Best data-only eSIM plans in March 2025
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Are you looking for a way to continue accessing the web and internet-based services while traveling abroad? A data-only eSIM is just what you need. These eSIMs provide seamless data connectivity across borders, ensuring you can keep up with work, stay in touch with family and friends, and share your adventures with the world.
With a data-only eSIM, you don’t have to depend on potentially unsafe Wi-Fi or pay costly roaming fees. And you don’t even have to swap out your regular SIM card to use an eSIM. While you can’t make calls or send SMS with a data-only eSIM, you can still use your regular SIM card for calls or turn to VoIP apps like FaceTime and WhatsApp to keep in touch with your contacts.
A vast majority of the eSIMs available today provide data-only plans. With so many options, understandably, it can be difficult to figure out which one to choose. Together with the Cybernews research team, I’ve conducted extensive tests to find the best data-only eSIMs for 2025. Keep reading to see which eSIMs made the cut.
Top 5 data-only eSIMs
- Saily – best data-only eSIM plans
- Airalo – best data-only eSIM for extended trips
- JetPack – budget-friendly eSIM with data-only plans
- Holafly – best data-only eSIM for unlimited data
- aloSIM – best data-only eSIM for business travels
I worked alongside the Cybernews research team to conduct extensive tests to find the best data-only eSIM providers. We picked the eSIMs below based on their coverage, plans, prices, user-friendliness, and customer support. While all the eSIMs below have data-only plans, some also support calling and texting.
Our team of experienced writers and highly skilled in-house researchers stands behind the essential eSIM stories, such as the Saily review and What is eSIM. Our transparent testing process includes analyzing the features of products and services. Discover more about our testing process.
The best data-only eSIMs - detailed list
Here’s a list of the best data-only eSIMs available today:
1. Saily – best data-only eSIM plans
| Supports 5G: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $1.89 (1GB of data, valid for 7 days) |
| Coverage: | 200+ countries |
Saily is an affordable data-only eSIM with short-term and long-term plans for travelers visiting over 200 countries. In addition to its reliable network and vast coverage, another reason I rank Saily highly is that it was created by Nord Security, a reputable cybersecurity brand responsible for popular products like NordVPN and NordPass.
Pricing and plans. Saily offers an array of local, regional, and global data plans. If you’re going on a short trip, its 7-day, 1GB plan is a good choice. However, if you are traveling for longer, it has plans valid for up to a year! Saily’s local and global eSIM plans give you a maximum of 20GB of data, while its regional plans come with up to 100GB of data.
Saily has an array of plans to suit different travelers, so whether you’re a backpacker or a digital nomad, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from. The prices of Saily’s data-only plans vary depending on your destination. Here’s an overview of the starting price of Saily’s local plans:
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB of data, valid for 7 days | $1.89 |
| 3GB of data, valid for 30 days | $4.99 |
| 5GB of data, valid for 30 days | $7.99 |
| 10GB of data, valid for 30 days | $14.99 |
| 20GB of data, valid for 30 days | $25.99 |
Coverage. Saily has coverage in over 200 countries, including many popular travel destinations such as the United States, Turkey, UAE, Malaysia, and Thailand. Depending on your location, you can expect LTE, 3G, 4G, or 5G connectivity from this eSIM.
Although this eSIM was launched relatively recently (in 2024), it’s already one of the top options for holidaymakers who need to stay connected to the internet at all times.
Customer support. This eSIM provider offers 24/7 customer support via live chat. You can also reach its customer support team via email. Saily's mobile app is easy to use, and the eSIM can be activated easily via the app. All you need to do is download the Saily app, create an account, buy a data plan, and click the activate button. That’s it!
2. Airalo – best data-only eSIM for extended trips
| Supports 5G: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $4.50 (1GB of data, valid for 7 days) |
| Coverage: | 200+ countries and regions |
Airalo is an excellent choice for travelers, thanks to its extensive coverage and flexible plans. While most of its plans are data-only, Airalo also has plans that support calling and texting, making it an all-round excellent eSIM for all travelers.
Pricing and plans. Airalo has a generous free 500MB offer (valid for 3 days) for new users. Beyond this introductory offer, it has a wide selection of local, regional, and global plans. Depending on the length of your trip, you can choose its 7-day, 15-day, or 30-day local eSIM plans, which offer 1GB to 20GB of data. Airalo also has regional and global plans that are valid for 60 to 365 days. Like Saily, its regional plans offer considerably more data — up to 100GB.
