MRT vs BTS – What’s the Difference for Expats?

If you're new to Bangkok, the two biggest public transit systems you’ll hear about are the BTS Skytrain and the MRT Subway. At first glance, they might seem similar — both are fast, clean, air-conditioned, and cover large parts of the city. But there are key differences every expat should know to navigate Bangkok smoothly and save time, money, and stress.

In this article, we’ll break down the main differences between the BTS (Bangkok Mass Transit System) and the MRT (Metropolitan Rapid Transit) — so you’ll know when to use each and how to plan your routes better.

🚇 What Is the MRT?

The MRT is Bangkok’s underground train system. It currently has two main lines:

• Blue Line: A loop-like route connecting Hua Lamphong, Sukhumvit, Bang Sue, and more.

• Purple Line: Serves the northern and western suburbs (Nonthaburi province), connecting to the Blue Line at Tao Poon.

Unlike the BTS, the MRT is mostly below ground and is often less crowded, especially during off-peak hours.

🚝 What Is the BTS?

The BTS Skytrain is an elevated rail network with two lines:

• Sukhumvit Line: North to Southeast

• Silom Line: City center to West

It’s more popular among tourists and expats living near Sukhumvit, Silom, and central business districts. The BTS often connects to popular malls, nightlife areas, and business hubs.

🔁 Key Differences Between MRT and BTS

1. Routes & Coverage

• BTS: Best for Sukhumvit, Silom, Siam, and central Bangkok.

• MRT: Better for older city areas like Chinatown, Bang Sue, and suburban zones.

Use both together to reach more parts of Bangkok. Interchange points include:

• Mo Chit (BTS) ↔ Chatuchak Park (MRT)

• Asok (BTS) ↔ Sukhumvit (MRT)

• Sala Daeng (BTS) ↔ Si Lom (MRT)

2. Ticketing System

• Separate cards and systems.
  The BTS uses Rabbit Card, while the MRT uses MRT stored-value cards.

• You can’t transfer for free between systems — you’ll need to exit one gate and enter another.

• Both systems now support QR code payments and contactless cards, but some foreign cards may not work reliably.

3. Fares

• Both start around 16 THB, but the MRT tends to be slightly cheaper for longer trips.

• No integrated pricing — you pay separately even when transferring.

4. Train Size & Comfort

• MRT trains are generally wider and less crowded during non-peak hours.

• BTS trains are busier, especially during rush hours.

5. Accessibility

• Both systems are equipped with elevators and escalators.

• The MRT tends to have wider gates and better facilities for people with disabilities.

Tips for Expats

• Buy both BTS and MRT cards to save time in queues.

• Use Google Maps or apps like ViaBus to plan combined routes.

• Save receipts for monthly travel cost tracking — useful if reimbursed by employers.

While the BTS and MRT systems are operated separately, they work together to make Bangkok more accessible than ever. As an expat, mastering both will significantly improve your quality of life, help you avoid traffic, and reduce transportation costs.

You don’t have to pick a side — just know when and how to use each!