MTS SIM Cards and eSIM: Guide for tourists in Russia

MTS is one of the leading mobile network operators in Russia. As a tourist visiting Russia, getting a MTS SIM card can help you stay connected during your travels.

In this detailed guide, we will cover everything you need to know about buying and using MTS mobile services in Russia.

I. Quick Facts about MTS

• Established: 1993
• Branding name: Mobile TeleSystems
• Services provided: 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE mobile networks; mobile & fixed-line voice services; broadband & TV services
• Number of subscribers (2022): Over 78 million
• Number of stores: Over 15,000 retail outlets
• Customer service: 24/7 support in English & other languages through hotline, online chat, social media
• Awards: Ranked as Leading Telecom Brand in Russia (Brand Finance 2022)

II. Why MTS When You’re Exploring Russia – Coverage and Speed

MTS has the best coverage and fastest speeds in Russia, making it a great choice for tourists who want to stay connected across the country.

MTS Coverage in Russia

MTS has over 2G/3G/4G coverage across all 85 regions of Russia. It covers over 98% of the populated territory in Russia. MTS has roaming agreements with 190+ operators worldwide.

They provides connectivity on all major transport routes like the Trans-Siberian railway. MTS has installed over 53,000 base stations to ensure reliable coverage.

MTS Speed

MTS has the great 4G speed network in Russia with average download speeds of 49.82 Mbps (OoklaSpeedtest in 2022). It was the first operator to launch 5G in Russia in 2019. MTS 5G is now available in over 30 cities.

MTS has deployed advanced LTE-Advanced and MIMO technology for improved speeds. The excellent coverage and fast speeds make MTS a great choice for tourists visiting Russia.

III. MTS Connectivity Options for Travelers to Russia

There are a few different options travelers can use to get MTS connectivity in Russia:

Buying MTS SIM Cards

• MTS SIM cards can be purchased at official brand stores, partner retailers, airport shops, etc.
• Various plan options are available – prepaid, unlimited data, roaming add-ons, etc.
• SIM card costs just RUB 300-500 (approx $5-$8). Plans start from RUB 300 per month.
• Easy self-activation by inserting SIM card into phone.

Using Pocket Wifi

• MTS offers portable WiFi hotspots (Pocket WiFi) for rental.
• Provides connectivity for up to 10 devices like phones, laptops, tablets etc.
• Rental costs approx RUB 600 per day. Suitable for group travelers.

Roaming

• If you have an existing cell plan, enable international roaming to use it in Russia.
• Check roaming rates to avoid bill shocks. MTS has affordable roaming rates.

Connectivity Options

Conclusion: Getting a local MTS SIM card is the most convenient and affordable option for individual tourists visiting Russia. It provides great value without the hassle of renting extra devices.

IV. Best MTS SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost

Some of the best MTS SIM card options for tourists in Russia include:

The MTS Tourist SIM or MTS Traveler are recommended as the top picks as they provide the best balance of allowances versus price for the average traveler visiting Russia for 1-2 weeks. The generous data will ensure you can use maps, Google Translate and stay in touch online.

V. Does MTS Support eSIM in Russia?

Yes, MTS does provide eSIM (embedded SIM) connectivity in Russia.

eSIM allows you to activate a cellular plan digitally without needing to insert a physical plastic SIM card. MTS launched eSIM support on iPhone devices in 2020.

Some key benefits of using eSIM include:

• Easy digital activation, no SIM card required
• Ability to change plans remotely as needed
• Use dual SIM functionality on supported devices
• Better security and convenience while traveling

There are many eSIM providers offering MTS Russia plans for tourist eSIM including Russia eSIM. They provide flexible MTS data packages, English support, and instant eSIM delivery to app. This makes it easy to get connected with MTS eSIM.

Their popular tourist plans with MTS include:

eSIM tips: Check eSIM-compatible device list and make sure that your device is eSIM compatble before purchasing.

VI. Where can You Buy a MTS SIM Card and eSIM?

Where to Buy MTS SIM for Russia?

You can easily purchase a MTS SIM card at the following locations across Russia:

• MTS Brand Stores – Available in most cities, airports, train stations

• Supermarkets – Like Magnit, Lenta, Auchan, etc.
• Upon arrival at airports – Through vending machines or MTS kiosk

Note: Make sure to carry your passport when buying SIM card. Overall best option is to visit a MTS brand store.

Where to Buy MTS eSIM in Russia?

As eSIM is a digital service, you don’t need to physically purchase anything. Just subscribe online:

• Directly from MTS Russia website
• Through third-party eSIM providers like Russia eSIM. Let’s see their best plans:

Tips: Buying eSIM online before your trip is recommended so you have connectivity as soon as you land in Russia.

VII. How to Activate MTS SIM/eSIM in Russia?

Activating and using a MTS SIM card or eSIM in Russia is quick and easy.

How to Use MTS SIM Card in Russia

To activate a MTS SIM card:

1. Insert the SIM card: Locate the SIM card slot on your device, open it and slide in the MTS SIM card.
2. Power on your device: Turn on your phone and allow some time for the device to detect the new SIM card.
3. Activate the SIM card: In most cases, the MTS SIM card will be pre-activated. If not, call 333 from phone and follow prompts to activate.
4. Set up APN settings: Configure the APN settings if you are unable to connect to the internet. APN details are available on MTS site.\n\n5. Check your services: Make a test call and browse internet to verify connectivity. Enjoy using your MTS SIM!

How to Activate MTS eSIM?

Activating a MTS eSIM on your device involves 3 simple steps:

1. Install the eSIM: Download the eSIM activation app provided by your eSIM provider. Scan the QR code to install your MTS eSIM plan.
2. Activate the eSIM: Follow the in-app eSIM activation process. Enter any details required by MTS to activate your plan.
3. Set up the eSIM: Select MTS network on phone and choose the eSIM as data source. Configure dual SIM settings if required.
4. Start using the eSIM: Once activated and set up, you can start using MTS mobile data, calls and SMS in Russia.

For detailed device-specific instructions:

• Activate eSIM on iPhone
• Activate eSIM on Samsung
• Activate eSIM on Google Pixel

Follow the easy steps above to quickly activate and start using MTS SIM card or eSIM during your travel in Russia.

VIII. Russia MTS Call & SMS Rates

Here are the standard MTS call and SMS rates when using a MTS SIM card in Russia:

Call & SMS Rates

Call and SMS rates will vary depending on your selected prepaid, postpaid or unlimited MTS plan. Roaming calls/SMS are charged at higher rates. Confirm exact rates before using MTS SIM.

IX. Useful USSD Codes for MTS SIM/eSIM

USSD codes are useful shortcuts to access SIM card info or services quickly. Some common MTS USSD codes include:

USSD Codes

Dial these codes directly on your phone dial pad to check MTS SIM usage, enable services or access settings when data connectivity is limited. Works on both MTS SIM and eSIM.

X. How to Top-up MTS SIM/eSIM

You can easily top-up your MTS prepaid SIM or eSIM balance using the following options:

• MTS stores – Visit nearest MTS retail store for top-up
• MTS self-care app – Recharge through official MTS app
• MTS official website – Recharge directly using international cards

Ensure you have sufficient balance for calls, texts and mobile data when using MTS SIM card or eSIM in Russia. Choose a convenient top-up method.

XI. FAQs about MTS in Russia

XII. Final Words

Getting a MTS SIM card or eSIM is the best way to stay connected with reliable coverage and high speeds when travelling across Russia. MTS mobile services are convenient to purchase and activate for tourists.

 Consider Russia eSIM from GIGAGO for the best experience. Enjoy!