Mexico – known for its ancient temples, beaches & food.
Many Americans visit Mexico yearly. And that is understandable. The two countries share a long border.
Brits and Canadians love Mexico. Followed by various South American travelers.
But is it worth visiting Mexico? For sure.
Xcaret Park is stunning. So is Dos Ojos Cenote with caves and exciting swimming locations.
The many Mayan pyramids across the country, such as Chichém Itzá and Zona Arqueológica Palenque, need to be seen too.
Or you can enjoy the thrilling nightlife in Cancún and México City and recover from your hangover on the beach during the day.
As you can see, there is no need to be bored in Mexico.
While Mexico may not be the cheapest travel destination in the Americas, it is certainly cheaper than many other countries, like the ones in the Caribbean.
That is why you should save on costs wherever possible, like international roaming rates.
International roaming can be expensive. Using a local SIM card, like a Mexican one, allows you to enjoy local rates, which are significanyly lower than roaming rates.
Fortunately, SIM cards in Mexico are inexpensive.
You can get a Mexican SIM card for as low as 29 MXN (1.65 USD) to 200 MXN (11.40 USD) in Telcel, Movistar, AT&T & OXXO stores. Resellers, like 7-Eleven and Walmart, sell SIM cards too. You can also get SIM cards at select international airports, including México City-Benito Juárez International Airport.
Those prices are not too bad, right? And they often include a starter plan.
So you are not just paying almost 10 USD for a SIM card (unlike Canada and the United States, for example).
Speaking of those countries, you may be thinking: but I can roam for free in Mexico with an American/Canadian SIM card! Why do I need a Mexican one?
Well, you probably can! Most American and Canadian mobile operator allow for free roaming in North America.
The issue, however, is that your roaming speeds are often annoyingly slow.
While mobile data speeds in Mexico are not as high as in Canada and the United States, the network quality you endure while roaming in Mexico will be significantly worse than if you used a Mexican SIM card.
So yeah, get a Mexican SIM card – you will thank yourself later.
In this guide, I will tell you everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Mexico. Let's do this.
Original publication: 12th of December 2019. Last updated: 7th of November 2023.
Table of Contents
Can You Buy a SIM Card in Mexico?
Anyone living in or visiting Mexico can buy a Mexican SIM card from the mobile operator (Telcel, Movistar & AT&T) or the Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs – Oui Móvil, OXXO CEL, Unefon & weex) in their stores or from resellers (like convenience stores) without any restrictions.
You do need a phone that supports the frequencies used in the country (preferably all of them to have the most optimal experience while in Mexico).
Furthermore, you need to have a SIM-lock-free device.
Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in Mexico?
You can get a Mexican SIM card in Telcel, Movistar, AT&T & OXXO stores. Resellers, including convenience stores, grocery stores & electronic shops, sell SIM cards too. Select international airports, including México City-Benito Juárez International Airport, also have SIM cards.
You can buy a SIM card in the following airports:
- Bahías – Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (OXXO store just outside the airport)
- Guadalajara – Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Guadalajara International Airport (OXXO store just outside the airport)
- México City – México City-Benito Juárez International Airport
You can expect to pay the following for Mexican SIM cards:
- Telcel: 79 MXN
- Movistar México: 50 MXN & 60 MXN
- AT&T Unidos México: 100 MXN, 150 MXN & 200 MXN
- Oui Móvil: free, but top-up or plan purchase required
- OXXO CEL: 29 MXN, but a 50 MXN top-up is also required
- Unefon: 50 MXN, 100 MXN & 150 MXN
- weex: 50 MXN
TIP: Check out my SIM card prices lookup tool for a detailed overview of SIM card starter pack benefits (for Mexican SIM cards and SIM cards worldwide).
Can You Use Your Phone in Mexico?
Mexico uses GSM technology for mobile communications primarily. CDMA phones will not work in Mexico. However, almost all phones use GSM anyway.
You also 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.
Mexico uses American Frequencies, which are used in the Americas (North-, Central, and South America + the Caribbean – ITU Region 2).
Phones sold in the Americas typically have no issues when using their phone in other ITU Region 2 countries.
In Africa, Asia (including the Middle East), Europe, and Oceania (ITU Regions 1 & 3), they typically use European Frequencies, meaning phones bought in those regions can be used in countries using European Frequencies without issues.
If you purchased your phone in the Americas (ITU Region 2), you should not experience any issues with using your phone in Mexico.
If you bought 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, then there is a possibility you cannot use your phone when in Mexico 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 Mexico (to some extent) – also on 4G/LTE.
Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Mexico
Mexico has three mobile operators and four Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) offering prepaid services easily accessible to travelers:
- Telcel
- Movistar México
- AT&T Unidos México
- Oui Móvil (Telcel MVNO)
- OXXO CEL (FreedomPop México/Telcel MVNO)
- Unefon (AT&T Unidos México sub-brand)
- weex (Movistar México MVNO)
The following frequencies are used in Mexico:
- 2G: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz
- 3G: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 850 MHz (Band 5), 1700 MHz (Band 4 & Band 66), 1900 MHz & 2600 MHz (Band 7 & Band 38)
You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.
To check whether your phone will work in Mexico, 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.
A Note about Various MVNOs in Mexico
Coming soon.
5G NR in Mexico
5G NR is not available in Mexico as of 2022, and the Mexican government has not made any indications of when it will auction 5G licenses. However, it is expected to happen in (mid-/late-2022.
Best SIM Card in Mexico
If you want to buy the best SIM card in Mexico, I recommend going with Telcel. It is the fastest mobile operator in the country, and it has the best coverage. Consider Movistar & AT&T for slightly lower prices. But your network performance will be significantly worse than on Telcel.
Best eSIM in Mexico
Unfortunately, none of the mobile operators offer eSIM to prepaid customers in Mexico yet.
However, you can also get a travel eSIM from various eSIM providers.
The list below is not exhaustive – many more providers have eSIMs for Mexico.
But these are the ones I have tried and had pleasant experiences with.
Moreover, they are reasonably priced, which I find very important (you will not see me recommending an eSIM I would not buy myself).
