Viettel vs Vinaphone vs Mobifone: Best 5G in Hanoi & HCMC

Viettel is the largest carrier in Vietnam and the first to deploy 5G commercially. Owned by the military, it operates the most extensive 4G/5G network across the country, including rural areas. Vinaphone, the second-largest provider, is owned by VNPT and offers strong urban coverage – particularly in city centers – though its rural reach is slightly thinner than Viettel’s.

Mobifone is the third major carrier, owned by Mobifone Global. It tends to offer cheaper data plans, but its 5G rollout is less widespread. All three networks have launched 5G in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, making them viable options for travelers. However, actual signal quality varies by district and indoor conditions.

Viettel’s 5G network covers most of central Hanoi, including the key districts of Hoan Kiem, Ba Dinh, and Dong Da, and extends to suburban areas such as Long Bien. This makes it the safest choice for visitors staying in either the Old Quarter or farther out. Vinaphone is also strong in tourist-heavy districts like Hoan Kiem and Tay Ho, but may have gaps in outer districts like Gia Lam or Thanh Tri.

Mobifone’s 5G is mostly limited to dense city centers; outside the core areas users often drop back to 4G. For typical travel needs – HD video calls, streaming, maps – speed differences between the carriers in well-covered zones are not dramatic. Expect good performance from any of the three inside central buildings, though thick concrete walls can reduce signal strength regardless of carrier.

In Ho Chi Minh City, Viettel’s 5G covers District 1, District 3, Tan Binh (near Tan Son Nhat Airport), and Thu Duc City. Vinaphone performs reliably in District 1, District 2, and Phu Nhuan, but is less consistent in Binh Tan and other outlying districts. Mobifone offers 5G in District 1 and around the airport, but broader coverage is not yet widespread.

5G signal is generally stronger outdoors; inside malls, underground areas like Ben Thanh Market, or older buildings, you may find that 4G remains more stable. Travelers who plan to spend most of their time in central districts can rely on any of the three carriers for everyday data use.

We sell eSIMs on all three carriers. Viettel eSIM offers 5GB per day for 7 days at $10. Vinaphane’s closest option is a 10-day plan with 5GB daily for $12. Mobifone provides 7GB per day for 7 days at $8, giving you more daily data for a lower price. For longer stays, 15- and 30-day plans are also available.

Mobifone’s extra data per day is a clear advantage for heavy users, but its network reliability in fringe areas is slightly less than Viettel or Vinaphone. Carrier direct prepaid SIMs can be cheaper if you are willing to buy a physical SIM in Vietnam and go through local registration. eSIMs offer the convenience of instant activation and no physical card.

For the best overall 5G experience in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Viettel eSIM is the recommendation – widest coverage and most consistent speeds across districts. If you are a budget traveler staying mainly in central areas, Mobifone eSIM gives generous daily data at the lowest price.

Vinaphone is a solid middle ground, particularly good for those who prioritize coverage near tourist hotspots and don’t need rural reach. All our eSIMs are native connections on the local carrier network – not resold – so you get the carrier’s full 5G service directly.

Order your eSIM online from our store. The QR code is sent to your email immediately after purchase. Install it before you travel – while you have Wi-Fi – so it activates automatically when you land in Vietnam. You keep your home SIM active for calls and SMS while using the Vietnamese eSIM for data via dual SIM settings.

Your device must be eSIM-compatible and unlocked. Note that iPhones sold in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau do not have eSIM hardware. Ensure your phone supports eSIM, and you’ll be connected to 5G minutes after arrival.