Best UK eSIM from US$ 1.80: High-speed Network for Travel

What is Exactly an eSIM

An eSIM is a type of digital SIM card that's embedded 100% digitally into your devices. With an eSIM, you can activate a mobile data plan without needing a physical SIM card. You can get an eSIM online, activate it with a QR code, and it's ready to go in no time.

How Does an eSIM Work

eSIM technology enables you to link to your preferred mobile service provider in a manner similar to traditional SIM cards but with notable distinctions.

Rather than using a physical SIM card, you'll receive a QR code from your provider, which, upon scanning, activates your eSIM. This activation allows you to access the internet and receive calls through your provider's network, just as you would with a conventional SIM.

A unique advantage of eSIMs is their capacity to support multiple phone numbers and service providers simultaneously. They can be a cheaper option for using your phone abroad, and the best part is you don't have to swap out your number.

Top UK eSIM Options

Note: Nomad's "unlimited" data plans allow for high-speed data usage up to 2GB per day; exceeding this limit will result in a reduced speed to just over 500kbps.

Which Works Better in UK? Comparison of eSIM, SIM card, Wi-Fi router

eSIM, physical SIM card, and Wi-Fi router are means to connect to the internet abroad. Despite having a common purpose, there are significant differences. Choosing a plan that suits your smartphone and travel style can make your communication experience smoother.

Below, I have summarized the features, advantages, and disadvantages of these three in a table.

Based on the features and disadvantages, please choose the most suitable one according to the usage scene and purpose.

Overview of UK eSIM Providers & Plans

Trip.com eSIM

• 1GB for 3 days = $1.88
• 3GB for 7 days = $4.38
• 1GB/day for 7 days = $8.28
• 1GB/day for 15 days = $13.54
• 15GB for 30 days = $16.25

Trip.com's eSIM for the UK offers a wide selection of data plans designed to meet the needs of every traveler. With so many data plans ranging from 1GB to 30GB and daily options like 500MB, 1GB, and 2GB per day, you can absolutely find a plan that suits your trip duration and data usage! The available durations for these data packages are varied, including 3, 5, 7, 10, 14, 15, 20, and 30 days. I am sure you can always have enough data for your stay in UK.

Starting at just $1.88, Trip.com's eSIM prices are highly competitive! Every option is much cheaper than any other UK providers (you can check and compare,this is truly my top recommended provider). These plans are data-only, providing high-speed internet access throughout your travels. The activation policy is straightforward—your plan becomes active the moment you connect to a supported network after turning on roaming.

Coverage is extensive, not just in the UK, but also across many European countries including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and more. So that you stay connected no matter where your travels take you within these regions. With Trip.com's eSIM, you get reliable, high-speed connectivity at a price that's hard to beat, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking for an affordable and efficient way to stay online in the UK and beyond.

Airalo eSIM

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $5 USD
• 2 GB data for 15 days = $7.5 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $22.5 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $36 USD

Airalo's UK eSIM offerings, provided through Uki Mobile, utilize the 4G/LTE networks of O2 and Three. While these eSIM cards ensure coverage in most prominent UK locations with respectable data speeds, they lack 5G compatibility. Despite the widespread availability of 5G across many key tourist sites in the UK, Airalo's products remain on the 4G spectrum.

The pricing of Airalo's eSIM plans is noted for being more affordable compared to some competitors, yet it may not present the best value, especially when options like trip.com are considered, which are known for their competitive rates. A critical aspect of Airalo's offerings is the limited selection of eSIM plans, which might not meet the needs of all travelers. For instance, the smaller data packages, such as 2GB for 15 days or 1GB for 7 days, could prove insufficient for tourists reliant on data for navigation, information, and communication, potentially leading to inconvenience. While larger plans, like 20GB for 30 days, are available, they come at a premium cost that significantly exceeds the price point of similar plans from other providers, including Trip.com.

Another factor to consider is that all Airalo eSIMs are data-only, meaning they do not support traditional voice calls or SMS, which could limit their utility for travelers who might need these services. The activation window for an Airalo eSIM is one month from purchase, with the plan's validity commencing upon first connection to a compatible network.

SimOptions eSIM

• 15 GB data + unlimited calls, 15 days: $21.90
• 10 GB data + $2 calling credit, 30 days: $24.90
• 20 GB data, 30 days: $34.90
• 30 GB data + unlimited calls/text, 30 days: $44.90
• 50 GB data + unlimited calls/text, 28 days: $59.90

SimOptions collaborates with several renowned European mobile internet providers, including O2, Orange, Bouygues Telecom, and Three. Although it's not clear which network SimOptions utilizes in the UK, their international eSIM offerings typically support up to 4G/LTE data speeds.

When you purchase an eSIM through SimOptions, it comes equipped with a phone number, supporting both incoming and outgoing calls and SMS. Many of these eSIM plans also provide unlimited calling and texting within Europe, enhancing connectivity options for travelers. These eSIM cards have a one-year validity period, with the credit's validity commencing immediately upon activation, even before arriving in the UK.

