VinaPhone vs Viettel eSIM Vietnam (2025) – Coverage, Speed & Price Comparison
When traveling in Vietnam, choosing between VinaPhone and Viettel often comes down to where you plan to go and what you need your eSIM for. Both are leading mobile networks with strong performance, but their strengths differ. This 2025 comparison breaks down coverage, 5G speed, OTP support, and updated prices to help you decide which eSIM fits your trip best.
🏢 Market Overview
Vietnam’s mobile landscape is dominated by three national carriers — Viettel, VinaPhone, and MobiFone. Each targets slightly different traveler needs:
- Viettel – ~50% market share. Government-owned, best for nationwide coverage, and strongest in rural provinces.
- VinaPhone – ~20% market share. Operated by VNPT, popular among urban users and tourists in coastal or resort areas.
- MobiFone – ~15% market share. Competitive mid-range plans, strong within major cities.
Both Viettel and VinaPhone support eSIM technology for tourists, but their experience and add-ons differ depending on location and data needs.
📶 Coverage: Where Each Network Performs Best
- Viettel: The broadest national footprint, including reliable signal in Ha Giang, Sapa, Central Highlands, Dak Nong, and Ba Vi. Excellent for off-grid road trips and mountain regions.
- VinaPhone: Outstanding coverage in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc. Designed for city-based travelers and coastal itineraries. In remote zones, coverage may drop slightly compared to Viettel.
Opensignal’s 2024 Report: Viettel ranked #1 in rural availability; VinaPhone led in 4G/5G video experience across Vietnam’s main tourist areas.
⚡ Network Speed (2025 Tests)
- Viettel: 5G download speeds average 80–100 Mbps in major cities, and 30–50 Mbps in rural or mountainous regions.
- VinaPhone: 5G speeds average 70–90 Mbps in cities, 40–60 Mbps in beach destinations, and 15–25 Mbps in remote areas.
For everyday travelers, both are more than sufficient for video calls, navigation, and streaming. Viettel’s consistency gives it the edge in remote northern and central provinces.
💵 Price Comparison (GoVnSIM 2025)
| Carrier | Plan | Validity | Price (USD) | Phone Number / OTP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MobiFone | 3GB/day | 10 days | $6.90 | Yes |
| VinaPhone | 5GB/day | 30 days | $18.90 | Yes |
| Viettel | 5GB/day | 15 days | $14.50 | No (data-only) |
| Viettel | 5GB/day | 30 days | $18.90 | No (data-only) |
Prices updated for 2025. All eSIMs include hotspot sharing. Only VinaPhone and MobiFone offer OTP-compatible numbers.
📈 Pros & Cons Overview
| Carrier | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| VinaPhone | Strong city coverage; 5G in tourist zones; includes phone number for OTP apps | Weaker in mountain and border areas compared to Viettel |
| Viettel | Best national coverage; reliable rural signal; leading 5G rollout | Data-only (no OTP); slightly higher city prices |
🧳 Traveler Insights (2025)
- Hanoi & HCMC visitors: Most choose VinaPhone or MobiFone for local-number convenience. Great for booking Grab, receiving OTPs, and food delivery apps.
- Ha Giang trekkers: Majority use Viettel for 4G/5G coverage along remote roads and small towns.
- Digital nomads: Many carry two eSIMs — VinaPhone for OTP and calls, Viettel as a backup for rural coverage.
🙋♀️ FAQ – VinaPhone vs Viettel
Which is better in big cities?
VinaPhone — solid 5G coverage, bundled phone number, and competitive rates for short and long stays.
Which is better for rural or mountain trips?
Viettel — the only network that maintains stable coverage in Ha Giang, Lao Cai, and the Central Highlands.
Does Viettel include a phone number?
No, Viettel tourist eSIMs are data-only. Travelers who need OTPs can use VinaPhone or MobiFone instead.
Can I use Grab with a Viettel eSIM?
Not directly, unless you already have another number for OTP. VinaPhone eSIMs work more smoothly for Grab and local apps.
📣 Plan Your Connectivity
Compare detailed coverage, speed, and pricing in the Viettel eSIM 2025 Complete Traveler Guide, or check current VinaPhone eSIM plans for OTP-ready options.
For extended travel or mountainous routes, the Viettel eSIM for Tourists remains the top choice for consistent signal and reliable high-speed coverage across Vietnam.
Support: WhatsApp +84 98 307 49 15 · LINE: anyaxiaoying · Email: info@govnsim.com
Part of Heera Travel Group – Explore more Vietnam tours at HeeraTravel.com.