What is the best network in Vientiane and Savannakhet?

Choosing the best mobile network in Vientiane and Savannakhet depends on your specific needs and travel plans. Based on our extensive testing throughout both cities, Unitel consistently offers the strongest overall performance with excellent coverage and fast data speeds. However, Lao Telecom provides better voice call quality in certain parts of Savannakhet, making it a solid alternative if calls are your priority. For budget travelers, TPlus offers cheaper packages but with somewhat reduced coverage outside city centers.

I. Overview of Mobile Networks in Laos

Laos offers four main mobile networks with varying performance levels:

Unitel leads with excellent nationwide coverage and fast, stable 4G speeds (70+ Mbps in cities). It offers limited 5G in Vientiane but at mid-to-high prices. Ideal for remote workers, video calls, and travelers exploring beyond major cities.

Lao Telecom provides good coverage with reliable 4G performance at moderate prices. Their limited 5G service works in some urban areas. A solid choice for general use and voice calls.

TPlus (formerly Beeline) offers moderate coverage with average 4G speeds at budget-friendly prices. No 5G service yet. Best for budget travelers and short-term visitors staying mainly in cities.

ETL has limited coverage focused on urban areas with below-average 4G speeds. Prices are low, but the network is suitable only for basic data needs and city-center usage.

All providers offer prepaid SIM cards easily purchased at airports, carrier shops, and convenience stores.

II. Best Mobile Network in Vientiane and Savannakhet

When visiting Laos’s major cities, choosing the right mobile network can significantly impact your connectivity experience. Based on recent performance tests and user feedback, here’s what you need to know:

Unitel stands out as the top performer in both Vientiane and Savannakhet, offering:

• Consistently fast 4G speeds (averaging 75 Mbps in Vientiane and 60 Mbps in Savannakhet)
• The most reliable coverage throughout both cities, including suburbs
• Limited 5G access in central Vientiane districts (Nam Phu, Sikhottabong, and around ITECC)

In Vientiane, your options include:

• Unitel: Best for remote workers, video calls, and streaming without interruptions
• Lao Telecom: Solid alternative with good performance in the city center (65+ Mbps) but slightly less reliable in outer districts
• TPlus and ETL: Adequate for basic needs but not recommended for data-intensive activities

In Savannakhet, the differences are more pronounced:

• Unitel: Clearly superior with consistent coverage across the entire city and into surrounding areas
• Lao Telecom: Performs well within city limits but coverage drops quickly outside town
• TPlus and ETL: Significantly less reliable with spotty coverage and slower speeds

For travelers visiting both cities, we recommend Unitel as your primary SIM card, with Lao Telecom as a backup option if needed. This combination ensures you’ll stay connected regardless of your location or activity.

IV. Where to Buy SIM Cards in Vientiane and Savannakhet

Finding a reliable mobile connection in Laos is straightforward with several purchasing options available in both Vientiane and Savannakhet.

Official Carrier Stores provide the most reliable experience and are ideal for first-time visitors:

• Unitel, Lao Telecom, and TPlus operate branded shops in both cities
• Staff will help with registration (passport required), activation, and plan selection
• Look for these stores in Vientiane Center, Talat Sao Mall, and along Lane Xang Avenue in Vientiane, or near the central market in Savannakhet

Airport locations offer immediate connectivity when you land, though at premium prices:

• Wattay International Airport (Vientiane) has counters for all major carriers
• Savannakhet Airport provides more limited options (usually just Unitel and Lao Telecom)
• Expect to pay 20-30% more than at city locations

Convenience stores like Mini Big C and M-Point Mart sell pre-packaged SIM cards at lower prices, but you’ll need to handle registration yourself through the carrier’s app or website. These stores are abundant in both cities and offer a quick solution if you’re comfortable with self-setup.

Avoid purchasing from unofficial street vendors or small roadside shops, as these SIMs may face activation problems or might not be properly registered – a legal requirement in Laos. The registration process typically takes just 5-10 minutes, so always carry your passport when purchasing a SIM card.

V. eSIM – Alternatives for SIM Cards in Vientiane and Savannakhet

eSIMs offer a convenient alternative to physical SIM cards when visiting Vientiane and Savannakhet. Setup is instant and happens before you arrive in Laos – no need to find a store or swap cards. You can keep your home SIM installed for important calls while using data from your Laos eSIM plan.

Most Laos eSIMs are data-only plans, perfect for navigation apps, social media, email, messaging, and video calls. You’ll need a compatible device (most phones made after 2020). These solutions work best for short-term visitors and digital nomads who primarily need internet connectivity rather than local phone numbers.

The main advantages include instant activation, no physical card to lose or damage, and the ability to set everything up before your trip begins – eliminating connectivity stress when you arrive.

VI. Tips for Choosing the Right Network in Laos

Before buying a SIM card in Laos, ensure your phone is unlocked and supports the country’s main 4G bands (3, 8, and 28). Most modern smartphones are compatible, but check with your home carrier if unsure.

Take advantage of dual SIM functionality if your phone supports it. This lets you keep your home number active while using local data. Many newer phones allow eSIM + physical SIM combinations for maximum flexibility.

After activation, run a quick Speedtest to verify your connection quality. If speeds are slow, toggle airplane mode or restart your device to refresh the network connection.

Choose plans based on your stay length and data needs:

• Daily packages work best for short visits
• Weekly options suit typical vacation travelers
• Data-capped monthly plans are ideal for longer stays

Most travelers find 1-2GB per day sufficient for navigation, social media, and occasional video calls. All major carriers (Unitel, Lao Telecom, TPlus) offer tourist-friendly packages with English instructions.

VII. FAQs