Airalo has two types of global eSIM plans, both covering over 200 countries. While its Discover global plans offer only data, its Discover+ global plans support calling and texting. This flexibility sets Airalo apart from Saily and other purely data-only eSIMs.
Airalo’s prices vary by country. Its cheapest local data plan costs $4.50 and gives you 1GB of data, valid for 7 days. The table below shows the usual starting price of Airalo’s local plans:
| Data plan | Price |
| 500MB of data, valid for 3 days | Free |
| 1GB of data, valid for 7 days | $4.50 |
| 2GB of data, valid for 15 days | $8.00 |
| 3GB of data, valid for 30 days | $11.00 |
| 5GB of data, valid for 30 days | $16.0 |
| 10GB of data, valid for 30 days | $26.00 |
| 20GB of data, valid for 30 days | $42.00 |
Coverage. Airalo has coverage in over 200 countries and regions; it has one of the widest coverage of any eSIM available today. You’ll likely find an Airalo eSIM plan for destinations other eSIM providers don’t cover. This eSIM supports LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G in different locations, depending on the local carrier.
Customer support. Airalo has a responsive customer support team that you can reach via its in-app live chat or email. However, it’s unlikely that you’ll encounter any issues using this eSIM. I found it incredibly easy to set it up and reliable. You can install and activate the eSIM by clicking “activate” on the Airalo app. You can also scan a QR code to activate it or enter the eSIM details manually.
3. JetPac – budget-friendly eSIM with data-only plans
| Supports 5G: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $1.00 (1GB of data, valid for 4 days) |
| Coverage: | 150+ countries |
Jetpac has the smallest coverage of all the eSIMs on this list; it’s available in just over 100 countries. However, it makes up for that with its $1.00 introductory offer for new users. Jetpac also offers perks like free lounge access at airports if your flight is delayed by over 60 minutes.
Pricing and plans. Jetpac has local, regional, and global data-only eSIM plans. But, unlike other eSIMs, all Jetpac plans have the same allocated data and validity period. Its plans come with 1GB to 50GB of data and are valid for 4 to 30 days. Jetpac is a pure data-only eSIM; it doesn’t support calling and texting on any of its plans.
Jetpac’s prices vary from country to country. It has a bargain offer for new users; you only pay $1.00 for a 1GB, 4-day plan. Outside of this $1.00 plan, Jetpac’s prices are not as affordable as Saily’s. Here’s a breakdown of Jetpac’s typical starting prices:
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB of data valid for 4 days | $1.00 |
| 3GB of data valid for 7 days | $5.00 |
| 5GB of data valid for 30 days | $8.00 |
| 10GB of data valid for 30 days | $13.00 |
| 15GB of data valid for 30 days | $20.00 |
| 20GB of data valid for 30 days | $22.00 |
| 30GB of data valid for 30 days | $28.00 |
| 40GB of data valid for 30 days | $39.00 |
| 50GB of data valid for 10 days (only available for some destinations) | $25.00 |
Coverage. JetPac has local eSIM plans for 150+ countries. Its regional and global plans cover a good portion of the globe. This eSIM supports 5G, 4G, 3G, and LTE in different locations.
Customer support. Jetpac has a reliable customer support team that you can reach 24/7 via live chat. You can also contact its customer service team via email. Like Nomad eSIM, you need to scan a QR code to install your Jetpac eSIM. The process is straightforward, and the provider has clear installation and activation instructions.
4. . Holafly – best data-only eSIM for unlimited data
| Supports 5G: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $6.00 (unlimited data, valid for 1 day) |
| Coverage: | 190+ countries and regions |
Holafly is the go-to eSIM for unlimited data during your travels. While it’s slightly more expensive than other eSIMs on this list, I think it’s worth the price. Another thing I love about Holafly is that you can purchase multiple eSIMs at once, so it’s great if you’re traveling with family, friends, or colleagues.
Pricing and plans. Holafly offers local, regional, and global data-only plans. This provider lets you customize your plan based on the duration of your trip (1 to 90 days) and the number of eSIMs you want. I recommend this eSIM, particularly for streamers, gamers, and people who consume a lot of data daily.
While Holafly doesn’t limit the bandwidth or speeds of its unlimited data plans, it says local carriers reserve the right to impose speed limitations based on their Fair Usage Policy. This means you may get slower speeds in some countries after consuming a certain amount of data daily.
Another thing worth noting is that Holafly limits data sharing to 500MB or 1GB (depending on your location). So, although it gives you unlimited data, you’ll need multiple eSIMs if you’re traveling with others.
