Reliable Mobile Networks & Cheap Data Plans in Cambodia: Your 2025 Guide
Cambodia, a rapidly modernizing Southeast Asian nation, has undergone significant digital transformation in recent years. With improved infrastructure and growing competition among telecom providers, mobile connectivity is more accessible and affordable than ever before.
For tourists, staying connected for maps, bookings, and social media is essential. For expats and locals, reliable mobile networks and cheap data plans are key to daily life be it working remotely, attending virtual classes, or streaming content.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the best mobile networks in Cambodia and choose affordable data plans that suit your needs in 2025.
Overview of Cambodia’s Mobile Network Landscape
Cambodia’s telecom journey began modestly but has matured considerably since the early 2000s. Today, the country boasts impressive 4G/LTE coverage and is actively investing in 5G infrastructure, especially in major cities.
Key Mobile Network Operators in Cambodia (2025)
| Mobile Network Operator | Estimated Market Share | Notable Services |
|---|---|---|
| Metfone | ~45% | Strong rural coverage |
| Smart Axiata | ~30% | Fastest urban 4G & 5G |
| Cellcard (CamGSM) | ~20% | Balanced coverage, 5G rollout |
| Seatel Cambodia | ~5% | Budget-friendly, niche focus |
Most Cambodians now rely on mobile networks for internet access, with over 95% mobile broadband penetration according to GSMA. The competition among operators drives down prices and improves quality great news for users.
Top Mobile Networks in Cambodia (2025)
Metfone
- Overview: Backed by Vietnam’s Viettel Group, Metfone is Cambodia’s most widely used telecom provider.
- Strengths:
- Best rural coverage, reaching deep into provinces like Ratanakiri and Mondulkiri.
- Competitive prepaid and postpaid data packages.
- Weaknesses:
- Urban speeds may not match those of competitors like Smart Axiata.
Smart Axiata
- Overview: A joint venture between Cambodia and Malaysia’s Axiata Group, Smart dominates the urban mobile experience.
- Strengths:
- Fastest 4G LTE and early 5G availability in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville.
- Popular among tourists for short-term SIMs and promotions.
- Weaknesses:
- Weaker rural signal, especially in mountainous regions.
Cellcard (CamGSM)
- Overview: One of the oldest networks in Cambodia, proudly Cambodian-owned.
- Strengths:
- Offers a balanced experience good speeds and wide coverage.
- Active 5G deployment and strong customer service.
- Weaknesses:
- Slightly higher cost for premium data packages.
Seatel Cambodia
- Overview: A newer, data-driven player focused on low-cost mobile internet.
- Strengths:
- Ultra-cheap data plans ideal for streaming and heavy usage.
- Free access to apps like YouTube and TikTok on select plans.
- Weaknesses:
- Limited coverage and inconsistent speed outside urban hubs.
Comparison of Data Plan Prices and Features (2025)
| Network | Data (GB) | Validity | Price (USD) | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metfone | 20 GB | 30 days | $5.50 | Bonus 10GB night data, free on-net calls |
| Smart | 25 GB | 30 days | $6.00 | Free access to Facebook, Instagram, 5G-ready SIM |
| Cellcard | 30 GB | 30 days | $7.00 | 5G included, priority support, stable coverage |
| Seatel | 50 GB | 30 days | $4.50 | Free YouTube/TikTok, unlimited music streaming |
Best Plan Based on User Needs
| User Type | Recommended Network | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Light User | Metfone | Affordable weekly plans and strong rural reach |
| Moderate User | Smart Axiata | Fast speeds and urban reliability |
| Heavy User | Seatel | Best GB-to-dollar ratio, ideal for video consumption |
| Balanced User | Cellcard | Reliable mix of speed, support, and growing 5G access |
Tips for Choosing the Right Mobile Network and Data Plan
- Location Matters
- In cities? Go with Smart or Cellcard.
- In the provinces? Metfone offers better signal strength.
- Consider Your Usage Habits
- Frequent video streaming? Look for free media data from Seatel or Smart.
- Occasional browsing and messaging? Basic 10GB–20GB plans from Metfone will suffice.
- Think Long-Term or Short-Term
- Tourist SIMs: Available at airports, with 7–30 day validity.
- Expat Needs: Monthly postpaid or larger prepaid packages.
- Check for 5G
- If you own a 5G-compatible device, Smart and Cellcard are leading the rollout.
How to Purchase and Activate a SIM Card in Cambodia
Buying a Cambodia SIM card is easy and inexpensive.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Where to Buy | Airports (e.g., Phnom Penh Intl), shopping malls, mini-marts, kiosks |
| Cost | $1–$2 for SIM only; data plans purchased separately |
| Documents | Passport (tourists) or Cambodian ID (residents) |
| Activation | Usually done at point of purchase; may require SMS confirmation |
Pro Tip: Register your SIM properly to avoid deactivation. Registration is mandatory under Cambodian telecom laws.
eSIM Availability in Cambodia (2025)
eSIM adoption is gaining traction, especially for tech-savvy travelers and digital nomads.
| Provider | eSIM Support | Setup Method |
|---|---|---|
| Smart | Yes | SmartNas app or in-store QR code scan |
| Cellcard | Yes | Cellcard app, website, or retail outlet |
| Metfone | Partial | Pilot in Phnom Penh stores only |
| Seatel | No | Physical SIMs only |
Benefits of eSIM in Cambodia
- No need to swap physical SIMs
- Convenient for dual-SIM phones
- Easier for frequent travelers or digital nomads
Refer to GSMA eSIM guidelines for device compatibility and standards.
Tips for Saving Money on Mobile Data
- Use Free Wi-Fi
- Found in cafés, hotels, shopping malls, and co-working spaces.
- Track Your Usage
- Most carriers offer usage dashboards via their apps.
- Disable Background Data
- Limit app syncing and automatic updates to save MBs.
- Take Advantage of Night Data
- Providers like Metfone and Cellcard offer bonus nighttime data (10 PM–7 AM).
Conclusion
Cambodia’s mobile ecosystem in 2025 is vibrant, competitive, and increasingly digital-forward. Whether you’re a short-term visitor or a long-term resident, you can find reliable mobile networks and cheap data plans tailored to your needs.
Final Recommendations:
| Best For | Provider |
|---|---|
| Rural Coverage | Metfone |
| Urban Speed | Smart Axiata |
| Balanced Experience | Cellcard |
| Budget Users | Seatel |
| eSIM Support | Smart/Cellcard |
As the country continues its digital evolution, users can expect even better speeds, wider 5G coverage, and more competitive pricing. Choose wisely, stay connected, and enjoy everything Cambodia has to offer.
