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Macau: 3 Best Prepaid SIM Cards Buying Guide (2023)

Macau (Macao) – a city-state that is mostly known for gambling.

It is also referred to as the Las Vegas of Asia, as it is one of the few Asian territories where casinos are readily accessible.

But are there other things to do in Macau besides gambling? For sure.

If you are unafraid of height, dining in the Macau Tower Convention and Entertainment Center is certainly a thing you want to do.

Walking around Macau Fisherman's Wharf or Senado Square is a no-brainer either.

And if you are looking for history, head to A-Ma Temple, Monte Fort & the Ruins of St. Paul's.

As you can see, there is something for everything in Macau.

What you should not do, in many cases, is roam internationally in Macau – International roaming can be expensive.

That is why I always recommend local prepaid SIM cards, eSIMs & even travel eSIMs so that you can enjoy low rates for data, minutes & SMS.

Luckily, SIM cards are not too expensive in Macau – the same applies to mobile data rates.

So, how much do SIM cards cost in Macau?

You can get a Macanese SIM card for between 33 MOP (4.10 USD) and 100 MOP (12.50 USD) from CTM, 3 (Three) & SmarTone in their stores. Resellers, like 7-Eleven and PARKnSHOP, sell SIM cards too. SIM cards are also sold at Macau International Airport (HKG).

Now, these prices may seem a bit high, especially compared to countries in Southeast Asia.

But they are still (way) cheaper than international roaming.

In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Macau. Let's do this.

Buying a SIM Card in Macau Guide (logos of SmarTone, CTM & Three (3))

Original publication: 22nd of December 2019. Last updated: 15th of March 2023.


Table of Contents

Can You Buy a SIM Card in Macau?

Anyone 18 years old or older living in or visiting Macau can buy a Macanese SIM card from the mobile network operators (CTM, 3 (Three) & SmarTone) with some restrictions.

The main restriction is that you can only have ten active SIM cards in your name in Macau.

Besides that restriction, you are free to use Macanese SIM cards.

You do have to comply with the SIM card registration regulations.

  • Find out which countries have SIM card registration regulations and what is required from you (lookup tool)
SIM Card Registration Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

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 Macau).

Furthermore, you need to have a SIM-lock-free device.

Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in Macau?

You can get a Macanese SIM card in CTM, 3 (Three) & SmarTone stores. Resellers, like 7-Eleven and Circle K conveniece stores, also sell SIM cards. It is also possible to get SIM cards at Macau International Airport (MFM).

You can expect to pay the following for Macanese SIM cards:

  • CTM Macau: 88 MOP & 100 MOP
  • 3 (Three) Macau: 33 MOP/45 MOP 1, 50 MOP & 100 MOP
  • SmarTone Macau: 88 MOP & 100 MOP

Until the end of 2022, this SIM card will cost 33 MOP (promotion price). However, 3 is known for extending deals for another few months, so we have to see if you will indeed pay 45 MOP as of 2023 or not

For up-to-date MOP:your currency (let's say HKD) exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz
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Can You Use Your Phone in Macau?

Macau uses GSM technology for mobile communications. CDMA phones will not work in Macau. If your phone has a SIM card slot, then it supports GSMA (99% of the phones do support GSM nowadays).

Traditional European frequencies are used in Macau, which are mostly used in ITU Regions 1 and 3 (Africa, Asia (including the Middle East), Europe & Oceania).

The Americas (North-, Central– & South America + the Caribbean – ITU Region 2) use American frequencies, which differ from the European ones.

ITU Regions Map by Phone Travel Wiz

If you bought your phone in Africa, Asia, Europe, or Oceania (ITU Regions 1 and 3), you should not experience any issues with using your phone in Macau.

If you purchased your phone in the Americas (ITU Region 2) and have a low/medium-end device (without Tri-Band or Quad-Band) support, then there is a possibility you cannot use your phone when in Macau or can only use slower networks (3G or 2G).

If you have a medium/high-end device with Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, you can use your phone in Macau (to some extent) – also on 4G/LTE (and 5G NR).

Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Macau

Macau has three mobile network operators offering prepaid services easily accessible to travelers:

  • CTM Macau (Companhia de Telecomunicações de Macau – 澳門電訊有限公司)
  • 3 (Three) Macau (3澳門)
  • SmarTone Macau (澳門數碼通)

The following frequencies are used in Macau:

  • 2G: N/A – shut down in 2019
  • 3G: 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2300 MHz (Band 40) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
  • 5G NR: N/A – launching early 2023

You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.

