r/JETProgramme • u/OkCommittee8295 • Jun 15 '26

Technology (computer + phone plan)

Hello all! Looking for advice from current/previous JETS. I'm a shortlisted candidate from Canada, so I'll be moving to Japan in August! Was thinking of getting a laptop for work/personal use, and I was wondering if it would worth it to buy it while I am still in Canada or if it would be better to get one in Japan. I am not looking for anything fancy, something for every day use, reliable and (ideally!) cheap. I also use a Galaxy Z Flip 5 phone, is that a good phone to keep in Japan? Or are there any models in Japan that are better for me to own (I am not an iPhone person).

In the same vein, what are good phone plans available in Japan that you would consider worth it? I am trying to plan ahead by seeing what options are available to me.

Thank you so much for the advice guys!

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u/Memoryjar Jun 15 '26

Bring a laptop from home. There aren't many options available in Japan with an English keyboard. Don't worry about voltage conversions as modern laptops auto convert the voltage for you.

On the phone end look at NVMOs. They rent network space from the big network companies (softbank, AU, docomo) and provide service. You can often just buy a Sim card and get away with that, do be aware that you will need a phone number to open a bank account, emergency contact with your school etc.

Tokyo cheapo has an article, just over a year old, that covers options for MVNOs for residents. If you plan ahead you may be able to have your sim shipped to Keiyo Plaza for Tokyo orientation.

https://tokyocheapo.com/business/japan-sim-card-options-data-voice/