Planning a trip to Cambodia and wondering how to stay connected with the mobile network in Cambodia? Having reliable mobile service is essential whether you’re navigating the bustling streets of Phnom Penh, exploring the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, or relaxing on the beaches of Sihanoukville. This guide will help you choose the best mobile network in Cambodia, understand your options for buying SIM cards, and learn about calling services to ensure you stay connected throughout your journey.
Mobile Operators in Cambodia
Previously home to nine telecom operators, Cambodia’s mobile operators have consolidated into five main players: Metfone, Smart Axiata, Cellcard, Yes, and Cootel. The first three dominate the market and are the most reliable options for travelers.
Here is the table of Comparison of Cambodia’s Mobile Operators for your reference:
| Operator | Pros | Cons | Best for |
| Metfone | • Most extensive coverage (95%+ of the country) • Strong in rural areas • Budget-friendly options • Largest subscriber base | • Slightly weaker urban coverage than Smart • Customer service may be limited in English | • Budget travelers • Those exploring remote areas • Longer-term stays |
| Smart | • High-speed 4G network • Excellent urban coverage • Best overall performance in tests • Strong data-centric packages • Best customer service | • More expensive than other options • Slightly less rural coverage than Metfone | • Digital nomads • Social media users • Business travelers • Those staying mainly in cities |
| Cellcard | • Reliable in tourist areas • Competitive data speeds • Affordable tourist packages | • Weakest overall coverage • Below 90% 4G availability | • Short-term tourists • City-based travelers • Budget-conscious users |
| Yes | • Full 4G/LTE service nationwide • High internet speed | • Limited market presence • Less information available for tourists | • Tech-focused users • Those needing fast internet |
| Cootel | • Early adopter of 4G • Competitive pricing | • Smaller network footprint • Less popular among tourists | • Price-sensitive users • Secondary SIM option |
So, Which Mobile Network is Best in Cambodia?
Based on the latest OpenSignal reports and user experiences, Smart Axiata currently offers the best overall mobile experience in Cambodia, particularly for travelers who prioritize data speed and reliability in urban areas.
Smart consistently wins awards for:
- Voice App Experience (best quality for calls on WhatsApp, Messenger, etc.)
- 4G Availability (95% of time users spend connected to 4G)
- Consistent Quality (most reliable connection)
- Joint winner for Video Experience and Live Video Experience
However, the “best” network depends on your specific needs:
- If you’re staying in major cities and tourist areas, Smart offers the best performance for data, calls, and overall reliability.
- If you’re exploring rural areas or off-the-beaten-path destinations, Metfone provides the most extensive coverage.
- If you’re on a budget but still need good urban coverage, Cellcard offers competitive pricing with reliable service in cities.
Recent tests show that Cellcard currently delivers the fastest download speeds (22Mbps), followed by Smart (18.8Mbps) and Metfone (13Mbps). However, Smart provides the most consistent quality of service overall.
Is There 5G Network in Cambodia?
Yes, Cambodia has begun rolling out 5G networks in major cities, particularly Phnom Penh. Smart Axiata and Cellcard are leading the deployment of this next-generation technology. However, as of 2024, 5G coverage remains limited to urban centers and is still in the expansion phase.
Important notes about 5G in Cambodia:
- Limited Coverage: 5G is primarily available in parts of Phnom Penh and other major urban areas.
- Device Compatibility: To use 5G, you’ll need a 5G-compatible device that supports the specific frequency bands used in Cambodia.
- Future Expansion: All major operators have plans to expand 5G coverage throughout the country in the coming years.
- 4G Reliability: For most travelers, the well-established 4G LTE networks provide more than adequate coverage and speeds for typical usage like navigation, social media, and video calls.
If 5G connectivity is important for your trip, check with the specific carrier about current coverage areas before purchasing a SIM card.
Where to Buy SIM Card in Cambodia?
There are several convenient options for purchasing a SIM card in Cambodia:
- Airport Kiosks: The easiest option for most travelers is to buy a SIM card immediately upon arrival at Phnom Penh International Airport or Siem Reap International Airport. All major operators (Metfone, Smart, and Cellcard) have official booths in the arrival terminals.
- Official Carrier Stores: Visit the official outlets of providers in cities and towns for authentic SIM cards and assistance with activation. Smart and Cellcard have particularly visible stores in shopping malls and commercial districts.
- Convenience Stores: Many convenience stores, mobile phone shops, and supermarkets in cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap sell SIM cards from multiple operators. However, prices may be higher, and you might encounter counterfeit products.
- Street Vendors: While SIM cards are sold by street vendors, it’s generally safer to purchase from official sources to ensure you get a properly registered card with the advertised benefits.
Requirements for Getting a SIM Card in Cambodia
To purchase and register a SIM card in Cambodia, you’ll need:
- Passport: Your valid passport is required for registration.
- Visa Documentation: Your Cambodian visa may be required for verification.
- Payment: Cash is widely accepted, while credit cards are typically only accepted at airport kiosks and official stores.
The registration process is usually quick and straightforward. Staff at official outlets will help set up your SIM card, including activation and package selection.
How Much is a SIM Card in Cambodia?
