Stay Connected in Phnompenh
Network coverage, costs, and options
Connectivity Overview
Phnom Penh has solid mobile connectivity that'll keep you connected throughout the city and most of Cambodia. The capital benefits from decent 4G coverage from major carriers, with speeds that handle video calls, streaming, and work needs just fine. WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants, but mobile data gives you the freedom to navigate, translate, and stay in touch while exploring temples, markets, and riverside areas. The connectivity infrastructure has improved significantly in recent years, making Cambodia much more traveler-friendly than it once was. You'll find coverage extends well beyond the city into popular tourist areas like Siemreap and Cambodia, so your connection works for day trips too.
Get Connected Before You Land
We recommend Airalo for peace of mind. Buy your eSIM now and activate it when you arrive—no hunting for SIM card shops, no language barriers, no connection problems. Just turn it on and you're immediately connected in Phnompenh.
Network Coverage & Speed
Cambodia's mobile landscape is dominated by three main carriers: Cellcard, Smart Axiata, and Metfone. Cellcard generally offers the most reliable coverage and fastest speeds, particularly in urban areas like Phnom Penh where you can expect 4G speeds of 10-30 Mbps download - perfectly adequate for most travel needs. Smart Axiata provides good coverage with competitive data packages, while Metfone covers rural areas well but can be slower in the city. All three carriers use standard GSM frequencies (900/1800 MHz) and 4G LTE bands that work with most international phones. Coverage within Phnom Penh itself is excellent across all carriers, extending reliably to tourist areas, the airport, and major highways. Rural coverage exists but can be patchy depending on your destination. The networks handle voice calls, SMS, and data reliably, with call quality generally good throughout the city and surrounding provinces.
How to Stay Connected
eSIM
eSIM is increasingly the smart choice for Cambodia, offering immediate connectivity without the hassle of SIM card shops or language barriers. You can activate your plan before departure and land with working data - crucial for ride-hailing apps from the airport. Providers like Airalo offer Cambodia-specific plans and regional Asian packages that work well here, typically costing $10-20 for 1-5GB depending on duration. The convenience factor is huge: no passport photocopying, no registration hassles, no tiny SIM cards to lose. Coverage piggybacks on local networks (usually Smart or Cellcard) so performance matches what locals get. The main downside is cost - you'll pay a premium over local rates. But for most travelers, especially first-timers, the time saved and peace of mind easily justify the extra $10-15 compared to local options.
Local SIM Card
Local SIM cards in Cambodia are incredibly cheap - often $2-5 for the SIM plus $3-10 for several gigabytes of data. You'll find official carrier stores and authorized dealers throughout Phnom Penh, including at the airport (though airport prices run higher). Cellcard and Smart have English-speaking staff at major locations. You'll need your passport for registration, and activation usually takes 10-30 minutes including setup. The process involves filling out a form, passport photocopying, and waiting for network activation. Popular tourist areas like the riverside and Russian Market have multiple shops competing for business. Data packages are flexible - you can top up easily through apps or scratch cards sold everywhere. The main challenges are language barriers at smaller shops, time spent on setup, and the risk of getting overcharged as a tourist. Quality varies significantly between official stores and street vendors.
Comparison
Local SIM wins on pure cost - roughly $8-15 total vs $15-25 for eSIM vs $50-200+ for roaming. eSIM dominates on convenience and time savings, working immediately upon arrival. Roaming is expensive but effortless if cost isn't a concern. For data allowances, local SIM offers the most flexibility with easy top-ups, while eSIM provides fixed packages that usually cover typical tourist needs. Local SIM requires passport registration and setup time; eSIM activates instantly; roaming just works with your existing number.
Our Recommendations
First-time visitors: Go with eSIM through Airalo - you'll land with working data for maps, translation, and ride-hailing without dealing with airport SIM shops or language barriers. The extra $10 is worth the peace of mind and immediate connectivity when you need it most. Budget travelers: If every dollar counts, local SIM from Smart or Cellcard saves money, but budget at least an hour for the purchase and setup process. The savings are real but modest - weigh $8 vs your time and potential frustration. Long-term stays (1+ months): Local SIM makes financial sense for extended visits. You'll recoup the setup hassle through cheaper rates and flexible top-up options that eSIM plans can't match. Business travelers: eSIM is your only practical option - immediate connectivity, reliable service, and no time wasted on SIM card logistics. Treat it as a business expense and move on with your day.
Our Top Pick: Airalo
For convenience, price, and safety, we recommend Airalo. Purchase your eSIM before your trip and activate it upon arrival—you'll have instant connectivity without the hassle of finding a local shop, dealing with language barriers, or risking being offline when you first arrive. It's the smart, safe choice for staying connected in Phnompenh.
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