Smart vs Globe: Which SIM Is Better for Tourists?
Smart and Globe are the two biggest carriers in the Philippines. Here's a head-to-head comparison for tourists.
Updated February 2026
Our recommendation
Smart7-day Unli Data
Physical SIMSmart edges Globe for most tourists — wider island coverage, cheaper 7-day plan, and more kiosks at NAIA. Globe wins if you're staying in Metro Manila or need 80 GB of data.
Get this planSide-by-side comparison
| Smart1-day Unli Data | Smart7-day Unli Data | Smart30-day 5G |  GlobeTraveler SIM 80GB | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | ₱75Best | ₱249 | ₱749 | ₱1,500Worst |
| Validity | 1 dayWorst | 7 days | 30 daysBest | 30 days |
| Data | unlimited | 2GB/day fair use | 3GB/day fair use | 80GB + unli calls/texts |
| Type | Physical SIM | Physical SIM | Physical SIM | Physical SIM |
| Network in PH | Smart | Smart | Smart | Globe |
| Get this plan | Get this plan | Get this plan | Get this plan |
Frequently asked questions
Smart has wider coverage in rural and island areas (Palawan, Siargao, Bohol). Globe is strong in Metro Manila and Cebu city but can be spotty on remote islands.
Smart: ₱249 for unlimited data (2 GB/day fair use). Globe doesn't offer a comparable 7-day tourist plan — their tourist SIM is ₱1,500 for 30 days.
Not directly. Airalo eSIMs use Smart's network, Nomad uses Globe. Holafly uses both. If unsure, go with Airalo (Smart) for best coverage.