The 5 Best eSIM for India: Tested & Reviews

Traveling today is not just about exploring; it’s about sharing those moments with the world. And what makes sharing easier than a solid internet connection? With the right eSIM, you can document your journey, connect with fellow travelers, and make memories.

Are you heading to India and feeling lost in the sea of eSIM options? Totally get it! Choosing the right one can be a head-scratcher. But hey, worry not—I’ve got your back.

Stick around as we explore the top eSIM options, sharing personal experiences and practical advice. Let’s explore the best 5 eSIMs for India adventure in 2024.

The 5 best eSIM for India trip

In my opinion, the top 5 eSIM providers that shine for India are Phonecaswise, Holafly, Ubigi, GigSky, and Flexiroam. These companies have not only made their mark by offering eSIMs but also by providing additional features tailored to the needs of travelers. It’s this extra mile that puts them at the forefront of options for those journeying through India.

But, hey, I’m not just here to throw names at you. Let’s dive into what makes each of these providers stand out in the realm of eSIMs for India. Choosing the best eSIM isn’t just about the brand; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your travel style and needs. Let’s break down what each of these companies brings to the table when it comes to delivering the best eSIM experience in India.

1. Phonecaswise

In the realm of connectivity solutions for India, Phonecaswise stands out with its exceptional network coverage, ensuring a worry-free experience throughout my travels. Whether navigating bustling cities or venturing into remote areas, Phonecaswise eSIM seamlessly maintained uninterrupted communication.

Phonecaswise eSIM in India surpassed my expectations with lightning-fast 4G/5G data speeds, proving invaluable for a range of tasks, from navigating unfamiliar streets to sharing travel experiences on social media. The swift and reliable connectivity provided by Phonecaswise eSIM enhanced my digital experience during my explorations.

Setting up and using Phonecaswise eSIM in India was a breeze, aligning with my preference for simplicity and convenience as a traveler. The user-friendly solution required no complicated procedures, ensuring I was connected within minutes and ready to explore India with uninterrupted access to the digital world.

The dedicated support team at Phonecaswise left a lasting impression. Their prompt assistance and proactive, professional approach ensured a worry-free connectivity experience throughout my journey in India.

A notable feature was Phonecaswise eSIM’s capability to allow me to keep my original SIM for calls while enjoying enhanced data services. This unique feature allowed me to stay connected with loved ones through traditional communication methods, seamlessly complementing the modern connectivity offered by Phonecaswise eSIM.

What I like:

• Super-fast 4G/5G data speed
• Reliable connectivity through a wide network
• Dedicated support team

What I don’t like:

• None

2. Holafly

Holafly eSIM emerges as a commendable choice for maintaining seamless connectivity during your travels in India. What sets Holafly apart is its commendable feature that allows users to personalize their plans according to their specific needs. The flexibility to choose the duration of the eSIM and adjust the plan accordingly empowers users, eliminating concerns about running out of data or overspending on unused days. With Holafly eSIM, you are in complete control of your connectivity needs, ensuring a tailored and cost-effective experience.

Operating on 3G/4G/LTE data speed, Holafly’s prepaid unlimited data plan for India, coupled with a VPN feature, provides a worry-free journey with uninterrupted access to the internet. This stability in data speed is particularly beneficial for travelers who heavily rely on digital connectivity for various tasks.

Holafly eSIM acknowledges the significance of staying connected with loved ones. Through their service, users can retain their WhatsApp number, facilitating seamless calling and messaging to all contacts as if they were in the same country. This thoughtful feature ensures that you can effortlessly stay in touch with family and friends, enhancing the overall quality of your travel experience.

Recognizing the value of time, especially during travel or when in a rush, Holafly eSIM ensures the immediate delivery of the India eSIM. Bypassing the need for physical delivery, they send the eSIM directly to your email, allowing you to connect in seconds and kickstart your journey with seamless communication.

What I like:

• Stable 3G/4G/LTE data speed
• Inclusion of VPN feature
• The ability to customize your plan

What I don’t like:

• Data sharing is not allowed.

