Everything you need to know about physical SIM cards in Taiwan: compare Chunghwa Telecom, FarEasTone and Taiwan Mobile — plans, prices, where to buy at Taoyuan Airport and step-by-step setup.
eSIMs are more convenient for many travelers — but physical SIM cards remain the best choice for certain situations.
Note: If your phone supports eSIM and you're traveling for 3–5 days, an eSIM may be more convenient and cost-effective. Read the comparison guide before deciding.
All three carriers offer dedicated tourist prepaid SIM packages at similar price points — but differ in coverage and strengths.
Best nationwide coverage in Taiwan according to multiple public reviews and user reports. Particularly strong in areas outside major cities — Yehliu, Pingxi, Jiufen, Yangmingshan — where other carriers can be weaker. Tourist SIM plans are unlimited data (fair use policy: heavy usage may trigger speed reduction after threshold). Staff counters at T1 and T2 Taoyuan Airport.
Taiwan's second-largest carrier. Excellent signal in major cities — Taipei, Kaohsiung, Taichung — nearly matching Chunghwa in urban areas. Coverage can be somewhat weaker in remote mountain areas. Tourist SIM prices are similar to Chunghwa; occasionally offers better promotional deals. Counter available at Taoyuan Airport T1 and T2.
Taiwan's third-largest carrier with tourist SIM packages similar to the top two. Often runs promotional offers at Taoyuan Airport counters — such as bonus days or discounts. Good signal in major cities; coverage slightly thinner in rural and mountain areas compared to Chunghwa. Worth considering if their airport deal is better on the day you arrive.
⚠️ All prices shown are approximate estimates based on publicly available information as of early 2026. Always verify current pricing at the airport counter or on Klook/Trip.com before purchase — prices may change with promotions.
| Factor | Chunghwa Telecom | FarEasTone (FET) | Taiwan Mobile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Island-wide Coverage | ★★★★★ Best | ★★★★ Very Good | ★★★★ Very Good |
| Urban Signal | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Mountain / Rural | Best | Good | Good |
| 5G Coverage | Good rollout | Good rollout | Expanding |
| Tourist Plans | 5 / 10 / 15 / 30 days | 5 / 10 / 30 days | 5 / 10 / 30 days |
| Starting Price (approx.) | NT$300 (5 days) | NT$300 (5 days) | NT$300 (5 days) |
| Pre-order via Klook/Trip | Available | Some plans | Some plans |
| Our Pick | ⭐ Best all-round | City-focused trips | If promo is better |
Each option has its pros and cons — pick based on your travel style.
Follow these steps from receiving the SIM to walking out of the airport fully connected.
internet or emome · FET = internet · Taiwan Mobile = internetTaiwan has a strong 4G infrastructure island-wide. 5G is expanding rapidly in major urban centers.
📌 Note: All speeds shown are approximate estimates under normal conditions. Actual speeds depend on carrier, device, network congestion and environment. For everyday travel use, 4G is fully sufficient for everything you'll need.
Book your SIM online before you fly → collect it at the Taoyuan Airport counter when you land. Compare carriers and plans side-by-side in one place.
Not sure which option to choose? The decision guide compares all three with a step-by-step chooser.
Read the Comparison →If your phone supports eSIM and you're traveling short-term, it may be more convenient. See Taiwan eSIM options.
eSIM Options →Once your SIM is set up, how do you get to the city? Compare all 6 transport options — price, time, convenience.
Airport Transfer Guide →Visa, money, internet, transport and a pre-departure checklist — everything in one place.
Practical Info →Real-world test of Airalo's Taiwan eSIM — speeds, setup time and value for money.
Read Airalo Review →SIM sorted — now get your EasyCard for the MRT. Everything about buying, topping up and using it.
MRT Guide →