Thailand SIM Card & eSIM Comparator
Compare tourist SIM plans from AIS, TrueMove H, and DTAC by data-per-baht.
What this solves
Thailand has three mobile operators (AIS, TrueMove H, DTAC) and dozens of tourist plans. The data-per-baht ratio varies widely. eSIMs are 30–50% more expensive than physical SIMs but skip the airport counter queue. This comparator filters by trip length, data need, voice requirement, and eSIM capability.
How to read results
Each plan is scored by baht per GB of data. Plans that include voice minutes and Thai number cost slightly more. Airport pickup adds 100–200 baht but is convenient; 7-Eleven / AIS / TrueMove shop pickup is cheaper and is often walkable from your hotel.
Limitations
- All operators throttle after fair-use limits (typically 30–50 GB) — speeds may drop to 256 kbps.
- 5G coverage is limited to central Bangkok, major airports, and some shopping districts.
- Plans require passport registration by Thai law.
FAQ
Can I buy a SIM at the airport?
Yes — official AIS, TrueMove, and DTAC counters are at both BKK and DMK. They're open for most flight arrivals and take ~10 minutes for activation. Expect to pay 100–300 baht more than downtown prices.
Is roaming cheaper?
Usually no. Day passes from EU/US carriers cost $10–25/day with 1–5 GB caps. A 30-day AIS tourist SIM is 999 baht (~$28) for 30 GB. Local SIMs win on price by 5–10x.
Does the SIM work on the islands?
Yes, on Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao (Gulf). Andaman coverage (Phuket, Krabi) is also strong. Remote islands (Surin, Similan) have weak signal.
Sources
- AIS — published tourist SIM plans and pricing.
- TrueMove H — Roaming & tourist package data sheet.
- DTAC — prepaid tourist plan price list.