Internet and telecommunications options in Thailand: Major ISPs: AIS, True, 3BB, TOT. Fiber optic coverage in urban areas. Mobile network: 4G and emerging 5G. Prepaid and postpaid SIM card options. Internet cafes and coworking spaces available. Affordable mobile data packages. Average internet speed is improving. VoIP services widely used. Free public Wi-Fi in many locations. SIM registration required by law.
Major ISPs: AIS, True, 3BB, TOT.
In Thailand, major ISPs include AIS-3BB Fibre, known for its consistent high-speed fibre-optic connections and broad coverage; True Internet, the largest ISP with widespread networks; 3BB, a leading provider of fixed-line broadband services with reliable speeds; and TOT, a state-owned ISP offering affordable and fast internet, especially in rural areas.
Fiber optic coverage in urban areas.
In Thailand, Fiber Optic (FTTH) coverage is available in limited areas of major cities such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. Providers like 3BB and TOT offer impressive speeds up to 1 Gbit/s. For more detailed insights into the state of internet services in Thailand, you can visit the Internet in Thailand page. This advancement in connectivity is a significant step towards enhancing digital infrastructure in the country.
Mobile network: 4G and emerging 5G.
Thailand's mobile network, dominated by AIS, dtac, and TrueMove H, offers extensive 4G and 5G coverage, with nearly 99% network availability across the country. 5G coverage is particularly strong in major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, with average download speeds of 87.83 Mbps and upload speeds of 19.4 Mbps nationally, and higher speeds in urban areas. For more information on mobile internet options in Thailand, you can visit the Mobile Internet website.
Prepaid and postpaid SIM card options.
In Thailand, prepaid SIM cards from major providers like AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove are widely available and preferred, offering various packages with data and validity periods ranging from 7 to 30 days. For more comprehensive services, postpaid plans require a rental contract, work visa, and passport, or can be signed up for by a Thai spouse or family member, and come with stricter requirements. To learn more about acquiring a SIM card, visit ExpatDen for detailed guidance.
Internet cafes and coworking spaces available.
Internet cafes in Thailand, particularly in Bangkok, have declined in number due to the widespread availability of free or reasonably priced WiFi in hotels, restaurants, and bars. However, they can still be found, especially in tourist areas, with rates varying but generally affordable. Meanwhile, Thailand, especially Bangkok, offers numerous coworking spaces like The Hive, The Great Room, and Common Ground, providing modern amenities, high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and event spaces. These spaces cater to freelancers, entrepreneurs, and startups with flexible membership plans and a supportive community environment. For more information, you can explore the detailed offerings of these Coworking Spaces in Bangkok.
Affordable mobile data packages.
Thailand offers a variety of affordable mobile data packages ideal for tourists, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout your stay. Among the top choices is Airalo's Dtac Happy Tourist Infinite eSIM, which provides either 15GB or unlimited data, catering to different data needs. Another excellent option is Thailandesim, with its tourist data eSIMs offering up to 50GB, perfect for those requiring extensive data usage. Additionally, [Nomad's Thailand prepaid eSIM](https://wp.nyu.edu/esim/reviews/best-esim-thailand-plans-for-tourists-5-affordable-options.html) stands out with up to 50GB available over 30 days, making it a flexible and economical choice. These plans, while data-only and excluding voice services, assure top-notch 4G and 5G connectivity, paired with flexible duration options, facilitating efficient and reliable communication on the go.
Average internet speed is improving.
Thailand has seen significant improvements in internet speeds, with the country ranking third globally in average fixed broadband download speed by December 2020, reaching 166.81 Mbps. This remarkable achievement is driven by high penetration of Wi-Fi and continued investment in Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) and other fixed broadband infrastructure. More details on this competitive infrastructure can be found at the Bangkok Post website, which highlights the ongoing efforts to enhance digital connectivity across the nation.
VoIP services widely used.
In Thailand, VoIP services are widely used due to their cost-effectiveness and advanced features. Providers like Traverse Telecom, FreJun, CallnClear, and 3CX offer various plans with features such as call recording, custom caller ID, voicemail, and high-quality voice calls over the internet, making them popular choices for both residential and business users.
Free public Wi-Fi in many locations.
Free public Wi-Fi in Thailand is now accessible through Google Station, which has been rolled out in 10 areas across Bangkok and two other provinces, including prominent locations like Hua Lamphong Railway Station, Mega Bangna, and Central World Shopping Center. Users can easily connect to the service by turning on their Wi-Fi and selecting the appropriate network. For more detailed information about this service, visit the Google Station page.
SIM registration required by law.
In Thailand, a new regulation by the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) requires mobile phone users with more than five SIM cards to re-register or verify these SIM cards at mobile operators' service centres within 60 days. This measure aims to prevent fraud and scams, with penalties including service suspension for those who fail to comply with the regulation.