To check whether your phone will work in Macau, check out this page by Kimovil or this one by Will My Phone Work (outdated, unfortunately, but extremely user-friendly – useful for phones launched in or before 2019. It does not check for 5G NR compatibility).

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.

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VoLTE & VoWiFi in Macau

Both VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G) – also known as HD Voice) are available in Macau. However, not all mobile operators offer both services.

This means that your phone does not have to downgrade to 2G or 3G when making a call in Macau (unlike mobile operators that do not support VoLTE).

The following mobile operators offer VoLTE and VoWiFi in Macau:

  • 3 (Three) Macau

The following mobile operators offer VoLTE only in Macau:

  • CTM Macau

The following mobile operators do not offer VoLTE or VoWiFi in Macau:

  • SmarTone Macau

VoWiFi is, as the name implies, calling on a WiFi connection as opposed to on a cellular network.

5G NR in Macau

5G NR is not available in Macau as of 2022. However, Macau Post and Telecommunications (澳門郵電局) is set to award 5G NR licenses in early 2023, allowing for 5G NR to roll out in 2023. It is unknown whether prepaid customers can use 5G NR from the start or at a later date.

Best SIM Card in Macau

If you want to buy the best SIM card in Macau, I recommend going with CTM. It has the best coverage and the fastest speeds.

Phone Travel Wiz Approved Seal
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Best eSIM in Macau

CTM and SmarTone offers eSIMs to prepaid customers.

Note that the Macanese mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and physical SIM cards.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Macau (without personal detail capturing), you can get the Macau (Macao Mobile) eSIM from Airalo.

Hong Kong Hkmobile eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

You have these four options:

  1. Macau/Macao Mobile 1 GB eSIM for 7 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  2. Macau/Macao Mobile 3 GB eSIM for 30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  3. Macau/Macao Mobile 5 GB eSIM for 30 days
  4. Macau/Macao Mobile 10 GB eSIM for 30 days

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)

The Airalo links above will automatically get you the available Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers – a code is unnecessary.

For an in-depth analysis of the Airalo Macao mobile eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Macau eSIMs Compared guide.

You can also get Cambodia eSIMs from SimCorner (6 GB/15 days), which can also be used in neighboring Asian countries.

Asia Travel eSIM SimCorner
© SimCorner

Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for extra savings, although the link above will do the same automatically.

For an in-depth analysis of the SimCorner Macau eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Macau eSIMs Compared guide.

Finally, you can get Macau eSIMs from Holafly if you prefer unlimited data plans and do not mind paying a bit more for this advantage:

Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner

Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!

For an in-depth analysis of the Holafly Macau eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Macau eSIMs Compared guide.

Holafly Travel eSIM Reviews by Phone Travel Wiz

With these eSIMs, you can skip Macau's SIM card registration scheme entirely and use it immediately upon arriving in Macau!

  • Find out about the best local eSIMs, local travel eSIMs & regional travel eSIMs for every country (lookup tool)
Best Local & Travel eSIMs Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

TIP: check out my Best Macau eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Macau, including ones not mentioned above.

Airalo recently heavily improved its Asia eSIM, following the popular Eurolink eSIM for 39 European countries, with six variants: 1 GB/7 days, 3 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers, 5 GB/30 daysmost popular with PTW readers, 10 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers, 50 GB/90 days & 100 GB/180 days to be used in Macau and 13 other Asian countries:

Asialink Asia eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

Just like in Europe, many readers tend to visit multiple Asian countries, so they would rather have a travel eSIM covering multiple countries than just one (like Macau).

The Asialink eSIM can be used in 14 countries in East Asia and Southeast Asia:

  • Cambodia
  • China
  • Hong Kong
  • Indonesia
  • Japan
  • Laos
  • Macau
  • Malaysia
  • Philippines
  • Singapore 1
  • South Korea
  • Taiwan
  • Thailand
  • Vietnam

1 currently, newly bought Asialink eSIMs cannot be used in Singapore. Airalo is working on re-including Singapore in its Asialink offering

Airalo Asialink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

With the Asialink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit.

