Vinaphone eSIM (Complete Guide for Vietnam Tourists)

Vinaphone Introduction

Established on June 26, 1996, Vinaphone is a prominent mobile network operator in Vietnam, boasting nearly 30 million subscribers as of December 2022. This extensive reach positions Vinaphone as a leading telecommunications provider within the country. Vinaphone consistently prioritizes network reliability and resilience, demonstrated by its recent upgrade of transmission lines in Central Vietnam. This proactive measure ensures uninterrupted connectivity for users, particularly crucial during natural disasters. Travelers to Vietnam can confidently consider Vinaphone as their mobile carrier, benefiting from its expansive network and dedication to service continuity.

Coverage and Internet Speed of Vinaphone

Vinaphone Coverage

While Vinaphone boasts extensive coverage across Vietnam, there are specific regions where signal strength may weaken. Travelers should be aware of potential limitations in the following areas:

Central Highlands: Regions like Buon Ma Thuat and Pleiku in the central highlands may experience weaker coverage compared to urban centers.

Border Provinces: Similarly, provinces along the Vietnam-Laos border and Vietnam-China border may have limited network availability.

Vinaphone Internet Speed

Vinaphone offers a robust network experience, combining 2G, 3G, 4G LTE, and a growing 5G network. This translates to reliable internet speeds for travelers throughout their journey.

Vinaphone consistently ranks as one of the fastest mobile networks in Vietnam. Notably, in 2023, Speedtest by Ookla recognized Vinaphone as the fastest mobile network in the country. With this level of speed, travelers can confidently:

• Navigate with GPS: Access maps and directions seamlessly, ensuring smooth travel experiences.
• Stream Videos: Enjoy online entertainment without buffering delays.
• Share Experiences: Upload photos and videos to social media platforms instantaneously.
• Stay Connected: Engage in video calls and online communication with ease.

Should You Choose Vinaphone’s eSIM for Your Trip?

While eSIMs offer a convenient and flexible way to stay connected while traveling, choosing the right provider is crucial for a smooth experience. Although Vinaphone provides eSIM services, other options in Vietnam might offer better value and coverage for your trip.

Cost-Effective Alternatives

For travelers seeking cost-effective solutions, both Vietnamobile and Viettel present compelling alternatives to Vinaphone’s eSIM packages. For instance, Vietnamobile’s eSIM offers 40GB of data and includes calls for 20 days at a price of VND 201,612 (approximately $7.99 USD). In contrast, Vinaphone’s eSIM package provides 16GB of data for 10 days (without calls) at a cost of $11.9 USD.

Coverage and Speed Considerations

While cost is an important factor, network coverage and speed are equally vital for a seamless travel experience. In this regard, Viettel emerges as the superior choice, boasting wider coverage and faster speeds throughout Vietnam compared to Vinaphone. This ensures reliable connectivity, whether you’re exploring bustling city centers or venturing into more remote areas.

How to Purchase a Vinaphone eSIM for Your Trip

This guide will provide information on acquiring a Vinaphone eSIM for your travels in Vietnam.

Purchasing Options for Vinaphone eSIM

There are several methods to obtain a Vinaphone eSIM:

• Offline Purchase at Airports: Upon arrival at major Vietnamese airports such as Tan Son Nhat or Noi Bai, locate a SIM/eSIM kiosk within the arrivals hall. Present your passport to the sales staff and request an eSIM. They will assist you with the purchase and setup process. However, be aware of potential language barriers during this process.
• Direct Purchase from Vinaphone: Vinaphone offers the option to purchase eSIMs directly through their website, app, or physical stores. However, navigating these channels as a foreign visitor can present challenges and may not be the most user-friendly approach.
• Online Purchase via Gohub Vietnam eSIM: Gohub provides a convenient online platform for purchasing eSIMs, including those from Vinaphone. Simply visit Gohub’s eSIM shop, select the eSIM that best suits your needs, and complete the online payment. Within 5 minutes, you will receive your eSIM via email, along with comprehensive instructions for its use. Gohub offers 24/7 multilingual customer support to assist you with any inquiries.

FAQ about Vinaphone eSIM

How to activate Vinaphone eSIM

Activating your Vinaphone eSIM is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to get connected:

• Step 1: Access your device settings. Navigate to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data) on your device.
• Step 2: Initiate the eSIM addition. Select the option to Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan.
• Step 3: Choose the QR code method. Opt for the Use QR Code option to proceed.
• Step 4: Scan the QR code. Use your device’s camera to scan the QR code provided by Gohub during your Vinaphone eSIM purchase. Alternatively, if scanning isn’t possible, choose Enter Details Manually and input the activation code. You can also select Open Photos to upload an image of the QR code.
• Step 5: Finalize the installation. Click Next to complete the eSIM installation process.
• Step 6: Enable data upon arrival. Once you reach your destination, activate Data Roaming and Cellular Data to begin using your Vinaphone eSIM for internet access. It’s important to avoid enabling data roaming before arriving to prevent unintended charges.
• Is there another Connectivity Options of Vinaphone?

While eSIM offers a convenient and modern connectivity solution, Vinaphone understands that travelers have diverse needs and preferences. For those who prefer traditional methods or require alternative options,

Vinaphone provides:

• Physical SIM cards: Visitors can still opt for physical SIM cards available in various data packages and validity periods. This option is ideal for those who prefer a tangible SIM card or have devices incompatible with eSIM technology.
• Pocket Wi-Fi rental: For groups or individuals requiring internet access on multiple devices, Vinaphone offers pocket Wi-Fi rental services. These portable devices provide a reliable internet connection for several users simultaneously.
• Top-up services: To ensure uninterrupted connectivity, Vinaphone offers easy top-up services for both physical SIM cards and eSIMs. Users can conveniently recharge their data plans online or through authorized retailers throughout Vietnam.