Top Mobile Operators in Thailand

Current telecommunications in Thailand started in 1875 with the organization of the main message administration. By and large, the advancement of media transmission networks in Thailand was in the public area’s possession. Government associations were laid out to give transmit, phone, radio, and TV administrations, and other government organizations, particularly the military, actually control a huge bequest of radio and TV spectra. Confidential telecom administrators at first gained concession concurrences with state ventures. For cell phone benefits, every one of the concessions have been corrected by progressive government to most recent 25 years have steadily finished in 2015. The concession agreements change for different administrations, going from one to fifteen years. Essentially the concessions are all form work move (BTO) contracts. The confidential financial backer needs to assemble every one of the expected offices and move them to the state before they can work or offer administrations to public.

Here are top 3 mobile operators in Thailand;

AIS – Advanced Info Service

DTAC – Total Access Communication Public Company Limited

Truemove H

In this article, we will dive into the central participants in the Thai media transmission market and assess them in light of significant measures, for example, network inclusion and quality, speed and dependability of the web, cost of administrations and plans, client assistance and backing, and accessibility of most recent gadgets and plans. Whether you are an occupant or a guest to Thailand, we plan to furnish you with the data to settle on the best portable administrator.

A. Top Best Mobile Operators in Thailand

Below is the list of Thailand’s top best mobile operators that you can refer to when traveling to Thailand.

I. AIS

AIS (Advanced Info Service Public Company Limited) is Thailand’s leading telecommunications network operator. Established in 1991, AIS is one of Thailand’s largest mobile network operators, providing its customers with a wide range of communication services, including voice and data services, mobile broadband, and other value-added services.

The company’s strong customer base in Thailand is known for its high-quality network coverage and customer service.

1. AIS network coverage and quality

AIS has close to perfect coverage throughout Thailand. AIS operates 2G, 3G, and 4G networks nationwide, providing voice and data services to its customers. AIS’s network coverage is extensive, covering both urban and rural areas of Thailand, and its 4G network provides fast and reliable internet services to its customers.

The company’s network is also equipped with cutting-edge technology, such as LTE-Advanced, which enhances network performance and provides faster data speeds.

Here is the AIS network coverage in Thailand:

2. AIS internet and frequencies

AIS uses the following frequencies:

• 2G: 900 MHz
• 3G: 850 MHz, 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
• 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 900 MHz (Band 8), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1), 2500 MHz (Band 41) & 2600 MHz (Band 38)
• 5G NR: 700 MHz (n28), 900 MHz (n8), 1800 MHz (n3), 2100 MHz (n1), 2500 MHz (n41) & 26 GHz (n258)
• VoLTE: Yes (+VoNR – Voice over 5G NR)
• VoWiFi: Yes

3. Cost of AIS services for tourists

An AIS SIM card costs between 50 THB and 1490 THB from resellers such as grocery stores, petrol stations, and convenience stores. The majority of them come with introductory benefits or plans. Additionally, AIS SIM cards are available at several airports, including Chiang Mai International Airport and Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) (CNX).

The AIS Thailand Tourist SIM card is also available to tourists and short-term visitors. The four AIS Thailand Tourist SIM cards listed below are readily available:

II. DTAC (Total Access Communication)

DTAC (Total Access Communication) is one of the major mobile network operators in Thailand, providing its customers 2G, 3G, and 4G network services.

1. DTAC network coverage and quality

DTAC’s network coverage is extensive, covering most of Thailand’s urban and rural areas. The company has invested heavily in its network infrastructure to provide its customers with high-speed and reliable network services. DTAC also offers a 4G LTE-Advanced network, which enhances network performance and provides faster data speeds than traditional 4G networks.