As indicated above, Holafly’s prices are higher than those of the other eSIMs on this list. However, the price reduces the longer the duration of your plan. Here’s a quick overview of this provider’s prices for a 1 to 6-day plan:
| Data plan | Price |
| Unlimited data for 1 day | $6.00 |
| Unlimited data for 2 days | $9.90 |
| Unlimited data for 3 days | $12.90 |
| Unlimited data for 4 days | $16.90 |
| Unlimited data for 5 days | $20.90 |
| Unlimited data for 6 days | $24.90 |
Coverage. Holafly has coverage in over 200 countries and regions. You’ll get the best connectivity from this eSIM in cities than in rural areas. Holafly supports 5G, 4G, LTE, or 3G, depending on your location and the local carrier.
Customer support. You can reach Holafly’s customer support team 24/7 via live chat and WhatsApp. You can also email them. Unsurprisingly, you’ll get the fastest response if you opt for live chat or WhatsApp. Holafly is another eSIM on this list that uses QR-based activation. The eSIM provider will email you a QR code when you purchase a plan. Simply scan the QR code and follow the on-screen instructions to install and activate the eSIM.
5. Alosim – best data-only eSIM for business travels
| Supports 5G: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $4.50/week |
| Coverage: | 200+ countries |
aloSIM is a reliable eSIM with an array of data plans for short and long trips. In addition to its regular plans, aloSIM also offers data plans for businesses. Technically, this provider isn’t a data-only eSIM service, as each plan comes with free calling minutes and texts, but I think it’s worth adding to this list.
Pricing and plans. aloSIM offers local and regional eSIM plans. Its local plans are valid for 7 to 30 days and come with 1GB to 20GB of data. However, its regional plans are valid for up to 180 days and give you up to 100GB of data. As I mentioned above, all aloSIM plans come with a phone number, and you also get $1 free credit for calls and SMS. However, you need to download another app called Hushed to make calls and send SMS messages.
aloSIM’s prices start at $4.50 for a 7-day plan with 1GB of data. aloSIM’s plan for businesses, which supports unlimited users, also starts at $4.50 per week. Here’s a breakdown of the typical prices of aloSIMs local eSIM plans:
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB of data valid for 7 days | $4.50 |
| 2GB of data valid for 15 days | $8.00 |
| 3GB of data valid for 30 days | $11.00 |
| 5GB of data valid for 30 days | $16.00 |
| 10GB of data valid for 30 days | $26.00 |
| 20GB of data valid for 30 days | $42.00 |
Coverage. aloSIM has coverage in over 200 countries. It supports 5G in most locations, but depending on the local network infrastructure, you may get 4G, 3G, or LTE speeds.
Customer support. aloSIM has a 24/7 live chat service, and you can also email its customer support team. You can activate this eSIM by scanning a QR code or entering the eSIM details manually. I recommend opting for the QR-based activation method if you’re not very tech-savvy. Regardless of the method you choose, you won’t encounter any difficulties if you follow the eSIM provider’s instructions closely.
6. GigSky – flexible data-only eSIM with fixed and unlimited data plans
| Supports 5G: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $4.50 (1GB of data, valid for 7 days) |
| Coverage: | 190+ countries |
GigSky is the ultimate connectivity solution. It has plans for all travelers, whether you’re on land, on a flight, or sailing on the sea. GigSky offers both unlimited and fixed data plans for different locations. But you don’t have to trust this eSIM blindly; it offers 100MB for free, allowing you to test the service before committing to it.
Pricing and plans. GigSky has local, regional, and global data plans. It even has regional and global plans for cruises, ensuring you can stay connected at all times. GigSky offers both fixed and unlimited data plans, allowing you to choose what works best for you, depending on your needs and budget.
Its local plans typically come with 1GB to 10GB of data and are valid for 7 to 30 days. Like other providers, its regional plans offer more data (up to 50GB) and are valid for longer (up to 90 days). Unfortunately, it has only a single global plan, offering 5GB of data and valid for 30 days. Also, its unlimited data plans are valid for 15 days max.
It’s worth mentioning that GigSky limits the speeds of its unlimited data plans to 2.5GB daily. Once you consume 2.5GB in a day, your internet speed will slow down until the next day. This is one of the things that made me rank GigSky lower on this list.