So here are the nine best eSIMs for Mexico:
- Mexican mobile operators (one offer eSIMs to prepaid customers – read more in my Mexico SIM card buying guide)
- Airalo Chorro Fon eSIM with four choices between 1 GB and 5 GB (best value for money)
- Alosim Mexico eSIM with five choices between 1 GB and 10 GB (priced roughly the same as Airalo with a bit more options – use code PTW for 5% off)
- Holafly Mexico eSIM with unlimited data for 5 to 90 days (unlimited data eSIMs – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off)
- Nomad Mexico eSIM with three choices between 1 GB and 5 GB (best value for money… too – use code ADU123 for 3 USD off)
- Airalo Latamlink eSIM with four choices between 1 GB and 5 GB (best value for money for 19 American countries)
- Airalo Discover(+) eSIM (formerly Discover Global) with 12 choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (extensive global coverage (130+ countries) at attractive prices) + ability to make and receive calls & send and receive SMS (new) – read my ongoing Airalo Discover(+) (Global) eSIM review too!
- AIS eSIM2FLY Global eSIM through SimOptions with one 6 GB option (eSIM with the most 5G NR supported countries (53/143) at a reasonable price but with a short validity)
- Nomad Global eSIM with six choices between 1 GB and 5 GB (extensive global coverage (109 or 139 countries) at high(er) prices – use code ADU123 for 3 USD off)
- Airalo Americanmex eSIM
- Alosim North America eSIM
- Holafly North America eSIM
- Nomad North America eSIM
Because this is the SIM card buying guide for Mexico, I will not spend too much time about travel eSIMs here and throughout this guide (but I will still do here and there).
If you want to learn more about the best eSIMs for Mexico, you better check out my Mexico eSIM buying guide.
It is as helpful and comprehensive as this guide but about eSIMs instead 😜.
SIM Card Registration in Mexico
SIM card registration, with the use of your personal information (such as your passport), is not required when buying a SIM card in Mexico (for now).
However, some stores will still ask you for your passport – especially at airports.
Moreover, the Mexican government plans on introducing a SIM card registration scheme.
The bill passed the Senate in April 2021, but it is unclear when it will be implemented.
In addition to your standard passport registration like most countries in the world, Mexico wants to join the short list of countries that require biometrics as well.
Furthermore, photographs, fingerprints, and a detailed record of where you live (in Mexico) will be registered too.
To make matters even worse, voice recording may also be required.
Currently, no other country requires a voice recording, so I wonder if that will actually be implemented.
Only Afghanistan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Benin, China, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Peru, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Uganda, the United Arab Emirates & Venezuela require biometric registration for SIM cards.
It is not the first time Mexico tried to implement a SIM card registration scheme.
The government tried it back in 2008. But it was rejected in 2011.
For now, bring your passport with you when you plan on purchasing a Mexican SIM card – just in case.
Mexico Mobile Speeds, Mobile Internet Prices & Insights
Coming soon.
Currency in Mexico
Mexico uses the Mexico Peso with the symbol MXN (which will be used throughout this guide).
However, prices are often listed as just $, MX$, or Mex$. For example, 25 MXN = $/MX$/Mex$25.
For reference, below are some exchange rates between MXN and USD (US Dollars):
- 1 MXN = 0.060 USD
- 10 MXN = 0.60 USD
- 100 MXN= 5.70 USD
- 1000 MXN = 56.90 USD
For up-to-date MXN:USD exchange rates, search MXN 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 Australian Dollars and Euros, my main currencies, when using Wise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards.
Mexican Prepaid SIM Cards
Below, I will guide you through Telcel, Movistar México & AT&T Unidos México, Oui Móvil, OXXO CEL, Unefon & weex, 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 Mexico has to offer to us.
Telcel
Telcel is the largest mobile operator in Mexico.
It has a market share of between 60% to 70% in the country.
Telcel is the local mobile brand by Américan Móvil, which is known as Claro in Central America and South America.
Telcel and Américan Móvil are owned by Carlos Slim Helú – the richest Mexican and the 25th richest person worldwide in 2021.
He was the richest man between 2010 and 2013.
While Telcel had, and somewhat still, has a monopoly (or significant market power), it got a considerable amount of customer service and quality of service complaints.
In recent years, competition has increased, especially when AT&T from the United States entered the market and Altan Redes – an enabler of the many MVNOs in Mexico.
This resulted in Telcel dropping its prices and improving its network.
To this day, it is still the best option in Mexico. It is, however, (slightly) more expensive than the competition.
Telcel uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 1900 MHz
- 3G: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 850 MHz (Band 5), 1700 MHz (Band 4 & Band 66) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
This is what you will learn about Telcel:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Telcel SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Telcel
Telcel has the best coverage in Mexico.
4G/LTE reception is available almost everywhere.
Below is TelCel's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
However, click here to see TelCel's official coverage map.
SIM Card Price – Telcel
You can get a Telcel SIM card, called Amigo (Chip), for 79 MXN with 50 MXN credit in Telcel stores. Resellers, including grocery stores and convenience stores, sell SIM cards too. SIM cards are also available at select airports, including México City-Benito Juárez International Airport.
- 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)
Telcel has no eSIMs.
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Mexico (without personal detail capturing), you can get the Mexico (Chorro Fon) eSIM from Airalo (1 GB/ 7 days – most popular with PTW readers & 3 GB/ 30 days – very popular with PTW readers)
The Airalo links will automatically get you the available Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers – a code is unnecessary.
For an in-depth analysis of the Mexico Chorro eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Mexico eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Airalo eSIM reviews
Or you can get Mexico eSIMs from Nomad (from 1 GB/7 days to 20 GB/30 days).
The 5 GB Nomad Mexico eSIM for 30 days is the most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers, while the 1 GB for 7 days and 3 GB for 30 days variants are very popular.
Use code ADU123 for the best deals available when getting Nomad eSIMs (on the site or their apps) and get 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off (even on top of current promotions)!
For an in-depth analysis of the Nomad Mexico eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Mexico eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Nomad reviews
Finally, you can get Mexico eSIMs from Holafly if you prefer unlimited data plans and do not mind paying a bit more for this advantage:
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 5 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 7 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 10 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 15 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 20 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 30 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 60 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 90 days
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11th of October (2023 data only).
Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!
For an in-depth analysis of the Holafly Mexico eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Mexico eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Holafly reviews
Airalo introduced an eSIM for North America: Latamlink eSIM. The Latamlink is following the popular Eurolink eSIM for 39 European countries and the fairly new Asialink eSIM for 13 Asian countries.
