Paraguay has a modern and advanced telecommunications infrastructure with several mobile operators offering high-quality service. Choosing the right operator can be difficult given the options but knowing their networks, plans, coverage and reputation simplifies selection.
This guide examines Paraguay mobile operators and MVNOs, provides recommendations for selecting the best carrier, compares their offerings, discusses where to obtain SIM cards and if eSIM is available, answers common questions and shares parting advice for picking the ideal operator.
Table of Contents
I. List of Paraguay Mobile Operators
1. Main Mobile Operators in Paraguay
There are three major Paraguay mobile operators (MNOs) that dominate the mobile market in Paraguay:
| Mobile Operator | Year Launched | Ownership | No. of Subscribers (million) | Network Details |
| Claro | 1994 | Owned by Mexican telecom giant América Móvil | Over 5 | Uses 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE networks. Widest 4G and 3G coverage in Paraguay. |
| Tigo | 1994 | Owned by Millicom, Luxembourg telecom holding | Around 2.5 | Operates 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE networks. Strong urban coverage. |
| Personal | 1994 | Owned by Telecom Argentina, Argentina | Over 2 | Provides 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE. Maj |
2. Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) in Paraguay
Smaller mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) in Paraguay include:
- Vox: Uses Tigo’s network infrastructure
- Copaco: Rents network access from Personal
- Núcleo: Another MVNO on Personal’s network
These smaller carriers rent the major networks to offer cheaper prepaid plans. However, they depend on the big operators for coverage meaning service quality varies.
II. How to Choose the Best Mobile Operator in Paraguay
Factors to consider when selecting Paraguay’s best mobile operator:
1. Network Coverage & Technology
- Verify carrier offers strong coverage for areas where service is needed (work, home, travel)
- Ensure the network provides sufficient 3G/4G speeds and capacity
2. Cost & Plan Types
- Evaluate prepaid and postpaid plan rates
- Assess charges for calls, texts, and mobile data
- Consider roaming costs if traveling abroad
3. Customer Service Reputation
- Check online reviews regarding customer support experiences
- Consider the convenience of store locations for assistance
4. Value Added Services
- Review if the operator offers useful extras like entertainment bundles, finance tools
Weighing needs across these areas results in the operator that offers the best fit at the fairest price.
III. Best Mobile Operators in Paraguay – Detailed Comparison
Below are Paraguay’s major operators including pros, cons, and ideal users:
| Operator | Market Share | Bandwidth | Coverage | 4G Coverage | Uses | Average Price (USD) |
| Claro | ~35% (Largest) | Excellent bandwidth nationwide | Widest nationwide 2G/3G/4G coverage | Broadest 4G coverage reaching most areas | Calls, texts, mobile internet, content | $10-15 |
| Tigo | ~30% (2nd largest) | Good bandwidth primarily in urban areas | Extensive 2G/3G nationwide with 4G in major cities | 4G in large cities and towns but limited rural 4G | Calls, texts, mobile internet, finance services | $8-12 |
| Personal | ~25% (3rd largest) | Very good bandwidth in cities, average in rural areas | Nationwide 2G/3G coverage, good 4G mainly in cities | 4G limited to main cities and routes | Calls, texts, mobile internet, entertainment | $7-10 |
So in summary, Tigo likely represents the best overall value given competitive plan rates and solid infrastructure while Claro is preferable for those needing maximum data capabilities. Personal fills the rural coverage niche. MVNOs work only for basic prepaid subscribers.
IV. Where to Buy SIM Cards from Paraguay Mobile Operators?
Getting SIM cards from Paraguay providers is easy:
- Claro, Personal, and Tigo run many retail stores, kiosks, and booths for walk-in purchases
- Small carriers have select partner locations typically in Asunción
- Online buying options also exist via operator e-commerce sites
When acquiring an in-person SIM, have a passport or other ID ready as verification is often required. Know the standard/micro/nano SIM size needed for your device.
For online orders, expect delivery in 1-3 days after submitting ID documentation unless paying extra for express shipping. So convenient opportunities exist to obtain operator SIM cards through both brick-and-mortar and internet channels.
V. Do Paraguay Mobile Operators Offer eSIM?
eSIM allows activating mobile plans through scanning a QR vs inserting a plastic SIM. Availability among Paraguay carriers is growing but remains limited:
- Claro launched eSIM in 2022 for postpaid iPhone users
- Tigo currently does not provide eSIM
- Personal offers eSIM only for certain iPhone models
So eSIM convenience exists but dominant carriers Claro and Tigo reserve it for high-end device postpaid subscribers only. Those with iPhone or newer Android devices can request eSIM when starting Claro or Personal postpaid service assuming the phone supports the feature.
Consider using an eSIM plan from esimparaguay.com – the #1 eSIM provider in Paraguay. Here is what makes esimparaguay.com stand out:
- Variety & Flexibility: Choose among a wide array of data plans best suited to your needs
- Multiple Network Coverage: They take care of the technical aspects by collaborating with major Paraguay mobile operators so that visitors can get a fast and reliable connection during their travel.
- Instant Customer Service: Offer 24/7 customer help so that you can assistance if needed.
- Competitive Price: Their eSIMs are reasonably priced, helping users save their data budget.
Find the best options for your trip below:
Plan that may interest you
VI. FAQs
Which operator has the cheapest plans in Paraguay?
MVNOs like Vox and Copaco offer barebones prepaid plans starting under $5 monthly. But their network service is not reliable. Tigo provides the best value for money on consistent infrastructure.
Can I use my unlocked phone from another country in Paraguay?
Yes, unlocked GSM devices should function normally by inserting a local operator SIM card assuming proper cellular and data bands are supported. Confirm phone compatibility to avoid issues.
Do Paraguay cell companies offer monthly installments on devices?
Yes, top providers let qualifying postpaid subscribers pay off nice smartphones via 12-24 monthly fee additions just like an installment plan versus full upfront cost.
What carriers have the best rural access in Paraguay?
Personal maintains widespread coverage beyond major cities while Claro focuses on urban and suburban build-outs. So Personal excels in serving rural users and remote areas.
VII. Final Words
Selecting Paraguay mobile operators requires comparing critical factors like network reach, technology generations supported, types of plans available, customer service track record, and extras provided. Tigo often emerges as the leading pick thanks to an affordable yet reliable service portfolio.
Checking coverage maps and online reviews helps match specific usage needs to the best-fitting carrier. Both SIM card and eSIM options exist now for activation making getting connected easy.
