Last Updated: March 2023
Looking for the best eSim when travelling to the USA? We’ve reviewed over 20 premium eSim providers and packages and picked the best below. We also answer the most frequent questions about eSims below.
COMMON QUESTIONS:
If you’re looking to dive deeper and compare the best packages these companies have to offer, take a look at our more detail review below.
Our recommendation (best value): Nomad
Nomad has one of the most incredible mobile plans on the market right now. This plan offers 20GB of data in the United States for a low price of $34. The amount of data you get for such a low price is its best advantage as it amounts to a great Price/Gb of only $1.70. This is the lowest price per GB anywhere. But there are many other packages if you want a shorter time period or more/less data.
We tried Nomad ourselves in Florida and were delighted with our speeds – we had no trouble roaming on tier 1 providers without any hiccups. With such an awesome deal, we highly recommend this 30-day prepaid plan for all your data needs!
From $1.70/GB
Lowest per GB prices. Coverage in over 100 countries, amazing customer experience.
Best user experience: Airalo
Airalo is a Singapore based eSIM provider that offers great travel plans for hundreds of exciting destinations. What sets Airalo apart is their user experience as the website and app are incredibly well designed, making it easy to purchase an eSIM plan. Additionally, Airalo has superb roaming agreements with Tier 1 telecom providers, such as T-Mobile and AT&T networks in the US.
We especially love Airalo’s “Change” plans which come in three different versions with varying amounts of data – 10GB ($26.00), 5GB ($16.00) and 3GB ($11.00). If you’re looking for a decent amount of data while keeping things relatively cheap, consider browsing through their range of affordable eSIM plans today!
From $2.10/GB
For people on a budget: Flexiroam
Not the best user experience, or customer support, but good prices is Flexiroam. We recommend them if you’re looking for a cheaper option.
🤨 Unsure? Here are some frequently asked questions – answered!
What is an eSim (for USA)?
With an eSIM, there’s no physical card necessary – making the experience of setting up your mobile device easier than ever. What sets it apart is that you don’t need to insert a SIM into your phone; instead, it can be conveniently downloaded directly in just moments – usually just by scanning a QR code, the eSim is activated!
You can buy eSims now from around 20-30 providers, some packages are specific to certain countries, but you can also buy regional eSims, for Asia, Americas, Europe etc. In this article we cover USA specific eSims.
How do I install an eSim (for USA travel)?
Usually it’s as easy as buying it and scanning a QR code from your email. Here’s an example:
Which phones support eSims in the USA?
Almost all phones made after 2019 support eSims, but you can check out our full list here.
Will I get a phone number? How much data can I get in the USA? Does it use 3G, 4G or 5G?
Choosing the right package is key when it comes to eSims. There are options for everything!
Whether you want a phone number or just data, USA eSims provide packages with anywhere from 500MB up to 20GB of data – giving you plenty of options!
But that’s not all – depending on your chosen plan and local network availability, there could be 5G speeds for an even faster connection. So make sure to check what fits your needs before taking the plunge into wireless freedom!
Should you use local companies or eSim providers?
If you want the best service and reception available in the United States, it’s better to get a SIM card or travel eSIM from local mobile operators. As a direct customer of the mobile operator, you’ll have higher priority on the network and won’t have to deal with latency. With most travel eSIMs, you’ll be roaming on the network(s) of local mobile operators.
However, some mobile operators throttle speeds for prepaid customers to encourage more people to get postpaid plans. Travelers cannot get postpaid plans, but they can avoid throttling by using a travel eSIM. In fact, travel eSIMs sometimes offer faster speeds than native prepaid customers due to throttling.
Many American mobile operators offer eSIMs to prepaid customers but purchasing processes can be slow and bureaucratic. However, Airalo (Change eSIM), Holafly & Nomad are reliable options for getting eSIMs. While travel eSIMs may be more expensive than local options, they provide greater convenience.
These companies all have great service, check out our reviews for more details on what they’re like.
Conclusion – USA eSims
The United States in not the country where you will get the cheapest prepaid data plans. That said, some eSIM providers are able to offer eSIM plans that offer decent value and won’t ruin you. We like Nomad, Simtex and Airalo’s products.
Have a look, and pick whichever suits your needs best.