The 5 best eSIM for Asia: Tested & Reviews

Greetings fellow travelers! Like many globetrotters, I desire seamless connectivity anywhere I go, including Asia, without the hassle of juggling local SIM cards. Luckily, eSIM has appeared as a game-changer for staying connected on the go. However, with a plethora of eSIM for Asia providers available, choosing the right one can be daunting. To simplify your decision, I’ve compiled a list of the best eSIM for Asia that offer reliability and affordability for your travel connectivity needs. These recommendations are tailored for those seeking hassle-free local coverage in countries across the globe. Without further delay, let’s dive in!

The 5 best eSIM for Asia

After extensively researching, I decided to share my comprehensive review about 5 best eSIM for Asia based on significant experience with different eSIM providers.

1. Esimwise

Esimwise distinguishes in the eSIM market by offering a diverse and comprehensive variety of packages to meet the varying needs of its users. With two distinct data options – daypass data and fixed data – Esimwise provides a nuanced approach, allowing users to tailor their mobile data plans according to their specific requirements and usage patterns. 

With packages ranging from $3 for smaller data allowances to $135 for larger 20GB plans (up to 90 days), users are presented with options that fit within their budget constraints while providing the desired level of connectivity. This approach makes eSIM usage accessible to a wide audience, regardless of their financial considerations.  It ensures that individuals can choose a plan that suits the specific duration of their journey, optimizing both cost and convenience.

Enjoy seamless connectivity in Asia 7 countries with Esimwise eSIM cards. Our eSIM cards offer excellent network coverage for an uninterrupted communication experience with Asia 7 countries eSIM. Experience lightning-fast 4G/5G data speeds in Asia 7 countries with our eSIM cards, making sure swift and reliable connectivity for all your digital needs. Below are detailed information about our two data options “Daypass  data” and “Fixed Data”:

• Data capacity: From 0.5GB to 20GB.
• Usage time: From 1 day to 90 days.
• Price: Ranging from $3 to $135.

Something we are proud of:

• An extensive range of data packages available
• Unlimited and stable connectivity
• The eSIM purchase and activation process is easy and fast
• Esimwise maintains a competitive pricing structure.
• Enthusiastic support 24/7

We are improving:

• Esimwise is presently progressing through developmental phases with the goal of building a solid and dependable reputation in the market. 

Opting for Esimwise in Asia isn’t a mere transaction – it’s the art of crafting an extraordinary experience, intricately woven into the vibrant tapestry of your journey through the captivating landscapes of Asia. This isn’t just an eSIM; it’s a bespoke adventure, leaving an indelible mark on your travel narrative.

2. Holafly

Holafly stands out as an eSIM provider offering comprehensive coverage with plans available for over 130 destinations, including those in Asia. I find it convenient that Holafly offers data packages categorized by continent and individual countries, and the fact that all plans include unlimited data is something I particularly appreciate.

When purchasing the eSIM, the website provides clear instructions on selecting the desired plan based on continents or individual countries. The interface is intuitive, allowing me to easily navigate through the available options and choose the plan that best suits my travel needs. Moreover, the flexibility in payment options is beneficial. Being able to pay in euros, dollars, or Mexican pesos provides me with convenient choices depending on my location and preferred currency.

Holafly features six unlimited data plans spanning from 5 to 30 days, with prices starting at nearly $30. The plans are well-suited for extended stays, making them an excellent choice for digital nomads, students abroad, or those on medium to long-term visits. The pricing tiers, providing flexibility based on the duration of your stay:

• 5 days – Unlimited data: $29.5
• 7 days – Unlimited data: $37
• 10 days – Unlimited data: $40 
• 15 days – Unlimited data: $51
• 20 days – Unlimited data: $59
• 30 days – Unlimited data: $86

What I like:

• Data packages are categorized by continent and individual countries
• The intuitive website interface, clear instructions
• Flexible payment options in multiple currencies 

What I don’t like:

• One of the most expensive options available in the market. 
• Holafly’s eSIM card for Asia lacks the functionality of data sharing. 

In summary, the combination of being one of the most expensive options, the exclusion of calls in their eSIM cards, and the limitation on data sharing in the Asia-specific eSIM card makes me reconsider Holafly as a viable choice for my mobile connectivity needs.

3. Airalo

I appreciate that Airalo provides eSIM cards for a vast network of 190 countries, offering a comprehensive solution for international travelers like myself. The global coverage gives me confidence in having a reliable data connection wherever I go, ensuring seamless communication and access to online services.

