Prepaid SIM at convenience stores | A complete guide to "prepaid SIMs" that can be purchased at convenience stores: A thorough explanation of the features, how to choose, and our top 5 recommendations

. What are "prepaid SIMs" that can be purchased at convenience stores?

Basic Concepts and Mechanisms of Prepaid SIMs

A prepaid SIM is a SIM card that allows you to use a certain amount of data for a set period of time or for which you pay in advance. Unlike monthly contracts, there is no contract period and the data ends when you use it up, making it a simple system.

Recently, it has become easy to purchase them at convenience stores across the country, and they have become popular as a convenient service for securing a means of communication quickly or for short-term use.

Difference from a normal SIM card

The main differences between prepaid SIM cards and regular SIM cards (postpaid type) are as follows:

With a regular SIM card, you are required to go through an examination and identity verification when signing a contract, but with a prepaid SIM (if it is for data communication only), these procedures are not required, so one advantage is that you can start using it immediately after purchasing it.

Types and features of prepaid SIM cards

There are three main types of prepaid SIM cards:

Data Capacity Type

Data capacity types allow you to use a set amount of data (e.g. 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, etc.). Since the amount of data you can use is clearly defined, you don't have to worry about paying extra for overuse.

One of its features is that you can clearly see your usage, making it easy to manage your budget. However, if you exceed the set capacity, your communication speed may be limited or communication itself may be stopped.

Usage period type

The periodic plan allows you to use the plan for a set period (e.g. 7 days, 30 days, 180 days, etc.). During the period, you can use high-speed data up to the set capacity.

The feature of this type is that the usage period is clearly defined, making it ideal for fixed periods such as travel, returning to Japan temporarily, etc. When the period ends, you can purchase a new one, or with some services, you can extend the period for an additional fee.

Voice call compatible type

The voice call compatible type is a type that can be used for voice calls as well as data communication. However, due to the Act on Prevention of Unauthorized Use of Mobile Phones, identity verification is required to use a SIM with voice calling function.

For this reason, if you purchase at a convenience store, you will often need to go through a separate online identity verification process after purchase, and same-day use will usually only be available for data communication.

Prepaid SIM card sizes

Prepaid SIM cards are available in three sizes:

• Standard SIM (miniSIM): 25mm x 15mm
• Micro SIM: 15mm x 12mm
• Nano SIM: 12.3mm x 8.8mm

Currently, nanoSIM is the mainstream, and is used in iPhones and many Android devices. However, most prepaid SIMs sold at convenience stores are "multi-SIM" types that support three different sizes, so there is no need to worry about size.

Recently, "eSIMs" have appeared that can be condivd online without inserting a physical SIM card, but they are still not widely available at convenience stores.

2. List of convenience stores where you can buy prepaid SIM cards and their features

Family Mart

Types of prepaid SIM cards available

FamilyMart carries the following prepaid SIM products.

• BIC SIM Selectable SIM Card powered by IIJ
• IIJmio Selectable SIM Card

These are mainly based on IIJ services and are prepaid SIM cards that use Docomo's lines. They can be purchased at approximately 16,000 FamilyMart stores nationwide.

Price range and features

The prepaid SIMs sold at FamilyMart are generally priced between 3,000 and 3,300 yen (tax included). After purchasing, you can register your plan online and choose the service you want, such as data only or with voice calling capabilities.

Important points to note when purchasing

One thing to note when purchasing a prepaid SIM at FamilyMart is that you are not purchasing the product itself but an "application ticket," so you will need to complete the application process online after purchasing in-store. Also, if you want to use the voice calling function, you will need to verify your identity separately.

Lawson

Types of prepaid SIM cards available

Lawson mainly sells the following prepaid SIM cards.

• IIJmio Selectable SIM Card
• Japan Travel SIM

These products can be purchased at Lawson, with approximately 14,000 stores nationwide. The Japan Travel SIM in particular is aimed at foreign visitors to Japan, but can also be used by domestic users without any problems.

Price range and features

The prices of prepaid SIM cards sold at Lawson are around 3,300 yen (tax included) for the IIJmio Eraberu SIM card and from 2,200 yen (tax included) for the Japan Travel SIM.

The Japan Travel SIM can be used immediately after purchase, which is convenient if you are in a hurry. On the other hand, the IIJmio Eraberu SIM Card requires online registration after purchase, but has the advantage of being highly customizable.

Important points to note when purchasing

Even when purchasing at Lawson, in most cases you will need to register online after paying at the register. Also, be careful not to confuse this with the IIJmio coupon card (for adding data to prepaid SIM cards).