The Latamlink eSIM comes in four variants: 1 GB/7 days, 2 GB/15 days – very popular with PTW readers, 3 GB/30 days – most popular with PTW readers & 5 GB/30 days – very popular with PTW readers to be used in Mexico and 18 other Latin American countries:
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11th of October (2023 data only).
With the Latamlink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit in Latin America!
Holafly also has an eSIM covering most of North America (although the eSIM is called South America eSIM).
But honestly, the Latamlink eSIM is superior (but you can consider the Holafly Central America eSIM if you want 6 GB of data instead in 13 countries – just do not forget about code PHONETRAVELWIZ if you go with Holafly).
TIP: check out my Best Mexico eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Mexico.
Dial *133# to access the Telcel menu.
Note that Telcel offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and you have enabled it in the settings.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Telcel
Telcel top-up vouchers are sold in Telcel stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Mexico.
The following (online) top-ups, called Recarga Amigo, are available:
| Top-Up | Social Data 1 | Credit Validity | Social Data Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 MXN | 500 MB 2 | 7 days | 5 days |
| 20 MXN | 500 MB 2 | 10 days | 5 days |
| 30 MXN | 500 MB 2 | 15 days | 7 days |
| 50 MXN | 1 GB | 30 days | 15 days |
| 100 MXN | 1 GB | 60 days | 30 days |
| 150 MXN | 1 GB | 60 days | 30 days |
| 200 MXN | 1 GB | 60 days | 30 days |
| 300 MXN | 1 GB | 60 days | 30 days |
| 500 MXN | 1 GB | 60 days | 30 days |
1 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Twitter & WhatsApp
2 for WhatsApp only
You also have Recarga Amigo Entretenimiento (Recharge Amigo Entertainment) with 50 MXN and 100 MXN top-ups with credit validity lasting 365 days.
| Top-Up | Validity |
|---|---|
| 50 MXN | 365 days |
| 100 MXN | 365 days |
To top up your Telcel SIM card, dial *133#, *246, *321, or 3434, 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 *133# or text Saldo to 333 to check your Telcel balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the Mi Telcel (My Telcel) app (Android/iOS/Huawei AppGallery).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Telcel
Telcel has three data-featured prepaid plans:
- Amigo Sin Límite/Unlimited Friend (combo)
- Internet por Tiempo/Internet by Time (short-term data)
- Internet Amigo (data)
All Telcel plans can be activated by dialing *133#.
I will list all the prices in MXN (Mexico Peso).
To convert MXN to your currency (let's say USD) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Amigo Sin Límite Plans – Telcel
The Amigo Sin Límite (Unlimited Friend) are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
Dial *133# to activate Amigo Sin Límite:
| Price | Plan | Local/Canada/USA Data | Social Data 1 | Local/Canada/USA WhatsApp Data | Local/Canada/USA Minutes | Local/Canada/Mexico SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 MXN | Amigo Sin Límite 10 | 50 MB | N/A | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 day |
| 20 MXN | Amigo Sin Límite 20 | 100 MB | 200 MB 2 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 2 days |
| 30 MXN | Amigo Sin Límite 30 | 160 MB | 300 MB 2 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 3 days |
| 50 MXN | Amigo Sin Límite 50 | 400 MB | 750 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 80 MXN | Amigo Sin Límite 80 | 500 MB | 1 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 13 days |
| 100 MXN | Amigo Sin Límite 100 | 1.3 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 15 days |
| 150 MXN | Amigo Sin Límite 150 | 2 GB | Unlimited 3 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 26 days |
| 200 MXN | Amigo Sin Límite 200 | 3 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 300 MXN | Amigo Sin Límite 300 | 4 GB | Unlimited 3 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 500 MXN | Amigo Sin Límite 500 | 6 GB | Unlimited 3 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
1 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Snapchat & Twitter
2 excludes Instagram & Snapchat
3 +500 MB for Claro Música
Internet por Tiempo (Internet for Time) – Telcel
The Internet por Tiempo (Internet for Time) are short-term unlimited data (with 5G NR access) plans.
Dial *133# to activate Internet por Tiempo:
| Price | Plan | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 MXN | Internet por Tiempo 10 | “Unlimited”, 4 GB, then unlimited @ 0.5 Mbps | 1 hour |
| 15 MXN | Internet por Tiempo 15 | Unlimited | 2 hours |
Internet Amigo Plans – Telcel
The Internet Amigo are data plans (with 5G NR accesss).
Dial *133# to activate Internet Amigo:
| Price | Plan | Local/Canada/USA Data | Social Data 1 | Local/Canada/USA WhatsApp Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 MXN | Internet Amigo 10 | 70 MB | N/A | Unlimited | 1 day |
| 20 MXN | Internet Amigo 20 | 140 MB | 200 MB 2 | Unlimited | 2 days |
| 30 MXN | Internet Amigo 30 | 220 MB | 300 MB 2 | Unlimited | 3 days |
| 50 MXN | Internet Amigo 50 | 500 MB | 750 MB | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 80 MXN | Internet Amigo 80 | 700 MB | 1 GB | Unlimited | 13 days |
| 100 MXN | Internet Amigo 100 | 1.6 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 15 days |
| 150 MXN | Internet Amigo 150 | 2.5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 26 days |
| 200 MXN | Internet Amigo 200 | 3.5 GB | Unlimited 3 | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 300 MXN | Internet Amigo 300 | 5 GB | Unlimited 3 | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 500 MXN | Internet Amigo 500 | 8 GB | Unlimited 3 | Unlimited | 30 days |
1 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Snapchat & Twitter
2 excludes Instagram & Snapchat
3 +500 MB for Claro Música
APN/Internet Settings – Telcel
- Name: Telcel Mexico
- APN: internet.itelcel.com
- Username: webgprs
- Password: webgprs2002
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Movistar México
Movistar México, just Movistar, is the second-largest mobile operator in Mexico.
It used to be Telcel's only true competitor until AT&T USA bought Iusacell and Nextel México in 2015 and invested heavily in its network.
Movistar, as a brand, is active in Central America, South America & Spain.
Movistar uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz
- 3G: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 1700 MHz (Band 4) & 1900 MHz (Band 2)
This is what you will learn about Movistar:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Movistar SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Movistar México
Movistar has extensive (3G) coverage throughout Mexico.
However, its 4G/LTE coverage is lacking – big time.
Even ALTÁN Redes, a Mobile Virtual Network Aggregator (MVNA) that started building its network not even five years ago, has far better 4G/LTE reception.
