Taiwan's market leader analyzed: dominant position, network coverage, pricing structure, and eSIM alternatives
Planning international travel as a Chunghwa Telecom customer or considering CHT for Taiwan connectivity? Understanding Chunghwa Telecom's mobile plans, international roaming costs, and available alternatives can save you hundreds of dollars while ensuring reliable connectivity abroad. This comprehensive guide examines CHT's service offerings, pricing structures, limitations, and compares them with modern international connectivity solutions.
Data in this article is valid until October 2025.
The Taiwan connectivity landscape offers various options beyond traditional carrier services. Here's how Chunghwa Telecom compares to modern alternatives across key factors:
| Feature | CHT Tourist Packages | CHT International Roaming | Standard eSIM Providers | Truely eSIM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| For Taiwan Visitors | NT$300-3,300 ($9-103) | N/A | $4.50-15/day typical | $2.50-5.52/day |
| For International Travel | NT$300-3,300 + roaming fees | $6-45/day varies by destination | $4-10/day multiple eSIMs | $2.50-5.52/day single eSIM |
| Technology | Traditional SIM setup | Roaming service | 1st generation (QR codes) | 2nd generation Switchless™ |
| Coverage | Taiwan only | Limited partners | 50-100 countries typical | 190+ countries |
| Data Policy | Unlimited with throttling | Uses home plan data | Varies by provider | Unlimited with 10GB daily fair use |
| Setup Process | Store visit + passport | Automatic activation | Manual QR per destination | One-click global |
| Multi-Country Use | Taiwan only | Limited roaming partners | Multiple eSIM installs | Single eSIM globally |
| Customer Support | Limited English | Standard support | Email/chat typical | 24/7 live chat |
| Network Quality | 83.8Mbps speeds, 332Mbps 5G | Partner dependent | Single network | 700+ networks |
For travelers seeking alternatives to CHT's limitations: Modern international eSIM providers like Truely offer more flexible, cost-effective solutions. Get Taiwan eSIM from Truely →
Chunghwa Telecom operates as Taiwan's largest telecommunications company with over 12 million mobile subscribers, commanding approximately 35% market share. Founded in 1996 following privatization of Taiwan's state telecommunications monopoly, CHT has evolved into Taiwan's premium network provider, consistently earning top ratings for coverage and speed performance from independent testing organizations like OpenSignal.
The carrier dominates Taiwan's telecommunications landscape through superior infrastructure investment and technological leadership. Recent OpenSignal reports awarded CHT the top prize for overall network coverage with a score of 9.3 out of 10, significantly ahead of competitors Taiwan Mobile and Far EasTone. Their 5G network achieved blazing speeds of over 332Mbps, more than 100Mbps faster than any competitor, while 4G performance averaged 83.8Mbps across all technologies.
| Plan Category | Duration | Cost (NT$/USD) | High-Speed Data | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Day Tourist Pass | 3 days | NT$300-500 ($9-16) | Unlimited | NT$50-100 voice credit |
| 5-Day Tourist Pass | 5 days | NT$300-600 ($9-19) | Unlimited | NT$50-100 voice credit |
| 7-Day Tourist Pass | 7 days | NT$500-800 ($16-25) | Unlimited | NT$100-150 voice credit |
| 10-Day Tourist Pass | 10 days | NT$500-1,000 ($16-31) | Unlimited | NT$100-200 voice credit |
| 15-Day Tourist Pass | 15 days | NT$700-1,200 ($22-37) | Unlimited | NT$100-200 voice credit |
| 30-Day Tourist Pass | 30 days | NT$1,000-1,600 ($31-50) | Unlimited | NT$200-430 voice credit |
| 60-Day Tourist Pass | 60 days | NT$2,600 ($81) | Unlimited | NT$300 voice credit |
| 90-Day Tourist Pass | 90 days | NT$3,300 ($103) | Unlimited | NT$500 voice credit |
CHT's advantages stem from their technological superiority and comprehensive infrastructure coverage. With industry-leading 5G rollout achieving 6.4 coverage score compared to runner-up Far EasTone, CHT provides the most advanced mobile experience in Taiwan. Their network spans all populated areas with particular strength in rural and mountainous regions where competitors struggle. The extensive retail presence includes over 1,000 CHT stores, airport counters at all major terminals, and partnerships with convenience store chains for widespread SIM availability.