Seven-Eleven

Prepaid SIM availability

Currently, Seven-Eleven does not sell standalone prepaid SIM cards. Although it is the largest convenience store chain in Japan with approximately 21,000 stores, it has been overtaken by other convenience stores when it comes to prepaid SIM cards.

Substitute Products and Related Services

Instead, 7-Eleven offers the following related services:

• SoftBank prepaid mobile phone prepaid card
• Issuing IIJmio coupon cards at multi-copy machines
• Data charge card

Additionally, at some 7-Eleven stores, you can also use nanaco points to charge communication services.

Other convenience stores

Ministop, Daily Yamazaki, etc.

Other convenience store chains such as Ministop and Daily Yamazaki have limited availability of prepaid SIM cards. Some stores may carry IIJmio-related products, but not all stores have them, so you should check in advance.

3. The process from purchasing a prepaid SIM to using it

How to purchase at a convenience store

Purchasing a prepaid SIM at a convenience store is very easy.

1. Search for products in the digital section or around the register in the store
2. Take it to the cash register and pay for it just like you would any other item.
3. Receive your product package and receipt

Depending on the convenience store, the products may be placed inside the counter or next to the register, so if you can't find them, it's a good idea to ask a store employee.

How to activate

Prepaid SIM cards that you purchase are divided into types that can be used as is and types that require an activation procedure.

Ready-to-use type (such as Japan Travel SIM)

1. Remove the SIM card from the packaging
2. Insert it into the SIM tray of your smartphone.
3. Set the APN (the setting method is described on the package)
4. Check your Internet connection

Types that require online registration (e.g. IIJmio Eraberu SIM Card)

1. Access the URL on the package
2. Enter the required information (application code, phone number, email address, etc.)
3. Select a plan (data only, voice call included, etc.)
4. Register your payment information (if required)
5. Once your application is complete, your SIM card will be sent to you by mail.
6. Insert the SIM card you received into your smartphone and start using it

How to set up APN

To use a prepaid SIM, you need to set up the APN (Access Point Name) on your smartphone. The setup method differs depending on the device and OS, but the basic steps are as follows.

For iPhone

1. "Settings" → "Mobile Communications" → "Mobile Data Options" → "Mobile Data Network"
2. Enter the APN information listed on the package.

For Android

1. "Settings" → "Network and Internet" → "Mobile Networks" → "Access Point Names"
2. Select "+" or "New APN"
3. Enter the APN information listed on the package.
4. Save and select the newly created APN

The specific APN settings will be listed on the SIM card packaging or in the instruction manual, so follow those to set it up.

How to charge (additional purchase)

If you would like to extend the data capacity or usage period of your prepaid SIM, you can top it up using the following methods.

1. Purchase a prepaid card (such as an IIJmio coupon card) at a convenience store
2. Log in to your My Page for each service
3. Enter your PIN number for top-up
4. Data volume and usage period will be extended

Some services allow you to top up your card directly through online payments, and if you plan to use the service regularly, it is convenient to set up an automatic top-up feature.

4. The benefits of "prepaid SIMs" that can be purchased at convenience stores

Easy to use for trial

The biggest appeal of prepaid SIMs is that you can try them out easily. You can experience the communication quality and speed of a new mobile carrier or MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) before considering a long-term contract.

In particular, if you are considering switching to a monthly plan, being able to check the communication environment in advance with a prepaid SIM can be a major advantage.

Purchase without a credit card

Prepaid SIM cards can be purchased with cash, making them easy to obtain even for students and young people who do not have credit cards. They are also a safe service for those who are uncomfortable entering their credit card information online.

It also accepts electronic money and QR code payments, so there are many convenient payment methods to choose from.

Easily manage your data usage

Since the amount of data that can be used is decided in advance, there is no need to worry about excessive charges due to overuse. This is a major advantage, especially for children and elderly people, as they can use smartphones without worrying about data usage.

In addition, even if you use up your data capacity at the end of the month, you can easily recharge it as needed, allowing you to respond flexibly.

Easy to use with no penalty fees

Prepaid SIM cards are not tied to a contract period, so there are no cancellation fees or penalty charges. They are a simple system where you can use them whenever you want, and when you no longer need them, the usage period will end naturally.

This makes it ideal for short-term use or when you want to compare multiple communication services.

Ideal for short-term use

This is the perfect service for when you only need an internet connection for a short period of time, such as when traveling, on a business trip, returning to Japan temporarily, etc. You can purchase only the period and capacity you need, so there are no unnecessary costs.

In addition, having a spare line in addition to your main communication line can also be useful as a backup in the event of a disaster or emergency.