Below is Movistar's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
However, click here to see Movistar's official coverage map.
SIM Card Price – Movistar México
You can get a Movistar SIM card for 50 MXN or 60 MXN in Movistar stores. Resellers, including grocery stores and convenience stores, sell SIM cards too. SIM cards are not available at México City-Benito Juárez International Airport.
- 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)
There are three Movistar starter packs. The 60 MXN starter pack, called Movistar Libre, includes 2 GB of data, unlimited social media data (Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Pinterest, Snapchat, TikTok, Twitter & WhatsApp), 1 GB for Netflix & YouTube, unlimited local minutes & unlimited local SMS – all 15 days
Then you have one of the 50 MXN SIM cards that give you 1.5 GB of data and unlimited Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter & WhatsApp data – all for 14 days.
Finally, you have another 50 MXN starter pack. If you recharge at least 50 MXN upon purchase, you will get 3 GB of data and unlimited Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter & WhatsApp data – all for 30 days.
Movistar has no eSIMs.
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Mexico (without personal detail capturing), you can get the Mexico (Chorro Fon) eSIM from Airalo (1 GB/ 7 days – most popular with PTW readers & 3 GB/ 30 days – very popular with PTW readers)
The Airalo links will automatically get you the available Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers – a code is unnecessary.
- Check out my Airalo eSIM reviews
Or you can get Mexico eSIMs from Nomad (from 1 GB/7 days to 20 GB/30 days).
The 5 GB Nomad Mexico eSIM for 30 days is the most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers, while the 1 GB for 7 days and 3 GB for 30 days variants are very popular.
Use code ADU123 for the best deals available when getting Nomad eSIMs (on the site or their apps) and get 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off (even on top of current promotions)!
For an in-depth analysis of the Nomad Mexico eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Mexico eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Nomad reviews
Finally, you can get Mexico eSIMs from Holafly if you prefer unlimited data plans and do not mind paying a bit more for this advantage:
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 5 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 7 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 10 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 15 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 20 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 30 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 60 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 90 days
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11th of October (2023 data only).
Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!
For an in-depth analysis of the Holafly Mexico eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Mexico eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Holafly reviews
Airalo introduced an eSIM for North America: Latamlink eSIM. The Latamlink is following the popular Eurolink eSIM for 39 European countries and the fairly new Asialink eSIM for 13 Asian countries.
The Latamlink eSIM comes in four variants: 1 GB/7 days, 2 GB/15 days – very popular with PTW readers, 3 GB/30 days – most popular with PTW readers & 5 GB/30 days – very popular with PTW readers to be used in Mexico and 18 other Latin American countries:
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11th of October (2023 data only).
With the Latamlink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit in Latin America!
Holafly also has an eSIM covering most of North America (although the eSIM is called South America eSIM).
But honestly, the Latamlink eSIM is superior (but you can consider the Holafly Central America eSIM if you want 6 GB of data instead in 13 countries – just do not forget about code PHONETRAVELWIZ if you go with Holafly).
TIP: check out my Best Mexico eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Mexico.
Dial *100#, #100#, or *103# to access the Movistar menu.
Note that Movistar offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and you have enabled it in the settings.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Movistar México
Movistar top-up vouchers are sold in Movistar stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Mexico.
The following (online) top-ups are available:
| Top-Up | Validity |
|---|---|
| 10 MXN | 7 days |
| 20 MXN | 10 days |
| 30 MXN | 15 days |
| 40 MXN | 20 days |
| 50 MXN – 99 MXN | 30 days |
| 100 MXN – 500 MXN | 60 days |
To top up your Telcel SIM card, dial *55*VoucherCode.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *55*123456 (without closing it with a * or #).
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 (1/2) with (international) debit and credit cards.
Dial *102#, *72536, or text Saldo to 777 to check your Movistar balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the Movistar MX app (Android/iOS/Huawei AppGallery).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Movistar México
Movistar has four data-featured prepaid plans:
- Paquete Básico/Basic Package (combo)
- Paquetes Conactados (combo)
- Paquetes/Packages (combo)
- Módule de Navegación/data
All Movistar plans can be activated by dialing #100#.
I will list all the prices in MXN (Mexico Peso).
To convert MXN to your currency (let's say USD) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Paquete Básico (Basic Package) – Movistar México
The Paquete Básíco (Basic Package) is a combo plan with 15 MB of data (with 5G NR access), 200 MB WhatsApp data, 50 local minutes & 50 local SMS for 10 MXN valid for 1 day.
Activation is by dialing #100#.
| Price | Data | WhatsApp Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 MXN | 15 MB | 200 MB | 50 minutes | 50 SMS | 1 day |
Paquetes Conactado (Connected Packages) – Movistar México
The Paquetes Conactado (Connected Packages) are combo plans with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
Paquetes Conactado can be activated by dialing #100#:
| Price | Data | Social Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 MXN | 300 MB | 500 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 3 days |
| 50 MXN | 600 MB | 1 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 100 MXN | 1.5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 15 days |
1 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter & WhatsApp
Paquetes (Packages) – Movistar México
The Paquetes (Packages) are combo plans with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
Paquetes can be activated by dialing #100#:
| Price | Data | Social Data 1 | Local/Canada/USA Minutes | Local/Canada/USA SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 MXN | 100 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 day |
| 20 MXN | 200 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 2 days |
| 30 MXN | 300 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 3 days |
| 50 MXN | 500 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 80 MXN | 2 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 12 days |
| 100 MXN | 2 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 14 days |
| 150 MXN | 3.5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 200 MXN | 5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 300 MXN | 8 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 500 MXN | 14 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
1 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter & WhatsApp
The Módule de Navegación (Data) is a data plan (with 5G NR access) with 1.4 GB costing 20 MXN. It is valid for 1 day.
Dial *#100# to activate Módule de Navegación.
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 20 MXN | 1.4 GB | 1 day |
APN/Internet Settings – Movistar México
- Name: Internet Movistar
- APN: internet.movistar.mx
- Username: movistar
- Password: movistar
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
AT&T Unidos México
AT&T Unidos México, just AT&T, is the smallest full-service mobile operator in Mexico.
It is by the American AT&T, which entered the Mexican telecom market by buying up Iusacell and Nextel México in 2015.
Both mobile operators had limited coverage and could not compete with Movistar México and certainly not with Telcel.