However, significant limitations affect international visitors despite CHT's technical excellence. Tourist package pricing imposes substantial premiums over regular prepaid plans, essentially charging visitors for convenience and English-language support. Airport locations add another 20-30% surcharge compared to city stores, making spontaneous purchases expensive for families. Language barriers persist throughout the experience, with English support limited to tourist-focused locations and premium service channels. Complex registration requirements mandate passport verification and local contact information, consuming valuable vacation time.
Beyond tourist packages, CHT offers standard prepaid options that provide significantly better value for visitors who can navigate the Chinese-language registration and management process. These plans access identical premium network infrastructure while avoiding tourist surcharges built into specialized packages.
| Plan Type | Cost (NT$/USD) | Data Allowance | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Ideal Card | NT$300 ($9) | No data included | 30 days |
| Ideal Card Plus | NT$500 ($16) | 2.2GB | 30 days |
| 5G Starter Pack | NT$999 ($31) | 60GB high-speed | 30 days |
| Monthly Unlimited | NT$699-899 ($22-28) | Unlimited | 30 days |
These regular prepaid plans deliver substantially better value but require more effort to access and manage. The 5G unlimited plans at NT$999 ($31) provide the same network access as tourist packages costing NT$1,600-3,300 ($50-103), representing savings of 35-70%. However, registration demands Chinese language skills or helpful staff willing to assist tourists with non-tourist packages. Top-up procedures involve USSD codes (*100#) and Chinese-language apps designed for local users. Most challenging, SIM validity expires after specified periods regardless of remaining credit, making these unsuitable for visitors planning multiple Taiwan trips.
Setting up CHT services involves multiple steps that vary significantly depending on purchase location and package selection. Understanding the complete process helps visitors make informed decisions about whether CHT's approach suits their needs compared to modern alternatives.
| Step | Action | Details | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Choose Purchase Location | Airport (premium) or city store (standard) | Research pricing differences |
| 2 | Bring Required Documents | Passport mandatory for registration | Physical passport required |
| 3 | Select Appropriate Package | Tourist vs regular prepaid options | Understand real differences |
| 4 | Complete Registration Process | Staff photographs documents | Taiwan law requirement |
| 5 | Payment Processing | Cash preferred, cards accepted | Airport locations vary |
| 6 | Physical SIM Installation | Staff configures device | Unlocked phone required |
| 7 | Network Testing | Verify connectivity and speeds | Test before leaving store |
| 8 | App Installation | Download CHT app | Limited English interface |
The setup process typically requires 30-45 minutes at most locations, though airport queues during peak arrival times can extend wait significantly. Staff at tourist-focused locations speak basic English and understand visitor needs, while city stores may require more patience and gesturing. The mandatory passport registration adds complexity since staff must photograph documents and enter details into CHT systems before any activation can proceed.
Different purchase locations offer varying experiences that significantly impact total cost and convenience. Airport counters provide English-speaking staff and tourist-specific packages but charge substantial premiums. City stores offer standard pricing but may have limited tourist assistance. Convenience stores sell SIM cards but cannot activate tourist packages or provide technical support.
| Location | Price Premium | Wait Time | English Support | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taoyuan Airport | +20-30% | 15-40 minutes | Good | 24/7 |
| Kaohsiung Airport | +15-25% | 10-25 minutes | Fair | 6am-midnight |
| CHT City Stores | Standard | 15-25 minutes | Variable | 10am-8pm |
| Convenience Stores | Standard | 5-10 minutes | Poor | 24/7 (no activation) |
Understanding how CHT's setup complexity compares to alternatives helps visitors determine whether traditional carrier approaches provide value or if modern eSIM solutions offer superior experiences.