No identity verification required, ready to use

If you use a prepaid SIM card for data communication only, you do not need to present identification. This makes it easy to start using the card immediately after purchasing it.

However, if you use a SIM card with voice calling functionality, you should be aware that you will need to verify your identity to prevent fraudulent use.

5. Disadvantages of "prepaid SIMs" available at convenience stores

Voice and SMS Restrictions

Most prepaid SIM cards that can be purchased at convenience stores are data-only. If you want to use voice calls or SMS, you will need to go through a separate online identity verification process and switch to a SIM card that supports voice calls.

For this reason, it is important to check in advance if you want to use a service that requires a phone number or if you want to use it for emergency contact. However, it is possible to make calls over the Internet using apps such as LINE and Skype.

Data capacity limits and usage period restrictions

Compared to regular monthly contract SIMs, prepaid SIMs tend to have a smaller data capacity. Also, there is an expiration date set at the time of purchase, and if you do not use all the data within that period, it will go to waste.

Especially if you plan to use the service for a long period of time, a monthly plan may be more cost-effective, so you need to choose the plan that best suits your usage.

No deferred payment restrictions

Since prepaid SIM cards are paid in advance, if you use up your data capacity, you will need to top up. Unlike postpaid SIM cards, you cannot temporarily exceed the capacity, and your data speed will be limited or data will be cut off until you top up.

It can be difficult to respond if you suddenly need data communication, so it's important to choose a plan with ample capacity and check the charging method.

Expensive pay-per-use pricing

Prepaid SIMs are convenient in the short term, but they tend to be more expensive than monthly plans for long-term use. Also, there are limited options for large capacity plans and prepaid SIMs for long-term use.

For example, if you plan to use around 10GB per month for three consecutive months, a low-cost monthly plan SIM will often be cheaper in total cost than a prepaid SIM.

Even when there are speed restrictions

Some prepaid SIMs may have restrictions on communication speeds compared to regular subscribers. Speeds may drop significantly during peak hours, making it difficult to download large files or watch high-definition videos.

However, the quality of prepaid SIM cards has improved recently, and in many cases they offer speeds that are sufficient for normal use.

6. How to choose a prepaid SIM

How to choose according to your purpose

When choosing a prepaid SIM, it is important to first determine what you will use it for.

• For everyday use : A plan with a large data capacity and long validity period is recommended.
• Travel and business trips : Small data plans that can be used up in a short period of time are economical
• For backups : A long-term plan is best
• Trial Use : Start with a low-cost, small-capacity plan

By clarifying your purpose, you will be able to make a smart choice.

Choose by data capacity

The amount of data you need will vary greatly depending on your usage. We recommend that you use the following as a reference when selecting your plan.

Especially if you are using it for the first time, you may not know your usage patterns, so you may want to start with a small amount and consider recharging if it is insufficient.

Choose by expiration date

The expiration dates of prepaid SIM cards vary depending on the product. The main options are as follows:

• Short term (1-7 days) : For tourists
• Medium term (15-30 days) : For business trips and temporary use
• Long term (90-365 days) : For second SIM or backup use

By choosing a generous period, you can reduce the risk of not being able to use the entire period. Also, some prepaid SIM cards have a system that allows you to extend the expiration date, so such flexibility is also an important point when selecting a plan.

Choose by communication speed

When choosing a prepaid SIM, communication speed is also an important factor.

• If you need high-speed communication : We recommend services that use major carrier lines
• If you plan to use it for regular purposes , a general MVNO prepaid SIM is sufficient.
• For backup purposes : Prioritize expiration date and fees over communication speed

Many prepaid SIM cards are designed to switch to a slower speed (such as 128kbps or 200kbps) once your data capacity is used up, so it's a good idea to check the speed as well.

Choose by area

Communication quality may vary greatly depending on the area you plan to use.

• Mainly used in urban areas : Generally no problems with any carrier line
• Use in rural and mountainous areas : Docomo lines have a relatively high coverage rate
• Mainly used in a specific area : Check the signal conditions in that area in advance

Also, if you are using the service in places where it is difficult for signals to reach, such as underground or inside a building, it is a good idea to choose a carrier line that supports the platinum band (700MHz/800MHz/900MHz bands).

Choose by cost performance

Ultimately, your choice will come down to a balance between price and the services offered.

• Price per GB : Low price for long-term use, convenience for short-term use
• Initial costs : Are there any additional costs such as SIM card issuance fees?
• Flexibility in recharging : minimum unit and price for additional data purchases

It is important to make a comprehensive decision that takes into account not only the price, but also the support system and ease of use of the app.

