If you’re planning to visit Canada, you may be wondering how to stay connected without breaking the bank. Canada is notorious for its sky-high mobile data rates, which can make it challenging to find a cheap and reliable SIM card.
However, there are some options available that can help you save money and enjoy fast and convenient internet access on your phone. In this blog post, I’ll compare the cheapest SIM cards in Canada from five different providers, and highlight their pros, cons, features, pricing, and everything else you’ll want to know.
What is a SIM Card?
A SIM card is a small chip that you insert into your phone to access a mobile network. It allows you to make calls, send texts, and use mobile data. A SIM card may also store your phone number and some personal information.
There are different types of SIM cards, including standard SIM cards, micro SIMs, nano SIMs, and e-SIMs. The type of SIM card you need depends on your phone model and the provider you choose. You can check your phone's specifications or contact your provider to find out what type of SIM card you need.
Why Do You Need a SIM Card in Canada?
A SIM card is essential if you want to use your phone in Canada. It gives you access to the local mobile network, which can offer better coverage, speed, and reliability than public Wi-Fi. It also allows you to avoid expensive roaming charges from your home provider.
With a SIM card in Canada, you can:
- Stay in touch with your friends and family
- Use online services such as maps, navigation, transportation, and entertainment
- Access emergency services if needed
How Much Does a SIM Card Cost in Canada?
The cost of a SIM card in Canada varies depending on the provider and the plan you choose. Generally, you can expect to pay between $10 – $20 for the SIM card itself, plus the cost of the plan.
The cheapest plans usually start from around $29 for 1.5 GB of data, but they may have some limitations such as throttled speeds or restricted coverage. The more expensive plans can offer more data, faster speeds, unlimited calls and texts, and nationwide coverage.
You can buy a SIM card in Canada from various places, including:
- Mobile provider stores or kiosks
- Online through the provider's website or app
- Airports or train stations
- Convenience stores or gas stations
- Supermarkets or department stores
Most providers may require you to register your SIM card with your personal information and a valid ID, though some may allow you to activate your SIM card online or over the phone.
What are the Best SIM Cards in Canada?
There are many SIM cards available in Canada from different providers, but not all of them are equally good. Some factors that you should consider when choosing a SIM card are:
- Coverage: Where you can use your phone without losing signal or paying extra fees
- Speed: How fast you can download or upload data on your phone
- Data: The amount of data that you can use on your phone for browsing, streaming, or downloading
- Calls and texts: The number of minutes or messages you can use on your phone for communication
- Price: How much you have to pay for the SIM card and the plan
Based on these factors, I’ve selected some of the best SIM cards in Canada that offer good value for money and decent performance.
1. Public Mobile
Public Mobile is one of the cheapest SIM cards in Canada that offers nationwide coverage on the Telus network. It has a variety of plans you can customize according to your needs and budget.
Some of the benefits of Public Mobile are:
- No contracts or credit checks
- No hidden fees or overage charges
- AutoPay discounts and loyalty rewards
- Refer-a-friend bonuses and community perks
Some of the drawbacks of Public Mobile are:
- Throttled speeds at 3 Mbps
- No international roaming
- No call center support
The cheapest plan from Public Mobile costs $25/month and includes:
- 1 GB of data at 3G speed
- Unlimited province-wide calls
- Unlimited international texts
You can add more data, faster speed, nationwide calls, or international calls for an extra fee.
You can buy a Public Mobile SIM card for $10 from the Public Mobile website or participating retailers like Walmart and London Drugs.
2. Lucky Mobile
Lucky Mobile is another cheap Canadian SIM card provider that offers nationwide coverage on the Bell network. Some of the benefits of using Lucky Mobile include:
- No contracts or credit checks
- No hidden fees or overage charges
- AutoPay discounts and free bonus data
- Free voicemail and call display
Some of the drawbacks of Lucky Mobile include:
- Throttled speeds at 3 Mbps
- No international roaming
- Limited customer service hours
The cheapest plan from Lucky Mobile costs $25/month and includes:
- 1 GB of data at 3G speed
- Unlimited Canada-wide calls
- Unlimited international texts
You can buy a Lucky Mobile SIM card for $20 from Lucky Mobile’s website or retailers like Dollarama and Shoppers Drug Mart.
3. Freedom Mobile
Freedom Mobile is a cheap SIM card in Canada that offers unlimited data on its own network, which covers major cities and towns in Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. It also offers nationwide coverage on the Rogers network, but with limited data.
Some of the benefits of Freedom Mobile are:
- Unlimited data plans
- No contracts or credit checks
- No hidden fees or overage charges
- AutoPay discounts and free bonus data
- Free voicemail and call display
Some of the drawbacks of Freedom Mobile are:
- Limited network coverage
- Reduced speeds after reaching data limit
- Extra fees for international roaming
The cheapest plan from Freedom Mobile costs $15/month and includes:
- 250 MB of data at full speed
- Unlimited Canada-wide calls
- Unlimited global texts
You can add more data, faster speed, or international calls for an extra fee.
