If you live in the Philippines and want to buy a new SIM card you will notice two popular choices from Globe Telecom TM (Touch Mobile) and Globe SIM. At first they might seem almost the same because both use the Globe network giving you good signal coverage and internet speed. But there are big differences in pricing, promos and features.
In this guide we will explain the difference between TM SIM vs Globe SIM their benefits, drawbacks and help you decide which one is better for you.
What Is TM SIM (Touch Mobile)?
TM (Touch Mobile) is a sub-brand of Globe Telecom made especially for people who want affordable prepaid services. It was designed to help Filipinos call, text and go online without spending too much money. you can easily register Your TM SIM online.
A TM SIM is:
- 100% Prepaid: You only pay for the load and promos you use.
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Perfect for Students and Budget Users: Great for those who want to save money.
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Uses the Globe Network: So it has the same signal strength and coverage as Globe.
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Known for “Sulit na Promos”: Meaning it offers the best value for your money.
If you are looking for cheap but reliable mobile promos TM SIM is a great choice.
What Is Globe SIM?
Globe Telecom is one of the top telecommunication companies in the Philippines. It provides mobile, broadband and postpaid services all over the country. A Globe SIM lets you choose between prepaid and postpaid plans that making it perfect for users who want flexible data, calls and text options.
Globe SIMs are known for:
- Wide Network Coverage: Strong and stable signal across most areas.
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Reliable Mobile Data: Fast internet for browsing, streaming, and work.
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Premium Features: Includes postpaid plans, data rollover and roaming options.
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App Integration: Works smoothly with GCash, GlobeOne and other Globe apps.
In short Globe SIM is ideal for people who want quality service, reliability and advanced mobile features.
TM SIM vs Globe SIM Key Differences
Here’s a clear comparison table showing how TM and Globe differ in terms of services, pricing, and user type:
| Feature | TM SIM | Globe SIM |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Owned by Globe Telecom | Owned by Globe Telecom |
| Network | Uses Globe’s mobile network | Uses the same Globe network |
| Type of SIM | Prepaid only | Prepaid and Postpaid |
| Target Users | Budget-conscious users | All types of users (prepaid + postpaid) |
| Promos | Cheap call, text and data promos | Variety of promos including premium bundles |
| Pricing | Lower cost | Slightly higher but better features |
| Data Speed | Same as Globe (since same network) | Same coverage but may have better data bundles |
| Validity Period | Short-term promos | Flexible validity options |
| Roaming / Postpaid Options | Not available | Available |
| Customer Support | Basic via TM channels | Full customer support from Globe Telecom |
Similarities Between TM and Globe SIM
Even though TM and Globe SIM have different target users and pricing they still share many things in common:
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Same Network Infrastructure: Both use the Globe Telecom network so their signal strength and internet speed are almost the same.
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SIM Registration Required: Both must be registered under the SIM Registration Act (RA 11934).
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Call, Text and Data Promos: Each offers a variety of prepaid promos for communication and internet use.
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Easy Reloading Options: You can load either SIM through GCash, the GlobeOne app or online stores.
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Nationwide Coverage: Both work well in most areas of the Philippines.
Check It: TM SIM Load Promos After Registration
Pricing and Promos: TM vs Globe
| Category | TM SIM | Globe SIM |
|---|---|---|
| Network Speed | Uses Globe’s network infrastructure (4G/LTE). Average 20–35 Mbps depending on location. | Same Globe network with similar coverage. Postpaid users may get priority data in congested areas. |
| Network Type | Prepaid only | Prepaid and Postpaid |
| Local Call Rate | ₱6.50/min to Globe or TM, ₱7.50/min to other networks | ₱6.50/min to Globe or TM, ₱7.50/min to others |
| Text/SMS Rate | ₱1.00 per text (all networks) | ₱1.00 per text (all networks) |
| Internet/Data Promos | TM EasySurf50: 3GB data + app freebies (₱50/3 days) ALLNETSURF30: 300MB + unli texts (₱30/2 days) |
GoPLUS129: 10GB all-access + 8GB for apps (₱129/7 days) GoSURF50: 5GB + unli texts (₱50/3 days) |
| Call & Text Promos | ComboAll10: Unli TM/Globe texts + 50MB data (₱10/day) AllNetSURF20: Unli texts + 150MB data (₱20/day) |
GoUNLI30: Unli calls & texts to Globe/TM + 100MB data (₱30/day) |
| Roaming Options | Limited international roaming (mainly domestic use) | Full roaming options (Roam Surf 399 – ₱399/day for data abroad) |
| Customer Support | Basic via TM Facebook & *143# self-service | 24/7 support via GlobeOne app, hotline & Globe Stores |
| Best For | Budget users, students and light data users | Professionals, travelers, postpaid & heavy data users |
Customer Support and Accessibility
Both TM and Globe use the same customer service network so getting help is easy no matter which SIM you have.
