📞 How to Setup a Local SIM Card in Mexico
If you're like us, one of the first things you'll want to do after arriving in Mexico is get yourself a local SIM card.
You will find fast and reliable internet in all the major cities of Mexico, suitable for working remotely. However, the internet infrastructure is less developed in smaller towns and more rural areas, so you may encounter slower speeds or less reliable connections from time to time.
This article will guide you through the process of getting connected and provide information about each provider to help you make an informed decision. Use a Mexico SIM card to stay connected and feel like a local while working.
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Factors to consider when selecting a local sim in Mexico
When choosing which telephone provider to select, there are several things that you need to keep in mind. Below are the following points:
- 📡 Coverage – Make sure that the provider you select has coverage in areas of importance to you. To evaluate which provider will serve your needs best, use a coverage map for Mexico for greater clarity.
- 💰 Price – Research and evaluate the different packages, comparing prices and inclusions to identify the most suitable option within your budget.
- 📃 Contract terms – Take the time to thoroughly investigate your contract terms to avoid any hidden fees or penalties for early termination.
- 😇 Reputation – Before committing to a service provider, research current and past customer reviews to determine the provider's trustworthiness.
Mobile Providers in Mexico We'd Recommend
To ensure that you make the right choice for your budget, goals, and needs, it's essential to do thorough research into local mobile providers.
We've gathered some information on prepaid sim cards of each provider below to help you through this process.
#1 Telcel
Telcel is Mexico's largest cell phone service provider. It has the highest 4G/5G network coverage in Mexico. A Telcel prepaid sim card costs 80 Mexican Pesos ($4) as an activation fee.
Different Options:
- 200 Mexian Pesos ($11 / €11) for a SIM card and 3,5 GB of mobile data.
- 300 Mexican Pesos ($17 / €16) for a SIM card and 5 GB of mobile data.
- 500 Mexican Pesos ($28 / €27) for a SIM card and 8 GB of mobile data.
#2 Movistar
This is Mexico's second-largest phone service provider. While Movistar offers reliable 3G coverage across Mexico, its 4G/LTE reception is weak and spotty. A Movistar sim card costs 60 Mexican Pesos ($3) as a registration fee.
Different Options:
- 300 Mexican Pesos ($17 / €16) for a SIM card and 8 GB of mobile data.
- 500 Mexican Pesos ($28 / €27) for a SIM card and 14 GB of mobile data.
#3 AT&T
AT&T is a smaller mobile service provider in Mexico. While it may not have the same customer numbers as Movistar, AT&T provides extensive 4G coverage throughout Mexico.
Different Options:
- 200 Mexican Pesos ($11 / €10,60) for a physical SIM card and 3 GB of mobile data.
Where to Buy a Mexico SIM card?
✈️ International Airport
Upon arriving at one of the larger International Airports, such as Cancun or Mexico City, you can find a store selling sim cards conveniently located in the arrival hall.
✔️ Official Store
Purchasing your SIM card from an official store is a straightforward process. Most stores are inside shopping malls, and if you're visiting tourist locations, you will come across various Telcel, AT&T and Movistar outlets to choose from.
What Do You Need To Buy a Prepaid SIM Card In Mexico?
It is pretty easy to buy a SIM card in Mexico since it doesn't require your passport or identification.
Your Mexican phone number and SIM card are not registered under your name, making the process simpler compared to other countries.
How to top up your Mexican SIM Card?
Recharging your Mexican SIM card is simple. You can do it online at your chosen provider's website or visit an official store selling top-up cards for your carrier.
Once you have successfully recharged your phone, you will receive a text message indicating your updated phone balance.
Best Mexican Prepaid SIM Card in 2023?
We found that Telcel has the best prepaid SIM card in Mexico. It provides the best coverage through Mexico, the best 4G and even 5G coverage in some areas.
Before you depart for Mexico make sure you're covered:
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📵 Conclusion
As we've shown in this article, getting a prepaid SIM card in Mexico is a breeze.
You've got three major options: Telcel, Movistar, and AT&T. Those three providers offer the best Mexico sim cards. Based on our assessment, we suggest going for a Telcel sim card in 2023, as it provides better mobile coverage.
Good luck, and have fun! If you have any questions, feel free to message us on Instagram - @remotevagabond