  • Check out my Airalo Asialink review ((being) tested in Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, the Philippines, (Singapore), South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand & Vietnam (ongoing review throughout 2023 and 2024, so check back often!)
Airalo Asialink eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

TIP: Check out my eSIM lookup tool for an overview of local mobile operators offering eSIMs to prepaid customers and travel eSIMs I use and love (for eSIMs in Macau and eSIMs worldwide) and my Best Macau eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparion of several eSIMs for Macau.

Best International/Travel SIM Card for Macau

If you want to buy the best international/travel SIM card for Macau, I recommend going with SimCorner's Macau Travel SIM cards. Consider SimCorner's Asia SIM cards to be used in Macau and 20+ countries, including neighboring China, Hong Kong & Taiwan.

You have the following two Macau Travel SIM cards:

Macau Travel SIM Card SimCorner
© SimCorner

You have these two Asia SIM cards:

Asia Travel SIM Card (6 GB for 8 days) SimCorner
© SimCorner
Asia Travel SIM Card (6 GB for 15 days) SimCorner
© SimCorner

The SimCorner Asia SIM cards and eSIMs can be used in Macau and the following other countries:

  • Azerbaijan 2
  • Bahrain 1
  • Bangladesh
  • Brunei
  • Cambodia
  • China
  • Georgia
  • Guam 1
  • Hong Kong
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Japan
  • Jordan 1
  • Kazakhstan
  • Kuwait 1
  • Kyrgyzstan 2
  • Laos
  • Macau
  • Malaysia
  • Mongolia 1
  • Myanmar (Burma)
  • Nepal
  • Oman 1
  • Pakistan
  • Philippines
  • Qatar 1
  • Singapore
  • South Korea
  • Sri Lanka
  • Taiwan
  • Thailand 2, 3
  • Uzbekistan
  • Vietnam

1 for the 8 day version only
2 for the 15 days version only
3 only 500 MB in Thailand – better getthe SimCorner Thailand Travel SIM Cards instead

You can also get the SimCorner International Travel SIM card (new: also available as an eSIM) with 6 GB of data valid for 15 days to be used in Macau and 100+ countries, including most of the ones mentioned above (Asia) and in the Americas, Europe & Oceania:

SimCorner International SIM Card Banner
© SimCorner
International Travel eSIM SimCorner
© SimCorner
  • Åland Islands
  • Albania
  • Argentina
  • Armenia
  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Azerbaijan
  • Bangladesh
  • Belarus
  • Belgium
  • Brunei
  • Bulgaria
  • Cambodia
  • Canada
  • Chad
  • Chile
  • China
  • Colombia
  • Congo, the Republic of (Brazzaville)
  • Croatia
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Egypt
  • El Salvador
  • Estonia
  • Faroe Islands
  • Fiji
  • Finland
  • France
  • Gabon
  • Germany
  • Ghana
  • Greece
  • Guam
  • Guatemala
  • Honduras
  • Hong Kong
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Ireland
  • Israel
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Jordan
  • Kenya
  • Kuwait
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Macau
  • Madagascar
  • Malawi
  • Malaysia
  • Malta
  • Mexico
  • Moldova
  • Mongolia
  • Montenegro
  • Myanmar
  • Nauru
  • Nepal
  • Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Nigeria
  • North Macedonia
  • Northern Cyprus
  • Norway
  • Oman
  • Pakistan
  • Panama
  • Papua New Guinea
  • Paraguay
  • Peru
  • Philippines
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Puerto Rico
  • Qatar
  • Romania
  • Russia
  • San Marino
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Serbia
  • Singapore
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • South Africa
  • South Korea
  • Spain
  • Sri Lanka
  • Svalbard and Jan Mayen
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • Taiwan
  • Tonga
  • Tunisia
  • Turkey
  • U.S. Virgin Islands
  • Uganda
  • Ukraine
  • United Arab Emirates
  • United Kingdom
  • United States
  • Uruguay
  • Uzbekistan
  • Vatican City
  • Vietnam

Instead of spending between 0.34 USD to 384 USD for SIM cards in each country, get a SimCorner travel SIM card (or eSIM) covering numerous countries for just one price!

Use discount code PHONETRAVELWIZ for extra savings!

SIM Card Registration in Macau

SIM card registration, with the use of your passport information, is mandatory in Macau. This will be done at the point of purchase OR can be done by yourself (self-registration) online.

