Compare Top Mobile Network Operators in Vietnam: Which to Choose?

July 15, 2024 Tips & Guides

Choosing a mobile network in Vietnam can be confusing because there are major mobile network operators (MNOs) and some mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs). The MNOs are rather similar in terms of coverage, speed and price while the MVNO is competitive in terms of price.

This article will compare top mobile network operators in Vietnam (and MVNOs as well), to help you find the perfect network for your needs so you can stay connected in Vietnam without breaking the bank.

First of all, you should have a quick look at the mobile internet experience overview of three major mobile network operators in Vietnam carried out by Opensignal: Vinaphone, Viettel, and MobiFone.

Mobile experience awards among top mobile network operators in Vietnam (Source: Opensignal)

Now let’s go into detail to compare them:

I. Compare top mobile network operators in Vietnam: Vinaphone, Viettel, and MobiFone

1. Vinaphone: The Network Operator with Good Quality

Established in 1995, Vinaphone is the oldest mobile network operator in Vietnam with a consistently maintained strong reputation for both quality services and user-friendly surface.

Coverage: Vinaphone boasts excellent coverage across Vietnam, including both remote areas and smaller towns.

According to OpenSignal, Vinaphone has the 2nd-largest network coverage in Vietnam, after Viettel.

Users, both locals and tourists, can expect to have a reliable network access in most parts of Vietnam. But, in some mountainous areas, the signals may be weaker.

Mobile Internet Speed: Vinaphone ranks 3rd in speed among major Vietnamese providers. Expect average download speeds of 12.18 Mbps and upload speeds of 6.34 Mbps – stable for everyday use, but not the fastest available.

Data Packages for Tourists:

Vinaphone offers various tourist-specific data packages, with options both for long terms (monthly and yearly plans) and short terms (daily and weekly plans).

For about $7.80 USD (180,000 VND), you get 6GB of data, 60 minutes of domestic calling and 100 SMS for 30 days.

Vinaphone SIM card/eSIM:

Vinaphone provides both physical SIM cards and eSIM services.

Vinaphone SIM: widely available at official VNPT Vinaphone stores, convenience stores, airports, and authorized retailers in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Danang, etc.
eSIM: available through the official website of Vinaphone and some specific eSIM providers.

While Vinaphone requires foreign tourists to present identification (like a passport) when purchasing SIM cards directly from them, there’s a simple solution: buy from authorized vendors or resellers. This applies to both physical and eSIMs.

Speaking of eSIMs, if your phone is compatible, it’s the most convenient option. You can skip the hassle of physical cards altogether and purchase a Vietnam eSIM from a reputable provider – many don’t require any personal identification.

A noticeable eSIM provider for Vietnam is Gigago which utilizes the network services of Vinaphone for their products.

With eSIM Vietnam by Gigago, you pay from $8.9 to get 7, 10, 15, 4GB/day, 5GB/day used in 8, 16, 30 days.

Recommendation:

Vinaphone is a good option for tourists who plan to travel to different parts of Vietnam, including rural areas. It’s easy to use and provides sufficient speed for everyday needs.

2. Viettel: The Largest Network Operator in Vietnam

Also established in 1995, Viettel has nearly half of the market share, boasting over 70 million subscribers. It’s renowned for its high-quality service, excellent coverage. That is why it is popular among both locals and tourists.

Coverage:

Viettel provides the most extensive coverage in Vietnam, reaching a remarkable 99.9% of the country. You can expect reliable network access virtually everywhere in Vietnam.

Mobile Internet Speed:

Viettel claims the top spot for speed among major Vietnamese mobile providers. Enjoy average download speeds of 19.02 Mbps and upload speeds of 7.44 Mbps – the fastest available, ensuring a smooth online experience.

Data Packages for Tourists:

Viettel offers a variety of tourist-friendly data packages, ranging from daily to monthly plans.

For example, with 100.000 VND (about $3.93), you get 30-day unlimited data, 20 free first minutes of each domestic on-net call, and 20 minutes of international calls.

Viettel SIM / eSIM:

Similar to Vinaphone, you can easily find Viettel SIM cards in official Viettel stores, in representative stores at Tan Son Nhat airport, Noi Bai Airport, or Can Tho airport,… convenience stores, and some authorized dealers.

If your phone is eSIM-supported, you can also use eSIM services on the basis of Viettel network with some specific eSIM plans of Gigago.

compare vietnam esim plans gigago viettel vinaphone

Recommendation:

Viettel is an excellent choice for tourists who prioritize extensive coverage, fast internet speeds, and affordable data. Its partnership with Unitel makes it even more convenient for those visiting both Vietnam and Laos.

3. MobiFone: A Close Competitor

MobiFone was established in 1993 and serves more than 50 million users in the country. It is renowned for quality and competitive prices. However, MobiFone seems to be more popular among locals than tourists.

Coverage: MobiFone offers 98% coverage of the country. While this is not as extensive as Viettel or Vinaphone, there may be some coverage gaps in more remote regions, similar to Vinaphone.

Mobile Internet Speed:

In terms of mobile internet speed, MobiFone ranks second among the major mobile network operators in Vietnam. Its speed is consistently good but not the fastest. You can expect reliable speeds suitable for basic internet needs like browsing, streaming, video calls in most places. However, if you need the absolute fastest speed, Vinaphone and Viettel may be better.

MobiFone SIM card / eSIM:

Physical SIM cards of MobiFone are also easily found in official stores, airports and authorized retailers. But, eSIM services of MobiFone may be more limited than Vinaphone and Viettel.

Data packages for Tourists:

Similar to Vinaphone and Viettel, MobiFone also has dedicated Tourist SIM packages with a set amount of data, local calling minutes and SMS messages valid for different durations.

For example, the HPD100 package costs 100,000 VND per 30 days of use, you get 3GB and 100 minutes of calling within networks.

Recommendation:

MobiFone is a good choice if you plan to visit popular destinations in Vietnam. However, if you plan to travel to more remote locations, consider other options with wider coverage.

4. Mobile Virtual network operators (MVNOs) in Vietnam

Apart from the three major mobile network operators, there are also several MVNOs operating in Vietnam. These are virtual operators that rely on the infrastructure of major network operators to provide their services. Some of the most well-known MVNOs in Vietnam are Gmobile, Itelecom, and Vietnamobile.

While these MVNOs may offer competitive pricing for data packages, they do not have their own infrastructure, which may result in slower internet speeds and limited coverage compared to major network operators. Hence, it is essential to research and compare their packages carefully before making a decision.

II. Things to consider when choosing network operators in Vietnam

When choosing a mobile network operator in Vietnam, there are several factors to consider, including:

Coverage: As a tourist, it is important to ensure that the network operator has good coverage in the areas you plan to visit.
Internet Speed: Depending on your needs, you may want to choose a network operator with faster internet speeds, especially if you rely heavily on internet access.
Data Packages: Consider the duration of your stay and your data usage to choose a suitable data package.
Customer Service: It is always helpful to have access to reliable customer service, especially when faced with issues or questions.
Overall Value: Compare the pricing and packages of different network operators to determine the best value for your needs.

It can be said that Vietnam has a variety of mobile network operators to choose from, each has pros and cons. If you go for popular destinations, both 3 networks are good, but Viettel is more affordable. If you visit more remote areas, choose Viettel. If your phone supports eSIM technology, you should use eSIM for Vietnam to get better convenience and similar benefits, like using physical SIM cards.