3. Ubigi

The Ubigi eSIM stands out as an excellent choice for travelers exploring the vibrant landscape of India. What makes it a favorite for Indian travel is its global eSIM functionality, allowing users to maintain seamless connectivity in over 200 destinations without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards. The instant setup process enables users to effortlessly download and activate their eSIM profiles directly onto compatible devices within minutes, ensuring a swift and convenient start to their Indian journey.

Ubigi’s commitment to flexibility is evident in its prepaid plans, which come with no contracts or hidden fees. This empowers travelers with the freedom to select data packages that align perfectly with both their travel duration and usage preferences. The inclusion of multiple network partners further enhances Ubigi’s appeal, as it collaborates with reliable local networks in each destination throughout India, ensuring optimal coverage and connectivity wherever the journey takes you.

Diversity is key when it comes to Ubigi’s data plans, catering to various travel styles and data usage needs. Ranging from 1GB to 100GB, with validity periods spanning from 1 day to 1 year, these plans accommodate a wide spectrum of preferences. For those immersing themselves in the rich cultural experiences of India, Ubigi offers competitive plans, such as a 10GB package for 30 days starting from $36, providing ample data for a fulfilling travel experience.

In addition to its user-friendly approach, Ubigi goes the extra mile by offering free incoming calls and texts in select destinations. With multilingual support available on its website and customer service, Ubigi eSIM emerges as the ideal eSIM for hassle-free connectivity in India.

What I like:

• Free incoming calls and texts in some regions.
• Effortless data replenishment without interrupting your connection.
• Eliminates the logistical hassle of getting a physical SIM card.

What I don’t like:

• Primarily data-only plans; separate options are needed for voice calls.

4. Flexiroam

Flexiroam eSIM stands out as the top choice for tech-savvy travelers seeking seamless connectivity in India. The company’s dedication to offering extensive coverage is evident through strategic partnerships with reliable networks such as Airtel, Jio, and Vi. This ensures a strong and dependable connection, whether you’re exploring bustling urban areas or delving into the diverse landscapes of India, providing uninterrupted online experiences, seamless social media usage, and crystal-clear video calls.

One of Flexiroam’s standout features is the flexibility of its data plans, catering to various travel styles and data usage needs. With plans ranging from 1GB to 100GB and validity periods spanning from 1 day to 1 year, users have the freedom to choose packages that perfectly align with their preferences. Notably, certain plans offer a data sharing option, allowing users to share their data allowance with other devices through convenient Wi-Fi hotspot functionality.

Adding to the overall convenience is Flexiroam’s user-friendly app, providing an easy way for users to top up their data on the go. When it comes to pricing, Flexiroam distinguishes itself through transparency, offering data plans that are generally considered competitive when compared to both eSIM providers and traditional roaming charges in India.

What I like about Flexiroam:

• Reliable network partnerships ensuring connectivity throughout India.
• Competitive pricing for data plans.
• Data sharing and top-up options for added flexibility.

What I don’t like:

• Nothing

5. GigSky

Our final contender in the eSIM realm is GigSky. Much like our previous mentions, GigSky provides customers with the convenience of obtaining an eSIM through their official website or dedicated app. True to expectations, the company presents a range of data packages for eSIM users, catering to diverse needs, and offers both local and regional digital SIM cards to enhance connectivity options.

When it comes to pricing, GigSky exhibits flexibility to accommodate varying data requirements during travels. Data plans span from 1 GB to 5 GB of wireless data, with the regional plan offering an impressive 10 GB of mobile data. Prices for these plans range from $5.99 to a maximum of $74.99, allowing users to tailor their connectivity solutions according to their preferences and budget constraints.

What sets GigSky apart is its additional features, providing an extra layer of convenience for users on the move. GigSky offers specialized in-flight and cruise data packages, enabling travelers to stay seamlessly connected even while airborne or cruising. These packages ensure that users can enjoy faster and easier connectivity, further enhancing the overall travel experience.

