Wondering about getting a Magenta SIM card for your Austria trips? Read on this guide for the best choices.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts About Magenta Austria
Magenta Telekom, previously known as T-Mobile Austria. Let’s take a look at this brand
- Established: 1996 rebranded as Magenta in 2019.
- Services provided: Magenta Telekom offers mobile voice, messaging, and data services, along with fixed-line broadband, TV, and converged packages under the Magenta brand.
- Subscribers: Around 4.7 million
- Stores: Over 400 stores and retail partners across Austria.
- Customer support: Magenta offers 24/7 customer support in German and English
II. Magenta Coverage and Speeds in Austria
1. Magenta Coverage in Austria.
Magenta offers 4G/5G coverage across Austria, providing high-speed mobile data for tourists. Magenta claims to cover 99% of the Austrian population with its 4G LTE network. It is currently rolling out 5G coverage using various spectrum bands.
So, you can reliably make calls, send texts, and use mobile data in all major population centers from Vienna and Salzburg to Innsbruck and Linz.
2. Magenta Speed
According to independent reports by Opensignal and Ookla Speedtest, Magenta offers strong overall mobile network coverage across Austria. Its average 4G download speeds range from 35-55 Mbps, with lower latency compared to other Austrian operators.
III. Magenta Connectivity Options for Travelers to Austria
As a tourist visiting Austria, you have three main options to connect to Magenta’s network:
Connectivity Options
Connectivity Options | SIM Card | Mobile WiFi Router | Roaming |
Pros | Direct network access | Share connection across devices | Use your home SIM |
Affordable data packs | Seamless connectivity | ||
Flexible top-ups | |||
Cons | Involves changing SIMs | Expensive rental cost | Very high roaming rates |
Limited call/SMS capabilities | Battery life limitations | Depends on roaming agreements |
So, getting a SIM card is the most convenience way to stay connected for tourists in Austria.
IV. Best Magenta SIM Card for Tourists & Costs
Let’s check some best Magenta SIM card plans before choosing:
SIM Card | Validity | Allowances | Approx. Cost (USD) |
MagentaBig | 30 days | 3GB data | $17 |
MagentaAktiv | 7 days | 3GB data | $11 |
Magenta Tourist Card | 24 hours | 1GB data, 600 mins, 600 SMS | $11 |
Magenta Travel SIM | 30 days | 1GB data (extendable) | $17 |
Magenta World SIM | 7 days | 500MB international data | $11 |
MagentaKombiSim | 30 days | 5GB data, 1000 mins, 1000 SMS | $23 |
Overall, Magenta prepaid SIMs deliver great value compared to expensive Austria roaming.
V. Does Magenta Austria Support eSIM?
Yes, Magenta Austria fully supports eSIM as a digital alternative to physical SIM cards, allowing for convenient activation of postpaid service from anywhere
Customers can obtain an eSIM profile directly from Magenta’s website or app, allowing seamless setup without the need for a physical nanoSIM card.
VI. Where Can You Buy a Magenta SIM Card and eSIM?
Upon Arrival
Bring an ID like your passport when buying a SIM card upon arrival. Activation is instant, and you’ll get the best rates when purchasing in Austria.
Buy at Magenta Stores
There are over 400 official Magenta stores offering prepaid SIMs located in major Austrian cities and malls. Use Magenta’s store finder to locate a store convenient for you.
Other Retail Outlets
Authorized Magenta resellers like A1 shops, MediaMarkt outlets and newsstands also offer prepaid SIM cards in major tourist areas. Know your data needs before buying.
Buying at small resellers has risks like inflated prices or faulty SIM cards. Purchase from reputable stores or official channels.
Purchase Magenta Austria eSIM Online
Magenta Austria eSIM profiles can be purchased directly from the Magenta website or app and activated using your QR code. However, an Austrian payment method is required.
Purchasing eSIMs online in advance is recommended for a hassle-free start to your trip. Avoid public WiFi when activating eSIMs and use a VPN for security.