Here’s a snapshot of the starting prices of GigSky’s local plans for most destinations:
| Data plan | Price |
| 100MB of data, valid for 7 days | Free |
| 1GB of data, valid for 7 days | $4.50 |
| 3GB of data, valid for 15 days | $9.99 |
| 5GB of data, valid for 30 days | $14.49 |
| 10GB of data, valid for 30 days | $23.99 |
| Unlimited data for 7 days | $25.99 |
| Unlimited data for 15 days | $37.99 |
Coverage. GigSky has coverage in 190+ destinations. This is particularly impressive considering it also has coverage on the seas and on flights. GigSky supports 5G speeds in many destinations, but you may also get 4G, LTE, or 3G.
Customer support. GigSky is one of the few eSIMs that allows you to contact its support team by phone, which ensures a speedy response. You can also reach its customer support staff via email. Like Holafly, you need to scan a QR code to install your GigSky eSIM. This provider has a user-friendly app, which makes it easy to set up and use this eSIM.
7. Nomad – data-only eSIM with an easy-to-use mobile app
| Supports 5G: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $4.00/week |
| Coverage: | 200+ countries |
Nomad is a perfect choice for travelers who are new to eSIMs and want a hassle-free experience. One of the perks of this eSIM is its intuitive mobile app. What’s more, Nomad also offers new users a free eSIM with 500MB of data. However, this offer is only available for 48 destinations.
Pricing and plans. Nomad has a variety of local, regional, and global data-only plans. While its local plans are valid for 7 to 30 days and offer 1GB to 50GB of data, its regional and global plans have longer validity periods. Nomad’s regional plans are valid for up to 180 days and its global plans are valid for up to a year. Both plans offer up to 50GB of data.
In addition to its Regular local plans, Nomad also has Day Plans, which give you 500MB to 1GB daily. Nomad’s Day Plans come with a safety net; you can continue browsing at 512kbps if you run out of data.
Nomad’s prices start at $4.00 for a 7-day plan with 1GB of data. Here’s a rundown of the usual prices of Nomad’s Regular local eSIM plans:
| Data plan | Price |
| 500MB of data, valid for 1 day | Free (only available for 48 destinations) |
| 1GB of data, valid for 7 days | $4.00 |
| 3GB of data, valid for 30 days | $8.00 |
| 5GB of data, valid for 30 days | $14.00 |
| 10GB of data, valid for 30 days | $17.00 |
| 20GB of data, valid for 30 days | $30.00 |
| 50GB of data, valid for 30 days | $45.00 |
Here’s an overview of the prices of Nomad’s Day plans:
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB of data + unlimited 512kbps for 1 day | $4.00 |
| 1GB of data + unlimited 512kbps daily for 3 days | $5.00 |
| 1GB of data + unlimited 512kbps daily for 5 days | $8.00 |
| 1GB of data + unlimited 512kbps daily for 7 days | $10.00 |
| 1GB of data + unlimited 512kbps daily for 10 days | $14.00 |
Coverage. Nomad has coverage in over 200 countries. While it supports 5G, depending on your location, you may get 4G, 3G, or LTE speeds instead.
Customer support. Nomad eSIM is easy to set up and use. However, if you encounter any issues, you can contact its customer support team via live chat or email. The team responds to emails within 24 hours. So, I recommend opting for live chat if you want a faster response. Installing Nomad eSIM via QR code is effortless. Once you scan the QR, you’ll be guided through the process. It only takes a few clicks to set up and activate the eSIM.
8. Roamless – best data-only eSIM for pay-as-you-go plans
| Supports 5G: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $2.45 (1GB of data that doesn’t expire) |
| Coverage: | 180+ countries and regions |
Roamless is the best eSIM for globetrotters, in my opinion. It offers pay-as-you-go plans that work in all countries where the eSIM has coverage. Plus, Roamless’ plans never expire. As a bonus, this eSIM also supports in-app phone calls. It’s an excellent eSIM for content creators, business executives, or anyone else who travels frequently to different destinations and need reliable, hassle-free internet connectivity.
Pricing and plans. Roamless doesn’t offer plans for specific countries or regions like other eSIMs on this list. Instead, its plans will work automatically in any country the eSIM has coverage — like the global plans of other eSIMs on this list.
Roamless is a true pay-as-you-go eSIM service. All you need to do is load money into your Roamless wallet, select how much data you need, and start browsing. You only pay for what you use. And, since its data plans don’t expire, you can always pick up the eSIM and continue browsing on your next trip.
