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Over the last few years, using an eSIM (embedded SIM card) has quickly become a cheap and easy way to stay connected while traveling abroad. It allows users to connect to mobile networks without needing a physical SIM card in their phone.
If you’re a frequent budget traveler, you may be used to buying physical SIM cards in the airport when you land to get affordable cell phone data service. Or, perhaps you have opted for the simplicity of the international plans offered by your phone carrier.
eSIMs have allowed users to have a much more convenient and flexible way to stay connected, as it eliminates the need for physical cards that need to be inserted or swapped out and is a much more affordable option compared to phone carriers' international plans (which can often cost $10 per day).
With an eSIM, users can switch between different network providers or data plans online or through a dedicated app on their phone. This is especially beneficial for frequent travelers and digital nomads, considering how much time and money eSIMs help save. But which eSIM is right for you? Let's take a look at some of the top options.
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Which eSIM Is the Best?
While there are tons — and I mean TONS — of eSIM carrier companies, we’re going to look at these three popular and widely used carriers and compare their pros and cons:
All three carriers offer similar coverage and data plans, but depending on your travel amount, destination, and data needs, one may be a more suitable choice. Before we help you decide which eSIM is right for your particular needs, here's a high-level overview of what each provider offers:
| Carrier | Airalo | GigSky | FlexiRoam |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Coverage | 200 countries & regions; extensive coverage in major regions | 200 countries & regions; strong regional plans for Europe, Asia, and the Americas | 200 countries & regions; extensive coverage in major regions |
| Regional Plans | Local, regional, and global plans available | Both regional and country-specific plans | Local, regional, and global plans |
| Remote Areas | Limited in remote areas; coverage depends on local providers | Can be limited in remote regions, especially in developing countries | Limited in rural areas |
| App Experience | Clear instructions and straightforward process for activating and installing eSIM | Easy to navigate app; some glitches reported | Fast setup and user-friendly app |
| Pricing | Competitive pricing, especially for short-term travelers | Can be more expensive compared to Airalo and FlexiRoam depending on length of travel and region | Flexible pricing with multiple plans to choose from; can be more expensive for long-term travel |
| Plans Offered | Offers a wide range of different data plans for both global and regional plans | Offers a wide range of different data plans for both global and regional plans | Local, regional, and global plans; only company to offer unlimited data plans |
| Top-ups | Easy to top-up data in-app | Easy to top-up data in-app | Easy to top-up data in-app |
| Customer Support | Live 24/7 chat available in-app and email; generally very quick to respond | Email and chat support available; response support can be slow during peak times | Offers 24/7 live support through WhatsApp and email |
| Multiple eSIMs | Supports multiple eSIM profiles and can easily be switched between | Supports multiple eSIM profiles but may be slightly less intuitive | Allows multiple profiles and seamless switching between plans |
| One-time installation | Each eSIM can be reused, but you have to install a new eSIM for different plans | Can be installed once and reused | Can be installed once and reused |
Related: The Best Voice And Data Plans For International Travel
Which eSIM Is Right for You?
Short-term travelers and budget-conscious users
If you're a short-term and/or budget-conscious traveler, Airalo is arguably the best choice. Here are some of the reasons why:
- Airalo offers competitive pricing for short-term trips, especially if you need regional or local plans.
- Flexible data plans cater to different budgets and allow you to pay only for the amount of data you need.
- The app is easy to use, and 24/7 customer support is a big advantage if you face any issues during your travels.
Long-term travelers and frequent travelers
FlexiRoam is ideal for long-term travelers and digital nomads in need of flexible and global coverage.
- FlexiRoam offers excellent flexibility for multiple eSIM profiles, making it a great option for frequent travelers who want to switch between regions without hassle.
- Offers a mix of regional and country-specific plans to give better rates in specific locations.
- Convenient for city-based travel with 4G/5G support in major urban areas.
- Seamless profile switching is a plus if you're hopping between countries frequently.
Regional travel (e.g., Asia, Europe, and the Americas)
GigSky is best for travelers heading to Asia, Europe, or the Americas. It offers region-specific plans with great pricing and reliable coverage in major tourist areas.
- GigSky excels in regional data plans optimized for regions like Asia, Europe, and the Americas. This can be a huge advantage if you travel primarily within these areas and want to access the best rates.
- The app functionality is user-friendly, making it easy to manage your plan and data usage.
Best for travelers staying in cities and urban areas
For those who need speed, FlexiRoam can't be beat. It offers excellent coverage in cities and urban areas but performs better in major destinations.
- FlexiRoam provides excellent 4G/5G speeds and solid coverage in cities.
- Regional packages offer good value for city-based stays and ensure reliable service with fewer concerns about network quality.
Best for flexibility and convenience
Airalo stands out for travelers seeking convenience, offering easy-to-use eSIMs, affordable short-term plans, and seamless regional travel management via its app.
- Airalo’s app and multiple regional plans offer great convenience for travelers hopping between countries. The ability to switch between eSIM profiles and purchase new plans directly through the app is super easy.
- While Flexiroam offers great flexibility with multiple profiles, Airalo is more cost-effective for those with a mix of short-term stays and frequent trips across various regions.
Final Thoughts
Airalo is our top pick for travelers looking for affordable, flexible eSIMs with wide global coverage. It’s an easy, cost-effective solution for short trips or frequent visits to multiple countries, making it a reliable choice for most travel needs.
For long-term travelers and digital nomads, FlexiRoam shines with its ability to manage multiple profiles and switch between data plans seamlessly. It’s the best fit if you’re on the move for extended periods or need specific coverage across different regions.
Lastly, GigSky is a great option for region-specific travel, particularly in Asia, Europe, and the Americas. While not as versatile for global use, it’s dependable for city-based travelers who require coverage and performance in central areas.
Do you use an eSIM? Which provider do you prefer when traveling abroad?
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