| Step | CHT Tourist SIM | CHT Roaming | Standard eSIM Process | Truely Process |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Visit physical store | Contact customer service | Visit provider website | Visit Truely website |
| 2 | Passport registration | Enable roaming service | Select Taiwan plan | Select any destination |
| 3 | Choose from tourist packages | Limited international partners | Purchase Taiwan-specific eSIM | Purchase global eSIM |
| 4 | Wait for manual activation | Pay expensive daily rates | Install QR code for Taiwan | One-click installation |
| 5 | Physical SIM installation | Configure roaming settings | Manual network configuration | Automatic global activation |
| 6 | Learn CHT app interface | Monitor usage carefully | Repeat for each country | Single eSIM works everywhere |
| 7 | Navigate Chinese-language features | Handle coverage limitations | Manual network switching | Automatic optimization |
Device compatibility determines whether you can access CHT's advanced network features effectively. Most modern unlocked smartphones work with Taiwan networks, though some regional variations may not support CHT's full 5G spectrum deployment.
| Device Type | Compatible Models | Verification Method | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone | iPhone 6 and newer | Settings > General > About | Best 5G compatibility |
| Samsung | Galaxy S6 and newer | Settings > Connections > SIM manager | Excellent CHT compatibility |
| Google Pixel | Pixel 2 and newer | Settings > Network & Internet | Good 5G band support |
| Other Android | Most devices since 2015 | Settings > Network & Internet | Check 5G band support |
| Requirements | All devices | Must be unlocked from carrier | CHT frequency compatibility |
CHT operates on multiple frequency bands optimized for different coverage and speed requirements. Their 5G network uses bands n1 (2100MHz), n3 (1800MHz), n28 (700MHz), and n78 (3500MHz), providing comprehensive coverage with 95% population reach. The 4G LTE network operates on bands 1, 3, 8, and 28, ensuring broad device compatibility even with older smartphones. Legacy 3G services ended in June 2024, meaning all connectivity requires 4G/5G compatible devices.
CHT implements a systematic premium pricing strategy that exploits visitor convenience needs through multiple surcharge layers. Tourist packages cost 100-200% more than equivalent regular prepaid plans for identical network access, essentially charging visitors for English-language support and simplified setup. Airport locations add another 20-30% premium over city stores, meaning families can waste significant money on convenience without realizing alternatives exist.
This pricing discrimination becomes more expensive when compared to international alternatives. Standard eSIM providers offer Taiwan connectivity at $4.50-15 per day with comparable or better data allowances. Truely's revolutionary approach provides superior service at $2.50-5.52 per day with genuine unlimited data and global coverage, making CHT tourist packages appear overpriced for the value delivered.
Unlike modern eSIM solutions requiring simple online purchases, CHT mandates in-person registration with passport verification and local contact information. This process assumes visitors have time to visit stores during business hours while navigating language barriers with staff whose English skills vary significantly by location. The mandatory documentation creates privacy concerns for visitors preferring not to provide personal information to foreign carriers.
Most international eSIM providers offer email support in multiple languages with response times measured in hours. Truely provides 24/7 live chat support in multiple languages, ensuring immediate assistance regardless of time zone or language barriers, eliminating the friction that plagues CHT's traditional approach.
CHT tourist packages work exclusively within Taiwan's borders, creating complications for multi-country travelers throughout Asia. Visitors exploring Hong Kong, Japan, or South Korea must purchase new SIM cards or activate expensive roaming services for each destination. CHT's international roaming covers 50+ countries but at premium daily rates of $6-45 that quickly exceed local SIM or eSIM costs.
Standard eSIM providers typically cover 50-100 countries but require new eSIM installations for each destination, creating management overhead. Truely's revolutionary single-eSIM approach covers 190+ countries with automatic switching, eliminating the need for multiple purchases or complex management across Asia-Pacific travel.
CHT's tourist packages include modest hotspot allowances that don't match the generous unlimited data marketing. Plans include specific tethering limits (3GB for 3-day plans, up to 60GB for 90-day plans) before throttling occurs, creating complications for business travelers or families needing to share connectivity. When limits are reached, additional data purchases become necessary at premium rates.
Most international eSIM providers offer more transparent hotspot policies with clearly stated allowances. Truely eliminates this friction entirely with genuine unlimited hotspot sharing included in all plans, providing consistent connectivity for multiple devices throughout the journey without hidden restrictions or overage concerns.