There’s more to this eSIM, though. Roamless gives new users 500MB for free. And, unlike other providers, Roamless has no data sharing or speed limitations. As I mentioned above, this eSIM supports international calls with a pay-as-you-talk payment structure, starting from $0.01 per minute.
Here’s a rundown of the starting prices of Roamless’ data plans:
| Data plan | Price |
| 500MB of data (doesn’t expire) | Free |
| 1GB of data (doesn’t expire) | $2.45 |
| 2GB of data (doesn’t expire) | $4.90 |
| 3GB of data (doesn’t expire) | $7.35 |
| 5GB of data (doesn’t expire) | $12.25 |
| 10GB of data (doesn’t expire) | $24.50 |
Coverage. Roamless has coverage in over 180 countries and regions. It supports 3G, 4G, LTE, and 5G internet. The exact speeds of your connection depend on your location and the local carrier you’re connected to.
Customer support. You can contact the Roamless customer support team via phone or email. Like GigSky, I recommend contacting Roamless’ customer support team by phone if you need a quick response. It may take a few hours to get a response to email queries. Roamless has a sleek app and is straightforward to use.
Roamless is another eSIM that uses QR-based activation. The installation and activation process is similar to other eSIMs I’ve highlighted above.
9. Instabridge – affordable data-only eSIM with fixed and pay-as-you-go plans
| Supports 5G: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $2.00/week |
| Coverage: | 180+ countries |
Instabridge is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a data-only eSIM with fixed or pay-as-you-go plans. This eSIM provider is known for its affordable prices and fast speeds. In addition to its eSIM service, Instabridge also has a Wi-Fi map and a data-saving browser. However, you need to download different apps to use these tools.
Pricing and plans. Instabridge offers local, regional, and global data-only plans. All its plans come with 1GB to 20GB of data and are valid for 7 to 30 days. One of the biggest shortcomings of this eSIM is that its eSIM plans are not valid for longer than 30 days — even its regional and global plans. So, it may not be the best choice for travelers on extended trips. On the plus side, it has pay-as-you-go plans, which ensures you can avoid the limitations of fixed data plans.
Instabridge has the cheapest prices of all the eSIMs on this list. Here’s an outline of the starting prices of Instabridge’s local eSIM plans:
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB of data, valid for 7 days | $2.00 |
| 3GB of data, valid for 30 days | $4.50 |
| 10GB of data, valid for 30 days | $12.00 |
| 20GB of data, valid for 7 days | $16.00 |
| 1GB of data (pay-as-you-go) | $1.50 to $19.00 (prices vary depending on your destination) |
Coverage. Instabridge has coverage in over 190 countries. This eSIM provider only has regional plans for Asia, Europe, and Latin America, but not other parts of the world. Its global eSIM plan covers over 180 countries. This eSIM supports LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G connectivity.
Customer support. Instabridge has multiple customer support channels. You can contact its customer support team by filling out a form on its website or using the live chat option in the app. Additionally, you can turn to their knowledge base for information.
You can activate your Instabridge eSIM via the app; the process is automated. Just download the Instabridge app via Google Play Store or Apple’s App Store. Then, create an account, purchase a plan, click the activate button, and voila!
10. BNESIM - best budget-friendly eSIM for data-only plans
| Supports 5G: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $0.97 (1GB of data, valid for 30 days) |
| Coverage: | 200+ countries and regions |
BNESIM is the Swiss Army knife of eSIMs; it offers an array of options and tools for travelers. Not only does it offer fixed one-time and recurring data plans, but it also has pay-as-you-go plans as well as an international phone number, a VPN, pocket-sized mobile Wi-Fi devices, and even physical SIM cards.
Pricing and plans. BNESIM has local, regional, and global data-only plans. Its local and regional plans come with 1GB to 100GB of data. Its fixed plans are only valid for a month. Thankfully, BNESIM also has pay-as-you-go plans.
BNESIM has different fixed and non-expiry global plans: Mini Global (covering only 69 countries) and Global (covering 122 countries). The former is expectedly cheaper, so getting a BNESIM Mini Global plan may be an excellent way to save money if it covers the countries you’re visiting. BNESIM’s fixed Mini Global and Global plans come with a maximum of 20GB of data and are valid for 30 days max.
To make up for the relatively short duration of its fixed data plans, BNESIM allows you to select if you’re making a one-time or recurring purchase. This can be incredibly convenient for extended trips, as you don’t need to go through the hassle of buying a new data plan each month.