While these plans offer a blend of data services and unlimited calls/texts options, they are positioned at a higher price point compared to other alternatives. Although the data allowances might be more generous than those of Airalo, they are still somewhat limited when compared to the offerings from trip.com. Given the higher cost associated with SimOptions' plans, it's advisable to carefully consider your needs and options before making a purchase. Personally, due to the expense and the relatively restrictive data allowances in comparison to other market options, I find these plans less recommendable.

Nomad eSIM

• 1 day of unlimited data for $7 USD
• 3 days of unlimited data for $15 USD
• 5 days of unlimited data for $22 USD
• 7 days of unlimited data for $30 USD
• 10 days of unlimited data for $41 USD

Note: Once a user exceeds 2GB of data usage within a single day, the internet speed drops to 512 Kbps for the next 24 hours.

Nomad eSIM plans use the 4G/5G networks provided by Three and O2. However, it's important to note that the "unlimited" data comes with a caveat under Nomad's Fair Use Policy (FUP). Once a user exceeds 2GB of data usage within a single day, the internet speed significantly drops to 512 Kbps for the next 24 hours. This reduced speed can severely limit online activities, making it challenging to use data-intensive applications like social media platforms.

These plans might seem economical at first glance. However, it's crucial to highlight that similar plans from Trip.com are substantially more cost-effective. For instance, a 2GB per day plan for 3 days on trip.com is priced at just $6.82, significantly lower than Nomad's offering for a comparable period. Unlike Nomad, Trip.com transparently labels its plan without claiming "unlimited" data, providing 2GB of high-speed data per day, after which the speed throttles to 384kbps.

UK eSIM Users' Review

Trip.com's eSIM offers a variety of plans for your trip to the United Kingdom.

Trip.com's eSIM gives you the flexibility to choose a plan that suits your length of stay and data usage needs, making it the choice of those who want to enjoy the internet freely in UK.

【Users Comments】

It easy to set up and worked great the whole time ! Highly recommend!

Very convenient to use, do not need to take out the sim card, before going abroad can join, to the local directly open can be used, recommended!

Instant access code received upon payment and most convenient. Easy to activate. Good signal.

How to Active UK eSIM

Steps to Set Up UK eSIM

Precautions

• Do not scan the QR code from a camera or app other than the device you plan to use, and always set it from the device you plan to use eSIM.
• Before installing the eSIM, please make sure that WiFi or mobile data is available in your environment.
• It may vary depending on the version and type of device.
• If you cannot use eSIM data communication, please check the APN settings (APN setting method: "Mobile communication" > "Network selection").

Check if your device Supports UK eSIM

eSIM is becoming more common, but not every device is currently compatible with an eSIM.

So, before purchasing an eSIM, please check whether your mobile phone can be used with eSIM!

3 Advantages of Using eSIM for travel to UK

1. Freedom of communication plan

eSIM plans are usually selectable by day or data capacity. Depending on the duration of your trip and communication needs, you can choose from a variety of options, such as short-term data plans or long-term usage plans.

2. No worries about loss or damage

Because it is in digital form, you no longer have to worry about losing or breaking it like a physical SIM card. It is also advantageous in terms of security.

3. Dual SIM possible

By utilizing an eSIM, it is possible to use a dual SIM. Dual SIM means that you can use two networks on one smartphone.

This allows you to install a SIM that can be used in Japan and overseas in one device. When moving from Japan to overseas or from overseas to Japan, the network environment can be switched smoothly.

3 Disadvantages of using eSIM for travel to UK

1. Limited models

To use an eSIM, you'll need a smartphone or tablet that supports eSIM. Newer models are now compatible with eSIM, but older models and some mid- and low-end devices don't support eSIM.

This will take you through the hassle of checking if an eSIM is available on your current device. If you need to buy a new device to use the eSIM, you'll also need to consider the costs involved.

2. Not available on multiple devices

Traditional SIM cards can be replaced between devices. Therefore, one SIM can be used on multiple devices.

However, since the eSIM is built into the device, it is difficult to easily move it between multiple devices. Therefore, it may be inconvenient for those who use multiple devices during their trip to UK.

3. You can't use a phone number

Your eSIM data plan may not provide you with a unique phone number or may require additional charges.

This can be inconvenient in situations where a local phone number is required (for example, to make a restaurant reservation or contact a hotel). Conventional SIM cards often provide a phone number as a set with data communication, so this is a point to keep in mind when considering the use of eSIM.

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If you want to enjoy your trip to UK, eSIM is a must-have item!

If you are planning a trip to UK, eSIM is definitely a recommended item. During your trip, if you use eSIM to make hotel reservations, check map apps, or search for local information, you can communicate seamlessly without worrying about the hassle of handling SIM cards.

Trip.com's eSIM is supported by many travelers for its reliability and convenience. Why not take this opportunity to use Trip.com's eSIM for your trip to UK? Take advantage of the easy and convenient eSIM to enjoy a new communication experience.