SIM, Wi-Fi, and 5G Analysis

How Fast is it and How Much Does it Cost?

The Vietnamese Internet Landscape: Who Connects You?

Vietnam is a mobile-first country with an extensive 4G network and 5G rapidly expanding in major cities. Connection quality is generally high, but coverage in areas like the northern mountains or the Mekong Delta can vary.

The three main local operators, which all services rely on, are:

Viettel: Boasts the best national coverage, essential if you plan to visit rural areas.
Mobifone: Excellent performance in urban areas, with a good quality-to-price balance.
Vinaphone: The third operator, often price competitive for short-term plans.

Cost Analysis: Physical SIM vs. Digital eSIM

1: The Unbeatable Convenience of eSIM (Yesim & Airalo)

This is the most modern and recommended approach for those seeking immediate efficiency. By purchasing an eSIM before you depart, you land already connected, without having to waste time at the airport.

Smart Advantages: No physical SIM card swapping, immediate activation, and you manage everything directly from your phone. Perfect for short- to medium-duration trips.
Costs: Plans vary based on data allowance and duration. For example, with our partners Yesim or Airalo, you can find packages ranging from 1 GB for 7 days (very economical) up to plans with more substantial data.
Drawback: eSIMs usually offer data only, meaning you won't have a local phone number to call a restaurant or a hotel.

2: The Power of the Local SIM

If your priority is maximum coverage in every corner of the country and the ability to call Vietnamese numbers, the local SIM card is the best choice.

Smart Advantages: Better coverage in the most remote areas (especially with Viettel) and often offer plans with daily unlimited data (with a speed limit once the cap is reached). You have a local number for emergencies.
Costs: Tourist packages for 30 days (with substantial data) cost an average of €10 to €14.
Drawback: Requires time for purchase at the airport or in official stores, and you must remove your Italian SIM card.

Advanced Connectivity: 5G and the VPN Theme

5G: An Urban Reality

5G is a growing reality in Vietnam. If you primarily travel between Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang, you will be able to benefit from significantly higher speeds. However, when traveling, 4G is more than sufficient for maps, streaming, and video calls.

Security: Do You Need a VPN?

Contrary to other Asian countries, Vietnam does not block major Western social media or services (WhatsApp, Google, etc.).

Smart Analysis: While not essential for access, a VPN is highly recommended to protect your personal data when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks in cafes, stations, or hotels (which are often insecure).

Smart Conclusion: Our Ultimate Advice

For your Vietnam Smart Experience, choose based on the duration and type of trip:

Short Trips (up to 15 days): Opt for the convenience of an eSIM (Yesim or Airalo). You connect immediately and are operational right away.
Long or Remote Trips: Start with an eSIM and, once in the city, buy a local Viettel SIM for maximum peace of mind regarding calls and total coverage.