Here’s a quick look at the typical starting prices of BNESIM’s fixed local plans:
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB of data, valid for 30 days | $0.97 |
| 3GB of data, valid for 30 days | $2.36 |
| 5GB of data, valid for 30 days | $3.83 |
| 10GB of data, valid for 30 days | $7.30 |
| 20GB of data, valid for 7 days | $14.20 |
| 50GB of data, valid for 30 days | $30.64 |
| 100GB of data, valid for 30 days | $50.58 |
Coverage. BNESIM’s coverage spans over 200 countries, and it has regional plans covering every part of the world. This eSIM supports 5G in most destinations, but you may also get 4G LTE or 3G speeds.
Customer support. BNESIM has different customer support channels. You can reach its support team via live chat, email, or WhatsApp. You can also install the eSIM via the BNESIM app. Setting up and activating this eSIM only takes a few minutes.
Comparison of the top data-only eSIM providers
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of our top data-only eSIMs:
| Brand | Rating | Countries | Starting price | Compatibility | Networks |
| Saily | 4.9 | 200+ countries | $1.89 | All iPhones and Android devices that support eSIMs | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| Airalo | 4.7 | 200+ countries | $4.50 | All iPhones and Android devices that support eSIMs | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| Jetpac | 4.5 | 150+ countries | $1.00 | All iPhones and Android devices that support eSIMs | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| Holafly | 4.0 | 190+ countries and regions | $6.00 | All iPhones and Android devices that support eSIMs | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| aloSIM | 4.4 | 200+ countries | $4.50 | All iPhones and Android devices that support eSIMs | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| GigSky | 4.4 | 190+ countries | $4.50 | All iPhones and Android devices that support eSIMs | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| Nomad | 4.6 | 200+ countries | 4.00 | All iPhones and Android devices that support eSIMs | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| Roamless | 4.4 | 180+ countries and regions | $2.45 | All iPhones and Android devices that support eSIMs | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| Instabridge | 4.0 | 180+ countries | $2.00 | All iPhones and Android devices that support eSIMs | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| BNESIM | 3.8 | 200+ countries and regions | $0.97 | All iPhones and Android devices that support eSIMs | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
How we tested and ranked these data-only eSIMs
I picked the best data-only eSIMs above after extensive tests and analysis, paying particular attention to their coverage, data plans, speed, pricing, customer support, compatibility, and user-friendliness. Here’s a brief glimpse at the basis for this ranking:
- Coverage: I assessed each eSIM's coverage and picked those with extensive coverage in different parts of the world, particularly in tourist hotspots.
- Data plans: I looked at the data plans from different eSIM providers and picked eSIMs with various types of plans—local, regional, and global. I also included eSIMs that offer both prepaid and pay-as-you-go plans to suit different users.
- Speed: I analyzed the network speeds of different eSIM providers and chose eSIMs that support 5G and 4G in most locations to guarantee the best speeds.
- Pricing: I compared the prices of several eSIM providers and picked those with the best prices.
- Customer support: I assessed each eSIM provider's customer service channels and checked their response times. The eSIMs above have multiple customer support channels and are known for their relatively fast response times.
- Ease of use: I evaluated the user-friendliness of different eSIMs, including their activation methods and apps. The eSIMs I selected above are some of the most user-friendly options available today.
- Compatibility: I compared the number of devices that each eSIM works with and selected those that are compatible with a wide array of devices.
What is a data-only eSIM?
As the name implies, a data-only eSIM provides the most basic eSIM functionality — mobile data. In contrast, some eSIMs work like regular SIM cards; they come with a phone number, so in addition to accessing the internet, you can make phone calls and send SMS messages.
While they may seem more advanced, eSIMs that support phone calls and SMS messaging are not different from data-only eSIMs in any way other than their extra functionality.
A data-only eSIM is an excellent eSIM for travelers; it beats getting a local SIM card. It can even be used as an IoT eSIM, providing internet connectivity to IoT devices. I recommend choosing a data-only eSIM if you only need data and don’t need a phone number to make calls or send SMS messages.
It’s worth noting that data-only eSIM plans are usually much cheaper than eSIM plans that include support for phone calls and SMS messaging. So, they are worth considering if you’re on a budget. Also, the vast majority of the eSIM providers available today offer data-only data. However, some providers offer data-only plans as well as plans that support phone calls and SMS, allowing you to choose the type of eSIM plan that suits your needs.
How does data-only eSIM work?