VII. How to Activate Magenta SIM card/eSIM
For Magenta Austria SIM Card:
- Insert the new Magenta SIM and turn on your phone
- The SIM will auto-activate in a few minutes
- Enter the PIN if prompted and restart the device
- Follow any device prompts to configure mobile network settings
- You can now make calls, send SMS and use mobile data in Austria
- Check your SIM number, balance, data usage etc. with the USSD codes
For Magenta Austria eSIM:
- Install the eSIM app on your iPhone/Android phone
- Scan the QR code you received to add the Magenta eSIM
- Follow the activation process as prompted on your phone screen
- Allow some time for successful eSIM installation
- Restart device and disable previous SIMs if necessary
- The Magenta eSIM will become the active mobile connection
Refer to Magenta Austria’s eSIM installation guide for your specific device if unsure. Reach out to customer support if you face any activation issues.
VIII. Magenta Call & SMS Rates
Here are the standard outbound call and SMS rates from a Magenta Austria prepaid SIM:
Call & SMS Rates
Call/SMS Type | Rate (EUR) |
Calls within Magenta network to mobiles | €0.19/min |
Calls to Magenta landlines | €0.24/min |
Calls to A1/Drei mobile networks | €0.28/min |
Calls to international numbers | €0.58/min |
Calls to premium numbers | €0.58/min |
International call rates | Up to €1.99/min |
SMS within Austria | €0.09/SMS |
International SMS | €0.19/SMS |
To save costs, use free messaging apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime Audio when possible.
IX. Useful USSD Codes for Magenta SIM card/eSIM
Magenta Austria prepaid SIM users can check their account balance and data usage by dialing these USSD access codes:
USSD Codes
USSD Code | Description |
#102# | Check credit balance |
#103# | Check validity date |
#104# | Account details and usage |
#126# | Data settings |
#123*PIN# | SIM lock/unlock status |
#1333MSISDN# | Activate eSIM profile |
#1332MSISDN# | Deactivate eSIM profile |
#124*400# | Activate roaming |
#124*402# | Deactivate roaming |
#131# | Change PIN |
#125# | Voicemail number |
#111# | Call voicemail |
Enter the USSD code directly on your phone dial pad and tap Call/Send. Your account details will be displayed on the screen.
X. How to Top up Magenta SIM card/eSIM
You can easily top-up your Magenta Austria prepaid balance using vouchers, online payments or at stores:
- Via Top-up Voucher: Buy top up vouchers at Magenta stores, partners, post offices and kiosks in denominations of €10, €15 & €25. Redeem by scratching the code and texting to 800.
- Online Top-up: Use your Austrian payment card on the Magenta website or app to recharge your SIM. Minimal top-up is €10.
- At Magenta Shops and Partners: Visit any Magenta store or authorized partner to top up your SIM in cash. Minimum amount is €10.
Keep checking your data balance using the USSD codes before it fully depletes. Promptly top up to avoid any data disruption during your Austria trip.
XI. Alternatives to Magenta Austria
Magenta provides excellent connectivity for tourists in Austria. However, you may consider these alternatives too:
- A1 Austria: The largest provider but more expensive. Better rural coverage.
- Drei Austria: Affordable data packs but limited stores. Good option for cities.
If you refer eSIM than physical SIM card, one of the most popular provider is Austria eSIM from GIGAGO. Check their best plans here:
XII. FAQs
What identification is required to buy a Magenta SIM?
You will need to show your passport when purchasing a Magenta Austria SIM at their stores, airport outlets or partners. Keep your passport handy when buying SIMs.
Can I use Magenta Austria SIM in other European countries?
Yes, Magenta prepaid SIMs include free roaming within the EU. But look for those offering EU roaming specifically. Check roaming rates before extensive usage.
How to refill balance on my Magenta SIM card?
You can top up your Magenta Austria prepaid SIM via online payments, vouchers, Magenta app, or by visiting stores. Minimum recharge amount is €10.
How do I contact Magenta customer support?
You can call Magenta Austria customer support 24/7 at 9001 from your mobile or +43 664 6600 9001 from Austria landlines. Support is available in English and German.
How can I check my data usage on Magenta?
To check your data balance on a Magenta Austria SIM, dial *102# on your phone and press call/send. You will receive an SMS with remaining data.
XIII. Final Words
A Magenta SIM card is a great connectivity option for tourists visiting popular Austrian destinations like Vienna, Salzburg, Tyrol Alps region, and other major cities
Consider Austria eSIM to stay connected and have an amazing holiday in this scenic European nation!