  • Find out which countries have SIM card registration regulations and what is required from you (lookup tool)
SIM Card Registration Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Moreover, you can have up to ten active prepaid SIM cards ACROSS all mobile operators in Macau.

This restriction applies to both Macau citizens and non-citizens (including migrant workers and tourists).

What happens when you try going over this limit? I do not know – be my guest and try it 😏.

Macau Mobile Speeds, Mobile Internet Prices & Insights

Flag of Macau

Macau may not be the most popular travel destination in East Asia (unless you are from China).

But it can be fun if you like casinos.

While you may not be lucky to win the jackpot, you are fortunate enough to experience low mobile data rates in Macau.

The average price for 1 GB of data in Macau is 9.20 MOP (1.13 USD), around the Asian average of 1.47 USD. The world average is 3.12 USD.

In fact, Macau is in the middle in terms of being the cheapest or most expensive country for mobile data in East Asia, behind China, Mongolia & Taiwan, but ahead of Hong Kong, Japan & South Korea – in that order.

Some data-featured prepaid plans can be generous in Macau, but that is not always the case.

While the prices for data-featured plans are low, will you also get slow speeds in Macau?

Absolutely not.

Macau's median mobile download speed is around 54.76 Mbps.

For reference, the global median is around 31 Mbps at the moment.

Macau's mobile download speeds have increased by 36.9% year on year.

Okay, now it is time to know which mobile operator is the fastest in Macau.

That would be CTM. Followed by 3 (Three) and SmarTone.

Honestly, all the Macanese mobile operators have fast download speeds (unless you select a plan with throttled speeds).

So what about coverage? Which mobile operator has the best coverage?

Honestly, the three mobile operators cover almost all of Macau (mostly because it is a small city-state).

But CTM is slightly better than the other two.

With low SIM card prices, excellent coverage, blazing-fast download speeds, and low mobile data rates, you should have a smooth network experience in Macau.

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Currency in Macau

© Banco Nacional Ultramarino (大西洋銀行)
© Banco Nacional Ultramarino (大西洋銀行)

Macau uses the Macanese Pataca with the symbol MOP (which will be used throughout this guide).

However, prices are often listed as just $. For example, 25 MOP = $25.

For reference, below are some exchange rates between HKD and USD (US Dollars):

  • 1 MOP = 0.10 USD
  • 10 MOP = 1.25 USD
  • 100 MOP = 12.45 USD
  • 1000 MOP = 124.50 NTD

For up-to-date MOP:your currency (let's say HKD – Hong Kong Dollar) exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

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 Australian Dollars and Euros, my main currencies, when using Wise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards.

Open a Wise account for FREE!

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Macanese Prepaid SIM Cards

Below, I will guide you through CTM Macau, 3 Macau & SmarTone Macau, 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 Macau has to offer to us.


CTM Macau (Companhia de Telecomunicações de Macau – 澳門電訊有限公司)

CTM Macau Logo
© CTM Macau

CTM Macau (Companhia de Telecomunicações de Macau – 澳門電訊有限公司), just CTM, is the largest mobile operator in Macau.

As the former monopolist, it still has the best network performance and the most customers.

CTM uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: N/A – shut down in 2019
  • 3G: 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2300 MHz (Band 40) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
  • 5G NR: N/A – launching early 2023
  • VoLTE: Yes
  • VoWiFi: No

This is what you will learn about CTM:

* Coverage
* How to Get a CTM SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – CTM Macau

CTM has the best coverage in Macau.

While this is true for all the other Macanese mobile operators, it is still remarkable.

Below is CTM's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – CTM Macau

You can get a CTM SIM card for 88 MOP or 100 MOP in CTM stores and from resellers, like grocery stores, gas stations & convenience stores. CTM SIM cards are also sold at Macau International Airport (MFM).

CTM Macau IDD Prepaid SIM Card
© CTM Macau

The following two CTM SIM cards are available:

PriceSIM CardCreditDataLocal MinutesValidity
88 MOPSocial CardN/A“Unlimited”, 5 GB (30 days) 1480 minutes60 days
100 MOPIDD Prepaid Card20 MOPN/AN/A180 days

1 +unlimited data @ 256 Kbps after exhausting your high-speed data allowance (super slow!)

