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eSIMs have become more popular with travelers because of their ubiquitousness and convenience.
Instead, you might activate an eSIM and access cellular networks in multiple countries.
We tested many eSIM providers and chose the few that provide the best service across Asia.
Covering over 180 countries, Saily partners with local providers to ensure reliable connections and fast speeds.
Best eSIM for Asia overall
1.
Airalo
Our expert review:
Airalo is an eSIM provider with excellent online grid coverage.
you’re able to travel to these countries with your Asialink eSIM and enjoy a superfast internet connection.
The main drawback is that none of these plans include a phone number to make calls and receive SMS.
However, you’re free to still call via VoIP apps likeWhatsAppand Line.
Read our fullAiralo review.
Best eSIM for Asia for affordability
2.
Saily
Saily is a newcomer in the eSIM market but has quickly become very popular amongst travelers.
Compared to its competitors, Saily’s plans are more flexible and affordable.
We also found the installation process to be straightforward.
No documentation is required.
One drawback worth noting is that there is no phone number provided.
Read our fullSaily review.
Best eSIM for Asia for unlimited data
3.
However, Holafly shines above Saily by offering unlimited data to its customers.
Flexible pricing is a major advantage of choosing Holafly.
There are no standard data fees it depends on how many days you select.
Holafly offers data-only plans without phone numbers for calling.
Most eSIM providers dont offer phone numbers because of the complicated regulations and infrastructure required to do so.
Purchasing a Holafly plan is easy.
After payment, you’ll receive a QR code in your email.
Scan this code to activate your plan and enjoy unlimited data.Use code TECHRADAR to get 5% off.
Read our fullHolafly review.
Best eSIM for Asia for internet coverage
4.
Yesim
Yesim offers affordable plans and robust online grid coverage.
Like the other eSIM providers mentioned so far, Yesim requires no documentation.
you’re able to purchase a package online and activate your eSIM immediately after payment.
All it takes is scanning the QR code sent to your email address.
Best eSIM for Asia for pay-as-you-go
5.
BNE eSIM
The BNE eSIM is an excellent option for Asian travelers.
It notably offers pay-as-you-go plans, i.e., data plans that dont have a fixed expiring date.
This pay-as-you-go option makes BNE eSIM suitable for people who expect to spend a long time in Asia.
BNE offers data plans between 1 GB and 20 GB.
The pay-as-you-go option costs slightly more than the fixed 30-day option.
Best eSIM for Southeast Asia
6.
Maya Mobile
Maya Mobile is a U.S.-based eSIM provider that offers global web connection coverage.
you could buy a Maya eSIM and enjoy superfast internet access across Asia.
Maya has online grid-sharing agreements with at least 2 domestic networks in most Southeast Asian nations.
you’re free to buy a Maya eSIM without documentation.
After payment, you’ll scan the QR code sent to your email address to activate the eSIM.
Alternatively, you could reserve a data plan for a future date, which will be activated automatically.
Maya offers unlimited data plans but with a catch.
Once you reach that limit, you’re free to only browse at LTE speeds.
Another drawback is that Mayas most affordable plan doesnt support Wi-Fi hotspot sharing.
Best eSIM for data tethering
7.
Ubigi
Ubigi provides its services to over 200 destinations around the world.
There are a lot of pricing options, with various data allowances.
The cheapest plan starts at $3 and it gives you 500MB for just one day.
You have 1GB, 3GB, 10GB, 24GB, 25GB, and even 60GB options.
There are also combos depending on which countries you are visiting.
For instance, there is a dedicated plan for Japan+South Korea, or Malaysia+Singapore.
The app itself is pretty easy to use and install, even if youre a newbie.
The eSIM provider has several interesting features as well, such as seamless data tethering without any restrictions.
Unfortunately, there is no phone or email support, but chances are you probably wont need it anyway.
In case you do, youll have to use the contact form, or the live chat.
you’ve got the option to still make VoIP calls through apps like WhatsApp however.
Read our fullUbigi review.
Best eSIMs for Asia FAQs
What is an eSIM?
eSIM is an abbreviation for embedded SIM.
An eSIM allows you to activate a cellular connection from a carrier without swapping any physical SIM.
All the configurations take place on your phone, so you could connect to new networks without hassles.
Why do I need an eSIM when visiting Asia?
Asia has 48 countries with over 4.8 billion people between them.
The issue is that roaming packages have steep costs, which leaves eSIMs as the cost-effective solution.
you could buy and activate an eSIM outside of the country you want to visit.
Once you reach your desired country, you might use the activated eSIM to surf the web.
eSIM providers dont usually own telecom networks.
Instead, they tap into the infrastructure of existing mobile carriers across different countries.
Theyve negotiated web connection-sharing agreements that allow eSIM owners to tap into domestic networks when they visit new countries.
For instance, you live in Denmark and want to visit Thailand.
it’s possible for you to buy an eSIM and activate it while in Denmark.
Is my phone eSIM-compatible?
eSIMs became popular in 2018 afterApplereleased the first eSIM-only iPhone to U.S. customers.
For iPhones
For Android phones
If you’re unsure about compatibility, check your smartphone manufacturers website.
eSIM compatibility will likely be mentioned in your smartphones technical specifications.
Considerations for choosing an eSIM
1.
Location
eSIM providers offer different plans for different countries.
The provider youll choose depends on the countries in Asia you want to visit.
The good news is that you might find an eSIM plan covering Asia.
Validity
How long will your data subscription last?
eSIM providers offer plans lasting 7 days, 13 days, 20 days, 30 days, etc.
Some even provide annual or non-expiring data plans.
The plan to choose depends on the duration of your trip.
Data usage
You must consider browsing habits when choosing an eSIM plan.
Customer service
Can you contact customer support if you have any eSIM issues?
Excellent customer service gives you peace of mind, knowing you could always get help when required.
Cost
Of course, its essential to choose a plan you could afford.
Compare similar data or phone plans from different eSIM providers for a fair price.
The idea is to purchase a plan that gives a good bang for your buck.
Coverage
Research what networks your eSIM provider uses in each country you plan to visit.
Its better to choose an eSIM provider compatible with multiple networks instead of one.
This way, youre assured of getting coverage even in less populated areas.
We then compared the overall results to draw up our list.
Read more on how we test, rate, and review products on TechRadar.