Below is Dtac Thailand’s coverage map produced by Speedtest:

2. DTAC internet and frequencies

Dtac uses the following frequencies:

• 2G: 1800 MHz
• 3G: 850 MHz, 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
• 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 2300 MHz (Band 40)
• 5G NR: 700 MHz (n28), 850 MHz (n5), 900 MHz (n8), 1800 MHz (n3), 2100 MHz (n1), 2300 MHz (n40) & 26 GHz (n258)
• VoLTE: Yes
• VoWiFi: Yes

3. Cost of DTAC services for tourists

In addition to its mobile network services, DTAC offers a range of mobile plans and services, including voice, SMS, and data packages, as well as value-added services such as music and video streaming. The company also has a strong online presence, with a user-friendly website and mobile app, which allow customers to manage their accounts, pay bills, and access other services online.

Between 29 THB and 2999 THB, you may get a Dtac Thailand SIM card from resellers, including grocery shops, petrol stations, and convenience stores. The majority of them come with introductory benefits or plans. Dtac SIM cards are available at several airports, including Chiang Mai International Airport and Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) (CNX).

The four Dtac Happy Tourist SIM cards listed below are available:

The price of a Dtac eSIM is equivalent to that of a regular SIM card. Thai mobile service providers require your identification (passport) and biometrics for eSIMs and traditional SIM cards (fingerprints and a facial scan, which frequently apply to foreigners).

Thus if you want an eSIM without having your personal information gathered, Thailand (Dtac) eSIMs from ThailandeSIM are a suitable choice.

III. TrueMove H

TrueMove H is a subsidiary of True Corporation, a large telecommunications conglomerate in Thailand that also operates a fixed-line telephone and broadband network and other digital services.

1. TrueMove H network coverage and quality

TrueMove H is known for providing high-speed and reliable mobile internet services, particularly through its 4G LTE-Advanced network.

2. TrueMove H internet and frequencies

TrueMove H uses the following frequencies:

• 2G: 900 MHz
• 3G: 850 MHz & 2100 MHz
• 4G/LTE: 900 MHz (Band 8), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 2500 MHz (Band 41)
• 5G NR: 700 MHz (n28), 850 MHz (n5), 900 MHz (n8), 1800 MHz (n3), 2100 MHz (n1), 2500 MHz (n41) & 26 GHz (n258)
• VoLTE: Yes
• VoWiFi: Yes

3. Cost of services and plans

TrueMove H has several different mobile plans and packages that cater to different types of customers, ranging from prepaid plans to postpaid plans with unlimited data and international roaming options.

In TrueMove H outlets and via resellers, such as grocery stores, petrol stations, and convenience stores, you may purchase a TrueMove H SIM card for between 45 THB and 1499 THB, the majority of them with beginning bonuses or plans.

Moreover, TrueMove H SIM cards are available at several airports, including Chiang Mai International Airport and Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) (CNX).

The following TrueMove H Thailand Tourist (Infinite) SIM cards are available:

A TrueMove H eSIM may be purchased for the same cost as a standard SIM card.

With eSIMs and physical SIM cards, Thai mobile providers demand your identification (passport) and biometrics (fingerprints and a facial scan, which frequently apply to foreigners).

Hence, if you want an eSIM without having your personal information collected, choose an eSIM For Thailand from DTAC Operator

IV. National Telecom (NT)

Here is some necessary information about National Telecom (NT) that you should know:

• Native name: บริษัท โทรคมนาคมแห่งชาติ จำกัด (มหาชน)
• Founded: 7 January 2021
• Type: Public State-owned
• Industry: Telecommunications
• Predecessor: CAT Telecom & TOT Public Company Limited
• Headquarters: Bangkok, Thailand
• Area served: Thailand
• Products: Mobile telephony, Wireless broadband services, International gateways, Satellite, Submarine cable networks
• Owner: Ministry of Digital Economy and Society

V. Feels

Here is some information that you should know about Feels Telecom.

1. Feels Network Coverage and Frequencies

Feel Telecom Corporation Co., Ltd. is an MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) mobile phone service user on a wide network with more than 75,000 antennas covering the country of the MNO (Mobile Network Operator) service provider.