CTM Macau Social Card SIM Card
© CTM Macau

Short-term visitors and tourists can also get the CTM Online Everywhere in Macau – CTM's tourist offering.

CTM Macau Online Everywhere in Macau Tourist SIM Cards
© CTM Macau

The following two CTM Online Everywhere in Macau SIM cards are available:

PriceDataDataValidity
100 MOP3 Days Plan“Unlimited”, 2 GB 13 days
200 MOP7 Days Plan“Unlimited”, 4 GB 17 days

1 +unlimited data @ 256 Kbps after exhausting your high-speed data allowance (super slow!)

Do note that CTM has many more SIM card lines, including SIM cards for Macau and Hong Kong, Greater China (China, Hong Kong & Macau + Taiwan at times) & travel SIM cards (that sometimes can also be used in Macau).

CTM Macau Greater China SIM Card
© CTM Macau

I only focus on local SIM cards in my guides to make things easier for you (else, I would have discussed way too many SIM cards in my Hong Kong and Thailand SIM card buying guides too – the latter already has 20+ SIM cards per mobile operator).

  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

While CTM does have eSIMs, they are (currently) not offered to prepaid customers.

Note that the Macanese mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and physical SIM cards.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Macau (without personal detail capturing), you can get Macau Macao Mobile eSIMs from Airalo (four options):

Hong Kong Hkmobile eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)

No idea what or who Airalo is? Check out my Airalo review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over four years.

Airalo General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring Asian nations, consider the Airalo Asialink eSIM to be used in 14 Asian countries 1 with six variants:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)

1 currently, newly bought Asialink eSIMs cannot be used in Singapore. Airalo is working on re-including Singapore in its Asialink offering

Airalo Asialink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Airalo review!

I have used, and will be using, the Airalo Asialink eSIM in every country it can be used in.

Airalo Asialink eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Macau.

You can read about them in my Best Macau eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Macau Guide (logos of Airalo, Holafly, CTM & MACAO Mobile)
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Note that CTM offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and you have enabled it in the settings but no VoWiFI (Voice over WiFi) yet.

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – CTM Macau

CTM top-up vouchers are sold in CTM stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Macau.

To top up your CTM SIM card, call 1772 and follow the instructions.

You can also tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Dial *122# to check your CTM balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the CTM Buddy app (Android/iOS).

CTM Macau CTM Buddy App
© CTM Macau

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – CTM Macau

CTM has three data-featured prepaid plans:

CTM plans can be activated by dialing #321#.

I will list all the prices in MOP.

To convert MOP to your currency (let's say HKD – Hong Kong Dollar) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Signup Banner

Click the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.

Social Unlimited Data Plans – CTM Macau

The Social Unlimited Data Plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access) and minutes.

Dial #321# to activate Social Unlimited Data Plans:

PricePlanData 1Local MinutesValidity
88 MOPSocial Unlimited Data Plan 1“Unlimited”, 5 GB480 minutes30 days
198 MOPSocial Unlimited Data Plan 2“Unlimited”, 15 GB480 minutes30 days
298 MOPSocial Unlimited Data Plan 3“Unlimited”, 25 GB480 minutes30 days

1 +unlimited data @ 256 Kbps after exhausting your high-speed data allowance (super slow!)

CTM Macau Social Unlimited Data Plans
Data Once-Off Plans – CTM Macau

The Data Once-Off Plans are data bundles (without 5G NR access).

Dial #321# to activate Data Once-Off Plans:

PriceDataValidity
38 MOP2 GB30 days
58 MOP5 GB30 days
98 MOP10 GB30 days
CTM Macau Data Once-Off Plans
Online Everywhere in Macau Plans – CTM Macau

The Online Everywhere in Macau plans are data bundles (without 5G NR access).

Dial #321# to activate Online Everywhere in Macau:

PricePlanDataValidity
78 MOP3 Days Plan“Unlimited”, 2 GB 13 days
188 MOP7 Days Plan“Unlimited”, 4 GB 17 days

1 +unlimited data @ 256 Kbps after exhausting your high-speed data allowance (super slow!)

APN/Internet Settings – CTM Macau

  • Name: ctm
  • APN: ctm-mobile

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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3 (Three) Macau (3澳門)

Three (3) Logo
© Three (3)

3 (Three) Macau (3澳門), just 3, is the second-largest mobile operator.