With close to 100 million subscribers in its home market, AT&T decided to export its expertise across the border.
While it still has a long way to catch up with Movistar México with customer numbers, AT&T does have (way) better 4G/LTE coverage.
AT&T uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: N/A – shut down in 2017
- 3G: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 1700 MHz (Band 4), 1900 MHz (Band 2) & 2600 MHz (Band 7 & Band 38)
This is what you will learn about AT&T:
* Coverage
* How to Get an AT&T SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – AT&T Unidos México
AT&T has extensive (4G/LTE) coverage throughout Mexico.
Due to the lack of a 2G network, locations covered by Telcel or Movistar México with 2G could mean no reception for AT&T.
However, you need to go to extremely remote areas for that to happen.
But, AT&T does have the highest 4G/LTE availability.
Here is AT&T coverage map produced by Speedtest:
However, click here to see AT&T's official coverage map.
SIM Card Price – AT&T Unidos México
You can get an AT&T SIM card for costs 100 MXN, 150 MXN, or 200 MXN, depending on the reseller, with 5.5 GB of data for 30 days in AT&T stores and resellers, including grocery stores and convenience stores, sell SIM cards too. SIM cards are also available at select airports, including México City International Airport.
Note that AT&T offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and you have enabled it in the settings.
- 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)
It is also possible to get an AT&T eSIM for the same price as a regular SIM card.
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Mexico (without personal detail capturing), you can get the Mexico (Chorro Fon) eSIM from Airalo (1 GB/ 7 days – most popular with PTW readers & 3 GB/ 30 days – very popular with PTW readers)
The Airalo links will automatically get you the available Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers – a code is unnecessary.
- Check out my Airalo eSIM reviews
Or you can get Mexico eSIMs from Nomad (from 1 GB/7 days to 20 GB/30 days).
The 5 GB Nomad Mexico eSIM for 30 days is the most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers, while the 1 GB for 7 days and 3 GB for 30 days variants are very popular.
Use code ADU123 for the best deals available when getting Nomad eSIMs (on the site or their apps) and get 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off (even on top of current promotions)!
For an in-depth analysis of the Nomad Mexico eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Mexico eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Nomad reviews
Finally, you can get Mexico eSIMs from Holafly if you prefer unlimited data plans and do not mind paying a bit more for this advantage:
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 5 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 7 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 10 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 15 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 20 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 30 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 60 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 90 days
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11th of October (2023 data only).
Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!
For an in-depth analysis of the Holafly Mexico eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Mexico eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Holafly reviews
Airalo introduced an eSIM for North America: Latamlink eSIM. The Latamlink is following the popular Eurolink eSIM for 39 European countries and the fairly new Asialink eSIM for 13 Asian countries.
The Latamlink eSIM comes in four variants: 1 GB/7 days, 2 GB/15 days – very popular with PTW readers, 3 GB/30 days – most popular with PTW readers & 5 GB/30 days – very popular with PTW readers to be used in Mexico and 18 other Latin American countries:
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11th of October (2023 data only).
With the Latamlink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit in Latin America!
Holafly also has an eSIM covering most of North America (although the eSIM is called South America eSIM).
But honestly, the Latamlink eSIM is superior (but you can consider the Holafly Central America eSIM if you want 6 GB of data instead in 13 countries – just do not forget about code PHONETRAVELWIZ if you go with Holafly).
TIP: check out my Best Mexico eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Mexico.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – AT&T Unidos México
AT&T top-up vouchers are sold in AT&T stores and top-up locations, including grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Mexico.
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 top up and check your balance on the Mi AT&T (My AT&T) app (Android/iOS/Huawei AppGallery).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – AT&T Unidos México
AT&T has only one data-featured prepaid plan: AT&T Más/AT&T Plus (combo). It includes data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
I will list all the prices in MXN (Mexico Peso).
To convert MXN to your currency (let's say USD) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
These AT&T Más are available, which can be enabled in AT&T stores or dealers that deal with top-ups:
| Price | Data | Social Data 1 | Streaming Data 2 | Local/USA Minutes | Local/USA SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 MXN | 500 MB | Unlimited | N/A | Unlimited | Unlimited | 5 days |
| 100 MXN | 1.5 GB | Unlimited | 0.75 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 14 days |
| 150 MXN | 2.3 GB | Unlimited | 1.15 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 25 days |
| 200 MXN | 3 GB | Unlimited | 1.5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 300 MXN | 4.5 GB | Unlimited | 2.25 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
1 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter & WhatsApp
2 for Amazon Prime, Facebook Watch, HBO Go, Netflix, TikTok & ViX
APN/Internet Settings – AT&T Unidos México
- Name: AT&T MX
- APN: modem.nexteldata.com.mx
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Oui Móvil
Oui Móvil is a Telcel MVNO.
It is the mobile brand by Elektra.
To learn about Unefon’s frequencies, jump back to Telcel’s frequencies.
This is what you will learn about Oui Móvil:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Oui Móvil SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Oui Móvil
Oui Móvil is a Telcel MVNO, meaning Oui Móvil uses the Telcel network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.
To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Oui Móvil, jump to the Telcel Coverage section.
SIM Card Price – Oui Móvil
You can get a Oui Móvil SIM for free in Elektra stores. However, you will be required to pay a small fee or buy a plan.
- 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)
Oui has no eSIMs.
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Mexico (without personal detail capturing), you can get the Mexico (Chorro Fon) eSIM from Airalo (1 GB/ 7 days – most popular with PTW readers & 3 GB/ 30 days – very popular with PTW readers)
The Airalo links will automatically get you the available Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers – a code is unnecessary.
- Check out my Airalo eSIM reviews
Or you can get Mexico eSIMs from Nomad (from 1 GB/7 days to 20 GB/30 days).
The 5 GB Nomad Mexico eSIM for 30 days is the most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers, while the 1 GB for 7 days and 3 GB for 30 days variants are very popular.
Use code ADU123 for the best deals available when getting Nomad eSIMs (on the site or their apps) and get 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off (even on top of current promotions)!
For an in-depth analysis of the Nomad Mexico eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Mexico eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Nomad reviews
Finally, you can get Mexico eSIMs from Holafly if you prefer unlimited data plans and do not mind paying a bit more for this advantage:
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 5 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 7 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 10 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 15 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 20 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 30 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 60 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 90 days
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11th of October (2023 data only).
Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!