One standout feature that particularly appeals to me is the ability to share data with other devices using Airalo’s eSIM cards. This flexibility is crucial for my varied connectivity needs, allowing me to efficiently manage and distribute data across multiple devices without hassle. The convenience of data sharing enhances the overall utility and value of Airalo’s eSIM offerings for my personal and professional use.

I’ve noticed that Airalo, while considered one of the more budget-friendly options on the market, has some limitations that might impact its overall value for users like myself. One notable drawback is the capped data limits, with the highest available capacity being 100GB. Unfortunately, there are no options for unlimited data, which could be a concern for users with high data consumption needs, especially during extended trips or for business purposes.

Airalo offers eSIM card data plans for Asia with a maximum validity of 180 days, featuring a range of options at different price points. The pricing details are as follows:

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days: $5
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days: $13
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days: $20
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days: $37
• 50 GB, valid for 90 days: $100
• 100 GB, valid for 180 days: $185

What I like:

• Airalo’s extensive global coverage, providing eSIM cards for 190 countries.
• Data sharing among multiple devices enhances flexibility and convenience
• The user-friendly app for purchasing and activating eSIM cards 

What I don’t like:

• The capped data limits, with no option for unlimited data
• The limited capacities of short-term plans may necessitate frequent recharges, potentially leading to increased costs over time. 
• The duration of some plans exceeding one month may not suit shorter trips.

Considering these factors, while Airalo is known for its affordability, the limitations in data capacity, plan durations, and customer support responsiveness make me cautious about relying on it for my international connectivity needs.

4. Nomad

Nomad provides data plans across 100+ countries, featuring local, regional, and global options, including the APAC eSIM plan. My personal experience using Nomad in Thailand was positive. As I delved into Nomad’s services, I discovered a diverse range of options, including regional and global plans, allowing users to customize their data plans based on specific geographical needs. 

One striking aspect that caught my attention is Nomad’s website design, which stands out for its modern and user-friendly interface. The contemporary layout enhances the overall experience for visitors, making it easier to navigate and access relevant information about the available data plans.

However, another observation is that Nomad solely provides short-term plans, limited to a maximum duration of 30 days. While suitable for many travelers, this constraint may pose a drawback for long-term travelers like myself. Longer-term plans could offer a more convenient option for extended stays or consistent connectivity during extended journeys. Considering individual preferences and travel durations, it’s essential to evaluate how this limitation aligns with specific needs.

Nomad offers both fixed and unlimited data plans, ensuring flexibility for users. Notably, their plans cover Asia, encompassing 12 countries with various data options:

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days, priced at $6
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days, priced at $15
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days, priced at $17

What I like:

• Flexibility in tailoring data plans to specific geographic needs. 
• The modern and user-friendly website design enhances the overall experience.

What I don’t like:

• Short-term plans, with a maximum duration of 30 days – this may be limiting for long-term travelers seeking extended connectivity.

While acknowledging the exceptional quality of service provided by Nomad, the inflated pricing caused me to reassess my budget. Investigation of alternative eSIM providers is necessary. Maybe Esimwise will do a good job as a successor.

5. BNESIM

Established in 2017, BNESIM stands out as an eSIM provider offering services in over 200 countries. In my exploration of BNESIM, I discovered that their coverage spans over 200 countries, providing a comprehensive solution for global travelers like myself. This expansive coverage is particularly appealing, ensuring that I can maintain connectivity across a diverse range of destinations.

One feature that caught my attention is the availability of non-expiring plans. As someone who often embarks on unpredictable journeys, having the option for plans that don’t come with an expiration date is a significant advantage. This flexibility aligns with my dynamic travel needs, allowing me to use the service as required without the pressure of adhering to a specific timeframe.

However, as I navigated through BNESIM’s website, I couldn’t help but notice that the site design appeared somewhat plain and lacked the intuitive user-friendly features I typically look for. The presentation of plans, in particular, felt overwhelming and not as streamlined as I would prefer, making it a bit challenging to evaluate options effectively.

Specifically targeting Asia, BNESIM provides a comprehensive plan covering 28 countries in the region. The plan offers flexibility with various data options:

• 1 GB for $8.22, valid for 30 days
• 5 GB for $38.62, valid for 30 days
• Unlimited data (with 8GB high speed) for $70.35, valid for 30 days
• 10 GB for $73.96, valid for 30 days

What I like:

• Impressive coverage of over 200 countries, providing a comprehensive solution for global travelers. 
• The availability of non-expiring plans stood out as a valuable feature
• The discounts on monthly data plans add a cost-effective advantage 

What I don’t like:

• The website is designed to be somewhat plain and lacking intuitive features, particularly in the presentation of plans.

I’m definitely looking forward to seeing the new version, hoping that it will address the current challenges and offer a more user-friendly interface, making the process of exploring and choosing plans more intuitive for users like myself.