Three, as a company, is active in Austria, Denmark, Hong Kong, Ireland, Indonesia (as Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison), Italy (as Wind Tre), Macau, Sweden & the United Kingdom.

3 uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: N/A – shut down in 2019
  • 3G: 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2300 MHz (Band 40) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
  • 5G NR: N/A – did not participate in the August 2022 bid for a 5G NR license
  • VoLTE: Yes
  • VoWiFi: Yes

This is what you will learn about 3:

* Coverage
* How to Get a 3 SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – 3 Macau

3 has extensive coverage throughout Macau.

While this is true for all the other Macanese mobile operators, it is still remarkable.

Below is 3's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – 3 Macau

You can get a 3 SIM card for 50 MOP (Macau MOP$50 Travel Pass) or 100 MOP (3ree Data Prepaid), or a SoSIM SIM card for 33 MOP/45 MOP in 3 stores or from resellers, like 7-Eleven, Circle K & PARKnSHOP. SIM cards are also sold at Macau International Airport (HKG).

3 Macau MOP$50 Travel Pass
© 3 Macau
3 Macau 3ree Data Prepaid SIM Card
© 3 Macau

You also have the 3 SoSIM SIM card. For 33 MOP 1, you get 10 GB and 10 000 local minutes for 30 days – the most popular 3 SIM card.

They can only be purchased at PARKnSHOP.

Until the end of 2022, this SIM card will cost 33 MOP (promotion price). However, 3 is known for extending deals for another few months, so we have to see if you will indeed pay 45 MOP as of 2023 or not

3 Macau SoSIM SIM Card
© 3 Macau

Dial ##120*1*# to change the system's language to English (or ##120*2*# for traditional Chinese and ##120*3*# for simplified Chinese).

  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

3 has no eSIMs.

Note that the Macanese mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and physical SIM cards.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Macau (without personal detail capturing), you can get unlimited data eSIMs from Holafly (seven options):

Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner

The best part is that you can get 5% off using code PHONETRAVELWIZ on each Holafly eSIM purchase!

No idea what or who Holafly is? Check out my Holafly review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than ten countries over two years.

Holafly General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring Asia nations, consider the Holafly Asia eSIM to be used in 11 Asian countries with two variants:

Holafly Asia eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Holafly review!

Remember to use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off each Holafly purchase!

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Macau.

You can read about them in my Best Macau eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Macau Guide (logos of Airalo, Holafly, CTM & MACAO Mobile)
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Note that 3 offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and you have enabled it in the settings.

Oh, you can also use VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – 3 Macau

3 top-up vouchers are sold in 3 stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Macau.

The following (online) 3 top-ups are available:

  • 50 MOP
  • 100 MOP
  • 200 MOP
3 Macau Top-Ups
© 3 Macau

To top up your 3 SIM card, dial ##122*VoucherCode#, or call 66031212 and follow the instructions.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial ##122*123456#.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

You can also tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.

Dial ##122# to check your 3 balance.

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – 3 Macau

3 has only one data-featured prepaid plan: 4G Data Packages. It is a data bundle (without 5G NR access) that can also be used in Hong Kong.

I will list all the prices in MOP.

To convert MOP to your currency (let's say HKD – Hong Kong Dollar) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Signup Banner

Dial the Activation Code to activate 4G Data Packages:

PriceDataValidityActivation Code
18 MOP200 MB30 days**268*1#
48 MOP2 GB30 days**268*2#
50 MOPUnlimited24 hours**263*1#
88 MOP4 GB30 days**268*3#
100 MOP3 GB 130 days**263*2#
148 MOP4.5 GB30 days**268*4#
198 MOP7 GB30 days**268*5#

1 +3 GB of data, 1000 local minutes & unlimited on-net SMS

3 Macau 4G Data Packages

APN/Internet Settings – 3 Macau

  • Name: 3 MO
  • APN: mobile.three.com.mo

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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SmarTone Macau (澳門數碼通)

SmarTone Logo
© SmarTone

SmarTone Macau (澳門數碼通), just SmarTone, is the smallest mobile operator in Macau.

SmarTone is also active in Hong Kong, where its prepaid offering is much better than in Macau 🥲.

