Mobile Operators in Cambodia – Which One is the Best?

Cambodia is home to several reputable mobile operators, including Cellcard, Smart, and Metfone, each offering unique advantages for travelers and residents. Whether you prioritize fast internet speeds, wide coverage in rural areas, or affordable data plans, selecting the right provider can make a big difference in staying connected during your trip. In this guide, we’ll compare the top mobile operators in Cambodia to help you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.

I. List of Mobile Operators in Cambodia

Previously, there were approximately nine telecom operators in Cambodia. However, the number has now been reduced to only five. 

1. Metfone

In 2009, Viettel brand invested in Metfone which is a mobile operator in Cambodia. It offers the most extensive network coverage in Cambodia, reaching more than 95% of the country, including remote and rural areas. It’s a great choice for travelers venturing off the beaten path. Metfone’s prepaid SIM cards are competitively priced, starting at $1.50, with flexible plans for calls, texts, and data.

2. Smart Axiata

Smart is a popular choice for its high-speed 4G LTE network and excellent coverage in urban areas and tourist hotspots like Siem Reap and Battambang. The operator focuses on providing data-centric services, including unlimited social media packages, ideal for travelers who need constant connectivity. Prepaid SIM cards from Smart typically range from $1.5 to $30, depending on the data and call options included.

3. Cellcard

Cellcard is one of Cambodia’s leading mobile operators, known for its reliable coverage in major cities and tourist destinations, including Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville. It boasts coverage in over 90% of the country, making it suitable for both urban and rural travelers. Cellcard offers prepaid SIM cards tailored to tourists, with plans starting as low as $2 and options for affordable data packages.

4. Yes

Yes is a specialized network operator that was established in 2014 and focuses on providing the best digital services of high quality in Cambodia. Specifically, Yes has also been referred to as the only telecom company that offers a full 4G / LTE service nationwide. Its internet speed is very high, and its connection is extensive.

5. Cootel

Cootel joined the telecommunications network market in Cambodia back in 2013. This company was allowed by the government of Cambodia to work on the 4G super fast network services hence becoming the first brand that brought the 4G technologies in Cambodia.

II. How to Choose the Best Mobile Operators in Cambodia?

Nevertheless, the process of selecting any reputable Cambodia mobile operator could really pose a challenge. To help you make an informed decision, consider the following evaluation criteria:

• Brand Reputation: Choose a mobile operator, which is well-known in Cambodia and having much practice in the local market. Many of them always need to maintain a superior quality to maintain their reputation.
• Coverage: When traveling in Cambodia ensure you select a reliable mobile operator that will keep you reachable even if travelling through remote areas. Smart and Metfone offer the widest network coverage, especially in urban areas like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Metfone excels in rural connectivity.
• Internet Data Availability: Choose internet-based mobile phone operator since it cannot be guaranteed that there are public WiFi hotspots all over Cambodia. The quality of the online experience depends on good internet speed.
• SIM Card Costs: Issues of affordability are also important for consideration. You may look for friendly SIM cards and fascinating contract services; doing this will save money when in Cambodia.
• Easy of Access: All providers offer Cambodia tourist eSIM, it’s a top choice for travelers who want immediate connectivity.

III. Best Cambodia Mobile Operators – Reviewed from Tourist

In an Open signal report of February 2024, there were differences in service experienced by mobile operator users in Cambodia. When talking about users, each carrier has something to brag with. Here are the key comparisons:

Operator	Coverage	SIM Prices	Plans
Metfone	Extensive coverage nationwide including rural areas. Slightly weaker in cities than Smart	$1-2	“Data Osja” combo plans from $1-6 with varying data and call allowances valid 7-30 days
Smart	Near nationwide coverage. Strongest in major cities and towns	Free regular SIM. Tourist SIM $5 for 30GB and calls	“OsPaNhaHa!” from $1.25 for combo plans. “SurfLikeCrazy” data packs from $0.10. Various 1-30 day eSIM options
Cellcard	Weakest coverage overall but present in all provinces. Gaps in rural areas	Regular SIM $1. Tourist SIM pack $6 for 7 days unlimited data and calls	“Serey+” combo plans $1.50-8. “Time to Rise” $1-6. “iNET” data only $0

So in summary – Smart tends to be rated highest overall in terms of network coverage, speeds and customer service quality. But no single operator always has the best prices across all services, so check options closely matching your usage needs and budget.

VI. Where to Buy SIM Cards/eSIM from Mobile Operators in Cambodia?

While it is easy to purchase a SIM card in Cambodia, how to do so correctly is crucial. There are numerous avenues you can adopt to acquire a SIM card in the nation. Here are some options:

• Purchase from phone stores: Convenience stores, mobile phone shops, and supermarkets in cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap often sell SIM cards from multiple operators. Nevertheless, SIM card prices may be high in those shops and one might end up buying poor quality SIM cards that are not connecting.
• Purchase from mobile operators’ outlets: It is good to purchase a SIM card directly from the service provider. Visit the official outlets of providers like Cellcard, Smart Axiata, or Metfone in cities and towns for authentic SIM cards and assistance with activation.
• Buy SIM cards at Cambodia Airports: Several mobile operators in Cambodia have established airport sales points. Once you reach Cambodia, it is pretty simple to get a SIM card from a trustworthy operator. All that you are required to give is your valid visa, passport, and payment for the SIM card.

In Cambodia, you could also be required to have some identity documents to register SIM cards. Therefore, Cambodia eSIM plans could be an alternative to SIM card. With a wide selection of data packages for various durations, allowing you to choose the perfect plan to suit your trip.

Plans that may interest you!

VIII. FAQs about Mobile Operators in Cambodia

IX. Conclusion

In conclusion, the three major mobile network operators in Cambodia are Metfone, Smart Axiata, and Cellcard. Between them they have widespread coverage across the country, including both urban and rural areas. But for fuss-free connectivity while traveling, consider an eSIM from CambodiaeSIM.com for the most affordable and simple solution.