Introduction 

Most of us Filipinos access the internet using our mobile phones, and we spend a lot of time online, too. Statistical data during the latter part of 2024 show that some users spent over 8 hours per day using the internet, equal to a full-time work shift!

No wonder many of us are dependent on our network carriers, as they are the ones that provide us with internet access. And sometimes, that means looking for better mobile plans, prompting us to switch providers and change our Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card.

Are you here because you are considering switching to DITO Telecommunity? Well, it will help to learn first about SIM cards in the Philippines, including their prices, types, and the key factors to consider before purchasing. This way, you can make an informed decision and maximize your new SIM's potential. Read the buyer's guide below to get started.

How Much Does a SIM Card Cost? 

On average, SIM cards in the Philippines cost from ₱50 to ₱100, depending on the network carrier and the SIM's inclusions. Plastic SIM cards are usually more affordable than the newer eSIMs.

Note also that some carriers will provide a new SIM when you are applying for a postpaid plan, with the cost of the SIM generally included in the postpaid deal. In that vein, bundle promos, or postpaid that comes with a handset, are more expensive than SIM-only postpaid options. 

What Are the Types of SIMs Available in the Philippines?

Part of determining the price of SIM cards in the Philippines is identifying the specific SIM card in question. At present, three types of SIMs are widely available in the country: the standard SIM, Nano SIM, and eSIM.

Standard SIM 

Also known as the 'mini SIM,' standard SIMs are the largest of the types still used today, measuring 15 x 25 mm. This type, however, is no longer used in modern mobile phones but in other devices, such as vending machines and ATMs.

Nano SIM 

Nano SIMs are the most common type used for mobile phones today. It's much smaller than standard SIMs, measuring only 12.3 x 8.8 mm. Aside from smartphones, you can use this type of SIM for smartwatches, portable POS systems, and WiFi routers.

eSIM 

The eSIM is the latest version available for use in smartphones. It's also the smallest, measuring only 6 x 5 mm. Despite its convenience, eSIM prices are just as affordable as nano SIMs, at least in the Philippines. The real bar to getting the embedded SIM has to do with your device — not all smartphones have eSIM capacities, so you have to check your gadget's specifications first for an embedded SIM slot.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a SIM Card in the Philippines 

Buying a SIM card involves weighing several factors. Surprisingly, price is not a major consideration because SIM cards in the Philippines are relatively inexpensive, typically priced between ₱50 and ₱100. It is also why you can replace your SIM easily whenever you need to. 

Moreover, you can buy SIM cards from retail stores, malls, or even online shops, making them 100% accessible to the majority of the population. 

That said, the factors that you should consider more have something to do with your device, location, and preferences. Before you buy a particular SIM card, be sure to check the following first:

Device Compatibility 

Not all phones can use all types of SIM cards. Earlier, you learned that the standard or mini SIMs are no longer used in mobile phones, but what about nano SIMs and eSIMs? Today, plenty of phones are compatible with nano SIMs, so buying one is a sound choice. And if you wish to switch to an eSIM, you can always check the specifications of the device — flagship phones from popular brands like Apple and Samsung are also often compatible with eSIM.

Note also that some phones, like the latest iPhones, are only compatible with eSIMs to streamline production and pack more features into the devices. You can opt to use purely eSIM or use a phone that has slots for both physical and embedded SIM cards. It all depends on how you want to use your SIMs and subscriptions.

Network Coverage 

Before you buy a SIM card, ensure that you will use it in areas with network coverage. These will include your home and places you frequent, such as your workplace or school, where you use mobile data. An easy way to check for the network coverage is by visiting your carrier's website, as they usually have a list of coverage locations.

Checking for nearby coverage is especially important if you are using a 5G-ready phone and want to maximize the speed of the network technology. The said frequency is not as widely available in the country as 4G, though, so you need to plan accordingly. Rest assured, network carriers like DITO are continuously expanding their networks so more people can access faster internet speeds sooner.

Inclusions and Promos 

The right product for you is the one that provides plan inclusions and promos that fit your usage habits and requirements. You can choose from prepaid and postpaid, which you can easily do now as you can buy your SIM online and register with your chosen network provider.

If you want to have more control over your mobile data expenses and your usage changes frequently, a prepaid SIM card that allows you to choose from tiered plans is a good choice. With this type of SIM, you can switch from an unlimited data plan to a capped plan anytime, and you can even top up one plan on another to boost your data allocation!

However, if you need more stability and are willing to pay bills regularly, a postpaid SIM card is more convenient. Most plans for postpaid have no data cap, too, making it perfect for extensive mobile internet users. 

Conclusion 

SIM card prices in the Philippines are generally affordable, but you don't want to buy one that doesn't fit your needs. Before you select which SIM is the best for you, check whether your device is compatible with the SIM and whether you are within the network's coverage area. You should also weigh your options based on the inclusions and promos that a telco offers to its subscribers.

If you want to experience reliable and ultra-fast 5G internet, DITO's SIM card is the one to go with. Our 5G-ready SIM and prepaid and postpaid plans provide easy access to this latest internet technology. Check our options today and buy the SIM that's right for you!