Understanding actual costs across different travel scenarios reveals why alternatives often provide better value than CHT's seemingly comprehensive packages:
| Travel Scenario | CHT Cost | Standard eSIM Cost | Truely Cost | Truely Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Day Taipei Business Trip | NT$300-500 ($9-16) | $13.50-45 (3 days) | $7.50-16.56 | Pay only for days used |
| 1-Week Taiwan Exploration | NT$500-800 ($16-25) | $31.50-105 (7 days) | $17.50-38.64 | Unlimited data confidence |
| 2-Week Taiwan Adventure | NT$1,000-1,200 ($31-37) | $63-210 (14 days) | $35-77 | No tethering restrictions |
| 1-Month Digital Nomad | NT$1,600 ($50) | $135-450 (30 days) | $77-166 | Professional reliability |
| Weekend Kaohsiung Visit | NT$300-500 ($9-16) wasted | $9-30 (2 days) | $5-11 | Perfect for short trips |
| Multi-Country Asia Tour | New SIM each country | Multiple eSIMs required | $77-166 (30 days) | Single eSIM solution |
The evolution from traditional SIM cards to modern eSIM technology has transformed international connectivity, but not all eSIM providers offer the same level of innovation. While CHT requires store visits and physical SIM installation, and most eSIM providers use first-generation technology requiring new installations for each destination, Truely has developed revolutionary Switchless™ technology that fundamentally changes the user experience. Learn what an eSIM is to understand how this technology enables seamless global connectivity through a single installation that works across 190+ countries.
CHT tourist packages provide unlimited data with hidden throttling policies and tethering restrictions that create anxiety about consumption and potential overage costs. Their premium network speeds make data usage unpredictable, with high-quality 5G applications consuming more data than expected. When tethering limits are reached, connectivity sharing stops entirely unless users purchase expensive add-on packages.
Truely takes a fundamentally different approach with genuine unlimited data that includes 10GB of high-speed usage daily before reducing to a still-functional 512kbps. This generous policy accommodates even heavy users throughout the day while providing confidence that connectivity will never stop completely, regardless of usage patterns or device sharing needs.
CHT's Taiwan-only coverage creates significant limitations for travelers exploring multiple Asian countries. Each border crossing requires new SIM purchases, registration processes, and learning new carrier systems. CHT's international roaming provides coverage but at expensive daily rates that quickly exceed local alternatives.
Truely's 190+ country coverage with automatic network switching eliminates these complications entirely. The same eSIM that provides premium connectivity in Taipei automatically connects to the strongest available networks in Tokyo, Seoul, Hong Kong, or any other destination without additional purchases or configuration.
CHT's limited English support creates ongoing challenges throughout your stay, from initial setup through troubleshooting and top-up procedures. The CHT app assumes Chinese language proficiency with critical features unavailable in English. Customer service operates primarily in Chinese with English support limited to specific hours and tourist service centers.
Truely provides 24/7 live chat support in multiple languages with specialized eSIM expertise. Their support team understands international travel connectivity challenges and can resolve technical issues quickly without language barriers or time zone limitations.
Traditional carriers like CHT force travelers into rigid plans that waste money on unused days between trips. CHT tourist packages expire at the end of their validity period regardless of actual usage, meaning frequent Taiwan visitors must purchase new SIMs for each visit.
Truely's unique Pause & Resume functionality lets you stop service between trips and reactivate instantly when you need connectivity again. This flexibility proves especially valuable for business travelers with irregular Taiwan schedules or tourists planning multiple Asian destinations with gaps between visits.