7. 5 Recommended "Prepaid SIMs" You Can Buy at Convenience Stores (continued)

HIS Mobile Prepaid SIM (continued)

Recommended for:

• Those who want to use it cheaply
• Those looking for a low-cost plan with voice calling
• Those who want to continue using the card in Japan after returning from overseas travel

HIS Mobile's prepaid SIM cards are especially competitive in terms of price, and are popular among cost-conscious users. In addition, because it is a travel agency service, it is also suitable for users who want seamless use both overseas and domestically.

DXHUB Prepaid SIM Card

Features and pricing plans

DXHUB prepaid SIM cards are sold at some FamilyMart stores and are characterized by their wide range of long-term valid plans.

• Sales price : From 2,500 yen (tax included)
• Compatible SIM size : Multi-SIM
• Main plans :
• 30 days/10GB: 2,533 yen
• 60 days/20GB: 3,980 yen
• 180 days/20GB: 4,233 yen
• 365 days/20GB: 5,083 yen
• 30 days/50GB: 3,808 yen
• Communication line : Docomo line or au line (selectable)

One of the biggest attractions is that it offers long-term plans, such as six months or a year, at reasonable prices. It also offers the flexibility of being able to choose from multiple carrier lines.

Recommended for:

• Those looking for a long-term plan
• Those who want to use it as a backup or second SIM for emergencies
• Those who want to use large amounts of data

DXHUB's prepaid SIMs are cost-effective, especially in the long term, and are ideal for regular but occasional use.

8. How to choose a prepaid SIM for your purpose

Recommended prepaid SIM cards for travelers

If you plan to use a prepaid SIM card as your means of communication while traveling, it is best to choose a plan that provides sufficient data capacity for a short period of time.

What is important for travelers is the convenience of being able to use it immediately and the capacity that can be used up within the period. Especially for domestic travel, where most of the time you will be searching for local tourist information and using map apps, 2 to 3 GB will be enough for many people.

Additionally, for visitors from overseas, we recommend a multilingual SIM such as the Japan Travel SIM. The package and setup guide are available in English, Chinese, Korean, and other languages, so you can use it without feeling any language barriers.

Recommended prepaid SIM cards for business use

When using a prepaid SIM for business purposes, stable communication speeds and sufficient data capacity are important.

Especially when using a prepaid SIM for business trips or temporary teleworking, data usage tends to be high for video conferencing, file sharing, etc. Therefore, it is important to choose a plan with ample capacity.

In addition, businesses are increasingly using it as a backup line, so in that case, a long-term plan that is valid and ready to use when needed is appropriate. DXHUB's 365-day plan is also a great choice for an emergency line.

Recommended prepaid SIM cards for temporary use

If you are using it as a temporary internet connection when moving, or as a stopgap until your main line is signed up and activated, cost-effectiveness is important.

For temporary use, the simplicity of the contract procedure is also an important point. Japan Travel SIM, which can be purchased at a convenience store and used immediately, is particularly convenient when you need to connect to the Internet in a hurry.

Also, if you are unsure of the period of use, it is a good idea to choose a service that is easy to charge and allows for flexible extensions. IIJmio and other services sell charge cards at convenience stores, so you can extend the capacity and period as needed.

Recommended prepaid SIM cards for children and seniors

When used by children and seniors, preventing overuse and simple operability are particularly important.

One way to prevent overuse is to choose a small data plan for children. Also, considering the role of the phone as a means of emergency contact, it is a good idea to consider a plan with SMS functionality.

For seniors, long-term plans that do not require frequent recharges are convenient. For those who are not good at changing settings or recharge procedures, we recommend plans such as DXHUB, which can be used for six months or one year.

9. Frequently Asked Questions about Prepaid SIMs

Can I use LINE with a prepaid SIM?

A: Yes, you can.

If you can use data communication with a prepaid SIM, you can use messaging apps such as LINE and SNS without any problems. However, since most prepaid SIMs are for data communication only, you need to be careful with services that require SMS authentication.

For LINE, you will need to use SMS or phone number authentication when you first register, but if you have already registered your account, you can continue to use it with only data communication. When registering for the first time or changing your phone model, choose a prepaid SIM with SMS function, or use another authentication method such as Facebook in a Wi-Fi environment.

Are there prepaid SIM cards that can be used overseas?

Answer: It is generally not possible to use a domestic prepaid SIM card overseas.

Domestic prepaid SIM cards sold at convenience stores do not support overseas roaming services. To use your SIM card overseas, you will need to purchase a prepaid SIM card for use in that country or region separately.

However, some carriers (such as HIS Mobile) offer plans that support international roaming. If you plan to use your phone overseas, we recommend that you check in advance whether it is compatible.

What happens if you run out of data?

