eSIM providers
Jul 8 – Oct 25, 2026Updated Oct 25, 2026
Reviewed by Dimitry Apollonsky
Which brands AI mentions
Mentioned in
ChatGPTChatGPTGoogle AI ModeGoogle AI Mode
Widest split: Saily, 32% on ChatGPT and 76% on Google AI Mode.
Questions and answers
ChatGPTOct 25, 2026
You can get an eSIM (a digital SIM card) from your mobile carrier, online eSIM providers, or stores that sell phone plans. The best place depends on whether you need a regular phone number in the US or mobile data for traveling abroad.
Where to get an eSIM
1. US mobile carriers
Best if you want a US phone number, calls, texts, and data.
- T-Mobile
- AT&T
- Verizon
Visit a store or check the carrier's website for eSIM activation.
2. Travel eSIM apps
Best for getting mobile data without buying a physical SIM when visiting another country.
- Airalo —
- Holafly —
- Ubigi —
3. Online or in-store phone retailers
Some phone retailers can help you activate an eSIM through a supported carrier. You can also purchase eligible plans directly online.
Before buying, make sure your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked if you plan to use a different provider. Apple lists compatible US carriers and international eSIM providers here: Apple's eSIM provider guide.
Quick question: Are you looking for an eSIM for everyday use in the US, a temporary US number, or travel abroad? I can point you to the best options for your situation.
Sources cited in this answer6
- airalo.comBuy eSIMs for international travel - Airalo | Airalo
- esim.holafly.comBuy eSIM for International Travel | Holafly
- ubigi.comUbigi: Global Cellular Connectivity Services Provider
- support.apple.comFind wireless carriers and worldwide service providers that offer eSIM service on iPhone - Apple Support
- support.apple.comFind wireless network providers and worldwide service providers that offer eSIM service on iPhone
- ccn.web.trUse eSIM while traveling internationally with your iPhone
Google AI ModeOct 25, 2026
Where you should get an eSIM depends entirely on whether you need a local carrier plan or a travel data plan for an international trip.
1. For International Travel (Prepaid Data)
If you are traveling abroad and want to avoid expensive carrier roaming fees, third-party digital providers let you buy and activate data plans via their apps or websites before you leave:
- Airalo: One of the largest and most popular choices, offering affordable regional and local data packages in over 200 destinations.
- Saily: A budget-friendly travel eSIM app backed by the security team behind NordVPN, featuring easy in-app top-ups.
- Holafly: Ideal if you want unlimited data plans (available in 190+ destinations), though it tends to be pricier than fixed-data alternatives.
- Ubigi: Great for reliable 5G coverage across numerous countries with flexible options ranging from single-day to long-term plans.
- Sim Local: Offers extensive global destinations and physical/digital hybrid options, including localized European packages.
2. For Domestic/Main Carrier Plans (Primary Line)
If you want an eSIM as your main phone number and permanent cellular plan, you can buy it directly from major network operators. You can usually order online or sign up via their respective apps:
- Major US Carriers: Verizon, AT&T , and T-Mobile.
- Prepaid/MVNO Carriers: Providers like Mint Mobile, Visible , and Cricket Wireless support instant eSIM activation right through your phone.
Quick Checklist Before Buying:
- Check Compatibility: Ensure your phone is unlocked (not locked to a specific carrier) and supports eSIM technology.
- Installation: Most travel providers will email you a QR code or prompt you to install the eSIM directly through their iOS/Android app immediately upon purchase.
ChatGPTOct 16, 2026
Absolutely! If you’re looking to buy an eSIM plan online, I’d start with a few established providers that let you compare data allowances, prices, and coverage before purchasing. The best choice depends on whether you need data for international travel or a regular mobile plan in the US.
Recommended eSIM providers
1. Airalo
(Best all-rounder)
Offers local, regional, and global data plans across many destinations. A good starting point for comparing plans for a single country or a multi-country trip.
Website:
2. Saily
(Worth checking for value)
Offers prepaid travel data plans in more than 200 destinations, with options for different trip lengths. It also includes additional online security features.
Website:
3. Holafly
(Best to consider for heavy data use)
Specializes in unlimited-data travel plans. Useful if you expect to use maps, social media, video, or other data-heavy apps frequently. Check fair-use and hotspot restrictions before buying.
Website:
4. Ubigi
A strong option to compare if you want fixed-data bundles, flexible plan options, or connectivity across several destinations.
Website:
5. Nomad
Another good option for comparing fixed-data travel packages, particularly for destinations such as Japan and Europe. Eligible new users may also find a free trial plan.
Website:
Which one should you choose?
If you want… Start with An easy option for most trips Airalo A budget-friendly plan Saily Lots of data Holafly Flexible data packages Ubigi Another option to compare prices Nomad These are starting points rather than guaranteed cheapest options; prices and coverage vary by destination.
Before buying: Make sure your phone supports eSIMs and is carrier-unlocked. Check whether the plan includes calls and texts or data only, and whether hotspot sharing is allowed.
One question so I can narrow this down: What country do you need the eSIM for? For example, the US, Japan, Europe, or multiple countries.
Sources cited in this answer9
- cnbc.com7 Best eSIMs for International Travel in 2026
- uncompromised.travelBest Travel eSIM 2026: Airalo vs Nomad vs Holafly vs Saily vs Ubigi
- airalo.comBuy eSIMs for international travel - Airalo | Airalo
- uncompromised.travelBest Travel eSIM Providers 2026: 11 Ranked and Scored
- saily.comGet Saily: Affordable eSIM plans for international travel
- travelconnectly.comBest eSIM for USA 2026: Saily vs Airalo vs Holafly Prices Compared
Google AI ModeOct 16, 2026
You can buy an eSIM plan online through dedicated international travel eSIM marketplaces, local major network carriers, or prepaid MVNO providers depending on whether you need local service or international data .
Top International Travel eSIM Providers
- Airalo : Widely praised in user reviews and expert recommendations as one of the best and easiest platforms for first-time users, offering localized, regional, and global data packs across over 200 countries via a dedicated mobile app.
- Holafly : Noted in reviews for providing flexible, high-capacity and unlimited data plans alongside 24/7 English technical support across numerous international destinations.
- ETravelSim : Offers data-only and talk-and-text bundles, such as a 7 GB data plan for 30 days starting around $10 or a 10 GB data plus unlimited calls plan for roughly $24, with activation triggered upon network connection.[1][2]
Major Domestic & Regional Carriers (US-Based)
- T-Mobile : Offers direct digital prepaid and postpaid eSIM activation online or through their app for nationwide domestic coverage.
- US Mobile : Highly flexible prepaid digital carrier operating on major domestic networks with instant eSIM download options.
If you let me know whether you need an eSIM for domestic use within the US or for travel to a specific international country , I can recommend the exact right plan size and provider for your trip.
Also asked as
- Can you list some companies that sell eSIM plans?