For an in-depth analysis of the Holafly Mexico eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Mexico eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Holafly reviews
Airalo introduced an eSIM for North America: Latamlink eSIM. The Latamlink is following the popular Eurolink eSIM for 39 European countries and the fairly new Asialink eSIM for 13 Asian countries.
The Latamlink eSIM comes in four variants: 1 GB/7 days, 2 GB/15 days – very popular with PTW readers, 3 GB/30 days – most popular with PTW readers & 5 GB/30 days – very popular with PTW readers to be used in Mexico and 18 other Latin American countries:
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11th of October (2023 data only).
With the Latamlink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit in Latin America!
Holafly also has an eSIM covering most of North America (although the eSIM is called South America eSIM).
But honestly, the Latamlink eSIM is superior (but you can consider the Holafly Central America eSIM if you want 6 GB of data instead in 13 countries – just do not forget about code PHONETRAVELWIZ if you go with Holafly).
TIP: check out my Best Mexico eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Mexico.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Oui Móvil
Oui Móvil top-up vouchers are sold in Elektra stores.
The following (online) top-ups are available:
| Top-Up | Data | Local/USA Minutes | Local/USA SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 MXN | Unlimited 1 | N/A | N/A | 7 days |
| 15 MXN | N/A | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 20 MXN | 250 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 25 MXN | 500 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 30 MXN | 750 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 35 MXN | 1000 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 40 MXN | 1250 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 45 MXN | 1500 MB | 100 minutes | 100 SMS | 7 days |
| 50 MXN | 1750 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 60 MXN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 120 MXN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 15 days |
| 240 MXN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
1 for WhatsApp only
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 top up and check your balance on the Oui Móvil app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Oui Móvil
Oui Móvil has only one data-featured prepaid plan: Recargas Ilimitadas/Unlimited Recharge (combo). It includes data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
I will list all the prices in MXN (Mexico Peso).
To convert MXN to your currency (let's say USD) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
These Recargas Ilimitadas are available, which can be enabled in Elektra stores:
| Price | Data | WhatsApp Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 MXN | N/A | Unlimited | N/A | N/A | 7 days |
| 15 MXN | N/A | N/A | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 20 MXN | 250 MB | N/A | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 25 MXN | 500 MB | N/A | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 30 MXN | 750 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 35 MXN | 1000 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 40 MXN | 1250 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 45 MXN | 1500 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 50 MXN | 1750 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 60 MXN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 120 MXN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 15 days |
| 240 MXN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
APN/Internet Settings – Oui Móvil
- Name: Oui Móvil
- APN: internet.mvne1.com
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
OXXO CEL
OXXO CEL is a FreedomPop México MVNO, which is a Telcel MVNO.
It is the mobile brand by the convenience store chain OXXO.
Why OXXO CEL decided to partner up with FreedomPop México instead of going directly to Telcel, I cannot tell.
1OXXO, as a company, is also active in Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Chile, Peru & the United States.
This is what you will learn about OXXO CEL:
* Coverage
* How to Get an OXXO CEL SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – OXXO CEL
OXXO CEL is a FreedomPop México MVNO, which in turn is a Telcel MVNO.
This means that OXXO CEL and FreedomPop México use the Telcel network and do not have their own mobile infrastructure.
It is unclear whether FreedomPop México, and OXXO CEL for that matter, have full access to the Telcel network or not.
So I will show you the coverage maps of FreedomPop México.
Here is the 2G coverage map:
Then we have the FreedomPop México 3G coverage map:
Then we have the 4G/LTE coverage map:
SIM Card Price – OXXO CEL
You can get an OXXO CEL SIM card for 29 MXN in OXXO convenience stores. However, you need to recharge at least 50 MXN to activate your SIM card, meaning the total cost is 79 MXN for your SIM card.
- 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)
OXXO has no eSIMs.
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Mexico (without personal detail capturing), you can get the Mexico (Chorro Fon) eSIM from Airalo (1 GB/ 7 days – most popular with PTW readers & 3 GB/ 30 days – very popular with PTW readers)
The Airalo links will automatically get you the available Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers – a code is unnecessary.
For an in-depth analysis of the Mexico Chorro eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Mexico eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Airalo eSIM reviews
Or you can get Mexico eSIMs from Nomad (from 1 GB/7 days to 20 GB/30 days).
The 5 GB Nomad Mexico eSIM for 30 days is the most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers, while the 1 GB for 7 days and 3 GB for 30 days variants are very popular.
Use code ADU123 for the best deals available when getting Nomad eSIMs (on the site or their apps) and get 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off (even on top of current promotions)!
For an in-depth analysis of the Nomad Mexico eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Mexico eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Nomad reviews
Finally, you can get Mexico eSIMs from Holafly if you prefer unlimited data plans and do not mind paying a bit more for this advantage:
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 5 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 7 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 10 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 15 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 20 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 30 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 60 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 90 days
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11th of October (2023 data only).
Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!
For an in-depth analysis of the Holafly Mexico eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Mexico eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Holafly reviews
Airalo introduced an eSIM for North America: Latamlink eSIM. The Latamlink is following the popular Eurolink eSIM for 39 European countries and the fairly new Asialink eSIM for 13 Asian countries.
The Latamlink eSIM comes in four variants: 1 GB/7 days, 2 GB/15 days – very popular with PTW readers, 3 GB/30 days – most popular with PTW readers & 5 GB/30 days – very popular with PTW readers to be used in Mexico and 18 other Latin American countries:
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11th of October (2023 data only).
With the Latamlink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit in Latin America!
Holafly also has an eSIM covering most of North America (although the eSIM is called South America eSIM).
But honestly, the Latamlink eSIM is superior (but you can consider the Holafly Central America eSIM if you want 6 GB of data instead in 13 countries – just do not forget about code PHONETRAVELWIZ if you go with Holafly).
TIP: check out my Best Mexico eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Mexico.
Bahías de Huatulco International Airport and Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Guadalajara International Airport have OXXO stores near the airport selling OXXO CEL SIM cards.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – OXXO CEL
OXXO CEL top-up vouchers are sold in OXXO convenience stores throughout Mexico.
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 top up and check your balance on the OXXO CEL app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – OXXO CEL
OXXO CEL has two data-featured prepaid plans: Paquetes/Package (combo) & Paquetes De Internet Por Tiempo/Internet Packages By Time (data).
I will list all the prices in MXN (Mexico Peso).