Problems with CHT services often stem from language barriers, registration complications, or network congestion in tourist areas. Understanding common issues and their solutions helps resolve problems quickly:
| Problem | Cause | Solution | Additional Steps |
|---|---|---|---|
| "No Service" | Incomplete registration or SIM fault | Return to CHT store with passport | Bring original purchase receipt |
| "Slow Speeds" | Network congestion in tourist areas | Change location or restart device | 5G coverage varies by area |
| "Tethering Stopped" | Reached hotspot limit | Purchase add-on package | CHT app or store visit |
| "CHT App Error" | Chinese language interface confusion | Use USSD codes instead | *100# for balance check |
| "Can't Top Up" | International card rejection | Visit CHT store with cash | Bring passport for verification |
| "Registration Required" | Initial setup incomplete | Complete at CHT store | Passport and local contact needed |
| "Poor Mountain Coverage" | Remote area limitations | Use WiFi or change location | CHT has best rural coverage |
| "Package Expired" | Reached validity period | Purchase new tourist package | Credit doesn't transfer |
Successfully using CHT services requires understanding system requirements and planning accordingly. These practices help minimize frustration and maximize value from their premium network:
| Category | Best Practice | Why It Matters | Implementation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Purchase | Research store locations and prices | Avoid airport premiums | Compare city vs airport costs |
| Documentation | Bring original passport | Required for registration | Copies not always accepted |
| Package Selection | Understand actual data needs | Fixed validity periods | Choose appropriate duration |
| Payment | Prepare cash as backup | Not all locations accept cards | Especially convenience stores |
| Testing | Verify 5G connectivity before leaving | Returns difficult after departure | Check speeds and coverage |
| App Setup | Download CHT app immediately | Required for account management | Prepare for Chinese interface |
| Backup Planning | Identify English-speaking locations | Language barriers common | Major airports and tourist areas |
| Usage Monitoring | Track tethering allowances | Hidden restrictions apply | Use built-in data counters |
Since CHT offers limited international roaming primarily for Taiwan residents, visitors planning multi-country trips need alternative strategies:
| Travel Phase | Best Practice | Benefit | Implementation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Travel | Compare total trip costs | CHT Taiwan-only limitation | Factor in multiple countries |
| In Taiwan | Maximize 5G network usage | Best speeds in Taiwan | Use for heavy downloads |
| Data Usage | Take advantage of premium speeds | Superior network performance | Stream/download during stay |
| Multi-Country | Plan connectivity transitions | New SIM each border | Research each destination |
| Support | Use English-speaking channels | Limited availability | Airport counters and tourist centers |
| Cost Control | Monitor package validity | Fixed expiration dates | Track usage through CHT app |
CHT provides Taiwan's most comprehensive network with superior performance in both urban and rural areas, but this advantage disappears when traveling to other Asian countries. Their network leadership becomes irrelevant when you need new SIMs for each destination with potentially inferior local networks.
Truely's multi-network approach provides access to CHT's premium infrastructure within Taiwan while automatically switching to the best available networks in other countries. This ensures consistent high-quality connectivity throughout multi-country journeys without the complexity of managing multiple carrier relationships.
CHT's tourist package pricing varies by location and season, with airport counters charging significant premiums and limited pricing transparency. The actual cost often includes mandatory registration time and potential language barrier complications that add hidden complexity costs.
Truely maintains consistent pricing worldwide with the same $2.50-5.52 daily rate regardless of purchase location or destination. No hidden fees, no location-based premiums, and no registration requirements mean the price displayed is exactly what you pay throughout your journey.
CHT's support system prioritizes Chinese speakers with limited English assistance available primarily during business hours at tourist-focused locations. Troubleshooting technical issues or purchasing additional services often requires finding staff who speak English or navigating Chinese-language interfaces.
Truely's 24/7 live chat support eliminates language barriers entirely with multilingual agents who specialize in international travel connectivity. Their team understands common travel scenarios and can resolve issues immediately without requiring store visits or language translation.
CHT's Taiwan-only coverage requires purchasing new SIMs or activating expensive roaming services for each additional country. This creates multiple carrier relationships to manage, different apps to learn, and varying service quality across destinations.
Truely's single-eSIM solution eliminates this complexity by providing consistent service across 190+ countries with automatic network optimization. Whether you're in Taipei, Tokyo, or Bangkok, the same eSIM provides optimized connectivity without any additional setup or management.