You can buy a Freedom Mobile SIM card for $10 from their website or their stores and kiosks.
4. Chatr Mobile
Chatr Mobile is another cheap SIM card in Canada that offers unlimited data on the Rogers network, which covers most of the country. Some of the benefits of working with Chatr Mobile include:
- No contracts or credit checks
- No hidden fees or overage charges
- AutoPay discounts and free bonus data
- Free voicemail and call display
Some of the drawbacks of Chatr Mobile are:
- Throttled speeds at 3 Mbps
- No international roaming
- Limited customer service hours
The cheapest plan from Chatr Mobile costs $25/month and includes:
- 1 GB of data at 3G speed
- Unlimited Canada-wide calls
- Unlimited international texts
You can buy a Chatr Mobile SIM card for $10 from their website or their stores and kiosks.
5. Fido
Fido is the last cheap Canadian SIM card on our list, and it offers high-speed data on the Rogers network. Some of the benefits of using a cheap Fido SIM card are:
- No contracts or credit checks
- No hidden fees or overage charges
- AutoPay discounts and free bonus data
- Free voicemail and call display
Some of the drawbacks of Fido are:
- Limited network coverage in rural areas
- Extra fees for international roaming
- Limited customer service hours
The cheapest plan from Fido costs $35/month and includes:
- 2 GB of data at full speed
- Unlimited Canada-wide calls
- Unlimited international texts
You can buy a Fido SIM card for $10 from the Fido website or Fido stores and kiosks.
| Carrier | Network | Monthly Price | Drawbacks |
| Public Mobile | Telus | $25 | Throttled speeds at 3 Mbps, no international roaming, no call center support |
| Lucky Mobile | Bell | $25 | Throttled speeds at 3 Mbps, no international roaming, limited customer service hours |
| Freedom Mobile | Rogers | $15 | Limited network coverage, reduced speeds after reaching data limit, extra fees for international roaming |
| Chatr Mobile | Rogers | $25 | Throttled speeds at 3 Mbps, no international roaming, limited customer service hours |
| Fido | Rogers | $35 | Limited network coverage in rural areas, extra fees for international roaming, limited customer service hours |
FAQs About Cheap SIM Cards In Canada
Here are some of the most common questions people have about buying and using cheap SIM cards in Canada:
Can I use my phone in Canada?
You can use your phone in Canada if it’s unlocked and compatible with the local network. Most phones sold in Canada use GSM technology and operate on the following frequencies:
- 2G: 850 MHz and 1900 MHz
- 3G: 850 MHz and 1900 MHz
- 4G: 700 MHz, 850 MHz, 1700 MHz, 1900 MHz, and 2600 MHz
What is the cheapest SIM card in Canada?
The cheapest SIM card in Canada may vary depending on your specific needs and location. However, providers such as Public Mobile, Chatr Mobile, Lucky Mobile, and Fizz offer affordable options with varying data allowances, talk/text limits, and additional features.
Can I use a SIM card from another country in Canada?
In most cases, you cannot use a SIM card from another country in Canada. Canadian SIM cards operate on different networks and frequencies, so it is recommended to purchase a local SIM card when in Canada.
Are there any hidden costs associated with cheap SIM cards?
While cheap SIM cards often offer competitive pricing, it's important to review the terms and conditions carefully. Some providers may have additional charges for activation fees, SIM card purchases, or extra services. Be sure to read the fine print to understand all potential costs.
Can I keep my phone number when switching to a cheap SIM card?
Yes, most providers allow you to transfer your existing phone number when switching to their service. This process is called number porting or number transfer. Contact your chosen provider for specific instructions and to ensure a smooth transition.
Do cheap SIM cards offer good network coverage in Canada?
The network coverage of cheap SIM cards can vary depending on the provider. It's advisable to check the coverage map on the provider's website or inquire with their customer support to ensure that the areas you frequent have adequate network coverage.
Can I use a cheap SIM card for international calling?
While some cheap SIM cards may offer international text messaging, international calling options can be limited. If you require international calling, it's recommended to review the specific international calling rates and add-ons offered by the provider before making a decision.
Can I bring my own device (BYOD) with a cheap SIM card?
Yes, all of the providers listed above allow you to bring your own device (BYOD) when activating a SIM card. Just ensure that your device is compatible with the provider's network and supports the required frequencies.
Can I upgrade my plan with a cheap SIM card?
Yes, most providers offer options to upgrade your plan based on your changing needs. You can usually upgrade to a higher data allowance, more talk/text limits, or additional features by contacting the provider or managing your account online.
