Despite a delayed tourism boom, Cambodia's attractions, including Angkor Wat and coastal gems like Kaoh Tonsay, now draw more travellers. To stay connected economically, opt for local prepaid SIM cards or eSIMs, with Cambodia offering notably low mobile data rates in the region.

Angkor- The home of the famous Angkor Wat

Where to Purchase a SIM Card in Cambodia

SIM cards for Cambodia are available at Metfone, Smart, and Cellcard stores, including outlets at Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) and Siem Reap International Airport (REP). Each provider, Metfone, Smart Cambodia, and Cellcard, offers SIM cards, with Metfone prices varying based on the phone number's premium status. Additionally, targeted at tourists, Metfone, Smart Cambodia, and Cellcard provide specific SIM card options, each with its features.

Phone Compatibility in Cambodia

For mobile communications in Cambodia, GSM technology is utilised, rendering CDMA phones incompatible. Nearly all modern phones, equipped with a SIM card slot, support GSM (approximately 99% of phones). Cambodia employs traditional European frequencies, aligning with ITU Regions 1 and 3 (Africa, Asia, Europe, and Oceania).

If your phone was purchased in Africa, Asia, Europe, or Oceania (ITU Regions 1 and 3), compatibility in Cambodia should not pose any issues. However, for phones bought in the Americas (ITU Region 2), especially low/medium-end devices without Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, there's a potential limitation or reliance on slower networks like 3G or 2G.

Medium/high-end devices with Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, on the other hand, should function in Cambodia to some extent, even on 4G/LTE networks.

Mobile Operators, Networks, and Frequencies in Cambodia

For convenient prepaid services during your travels, Cambodia offers accessibility to three major mobile operators: Metfone, Smart Cambodia, and Cellcard. The country operates on the following frequencies:

• 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
• 3G: 2100 MHz
• 4G/LTE: 1800 MHz (Band 3)
• 5G NR: N/A – not yet rolled out

Ensure your phone is unlocked to use any Cambodian SIM card, as locked phones restrict usage to the home operator or international roaming, which can be costly. For a comprehensive understanding of international roaming, refer to this in-depth guide. Additionally, discover the reasons behind the often-expensive nature of roaming in this enlightening article.

Note on Yes 018 (formerly Seatel Cambodia)

Yes 018, previously known as Seatel Cambodia, functions as the fourth mobile operator in Cambodia, exclusively operating on a 4G/LTE network. It lacks a national roaming agreement, meaning there is no 2G or 3G fallback in areas not covered by Yes 018.

While Yes 018 currently boasts the fastest 4G/LTE speeds in the country and supports VoLTE for calls, its coverage remains limited throughout Cambodia. Additionally, only specific devices are compatible with Yes 018's network, with a focus on budget and mid-range phones, particularly from brands like Huawei, OPPO, Samsung A, and J series.

It's essential to note that support for premium phones like iPhones and Samsung Galaxy Notes is limited to older models. For example, only iPhones up to the X series and older Samsung Galaxy Notes are supported.

Despite these limitations, Yes 018 may become a cost-effective option during promotions and offers a smooth experience in urban areas where its coverage is available.

VoLTE and VoWiFi Availability in Cambodia

Both VoLTE (Voice over LTE or HD Voice) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi or WiFi calling) services are accessible in Cambodia. However, not all mobile operators provide both services.

With VoLTE and VoWiFi, your phone can maintain high-quality calls over 4G or WiFi without the need to downgrade to 2G or 3G. The mobile operators offering these services in Cambodia are as follows:

• VoLTE and VoWiFi: Smart Cambodia
• VoLTE only: Metfone
• Not available for prepaid customers: Cellcard

VoWiFi, as the name suggests, enables calling over a WiFi connection rather than relying on a cellular network.

Current Status of 5G NR in Cambodia

As of 2022, 5G NR (New Radio) connectivity is not yet available in Cambodia. The government has not provided any indications regarding the timing of the auctioning of 5G licences.

Top eSIM Options in Cambodia

Metfone, Smart, and Cellcard extend eSIM services to prepaid customers in Cambodia. It's important to note that Cambodian mobile operators require identification (passport) for both eSIMs and physical SIM cards.

Alternatively, travellers can explore eSIM options from various providers. While the list is not exhaustive, the following providers have been tried and tested with positive experiences. They are also reasonably priced, ensuring value for money:

• Airalo Connect Cambodia eSIM: Offers choices ranging from 1 GB to 5 GB, known for its excellent value for money.

