Best Mobile Operators in Russia – Guide for Tourists

Whether you’re visiting Russia or residing here, read on to find out how to choose the best mobile operators that meets your connectivity needs.

I. List of Mobile Operators in Russia

Main Mobile Operators in Russia

These are the top nationwide operators that hold the lion’s share of the wireless market in Russia:

• MTS – Mobile TeleSystems is the leading mobile operator in Russia with over 80 million subscribers. The company offers 2G, 3G, and 4G LTE services and has the best coverage across the nation.

• MegaFon – The second largest operator with around 76 million users. MegaFon provides high-speed mobile internet and has launched several innovations including eSIM support.

• Beeline – Owned by VimpelCom, Beeline has about 50 million subscribers in Russia. It provides a technologically advanced network and competitive data plans.

• Tele2 – A relatively new entrant that merged operations with Rostelecom. Tele2 has rapidly grown its subscriber base to over 42 million users, providing affordable plans and good coverage.

Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) in Russia

• Yota – Offers high-speed 4G plans on MTS network.
• Sbermobile – Launched by Sberbank on Tele2 infrastructure.
• Tinkoff Mobile – Digital banking service Tinkoff’s mobile virtual operator.
• Penny – Budget prepaid plans using Tele2 coverage.
• Strela – Low-cost operator powered by MegaFon network.

The MVNO segment brings more options for consumers looking for flexibility, cheaper rates and innovative offerings tailored to different needs.

II. How to Choose the Best Mobile Operators in Russia

Selecting the most suitable mobile carrier in Russia depends on several factors:

• Coverage – The network reach in your frequently visited areas. MTS, MegaFon and Beeline have the widest coverage. Check more on Opensignal.com
• Speed – If you need fast mobile internet, operators like Yota, Tele2 and MegaFon offer fast 4G speeds.
• Prices – Service costs, prepaid or contract rates that fit your budget and usage. MVNOs tend to be cheaper.
• Usage – Your calling, texting and data needs. Some plans have bonuses for heavy usage.
• Phones – Operator locks, compatibility with your existing handsets. Unlocked phones offer flexibility.
• Customer service – English language support options suitable for foreigners.
• Roaming – International roaming packages if you travel frequently.

III. Best Mobile Operators in Russia – Detailed Comparison

Let’s take a closer look at the major operators in Russia:

Mobile Operators in Russia

Both MTS and Beeline invest heavily in continued network upgrades and infrastructure expansion. While Megafon also performs well across criteria, Beeline and MTS stand out as having among the fastest networks presently while also maintaining wide availability and competitive pricing structures.

IV. Where to Buy SIM Card from Russia Mobile Operators?

Russia mobile operator SIM cards are easily available for purchase:

• At phone shops – Branded stores and dealers of MTS, Beeline, Megafon, Tele2 located across Russian cities. Staff can assist with SIM activation and plan purchases. Carry your passport for verification.
• Airport kiosks – Upon arrival to Russian airports, look for mobile operator kiosks providing tourist SIM cards with bundled plans. Convenient but may be pricier. Check Getting SIM cards at Russia Airports for more details.
• Online orders – Operators like Tele2 allow online orders of eSIM activation and delivery in Russia. Or you can buy physical SIM card and get it delivered. Provide local address for delivery.
• Vending machines – Some Metro stations and public areas have mobile network vending machines dispensing operator SIMs after payment. Follow instructions.
• Supermarkets – Retail chains like Azbuka Vkusa, Auchan, Lenta stock prepaid SIM packs of Russian carriers which you can buy off the shelf along with top up vouchers.

With multiple purchasing options, getting connected on a Russian mobile network is quick and convenient for tourists and expat residents.

V. Do Mobile Operators in Russia Offer eSIM?

In recent years, MNOs in Russia have started offering eSIM (embedded SIM) activation allowing compatible devices to connect to mobile plans without needing a physical nano-SIM card:

• MegaFon – Launched eSIM support in 2019. Users can scan a QR code using MegaFon app to activate plans on eSIM phones or watches.
• MTS – Introduced eSIM provisioning in 2021. Available on latest iPhone and Samsung models. Activate via My MTS app by scanning code.
• Beeline – Provides eSIM activation on select plans for iPhone and Samsung Galaxy devices. Manage via Moi Beeline app.
• Tele2 – Offers eSIM service enabled via QR code on supported Apple watches, iPhones and other devices.

The eSIM platform allows more flexibility in activating and managing mobile plans as you can switch networks or enable dual-SIM without swapping physical cards. Consider Russia eSIM from GIGAGO, with package start from $5.50 for 1GB. Let’s see it:

VI. FAQs

VII. Conclusion

Russia has a vibrant telecom market with strong competition among leading operators like MTS, MegaFon, Beeline and newcomers like Tele2.

By purchasing Russia eSIM, you can make the optimal selection and stay conveniently connected across this vast nation.