Wondering how a data-only eSIM works? Well, data-only eSIMs work like regular SIM cards; they connect your device to a local carrier, allowing you to access the web. The only difference is that you don’t get a phone number and can’t use the eSIM to make calls or send SMS messages. Most people who use data-only eSIMs rely on VoIP apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Facebook Messenger for calling and texting.
There are numerous advantages to using a data-only eSIM, especially when traveling. It eliminates the hassle of getting a physical SIM card or removing your regular SIM card. Plus, you can have multiple eSIM profiles on your phone without being limited by the number of SIM card slots on your device. I’ll explore the benefits of data-only eSIMs in more detail below.
Benefits of using a data-only eSIM
There are numerous benefits of using a data-only eSIM, whether you’re a traveler, a business person, or just want reliable internet connectivity. I’ll explore some of the benefits of data-only eSIMs below:
- Convenience. A data-only eSIM makes it very convenient to access the internet from anywhere in the world. For travelers, this means you don’t have to get a local SIM card or have to depend on Wi-Fi in a new country. You don’t even have to swap out your regular SIM card to use an eSIM. What’s more, if you set up your eSIM before setting off on your trip, you can access the internet the minute you arrive at your destination.
- Cost savings. Using an eSIM is much cheaper than paying expensive roaming charges when traveling. There are many affordable eSIM plans to choose from. It’s worth noting that the cost of data-only eSIM plans is often on par with or cheaper than the local mobile internet rates in most countries.
- Compatibility. Data-only eSIMs are compatible with a wide range of devices, ensuring you can stay connected to the internet. In addition to smartphones, tablets, and secondary devices, they can also connect wearables and IoT devices to the internet.
- Flexibility. Data-only eSIMs offer a lot of flexibility. For example, you can access the Internet without signing up for a long-term contract with a network carrier. eSIM providers allow you to choose from short-term or long-term plans depending on your needs. And, with a data-only eSIM, you don’t have to depend on Wi-Fi, allowing you to explore new destinations freely.
- Improved security. Compared to physical SIM cards, eSIMs are less susceptible to threats like SIM swapping attacks. Since they’re virtual, eSIMs can’t be stolen or lost. If your device is lost or stolen, you can easily sign in to your account on the eSIM provider’s website and suspend your account.
Use cases for data-only eSIMs
The potential use cases of data-only eSIMs are almost too many to count. I’ll highlight some of the most relevant data-only eSIM use cases:
- Travelers. A data-only eSIM can be a good travel eSIM, allowing you to easily access internet-based services and navigate new countries. You can easily find directions to your hotel or Airbnb, and book rides on apps like Uber. An eSIM ensures you hit the ground running in any country without having to search for phone retail shops to get a local SIM card.
- Remote workers. Many digital nomads use a data-only eSIM for remote work, ensuring they can always stay connected to the Internet. An eSIM allows you to access the internet without disruption while exploring different parts of the world.
- IoT devices. Need to connect an IoT device like your smartwatch to the internet? Why not get an IoT eSIM? You can easily set up an eSIM on your IoT device, ensuring you can use their full functionality.
- Backup for unreliable Wi-Fi. Whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or using public Wi-Fi in a distant part of the world, we can all agree that it can be frustrating to use unreliable Wi-Fi. A data-only eSIM is an excellent back-up for unreliable Wi-Fi, ensuring you can always access internet-based platforms and services.
What to consider when choosing the best prepaid eSIM plan?
There are numerous eSIM providers available today, so deciding which one to use isn’t always easy. It’s essential to consider what you need from an eSIM before selecting one. Here are a few pointers to help you choose the best prepaid eSIM plan for your specific needs:
- Coverage and network quality: The first and arguably the most important thing to do when choosing an eSIM is to check the provider’s coverage in the country or countries you plan to visit. I recommend using a network map to see an eSIM's coverage in different parts of a country.
- Data allowance: Check how much data the eSIM provider offers with its plans, and try to guess how much data you’ll need during your travels. It’s nearly impossible to estimate how much data you’ll need accurately, so it’s best to ensure you have more data than you think is necessary.
- Cost and value: Compare the price of the eSIM plan you want with the prices of similar plans from different eSIM providers. Some eSIM providers are more expensive than others but don’t necessarily offer a better service. It’s best to pick an eSIM plan from a reputable provider that’s within your price range and offers all the services you need.
- Validity period: Consider the validity of your eSIM plan and the duration of your trip. Ensure the plan won’t expire before your trip ends to avoid being cut off from the internet while traveling.
- Data sharing: Would you like to share your internet connection with other devices? Then, ensure the eSIM provider you’ve chosen supports data sharing via hotspot.