• Alosim Cambodia eSIM: Provides three choices between 1 GB and 5 GB, competitively priced (use code PTW for 5% off).

• Holafly Cambodia eSIM: Features unlimited data for 5 to 20 days, with an emphasis on unlimited data eSIMs (use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off).

• Nomad Cambodia eSIM: Offers three choices between 1 GB and 5 GB, though considered somewhat expensive (use code ADU123 for 3 USD off).

• Airalo Asialink eSIM: Presents six choices between 1 GB and 100 GB, regarded as the best value for money for 14 East- and Southeast Asian countries.

• AIS eSIM2FLY Asia eSIM (via SimOptions): Features one 6 GB option with the most 5G NR supported Asian countries at a reasonable price (SimOptions also offers other Asian eSIMs).

• Holafly Asia eSIM: Provides unlimited data for 5 to 30 days, reasonably priced for 11 East- and Southeast Asian countries.

• AIS eSIM2FLY Global eSIM (via SimOptions): Offers one 6 GB option with the most 5G NR supported countries at a reasonable price.

• Nomad Global eSIM: Includes six choices between 1 GB and 5 GB, boasting extensive global coverage (109 or 139 countries) at competitive prices (use code ADU123 for 3 USD off).

Given that this guide focuses on SIM card purchases within Cambodia, limited emphasis will be placed on travel eSIMs throughout the guide. However, occasional mentions may still occur.

SIM Card Registration and Mobile Insights in Cambodia

In Cambodia, SIM card registration is a mandatory process requiring passport information, completed at the point of sale.

• Mandatory SIM Registration

SIM card registration is compulsory in Cambodia. At the point of sale, passport details are captured as part of the verification process before activation.

• Affordable Mobile Data 

With an average price of per 1 GB, mobile data rates in Cambodia are hugely economical compared to Asian and global averages.

• Moderate Download Speeds

While cheaper than elsewhere, Cambodia's median download speed of 17 Mbps trails the global average. However, year-on-year improvements of 25.6% indicate progress.

• Widespread Coverage 

The major operators like Smart, Metfone and Cellcard cover 93-95% of Cambodia across technologies like 4G/LTE. This extensive reach ensures connectivity.

• Smart Has Best Networks

For 4G availability and overall performance, Smart leads the pack. By winning awards in 2022, Smart solidifies its reputation for reliable, quality networks.

• Choosing Smart

With its combination of low rates, expanding 4G services, steadfast coverage spanning the country and superior network quality, Smart offers travellers the best deal for mobile services in Cambodia.

Metfone Prepaid SIM Cards Guide

Metfone, Cambodia's largest mobile operator with a market share exceeding 50%, is favoured by locals due to its extensive coverage and rural expansion strategy. Supported by Viettel from Vietnam, Metfone initially focuses on providing coverage in underserved rural areas, making it a suitable choice for those travelling to remote parts of Cambodia. Additionally, Metfone's acquisition of Beeline Cambodia in 2015 contributed to its substantial subscriber base.

Metfone Network Coverage

Explore Cambodia confidently with Metfone's extensive network coverage, ensuring reliable and seamless connectivity across the country. Stay connected and enjoy efficient communication throughout your travels with Metfone.

Smart (Axiata) Cambodia

Smart Cambodia, a part of the Axiata group from Malaysia, is the second-largest mobile operator in Cambodia and widely considered the best overall in the country. The Axiata group operates in various countries, including Cambodia, Indonesia, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

Coverage – Smart Cambodia

Experience reliable and extensive network coverage across Cambodia with Smart, providing seamless connectivity for communication and internet access throughout your stay. Stay connected confidently with Smart Cambodia's robust network.

Cellcard Cambodia

Cellcard, one of the major mobile operators in Cambodia, stands as a prominent choice for users seeking reliable services. Here's an overview of Cellcard, covering aspects such as its background, coverage, SIM card types and prices, how to obtain a Cellcard SIM in Cambodia, and details about the available plans and packages.

• SIM Card Types, Prices, and Availability – Cellcard Cambodia

To get connected with Cellcard in Cambodia, users can acquire a SIM card at Cellcard stores or at international airports like Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) and Siem Reap International Airport (REP). Cellcard offers a range of SIM card options, with prices varying based on the type and plan selected.

• How to Get a Cellcard SIM in Cambodia

To obtain a Cellcard SIM card, visit Cellcard stores or designated sales points. Additionally, SIM cards are available at major airports in Cambodia. The process typically involves completing a registration form and presenting identification documents, such as a passport.

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