Best SIM Cards for Internet in India in 2024. India a vast and diverse nation boasts a thriving telecom industry with over one billion mobile subscribers. With some of the world’s lowest mobile data rates selecting the ideal SIM card for internet access in India can be a daunting task. Various factors such as network coverage speed, plans, and customer service must be considered.
In this article, we will delve into a comparison of the four main service providers in India Reliance Jio, Airtel, Vodafone Idea and BSNL. Additionally, we will provide valuable insights into obtaining a free SIM card in India and the necessary documentation for the purchase. By the end of this post, you will have a crystal-clear understanding of which SIM card aligns best with your internet needs in India.
Read Also: Best Offer Airtel SMS Packs 2023
Read Also: How to Check Airtel Balance in 4 Easy Steps
Best SIM Cards for Internet in India 2024
Here are Best SIM Cards for Internet in India in detail.
Reliance Jio:
Reliance Jio the newest and fastest-growing mobile network operator in India took the market by storm when it launched in 2016. Jio disrupted the Indian telecom landscape by offering free voice calls and affordable 4G data plans. With over 400 million subscribers Jio claims to possess the largest 4G network in the country. Key features of Reliance Jio include:
Free SIM Card
You can acquire a complimentary Jio SIM card from any Jio store or authorized retailer. However, a minimum recharge of INR 199 (approximately USD 2.70) is required to activate the SIM.
High-speed 4G Internet
Jio provides unlimited 4G data plans starting at INR 199 for 28 days. This includes up to 1.5 GB of high-speed data daily after which the speed is reduced to 64 kbps. Additional data packs are also available for those requiring more data.
Free Voice Calls and SMS
All Jio plans encompass unlimited free voice calls and SMS to any network in India along with free video calls using the Jio app.
OTT Subscriptions
Jio plans offer complimentary access to various OTT platforms, including Jio TV Jio Cinema, Jio Music, Jio News, and more. Recharging with INR 399 or above provides a one-year free trial of Amazon Prime Video.
Wide Coverage
Jio’s pan-India 4G network provides coverage to almost every corner of the country, although remote areas may experience signal quality and speed challenges.
Airtel:
Airtel, India’s oldest and largest mobile network operator boasts a subscriber base of over 300 million. Known for its reliable network coverage, fast internet speed, and competitive plans, Airtel stands as a leader in the market. Notable features of Airtel include:
Free SIM Card
You can obtain a free Airtel SIM card from any Airtel store or authorized retailer, but it necessitates a minimum INR 249 (approximately USD 3.40) recharge to activate.
High-speed 4G Internet
Airtel offers unlimited 4G data plans starting at INR 249 for 28 days offering up to 1.5 GB of high-speed data daily. Additional data packs are available for those with higher data requirements.
Free Voice Calls and SMS
All Airtel plans include unlimited free voice calls and SMS to any network in India.
OTT Subscriptions
Airtel plans come with complimentary access to various OTT platforms, including Airtel Xstream, Wynk Music, Amazon Prime Video (for one month), Disney+ Hotstar VIP (for one year) and more.
Wide Coverage
Airtel’s pan-India 4G network extends across most parts of the country though rural areas may encounter signal quality and speed issues.
Vodafone Idea:
Vodafone Idea a product of the merger between Vodafone India and Idea Cellular in 2018, ranks as the second-largest mobile network operator in India with over 270 million subscribers. Vodafone Idea offers affordable plans, decent internet speed, and commendable customer service. Key features of Vodafone Idea include:
Free SIM Card
You can acquire a complimentary Vodafone Idea SIM card from any Vodafone Idea store or authorized retailer. However, it requires a minimum INR 249 (approximately USD 3.40) recharge to activate.
High-speed 4G Internet
Vodafone Idea offers unlimited 4G data plans starting at INR 249 for 28 days, providing up to 1.5 GB of high-speed data daily. Additional data packs can be availed as needed.
Free Voice Calls and SMS
All Vodafone Idea plans to encompass unlimited free voice calls and SMS to any network in India.
OTT Subscriptions
Vodafone Idea plans include complimentary access to various OTT platforms, such as Vi Movies and TV, Zee5, and more.
Wide Coverage
Vodafone Idea’s pan-India 4G network covers most regions of the country, with some exceptions in areas where signal quality and speed may not be optimal.
BSNL: The State-Owned Champion
BSNL, the state-owned mobile network operator in India serves over 110 million subscribers. Renowned for its cost-effective plans, wide coverage, and rural outreach, BSNL also offers various value-added services, including online gaming and music streaming. Key features of BSNL are:
Affordable SIM Card
You can procure a BSNL SIM card for as low as INR 50 (approximately USD 0.70) from any BSNL store or authorized retailer. However, a minimum INR 74 (approximately USD 1) recharge is required to activate it.
High-speed 4G Internet
BSNL offers unlimited 4G data plans starting at INR 74 for 28 days, with up to 2 GB of high-speed data daily. Additional data packs are available for those with higher data consumption.
Free Voice Calls and SMS
All BSNL plans include unlimited free voice calls and SMS to any network in India.
OTT Subscriptions
BSNL plans come with complimentary access to various OTT platforms such as Eros Now, Hungama Music, and more.
Wide Coverage
BSNL’s pan-India 4G network spans nearly every corner of the country with only certain urban areas experiencing signal quality and speed challenges.
How to get Best SIM Cards for Internet in India
Acquiring a SIM card in India involves certain rules and regulations. Here are some steps to facilitate the process:
Choose Your Service Provider
Select from the four main service providers in India: Jio, Airtel, Vodafone Idea, or BSNL. Consider your internet requirements and budget when making your choice. Comparing their plans and consulting with locals or fellow travelers can also aid your decision-making.
Find a Store or Retailer
Once you’ve decided on your service provider, locate a store or authorized retailer that offers their SIM cards. Ensure that you visit an official store or authorized retailer to avoid potential scams involving counterfeit or used SIM cards.
Prepare Your Documents
To purchase a SIM card in India, you must provide several documents for verification and registration including:
- A passport-sized photo
- A photocopy of your passport
- A photocopy of your Indian visa
- Proof of address in India, such as a hotel booking confirmation or a letter from your host
- You may also need to complete an application form with your personal details and sign it.
How to Activate Your SIM Card
After obtaining your SIM card activate it by recharging it with a minimum amount of money. This can be done online using your credit or debit card or offline with cash or vouchers. You’ll also need to verify your identity by dialing a toll-free number and entering a code sent to your SIM card via SMS. Your SIM card will be activated within a few hours or days depending on your chosen service provider.
Conclusion
India a captivating destination for travelers and tourists can present connectivity challenges without the right SIM card for internet access. In this article, we have compared the four primary service providers in India: Jio, Airtel, Vodafone Idea, and BSNL. We’ve also provided insights into obtaining a SIM card in India.
We hope this post has guided you toward selecting the Best SIM Cards for Internet in India. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them.