Here’s a quick overview about 5 best eSIM for Asia:

• Esimwise: Ideal for those seeking novel experiences, unlimited data, reliable speeds, and budget-friendly plans.
• Airalo: Tailored for both short-term and long-term travelers, offering diverse plan options.
• Holafly: Impressive offerings, including plans with unlimited data.
• Nomad: Provides a range of national and global plans, including unlimited data options in select destinations.
• BNESIM: Stands out with non-expiring plans and monthly subscriptions available across many countries.

Considering your preferences for novel experiences, budget-friendly options, and reliable connectivity with your specific travel needs in Asia.

Choosing your eSIM for Asia: 4 important aspects

When choosing an eSIM for use in Asia, it’s crucial to consider four key aspects to ensure optimal compatibility and performance.

1. Network coverage:

Evaluate the eSIM provider’s coverage and reliability in Asia, especially in remote areas. Researching customer reviews and coverage maps provides valuable insights into network performance.

2. Data usage:

Consider available data plans and pricing options. Evaluate your usage patterns and choose a plan that aligns with your needs. Some providers offer flexible, customizable plans, while others provide fixed packages. Assess if the plan includes a top-up option for flexibility with longer or unexpected data needs.

3. Data speed:

Ensure a satisfactory online experience by checking if the eSIM provider offers high-speed data services compatible with Asia’s network infrastructure. Look for providers supporting the latest mobile data technologies like 4G or 5G for improved speeds. Choose a plan that meets your specific needs, such as streaming or video conferencing, by considering maximum data speeds.

4. Customer support:

Examine the quality of customer support. Responsive and efficient support is vital for addressing technical issues. Seek providers with positive customer feedback regarding their support services.

By carefully assessing network coverage, data usage options, data speed compatibility, and customer support quality, you can make an informed decision when selecting an eSIM for your travels in Asia.

FAQs

1. How to buy eSIM for Asia?

To buy an eSIM for Asia, you can explore various options, including carrier-specific methods and third-party services. Here are five ways you can purchase an eSIM for Asia:

• Local mobile carriers: Visit the official websites or physical stores of local mobile carriers in the specific country or region in Asia where you need coverage. Many carriers offer eSIM plans for both local and international use. Follow the carrier’s process for purchasing and activating an eSIM.
• Global eSIM platforms: Explore global eSIM platforms that provide plans for multiple countries, including those in Asia. Platforms like Esimwise offer a variety of eSIM plans for Asia.
• Device manufacturer services: Check if your device manufacturer, such as Apple or Google, offers eSIM services for Japan through their respective websites.
• Local electronics stores or airport kiosks: Explore local electronics stores or airport kiosks in Japan, Vietnam, for eSIM plans catering to tourists and short-term visitors. Ensure that the plans meet your data and coverage requirements.

2. Does Airalo work in Asia?

Yes, Airalo operates effectively in Asia. For example, Airalo Discover Global extends coverage to 130 countries globally, offering plans ranging from 7 to 365 days. These comprehensive plans include options for calls and SMS alongside data. Our testing of the Airalo Discover global eSIM across multiple countries in North America, Europe, and Asia showed seamless performance in each visited country. If you’re planning to travel to multiple countries, Airalo Discover Global is an excellent choice. In addition, Airalo Asialink provides coverage in 14 countries within Asia, offering diverse plans ranging from 7 to 180 days.

3. Is eSIM available in Asia?

Yes, eSIM technology is available in various countries in Asia. For example, you can find eSIM services in countries such as:

• China: Major carriers like China Mobile and China Unicom offer eSIM services.
• India: Carriers like Airtel and Jio provide eSIM support.
• Japan: NTT Docomo is known to offer eSIM services.
• Singapore: Singtel and other carriers provide eSIM options.
• Vietnam: Carriers such as Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone
• South Korea: Carriers like SK Telecom support eSIM.
• Hong Kong: Carriers such as CSL and SmarTone offer eSIM services.

It’s important to note that the availability of eSIM may vary among carriers within each country. Check here!

Wrap up

Above is my detailed sharing about the 5 best eSIM for Asia including Airalo, Holafly, BNESIM, Nomad, and Esimwise. Each provider offers excellent eSIM services with varying coverage options. Having personally used Airalo, Holafly, BNESIM, and Nomad, I can attest to their quality plans for travelers in Asia. Especially notable is Esimwise, my top pick, which provides a perfect blend of new experiences, unlimited data, stable speeds, and affordable prices.

Ultimately, choosing the best eSIM provider depends on individual preferences and travel needs. It’s recommended to explore these options and consider a trial to find the one that suits you best.