• Feels provides 3G services on LTE-FDD 2100MHz frequencies and 4G services on LTE-TDD 2300MHz frequencies to support the needs of service users across the country.
• Feels provides 4G services on the 2300MHz frequency with 4G LTE-TDD technology on a bandwidth as wide as 60 MHz (2310 – 2370 MHz).

2. Feels Services

Feels offers various valid plans (1-30 days), free GB and call minutes, and prices (29 baht – 499 baht).

Besides, Feels offers custom packages based on the demand of the users. You can go to the Feels website to customize your own data package. After customization, the price will be shown for purchase.

VI. Red One

RedOne is one of the outstanding names of MVNO in Thailand.

1. About Red One

Red One Network is a leading telecommunication company from Malaysia. It was established in 2012 and is known as a low-cost mobile network operator under the Red One brand, which has been well-received by users in Malaysia and Singapore. Guaranteed by several users of over 2 million numbers and many awards for the best mobile network in ASEAN

And with the vision of being the first mobile network MVNO system covering ASEAN, Red One is now ready to provide service to Thai users. With a mobile phone package at a comfortable price #easy to understand, with the National Telecommunication Public Company Limited as an ally in taking care of a strong signal network covering the country.

2. Red One Service

RedOne offers many data packages for various types of users. You can refer to the packages below:

VII. Penguin SIM

Service from Penguin… You can choose to use:

Turns off-on internet:

• Dial *500#  turn off the net
• Dial *501#  open the net

Check balance and remaining usage period: Dial *502#. Then wait for an SMS informing the balance and usage period.

Check the balance of additional promotions: Dial *502*1# and wait for the SMS

Check current promotions: Dial *503# and wait for the SMS

Check your number: Dial *504# and wait for an SMS informing your number

International calling service: Penguin provides international long-distance calls. with clear quality signal

• Call: Press 009 country code, city code, phone number.
• SMS: Press + country code, city code, phone number > send message.

B. How Many Mobile Operators in Thailand?

There are currently four major mobile operators in Thailand: AIS, DTAC, TrueMove, and TOT. These operators offer various mobile services, including voice calls, text messaging, data, and internet access.

Each of these operators has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and it is up to the individual to determine which one best meets their needs based on factors such as network coverage, cost, and customer service.

I. Main Mobile Operators in Thailand

The four key players in the Thai telecommunication market are:

1. AIS (Advanced Info Service)

AIS is the largest mobile operator in Thailand, with over 40 million subscribers. It offers various services, including 2G, 3G, and 4G networks and mobile internet and data services. In 2021, with a market share of around 40%, AIS will be the largest mobile operator in Thailand, with over 40 million subscribers.

2. DTAC (Total Access Communication)

DTAC is Thailand’s second-largest mobile operator, with a market share of around 33% and over 33 million subscribers (2021). It provides voice and data services, as well as international roaming services.

3. TrueMove

TrueMove is Thailand’s third-largest mobile operator, with over 20 million subscribers. TrueMove has a market share of around 20%. It provides various mobile services, including 2G, 3G, and 4G networks, internet services, and international roaming.

4. TOT (Telephone Organization of Thailand)

TOT is a state-owned telecommunication company that provides mobile services to consumers and businesses. TOT has a much smaller market share than the other operators but still serves a significant portion of the Thai telecommunication market with a several million-muser base.

II. Top Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNO)

Besides the mobile operators, many MVNOs operate under the mobile network operators’ infrastructures. Some outstanding names can be listed below:

1.National Telecom (NT)

National Telecom (NT) is a Thailand-based mobile virtual network operator (MVNO). As an MVNO, NT does not own its physical infrastructure or spectrum. Instead, it leases network capacity from other telecom operators in Thailand, such as AIS, TrueMove H, and Dtac to provide mobile services to its customers.

NT primarily provides prepaid SIM cards, mobile data plans, and international calling services to Thailand’s domestic and international customers. The company offers a range of mobile plans at competitive prices, targeting budget-conscious consumers and foreign travelers looking for affordable mobile services in Thailand.