Understanding which service works best for different travel patterns helps you make the right decision:
| Use Case | CHT Suitability | Standard eSIM Suitability | Truely Suitability | Best Choice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taipei Business Trip (2-3 days) | Fair (minimum packages) | Good (daily rates available) | Excellent (exact days only) | Truely |
| Taiwan Island Exploration | Good (premium network) | Depends on provider | Excellent (multi-network access) | Truely |
| Digital Nomad Month | Fair (with registration complexity) | Good alternative | Best (unlimited daily) | Truely |
| Asia Multi-Country Tour | Poor (Taiwan only) | Multiple eSIMs required | Single eSIM solution | Truely |
| Speed-Critical Applications | Excellent (fastest 5G) | Variable network quality | Automatic optimization | CHT or Truely |
| Budget-Conscious Travel | Poor (tourist package premiums) | Better value options | Best overall value | Truely |
| Frequent Taiwan Visits | Poor (new SIM each time) | New eSIM each time | Pause/Resume functionality | Truely |
CHT offers Taiwan's best network quality with industry-leading speeds and coverage but charges premium prices for tourist packages starting at NT$300-500 ($9-16) for just 3 days. Their network superiority comes with 100-200% markup over regular prepaid plans plus registration complexity.
Visit CHT stores at airports (expensive) or city locations (standard pricing). You'll need your physical passport for mandatory registration. Tourist packages are available immediately, while regular prepaid requires Chinese language navigation and local contact information.
CHT provides fastest 5G speeds (332Mbps vs competitors' lower speeds) and best overall coverage (9.3/10 rating). However, all carriers charge similar tourist package premiums and face identical limitations for international travelers seeking multi-country coverage.
CHT claims superior coverage including remote mountains and offshore islands, consistently rating highest for rural connectivity. Performance varies by specific location, but CHT generally provides the most comprehensive Taiwan coverage available.
CHT offers international roaming to 50+ countries at $6-45/day, but coverage is limited to their partner networks. For frequent international travel, alternatives like Truely eSIM provide better coverage and value across 190+ countries.
Airport locations charge 20-30% premiums for convenience and English-speaking staff. The same package costs more at Taoyuan than at Taipei city stores due to location-based pricing and tourist-focused marketing.
CHT provides the fastest network speeds in Taiwan but at premium tourist pricing with registration complexity. For genuine unlimited data and global coverage, Truely eSIM at $2.50-5.52/day offers superior value with access to multiple networks including CHT when available.
Chunghwa Telecom's services provide Taiwan's most advanced mobile network infrastructure with superior speeds and comprehensive coverage, making them technically excellent for domestic connectivity. However, they fall significantly short for international visitors due to premium tourist pricing, Taiwan-only coverage, registration complexity, and language barriers that create ongoing frustration.
CHT's key advantages include network technology leadership:
CHT's significant limitations create visitor challenges:
How eSIM providers compare reveals significant differences in approach. Standard eSIM providers offer daily rates of $4.50-15 with varying data limits and single-network access per country. Truely provides superior value with the lowest rates of $2.50-5.52 per day and revolutionary single-eSIM global coverage. Most providers use first-generation technology requiring QR codes and manual setup for each destination. Only Truely offers second-generation Switchless™ technology with automatic global activation and optimization.
Why Truely leads the market becomes clear through multiple advantages. Most competitive pricing with flexible day-by-day billing. Revolutionary technology that eliminates traditional setup and management complexity. Broadest coverage with 190+ countries and 700+ network partnerships worldwide. Best customer support with 24/7 multilingual assistance. Genuine unlimited data with generous 10GB daily high-speed allowance. Unique Pause & Resume functionality for flexible eSIM management between trips.
The clear choice for visitors seeking reliable, cost-effective, and truly unlimited connectivity: While CHT provides excellent technical performance within Taiwan, Truely's second-generation Switchless™ eSIM technology offers unmatched value and convenience for international travelers.
For additional comparisons, explore our guides on Taiwan Mobile alternatives, Far EasTone options, and prepaid SIM vs eSIM solutions.
Experience network excellence without limitations: Get Taiwan's best connectivity with global freedom through Truely's revolutionary eSIM technology.
For comprehensive Taiwan travel connectivity information, explore these detailed guides:
This guide is regularly updated to reflect the latest developments in Taiwan connectivity options and carrier policies.