However, Globe users usually get priority support especially those with postpaid plans and can visit official Globe Stores for more advanced services.
TM Users Can Get Help Through:
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TM Customer Care: Dial *143# on your phone.
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TM Facebook Page or Official Website: For online help and updates.
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Globe Stores: You can also visit Globe Stores for general support.
Both TM and Globe users can now use the GlobeOne App to:
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Check load balance
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Monitor promo status
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View SIM registration details
SIM Registration Rules
Under the SIM Registration Act (RA 11934) in the Philippines all SIM cards must be registered using valid ID information.
If you don’t register your SIM here’s what will happen:
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Your SIM will be permanently deactivated.
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You will lose access to calls, texts, data, and other services.
You can register online through the official portals below:
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🟡 TM Registration: https://new.globe.com.ph/simreg
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🔵 Globe Registration: https://new.globe.com.ph/simreg
Conclusion
Both TM and Globe SIM cards offer strong and reliable connectivity across the Philippines but they are designed for different kinds of users. TM SIM is best for people who want affordable call, text, and data promos making it perfect for students or anyone on a budget.
On the other hand Globe SIM is ideal for users who need more premium postpaid plans and advanced features like data rollover and roaming. No matter which SIM you choose make sure you register it properly under the SIM Registration Act and activate your promos and use the GlobeOne app to manage your account easily.
FAQs
Q1: Are TM and Globe SIM the same?
TM and Globe are both part of the same company called Globe Telecom in the Philippines. TM (also known as Touch Mobile or TM Tambayan) is one of Globe’s brands that offers affordable calls, texts and data for its users.
Q2: Is Globe also TM?
Yes Globe and TM are connected. TM is a part of Globe Telecom. In 2008 TM’s services were officially moved under Globe so now Globe operates both Globe and TM SIMs using the same network. The main difference is that TM offers cheaper promos for calls, texts and data.
Q3: How to know if a SIM is Globe or TM?
You can find out if your SIM is Globe or TM by checking the first four numbers of your mobile number (called the prefix).
Here’s how it works:
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If your number starts with 0905, 0906, 0915, 0916, 0927, or 0935 it usually belongs to Globe or TM.
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These prefixes are shared by both Globe and TM because they use the same network.
Q4: Can you convert TM to Globe?
Yes you can convert your TM number to Globe by following a few simple steps. This process is called mobile number portability which lets you switch networks while keeping your same number.
Here IS how to do it:
Step 1: Get your 9-digit Unique Subscriber Code (USC) from your current network (TM).
Step 2: Go to the Globe Port Number page and enter your TM number.
Step 3: Fill in your personal information on the form.
Step 4: Wait for a confirmation message it usually takes up to 48 hours once your request is approved.
After that your TM SIM will be converted to a Globe SIM while keeping the same number.
Q5: Which is the best SIM network in the Philippines?
Right now DITO is considered the fastest network in the Philippines.
DITO has won all four speed-related awards for mobile networks. It has a 5G download speed of about 280.8 Mbps, which is more than double Smart’s speed of 131.5 Mbps. DITO also has a 5G upload speed of 16.1 Mbps which is faster than other networks.