SmarTone uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: N/A – shut down in 2019
  • 3G: 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2300 MHz (Band 40) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
  • 5G NR: N/A – did not participate in the August 2022 bid for a 5G NR license
  • VoLTE: No
  • VoWiFi: No

This is what you will learn about SmarTone:

* Coverage
* How to Get a SmarTone SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – SmarTone Macau

SmarTone has extensive coverage throughout Macau.

While this is true for all the other Macanese mobile operators, it is still remarkable.

Below is SmarTone's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – SmarTone Macau

You can get a SmarTone SIM card, called SmarTone Spot, for 50 MOP with 30 MOP credit in SmarTone stores and from resellers, like grocery stores, gas stations & convenience stores. SmarTone SIM cards are also sold at Macau International Airport (MFM).

SmarTone Macau Spot SIM Card
© SmarTone Macau

You also have the 30 Days Prepaid Card targeting migrant workers (although the mobile operators mainly refer to them as Domestic Helpers) from Indonesia and the Philippines.

SmarTone Macau 30 Days Prepaid Card SIM Card
© SmarTone Macau

While anyone can get the 30 Days Prepaid SIM card, it is more expensive than SmarTone Spot (100 MOP with 300 on-net minutes), and the data-featured plans are less generous.

The only reason you would get the 30 Days Prepaid SIM card is for the reduced international call rates to Indonesia and the Philippines.

  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

CTM has no eSIMs.

Note that the Macanese mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and physical SIM cards.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Nomad without personal detail capturing, you can get eSIMs from Nomad (ten options):

The best part is that you can get 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 CAD off using code ADU123 on your first Nomad eSIM purchase!

No idea what or who Nomad is? Check out my Nomad review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over two years.

Nomad General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other countries in Asia and others in other regions or continents, consider the Airalo Discover Global eSIM to be used in 85+ countries worldwide with five variants:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)

Airalo Discover Global eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Airalo review!

From 2023 on, my goal is to test this eSIM in all eligible countries.

Airalo Discover Global eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Macau.

You can read about them in my Best Macau eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Macau Guide (logos of Airalo, Holafly, CTM & MACAO Mobile)
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Be aware that there is no VoLTE or VoWiFi with SmarTone.

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – SmarTone Macau

SmarTone top-up vouchers are sold in SmarTone stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Macau.

The following SmarTone top-ups are available:

  • 50 MOP
  • 100 MOP
  • 200 MOP
SmarTone Macau Top-Ups

To top up your SmarTone SIM card, dial *137*VoucherCode#.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *137*123456#.

You can also tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.

Dial *137# to check your SmarTone balance.

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – SmarTone Macau

SmarTone has only one data-featured prepaid plan: Local Data Plans. It is a data bundle (without 5G NR access).

I will list all the prices in MOP.

To convert MOP to your currency (let's say HKD – Hong Kong Dollar) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Signup Banner

Dial the Activation Code to activate Local Data Plans:

PriceDataValidityActivation Code
38 MOP1.5 GB30 days*123*6*2227#
58 MOP2.5 GB30 days*123*6*2228#
78 MOP5 GB30 days*123*6*2229#
SmarTone Macau Local Data Plans

APN/Internet Settings – SmarTone Macau

  • Name: SmarTone
  • APN: smartone

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Macau

Getting a SIM card from CTM would do you well when considering a Macanese SIM card.


Next Steps to Enhance Your Travel Experiences

Looking for the next steps to enhance your phone travel experiences? Here is what to do:

Support Phone Travel Wiz

It takes a lot of time to analyze, translate & review the SIM card options worldwide (especially to test them out).

Your support helps me keep producing impartial content by eliminating the need to recommend international SIM cards as the best local SIM card (but some of them CAN be useful).

Every Ko-Fi donation, one-time or monthly, helps me to spend more time creating local SIM card buying guides.

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Check Out My Resource Page

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 & 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 & 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 cardsinternational SIM cardsmobile 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!

Sign Up for the Phone Travel Wiz Newsletter

Get updates related to the newest guides, videos & recommended products and services.

Moreover, I send you many tips and tricks on saving money while traveling every now and then.

Let's Be Social

Did you know that I have a YouTube channel covering everything you need to know about traveling with your phone?

A lot of useful videos are uploaded multiple times a week, and you do not want to miss out on them!

Learn More About Who Adu Actually Is

Who is the guy behind Phone Travel Wiz? Well, find out on the Ernest Adu about page!

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