SIM card prices in Cambodia are quite affordable, here is the table of cost for your reference:
| Operator | Regular SIM Price | Tourist Package | What’s include |
| Metfone | $1-2 | $5-8 | Various “Data Osja” combo plans from $1-6 with data and calls valid for 7-30 days |
| Smart | Free (regular SIM) | $5 | Tourist SIM includes 30GB data and calls for 7 days |
| Cellcard | $1 | $6 | Tourist pack includes 7 days of unlimited data and calls |
Most tourist-focused packages offer excellent value with generous data allowances, making them preferable to standard SIM-only options for short visits. For longer stays, consider purchasing a regular SIM and selecting a plan that matches your usage needs.
What About the WiFi and Internet?
Public WiFi Availability
WiFi is widely available in Cambodia’s tourist areas:
- Hotels and Guesthouses: Most accommodations offer free WiFi, though quality varies significantly.
- Cafes and Restaurants: Western-style cafes and restaurants, particularly in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, typically provide reliable free WiFi.
- Shopping Malls: Major shopping centers in urban areas offer free WiFi services.
- Coworking Spaces: Cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have numerous coworking spaces with high-speed internet for digital nomads.
However, public WiFi can be inconsistent in terms of speed and reliability, and coverage is limited in rural areas.
Mobile Data Options
For consistent internet access, mobile data is the most reliable option:
- Prepaid SIM Cards: As detailed above, local SIM cards offer generous data packages at affordable prices.
- eSIM Options: For travelers with eSIM-compatible devices, Cambodia now offers eSIM plans that can be purchased and activated before arrival. This eliminates the need to physically swap SIM cards. Companies like CambodiaeSIM.com offer plans starting from $6.50 for 3 days of data.
- International Roaming: While more expensive, using your home carrier’s international roaming service is an option if you prefer to keep your original number active.
Average internet speeds in urban areas of Cambodia range from 10-25 Mbps on 4G networks, sufficient for most online activities including video calls, streaming, and social media.
Calling in Cambodia
There are several options for making calls during your stay in Cambodia:
Local Calls with Cambodian SIM Cards
All three major operators offer affordable call packages with their SIM cards:
- Prepaid Credit: You can load credit onto your SIM card and pay per minute for calls.
- Combo Packages: Most tourist SIMs include some call minutes to local numbers.
- Special Call Rates: Some packages offer discounted rates for international calls to specific countries.
Internet-Based Calling
With good data coverage in most tourist areas, internet-based calling is popular:
- WhatsApp, Messenger, Telegram: These services work well throughout Cambodia wherever you have a data connection.
- Zoom, Google Meet, Skype: Video conferencing services function reliably in areas with strong 4G coverage.
International Calls
For calling outside Cambodia:
- International Calling Packages: Available from all carriers, but typically more expensive than internet-based options.
- International Calling Cards: Available in convenience stores and markets.
Emergency Numbers in Cambodia
| Service | Number | Notes |
| General Emergency | 119 | Central emergency hotline |
| Tourist Police | 097 778 0002 | English-speaking officers |
| Ambulance | 119 | Or contact your hotel directly |
| Fire Department | 118 | Response times vary by location |
| Calmette Hospital (Phnom Penh) | 023 426 948 | Best equipped hospital in the capital |
| Royal Angkor International Hospital (Siem Reap) | 063 761 888 | 24-hour emergency service |
| Cambodia Emergency Services | 012 855 525 | Private ambulance service |
Always save these numbers on your phone before traveling to Cambodia, and preferably have them written down as well in case your phone battery dies.
Can I Use Vietnam SIM in Cambodia?
Yes, Vietnamese SIM cards from Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone can work in Cambodia through international roaming services. These providers offer roaming services in up to 200 countries, including Cambodia, but you’ll need to activate the service before traveling.
For more details about the price of the roaming package, you should explore more about each Vietnam mobile operator. While this option is convenient for Vietnamese travelers or short visits, purchasing a local Cambodian SIM generally offers better value for stays longer than a few days.
>> Read more: Which is the best mobile network in Vietnam?
For most travelers, Smart Axiata offers the best balance of coverage, speed, and reliability in Cambodia’s urban and tourist areas. Metfone provides superior coverage in remote regions, while Cellcard offers competitive pricing for budget-conscious travelers.
Purchasing a SIM card is straightforward, with options available right at the airport upon arrival. Tourist packages starting at $5-8 provide generous data allowances that should cover most travelers’ needs for a week-long stay.
For Vietnamese travelers, using your existing SIM with international roaming is convenient for short trips, but local SIMs offer better value for longer stays.
Remember to save important emergency numbers before your trip, and consider downloading offline maps and translation apps while you have reliable WiFi, as connectivity can be unpredictable in more remote areas.
Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, enjoying the beaches, or immersing yourself in Cambodia’s vibrant cities, staying connected will enhance your travel experience and provide peace of mind throughout your journey.
Indochina Voyages is dedicated to ensuring you have a memorable trip to Cambodia. If you need more advice for your upcoming journey, don’t hesitate to reach out to our travel consultants. With our passion for travel and extensive local knowledge, we are here to help you create the best experiences possible. Safe travels!
Thuy Dang – From Indochina Voyages Team
