General
A prepaid eSIM is a digital SIM card that you can download and activate directly on your compatible smartphone or device.
An eSIM works by storing your carrier's profile digitally on your device. Instead of a physical SIM card, the eSIM is embedded in your phone's hardware. You activate it by scanning a QR code or entering an activation code provided by your eSIM provider.
eSIMs offer several advantages: no need to swap physical SIM cards, ability to store multiple profiles on one device, instant activation, better security, and they're perfect for travelers who need local data without expensive roaming fees.
Not all phones support eSIM technology. Most modern smartphones from major manufacturers do, including iPhones (XR/XS and newer), Samsung Galaxy models (S20 and newer), Google Pixel devices, and many other flagship phones. Check your device specifications to confirm eSIM compatibility.
Yes! Most eSIM-compatible devices allow you to store multiple eSIM profiles. However, you can typically only use one eSIM for data at a time, along with your physical SIM. This makes it easy to switch between different plans without removing any cards.
Yes, eSIMs are generally more secure than physical SIM cards. They use the same encryption standards and cannot be physically removed or stolen. Your data is protected by your device's security features and the carrier's network security protocols.
Yes, you can always switch back to a physical SIM card. Your device will still have the physical SIM slot available. You can use both simultaneously - your physical SIM for calls/texts and an eSIM for data, or switch between them as needed.
Comparing eSIMs on eSIMradar
We primarily focus on comparing prepaid eSIM data plans designed for travelers.
Use our comparison tool to filter plans by country, data amount, validity period, and price. Compare coverage, network speeds, and provider ratings. Look for plans that match your travel duration and data usage needs.
Consider these factors: coverage in your destination, data allowance for your needs, validity period matching your trip length, network speed (4G/5G), price, provider reliability, and customer support availability. Also check for any fair usage policies or speed restrictions.
Purchase of an eSIM
You can purchase eSIMs from various online marketplaces specializing in eSIMs, carrier websites and apps, or sometimes even within travel apps.
Most eSIM providers accept major credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, and sometimes digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay. Payment is typically processed securely through the provider's website or app at the time of purchase.
Most eSIMs are delivered instantly via email after purchase. You'll receive a QR code and activation instructions within minutes. Some providers may take up to 24 hours, but instant delivery is the standard for most prepaid eSIM plans.
Installation of an eSIM
The installation process usually involves scanning a QR code or manually entering an activation code.
Yes, you can install an eSIM without WiFi. You only need an internet connection (WiFi or cellular data) to download the eSIM profile initially. Once downloaded, the eSIM works independently and doesn't require WiFi to function.
eSIM installation is typically very fast, usually taking just 1-2 minutes. The process involves scanning the QR code, downloading the profile, and activating it. Most installations complete within seconds to a couple of minutes, depending on your internet connection speed.
Refunds
Refund policies vary between eSIM providers. Be sure to carefully check the provider's refund policy before purchasing.
If your eSIM doesn't work, first try troubleshooting steps: check device compatibility, ensure you're in a covered area, verify the eSIM is activated, and restart your device. If issues persist, contact the provider's customer support. Most providers offer refunds or replacements for non-functional eSIMs within their refund policy timeframe.
Refund processing times vary by provider, typically ranging from 3-14 business days. The refund will appear in your original payment method. Some providers process refunds faster, while others may take the full two weeks. Check your provider's specific refund policy for exact timelines.
Roaming Fees
Roaming fees are additional charges your mobile carrier applies when you use your phone outside your home network's coverage area.
The best way to avoid roaming fees is to use a local eSIM for data in your destination country. Keep your home SIM for calls/texts (if needed) and use the eSIM exclusively for mobile data. You can also disable data roaming on your home SIM and rely entirely on the eSIM for internet access.
Yes, it's recommended to turn off data roaming on your home SIM to prevent unexpected charges. With an eSIM active for data, you won't need roaming on your primary SIM. You can keep your home SIM active for calls and texts while using the eSIM for all data needs.
It depends on your eSIM plan. Some eSIMs are country-specific, while others offer regional or global coverage. Regional plans cover multiple countries in a specific area (like Europe or Asia), and global plans work in many countries worldwide. Check your plan's coverage before traveling.
Roaming uses your home carrier's network through partner networks abroad, which is expensive. A local eSIM connects directly to local networks in your destination, giving you local rates and better coverage. eSIMs are typically much cheaper and faster than roaming.
No, eSIMs don't charge roaming fees because they connect to local networks in your destination country. You pay a fixed price for the eSIM plan upfront, and all data usage within the plan's coverage area is included. Just make sure data roaming is disabled on your home SIM to avoid any charges from your primary carrier.
Troubleshooting
Check Compatibility, Ensure Data Connection, verify QR Code Validity, turn off Airplane Mode, and contact Provider Support if needed.
First, ensure you're in a covered area and the eSIM is activated. Try toggling airplane mode on and off, restart your device, check that the eSIM is selected for cellular data in settings, and verify you haven't exceeded your data limit. If problems persist, contact your provider's support team.
You can check your data balance through your device's cellular settings (usually under the eSIM profile), through your provider's mobile app (if available), or by contacting your provider's customer support. Some providers also send usage updates via SMS or email.
Yes, you can delete an eSIM profile from your device settings, but be careful - once deleted, you may need a new activation code from your provider to reinstall it. Some providers allow reactivation, while others require purchasing a new plan. Contact your provider before deleting if you plan to reuse the eSIM.