To convert MXN to your currency (let's say USD) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Paquetes (Package) – OXXO CEL
The Paquetes (Package) are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
These Paquetes are available, which can be enabled in OXXO convenience stores:
| Price | Plan | Data 1 | Social Data 2 | WhatsApp Data | Local/USA Minute | Local/USA SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 MXN | OXXO CEL 10 | 50 MB | 100 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 day |
| 30 MXN | OXXO CEL 30 | 150 MB | 300 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 3 days |
| 50 MXN | OXXO CEL 50 | 400 MB | 1000 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 80 MXN | OXXO CEL 80 | 500 MB | 1000 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 13 days |
| 100 MXN | OXXO CEL 100 | 1300 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 15 days |
| 150 MXN | OXXO CEL 150 | 2000 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 26 days |
| 200 MXN | OXXO CEL 200 | 3000 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 300 MXN | OXXO CEL 300 | 4000 MB | Unlimited 3 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 500 MXN | OXXO CEL 400 | 5000 MB | Unlimited 3 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
1 can also be used in the United States
2 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger & Twitter
3 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Twitter & TikTok
Paquetes de Internet por tiempo (Internet packages by time) – OXXO CEL
The Paquetes de Internet por tiempo (Internet packages by time) are, as the name implies, data bundles (without 5G NR access).
These Paquetes de Internet por tiempo are available, which can be enabled in OXXO convenience stores:
| Price | Plan | Data 1 | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 MXN | Internet 1 hora | Unlimited | 1 hour |
| 15 MXN | Internet 2 hora | Unlimited | 2 hour |
1 for Mexico only
APN/Internet Settings – OXXO CEL
- Name: OXXO CEL
- APN: internet.mvne1.com
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Unefon
Unefon is an AT&T Unidos México sub-brand.
It used to be part of Iusacell, until AT&T purchased Iusacell and Nextel México.
Now, it is the budget brand by AT&T Unidos México.
To learn about Unefon’s frequencies, jump back to AT&T Unidos México’s frequencies.
This is what you will learn about Unefon:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Unefon SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Unefon
Unefon is an AT&T Unidos México sub-brand, meaning Unefon uses the AT&T Unidos México network.
To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Unefon, jump to the AT&T Unidos México Coverage section.
SIM Card Price – Unefon
You can get a Unefon SIM card for 50 MXN, 100 MXN, or 150 MXN (three starter packs) from various Unefon dealers, including convenience stores, electronic shops & cosmetic stores.
- 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)
Unefon has no eSIMs.
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Mexico (without personal detail capturing), you can get the Mexico (Chorro Fon) eSIM from Airalo (1 GB/ 7 days – most popular with PTW readers & 3 GB/ 30 days – very popular with PTW readers)
The Airalo links will automatically get you the available Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers – a code is unnecessary.
For an in-depth analysis of the Mexico Chorro eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Mexico eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Airalo eSIM reviews
Or you can get Mexico eSIMs from Nomad (from 1 GB/7 days to 20 GB/30 days).
The 5 GB Nomad Mexico eSIM for 30 days is the most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers, while the 1 GB for 7 days and 3 GB for 30 days variants are very popular.
Use code ADU123 for the best deals available when getting Nomad eSIMs (on the site or their apps) and get 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off (even on top of current promotions)!
For an in-depth analysis of the Nomad Mexico eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Mexico eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Nomad reviews
Finally, you can get Mexico eSIMs from Holafly if you prefer unlimited data plans and do not mind paying a bit more for this advantage:
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 5 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 7 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 10 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 15 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 20 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 30 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 60 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 90 days
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11th of October (2023 data only).
Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!
For an in-depth analysis of the Holafly Mexico eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Mexico eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Holafly reviews
Airalo introduced an eSIM for North America: Latamlink eSIM. The Latamlink is following the popular Eurolink eSIM for 39 European countries and the fairly new Asialink eSIM for 13 Asian countries.
The Latamlink eSIM comes in four variants: 1 GB/7 days, 2 GB/15 days – very popular with PTW readers, 3 GB/30 days – most popular with PTW readers & 5 GB/30 days – very popular with PTW readers to be used in Argentina and 18 other Latin American countries:
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11th of October (2023 data only).
With the Latamlink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit in Latin America!
Holafly also has an eSIM covering most of North America (although the eSIM is called South America eSIM).
But honestly, the Latamlink eSIM is superior (but you can consider the Holafly Central America eSIM if you want 6 GB of data instead in 13 countries – just do not forget about code PHONETRAVELWIZ if you go with Holafly).
TIP: check out my Best Mexico eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Mexico.
You may have to dial *100 to activate your Unefon SIM card.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Unefon
Unefon top-up vouchers are sold in Unefon top-up locations, including grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Mexico.
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.
Call 611 and select option 2 to check your Unefon balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the Mi Unefon (My Unefon) app (Android/iOS/Huawei AppGallery).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Unefon
Unefon has three data-featured prepaid plans:
- Ilimitado 2.0/Unefon Unlimited 2.0 (combo)
- Completo/Complete (combo)
- Paquetes/Packages (combo)
I will list all the prices in MXN (Mexico Peso).
To convert MXN to your currency (let's say USD) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Ilimitado 2.0 (Unlimited 2.0) – Unefon
The Ilimitado 2.0 (Unlimited 2.0) are combo plans with data (300 MB/day) (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
These Ilimitado 2.0 are available, which can be activated on the Mi Unefon app:
| Price | Data | WhatsApp Data | Local/USA Minutes | Local/USA SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 MXN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 day |
| 30 MXN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 2 days |
| 50 MXN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 4 days |
| 70 MXN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 100 MXN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 10 days |
| 120 MXN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 12 days |
| 150 MXN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 15 days |
| 200 MXN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 20 days |
| 300 MXN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
Unefon Completo (Unefon Complete) – Unefon
The Unefon Completo (Unefon Complete) are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
These Planes Unefon Control are available, which can be activated on the Mi Unefon app:
| Price | Data | Social Data 1 | Local/USA Minutes | Local/USA SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 MXN | 200 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 50 MXN | 300 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 60 MXN | 400 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 70 MXN | 500 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 80 MXN | 600 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 90 MXN | 800 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 100 MXN | 1000 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 120 MXN | 2 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 140 MXN | 2.5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 160 MXN | 3 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 180 MXN | 3.5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 200 MXN | 4.5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 300 MXN | 5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
1 for Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter & WhatsApp
Paquetes (Packages) – Unefon
The Paquetes (Packages) are combo plans with data (300 MB/day) (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
These Paquetes are available, which can be activated on the Mi Unefon app:
| Price | Data | Social Data 1 | WhatsApp Data | Local/USA Minutes | Local/USA SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 MXN | 3 GB | 500 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 10 days |
| 100 MXN | 6.3 GB | 1050 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 21 days |
| 150 MXN | 8.4 GB | 2800 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 200 MXN | 10.5 GB | 3500 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 35 days |
| 300 MXN | 12.6 GB | 4200 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 42 days |
1 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger
APN/Internet Settings – Unefon
- Name: Unefon
- APN: web.usacellgsm.mx
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
weex
weex is a Movistar México MVNO.
