2 to fixed numbers to 40 countries:
- Portugal
- Russia
- Singapore
- South Africa
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Taiwan
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Uruguay
- Venezuela
APN/Internet Settings – 019 Mobile
- Name: 019 Mobile
- APN: netazi OR 019
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Other Ways to Stay Connected When Traveling in Israel
I would highly encourage anyone visiting Israel to get themselves an Israeli card – you will be saving a lot of money when you do so.
However, for some, getting an Israeli SIM card is not an option.
For example, your device may be SIM-locked, meaning that you cannot use any other SIM card other than the SIM card provided by your operator.
There are other ways to stay online while in Israel, but they may not be cheap.
However, these methods may be more expensive than getting a SIM card from the local mobile operators.
International Roaming
International roaming is the most convenient way to stay connected when traveling in other countries because you do not have to buy a new SIM card, have to deal with SIM card registration regulations, nor have multiple phone numbers to deal with.
However, international roaming has proven to be expensive in many cases, especially compared to buying local SIM cards.
That is why many travelers are not fond of international roaming.
International roaming has its pros and cons. However, it is important to know how it works. This in-depth guide explains it all.
Find out whether your mobile operator has attractive roaming rates for Israel here.
Using an International SIM Card or Travel SIM Card
International SIM cards are SIM cards made for the traveler in mind. Using them is often cheaper than international roaming.
However, they are almost always more expensive than using a local SIM card.
There are many other advantages and disadvantages of getting international SIM cards, which you can learn about here.
Using a Mobile Hotspot (Pocket WIFI)
Mobile hotspots, or pocket WIFI, are small devices that connect to the local mobile operators of the country you are visiting.
Mobile hotspots are ideal for families or those traveling in a large group, as they allow you to connect multiple devices to one hotspot without the need of each traveler having to buy a SIM card.
You can either buy a mobile hotspot or rent one.
Using Free WIFI Networks
Using free WIFI connections is the cheapest way to stay connected because they are free.
The major downside of trying to use WIFI hotspots is that you will have to locate them, and they are not available on every corner in Israel.
Make sure to protect your internet traffic with a VPN so that hackers cannot steal your personal data.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Israel
Getting a SIM card from Pelephone would do you well when considering an Israeli SIM card.
Local Prepaid SIM Cards in Other Middle Eastern Countries
Visiting other countries in the Middle East? Check out my Middle Eastern SIM card buying guide, covering other Middle Eastern countries, such as:
Going to other places around the world? Then you should also check out my sim card buying guides for other destinations around the world.
Next Steps to Enhance Your Travel Experiences
Looking for the next steps to enhance your phone travel experiences? Here is what to do:
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Looking for the best companies and gadgets to enhance your travel experience? Check out my travel resources page for the best companies to use when you travel!
Save money with international SIM cards, on plane tickets, bus rides, cruises, and accommodation.
Besides that, I also list services and items I use to make my life easier – and I believe they will help you too!
Start Your Own Online Business – Make Money While Traveling
Do you want to learn how I started an online business that allows me to generate income while traveling?
In my starting an online business guide, I tell you which tools, services, and products I have for this site and my YouTube channel.
If I can start a business about something I am passionate about (phone travel), then you can do it too!
Learn About Your Phone Travel Options
You can buy local prepaid SIM cards, international SIM cards, mobile hotspots, or roam internationally.
Each of these options has its pros and cons. Learn more about them, and find the best option for you.
Phone Travel Tips, Tricks & Hacks
I have written many articles with tips and hacks to save money on mobile costs while abroad. You surely want to check them out!
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