- Compatibility: Ensure your phone is compatible with eSIMs before buying an eSIM plan. Even then, some eSIMs may not be compatible with particular devices, so confirm that the eSIM you’ve chosen works with your device.
How to check if your device is eSIM-compatible
It’s easy to check if your phone supports eSIMs. Most smartphones released after 2018 are eSIM-compatible. However, depending on the manufacturer and model of your device, it may not work with eSIMs. We have a detailed guide explaining how to check if your phone is compatible with eSIMs. Below, I’ll briefly explain how to determine if your iPhone or Android smartphone works with eSIMs:
How to check eSIM compatibility on iPhones
Apple is one of the phone manufacturers that has embraced eSIM technology. All iPhones released after 2018 (i.e., iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, and newer devices) support eSIMs. The easiest way to determine if your iPhone is eSIM-compatible is to go to Settings > General > About and scroll down to find “Available SIM” and a 15-digit IMEI number. If you see them, your device is compatible with eSIMs.
How to check eSIM compatibility on Android phones
Many Android smartphone manufacturers, including Samsung and Google, have several eSIM-compatible devices on the market. The exact way to determine if your Android device supports eSIMs may vary depending on the Android version you’re using and the manufacturer and model of your device. However, it generally involves going to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager. If there’s an option to add an eSIM, your device supports eSIMs.
You can also look up your phone specifications on the manufacturer’s website to see if it supports eSIMs.
Note: If your device is carrier-locked, you won’t be able to install an eSIM on it, even if it’s eSIM-compatible. Carrier-locked devices are tied to a particular network carrier. In some cases, it may be possible to unlock the device. If your phone is carrier-locked, I recommend reaching out to your internet service provider to enquire if it can be unlocked.
eSIM-compatible devices
Below is a list of eSIM-compatible devices from some major phone brands.
| iPhone | XR, XS, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 |
| Google Pixel | 2 (with Google Fi), 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Fold |
| Samsung Galaxy | S20, S20X, S21, S22, S23, Fold, Z Flip |
| Huawei | P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro |
| Xiaomi | 12T Pro, 13 |
Our article on eSIM-compatible phones contains a more comprehensive list of phones that support eSIMs.
How to activate a data-only eSIM
It’s easy to set up and use a data-only eSIM. It takes a few clicks to install and manage your eSIM data plan. Below, I’ll explain how to install and activate your data-only eSIM using the QR code shared by your eSIM provider.
How to use eSIM for data only on iPhone
- Go to your ‘Settings’ app.
- Select ‘Cellular,’ followed by ‘Add Cellular Plan.’
- Now, you should be able to scan the QR code shared by your selected provider or manually enter your eSIM details to complete the activation process.
How to use eSIM for data only on Android
- Go to the ‘Settings’ app.
- Select ‘Network & Internet’ followed by ‘Mobile Network.’
- Tap ‘Advanced’ and then ‘Carrier.’ You should be able to scan the QR code or manually enter the eSIM details to set it up.
How do you make calls with a data-only eSIM?
It’s possible to make calls with a data-only eSIM using VoIP apps such as Skype, WhatsApp, or Facetime. These apps allow you to make calls via the Internet without needing a traditional phone number. You can also use your regular SIM card to make calls, but international calls usually incur higher charges.
Final thoughts on the best data-only eSIMs
Using a data-only eSIM can help you save money and stay connected with colleagues, family, and friends during your travels. There are many data-only eSIMs available today, so you must consider your options carefully before making a pick.
Based on the tests I conducted with the Cybernews team, Saily is the overall best data-only eSIM as it offers affordable prices, has extensive coverage, regional and global plans and is easy to set up.
FAQ
Can I use eSIM for data only?
Yes, you can use an eSIM for data only. Many eSIM providers do not offer other functionalities like SMS or calls, so their primary function is to provide data connection.
Can I make phone calls with a data-only eSIM?
Yes, you can make calls with your data-only eSIM using VoIP apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and Facetime.
Is eSIM better for data?
eSIMs offer a more flexible and convenient way to connect to the Internet anywhere in the world. Their immediate setup, cost-effectiveness, and multiple eSIM profiles make the eSIMs a more appealing option for travelers.
Can you get a data-only eSIM card?
Yes, most eSIMs available on the market are data-only eSIMs. Saily is our overall best data-only eSIM thanks to its affordable price tag, user-friendly app, and wide coverage.
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