A: Your data speed will be limited or stopped.

What happens when you use up the data capacity of your prepaid SIM varies depending on the service.

Type that switches to low-speed communication : With many services, when you use up your high-speed data communication capacity, the service automatically switches to a low-speed communication speed such as 128 kbps or 200 kbps. You can use it for emails and text messages, but it will be difficult to watch videos or download apps.

Data communication is suspended : With some services, data communication is suspended when the set capacity is used up. In this case, you will not be able to connect to the Internet until you recharge.

If you run out of data, the most common solution is to purchase a recharge card at a convenience store, or to recharge your data online using a credit card.

How do I charge (purchase additional points)?

A:There are three main ways:

Charge card : Purchase a charge card (such as an IIJmio coupon card) sold at convenience stores, etc., and enter the PIN number listed on the card on your service's My Page.

Online payment : This is a method to charge your account by logging in to your account page for each service and using a credit card, carrier payment, etc. The advantage is that the procedure is simple and the payment is reflected immediately.

Buying a new SIM : Sometimes it is more cost-effective to buy a new SIM than to top up. Especially for longer-term plans, it can be more cost-effective to buy a new SIM than to top up when there is little time left on the plan.

Please note that the minimum chargeable unit and price vary depending on the service, so it is important to choose a service that suits your usage.

What is the difference between a prepaid SIM and an eSIM?

A: They differ in shape and setup.

The main differences between prepaid SIMs and eSIMs are:

The advantage of eSIM is that there is no risk of losing a physical card, and you can register multiple lines to one device and switch between them. However, only a limited number of devices support eSIM, so you need to check whether your device supports eSIM before using it.

Recently, services such as the IIJmio Eraberu SIM Card have appeared that can be purchased at convenience stores and used as eSIM cards, expanding the options available.

10. Latest Trends and Future Outlook for Prepaid SIMs

Introducing 5G-compatible prepaid SIMs

5G communication has been in full swing since 2023, and 5G-compatible services are gradually increasing even for prepaid SIMs. In particular, major operators such as DXHUB and IIJmio are already offering 5G-compatible prepaid SIMs, and new usage scenarios that take advantage of high-speed communication are expanding.

As 5G-compatible devices become more widespread, it is expected that more prepaid SIM services will support 5G in the future. 5G-compatible prepaid SIMs will be especially useful for business purposes that handle large amounts of data, watching high-definition videos, cloud gaming, and other purposes.

Trends moving to eSIM

The prepaid SIM market is also undergoing major changes due to the spread of eSIM technology, which does not require a physical SIM card. Major smartphones such as the iPhone 14 and later and the Google Pixel series are now eSIM-compatible, and eSIM versions are increasingly being offered for prepaid services.

The benefits of eSIM include the following:

• Keep your smartphone's SIM slot free (dual SIM possible)
• Instant activation possible (completed online without having to go to a branch)
• No risk of loss
• Easy switching between multiple lines

In particular, services aimed at foreign visitors to Japan are highly rated for the convenience of being able to purchase and download an eSIM before coming to Japan, so that it can be used immediately upon arrival. It is expected that the sale of eSIM purchase codes will become even more widespread at convenience stores in the future.

Changes in data capacity and pricing plans

The prepaid SIM market is also seeing an increase in data traffic and a drop in prices. In particular, the cost per GB has dropped significantly for long-term plans, and large-capacity plans with data usage of 50 GB or more and valid for one year are now available.

In addition, the number of prepaid SIM cards with unlimited and semi-unlimited plans (with certain speed limits but no capacity limits) is increasing, expanding the options available to users. This is due to the increase in data traffic caused by the spread of video streaming services and online meetings.

As communications technology continues to evolve, it is expected that more attractive pricing plans will become available.

Changes in sales strategies at convenience stores

As the prepaid SIM market expands, convenience stores are also strengthening their prepaid SIM sales strategies. FamilyMart and Lawson in particular are focusing on prepaid SIM sales by expanding their dedicated space and using digital signage for advertising.

There are also rumors that Seven-Eleven will enter the prepaid SIM market, so competition is likely to intensify in the future. Prepaid SIM sales at convenience stores are highly regarded for their convenience, as they can be purchased 24 hours a day, and their importance as a sales channel is likely to continue to grow.

Furthermore, there is a shift from the traditional method of purchasing an "application right" to a method where the application is completed at the store. In order to meet the need for same-day use, it is expected that the lineup of products that can be used immediately after purchase will further increase.

Above is a detailed explanation of prepaid SIM cards that can be purchased at convenience stores. Choose the prepaid SIM card that best suits your needs and enjoy a smart communication lifestyle.