Overall, NT has established itself as a reliable and affordable mobile service provider in Thailand, leveraging the network infrastructure of its partner operators to deliver quality services to its customers.

2. Feels Telecom Corporation Company Limited – Feels

Feels is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) based in Thailand that offers customers affordable and flexible mobile services. Established in 2020, Feels operates on the networks of one of Thailand’s leading mobile operators, allowing it to provide reliable coverage and high-quality services to its subscribers.

With a strong focus on customer satisfaction, Feels aims to provide a hassle-free and user-friendly experience to its customers, making it easy for them to manage their mobile services and stay connected with their loved ones.

Feels offers a range of mobile plans tailored to different needs and budgets, including voice, data, and messaging services and value-added services such as international roaming, mobile banking, and more. Whether you are a heavy data user, a frequent traveler, or simply looking for an affordable mobile plan, Feels has covered you.

3. Red One Network – Red One

Red One, a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) in Thailand, offers mobile services through the TOT 3G and 4G networks. The company was launched in 2019 and is owned by Samart Group, a well-known telecommunications company in Thailand.

Red One provides affordable mobile services to customers in Thailand, including prepaid SIM cards, postpaid plans, and data packages. They offer a range of mobile plans with varying amounts of data, voice, and text, catering to different customer needs. The company also offers international calling services and roaming packages for travelers.

Red One’s mission is to provide high-quality and affordable mobile services to customers in Thailand. They aim to achieve this by leveraging the latest technology and innovation in the telecommunications industry. They also prioritize customer satisfaction by offering 24/7 customer service and support through their website and mobile app.

4. The Whitespace Company Ltd – Penguin SIM

Penguin SIM is a Thailand mobile virtual network operator (MVNO). The company offers prepaid SIM card services for both voice and data to customers in Thailand, focusing on providing affordable and convenient options.

One of the unique features of Penguin SIM is its commitment to eco-friendliness. The company offers SIM cards made from recycled materials and donates some of its profits to environmental organizations. Additionally, Penguin SIM allows customers to manage their accounts online, reducing the need for paper statements and bills.

Penguin SIM also offers a variety of plans and packages to suit different customer needs, including both short-term and long-term options. Customers can purchase SIM cards and top-up credit online or at various retail locations throughout Thailand.

Overall, Penguin SIM aims to provide reliable, affordable, and environmentally conscious mobile services to customers in Thailand.

5. Loxley Public Company Limited – I-KOOL 3G

Loxley Public Company Limited is a leading conglomerate in Thailand that operates in various industries, including telecommunications. Loxley launched the I-KOOL 3G mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) service in 2011, offering voice and data services to customers in Thailand.

I-KOOL 3G aims to provide customers with high-quality and affordable mobile services. The company offers various plans and packages, including prepaid and postpaid options and data-only plans for tablets and other devices.

Overall, I-KOOL 3G aims to provide reliable, affordable, and innovative mobile services to Thailand’s customers while offering value-added features and benefits.

How to Choose the Best Mobile Operators in Thailand?

When evaluating the best mobile operator in Thailand, there are several key criteria to consider, including:

• Network coverage and quality: One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a mobile operator is the quality and coverage of its network. The best mobile operator should have strong coverage in areas where you need it most, including urban and rural areas.
• Speed and reliability of the internet: In today’s digital world, fast and reliable internet access is crucial. The best mobile operator should provide fast and reliable internet services with minimal downtime or disruptions.
• Cost of services and plans: Mobile services and plans are another important factor when choosing a mobile operator. The best operator should provide affordable and transparent pricing, with various plans to suit different needs and budgets.
• Customer service and support: Good customer service and support are essential when choosing a mobile operator. The best operator should provide responsive and knowledgeable online and offline support.
• Availability of latest devices and plans: The best mobile operator should offer the latest devices and plans, including smartphones, tablets, and data plans, to stay ahead of the competition.

By evaluating these criteria, you can determine which mobile operator best fits your needs and requirements, whether you are a resident or a visitor to Thailand.