It is one of the largest MVNOs in Mexico.
weex is the only mobile operator/MVNO (in this guide) that allows you to (semi) customize your plan with add-ons, with data being your base.
To learn about weex’s frequencies, jump back to Movistar México’s frequencies.
This is what you will learn about weex:
* Coverage
* How to Get a weex SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – weex
weex is a Movistar México MVNO, meaning weex uses the Movistar México network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.
To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with weex, jump to the Movistar México Coverage section.
SIM Card Price – weex
You can get a weex SIM card for 50 MXN with unlimited WhatsApp data (180 days) & unlimited local minutes (30 days) in 7-Eleven, Circle K & Extra stores in Mexico.
- 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)
weex has no eSIMs.
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Mexico (without personal detail capturing), you can get the Mexico (Chorro Fon) eSIM from Airalo (1 GB/ 7 days – most popular with PTW readers & 3 GB/ 30 days – very popular with PTW readers)
The Airalo links will automatically get you the available Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers – a code is unnecessary.
- Check out my Airalo eSIM reviews
Or you can get Mexico eSIMs from Nomad (from 1 GB/7 days to 20 GB/30 days).
The 5 GB Nomad Mexico eSIM for 30 days is the most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers, while the 1 GB for 7 days and 3 GB for 30 days variants are very popular.
Use code ADU123 for the best deals available when getting Nomad eSIMs (on the site or their apps) and get 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off (even on top of current promotions)!
For an in-depth analysis of the Nomad Mexico eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Mexico eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Nomad reviews
Finally, you can get Mexico eSIMs from Holafly if you prefer unlimited data plans and do not mind paying a bit more for this advantage:
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 5 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 7 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 10 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 15 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 20 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 30 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 60 days
- Mexico unlimited data eSIM for 90 days
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11th of October (2023 data only).
Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!
For an in-depth analysis of the Holafly Mexico eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Mexico eSIMs Compared guide.
- Check out my Holafly reviews
Airalo introduced an eSIM for North America: Latamlink eSIM. The Latamlink is following the popular Eurolink eSIM for 39 European countries and the fairly new Asialink eSIM for 13 Asian countries.
The Latamlink eSIM comes in four variants: 1 GB/7 days, 2 GB/15 days – very popular with PTW readers, 3 GB/30 days – most popular with PTW readers & 5 GB/30 days – very popular with PTW readers to be used in Argentina and 18 other Latin American countries:
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11th of October (2023 data only).
With the Latamlink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit in Latin America!
Holafly also has an eSIM covering most of North America (although the eSIM is called South America eSIM).
But honestly, the Latamlink eSIM is superior (but you can consider the Holafly Central America eSIM if you want 6 GB of data instead in 13 countries – just do not forget about code PHONETRAVELWIZ if you go with Holafly).
TIP: check out my Best Mexico eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Mexico.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – weex
weex top-up vouchers are sold in weex top-up locations, including 7-Eleven, Circle K, Extra & Movistar (Telefónica) recharge points throughout Mexico.
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 *963# to check your weex balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the weex app (Android/– no iOS app… yet).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – weex
weex has two data-featured prepaid plans: Megas Libres (data) and add-ons (various).
I will list all the prices in MXN (Mexico Peso).
To convert MXN to your currency (let's say USD) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Megas Libres – weex
The Megas Libres are data bundles (without 5G NR access).
Below are all the options:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 20 MXN | 150 MB | 7 days |
| 32 MXN | 250 MB | 7 days |
| 35 MXN | 300 MB | 15 days |
| 44 MXN | 400 MB | 30 days |
| 46 MXN | 400 MB | 15 days |
| 48 MXN | 400 MB | 7 days |
| 58 MXN | 600 MB | 30 days |
| 60 MXN | 500 MB | 15 days |
| 63 MXN | 600 MB | 7 days |
| 68 MXN | 800 MB | 30 days |
| 72 MXN | 800 MB | 15 days |
| 75 MXN | 1000 MB | 30 days |
| 90 MXN | 1500 MB | 15 days |
| 100 MXN | 2000 MB | 30 days |
| 145 MXN | 3000 MB | 30 days |
| 199 MXN | 4500 MB | 30 days |
Packs (Add-Ons) – weex
The Packs are various types of add-ons, including extra data, data for select apps, minutes & SMS.
With 25 categories and some categories having four options, I have a hard time thinking of how to display all the add-ons in an easy-to-understand way.
For now, I will show you the categories. All the sub-options can be seen here or on the weex app.
APN/Internet Settings – weex
- Name: weex
- APN: internet.weex.mx
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Mexico
Getting a SIM card from Telcel would do you well when considering a Mexican SIM card.
Local Prepaid SIM Cards in Other American Countries
Visiting other countries in the Americas? Check out my Caribbean SIM card buying guide, covering other American nations, such as:
- Guyana
- Haiti
- Honduras
- Jamaica
- Martinique
- Mexico
- Montserrat
- Nicaragua
- Panama
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Puerto Rico
- Saba
- Saint Barthélemy (Barts)
- Saint Kitts & Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Martin
- Saint Vincent & the Grenadines
- Sint Eustatius (Statia)
- Sint Maarten
- Suriname
- Trinidad & Tobago
- Turks & Caicos Islands
- United States
- Uruguay
- U.S. Virgin Islands
- Venezuela
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:
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.
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 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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Moreover, I send you many tips and tricks on saving money while traveling every now and then.
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A lot of useful videos are uploaded multiple times a week, and you do not want to miss out on them!
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Who is the guy behind Phone Travel Wiz? Well, find out on the Ernest Adu about page!