In essence, GigSky positions itself as a versatile eSIM provider, offering users not only a variety of data plans but also unique features like in-flight and cruise data packages, making it a comprehensive choice for modern travelers seeking reliable and convenient connectivity solutions.

What I like:

• Diverse data plans.
• Local and regional digital SIM card options.
• In-flight and cruise data packages.
• Convenient eSIM acquisition through the official website or app.

What I don’t like:

• Limited information on plan validity duration.
• Lack of detailed data plan features and allowances.

Choosing the right eSIM for India travel

When acquiring an Embedded Subscriber Identity Module (eSIM) for travel in India, it is imperative to consider several significant factors to ensure a seamless and gratifying experience. This comprehensive guide outlines the key considerations for obtaining an eSIM in India:

Coverage and data plans

To kickstart your decision-making process for eSIM providers in India, it is essential to thoroughly evaluate certain aspects. One crucial factor to consider is the coverage maps offered by these providers. By examining their coverage maps, you can ensure that the provider’s network robustly covers your intended destinations within India. This will guarantee uninterrupted connectivity during your travels.

Another key consideration is the data plans offered by eSIM providers. By assessing their data plans, you can choose the one that aligns with your specific travel itinerary. It is important to find a provider that offers data allowances tailored to meet your needs throughout your journey in India.

Connectivity speeds

When searching for high-speed internet options, it is crucial to consider the specific needs of individuals who rely on fast connectivity, such as passionate video streamers or professionals working remotely. It is essential to thoroughly evaluate the speed and reliability of the eSIM provider you choose, as well as ensure it can accommodate the varied online demands you may encounter during your time in India. Selecting an eSIM provider that meets these criteria will allow you to enjoy a smooth and uninterrupted online experience throughout your stay.

Calling and texting options

If you have specific communication needs during your travel, it is important to consider eSIM plans that provide inclusive features for both calling and texting. Not all eSIMs are created equal in this regard, as some primarily focus on data services while others offer a more comprehensive range of voice and SMS options. When choosing an eSIM plan, it is crucial to tailor your decision to your preferred mode of communication. By carefully scrutinizing the available options, you can ensure that the eSIM plan you select meets your specific requirements.

Ease of activation

Simplify your eSIM journey by opting for providers that offer a straightforward and user-friendly activation process. Look for providers that go the extra mile by allowing remote activation, which allows you to set up your eSIM conveniently before even setting foot in India. This ensures a smooth and hassle-free start to your digital connectivity experience. By choosing a provider that offers this convenience, you can save time and effort while ensuring a seamless transition to using an eSIM. This user-friendly feature enables you to easily activate your eSIM and enjoy the benefits of digital connectivity without any complications. So, make sure to select a provider that prioritizes customer convenience and provides a hassle-free activation process for your eSIM.

Top-up and renewal options

Understanding the procedures for topping up data or renewing plans is crucial for maintaining a stress-free experience. It is important to investigate how you can extend the validity of your eSIM or add more data when needed. Acquiring this knowledge will ensure that managing your connectivity during your stay remains effortless and uninterrupted. With a clear understanding of the steps involved in topping up data or renewing plans, you can easily navigate the process and avoid any potential complications. This ensures that you can effortlessly stay connected and enjoy a seamless experience.

Security features

For individuals who prioritize security and privacy, it is highly recommended to consider exploring eSIM providers that not only offer reliable connectivity but also incorporate advanced security features into their offerings. When selecting an eSIM provider, look for options that come with built-in VPN services or other robust security measures to ensure the safeguarding of your data and online activities. By opting for such providers, you can experience peace of mind and enhanced security throughout your travels in India. It is crucial to prioritize your security and privacy concerns, and selecting the right eSIM provider can greatly contribute to achieving that goal.

By meticulously considering these factors, you empower yourself to navigate the intricate landscape of eSIMs for India confidently. This ensures that your digital connectivity aligns seamlessly with your travel expectations, enhancing the overall enjoyment of your sojourn in the captivating landscapes of India.

FAQs

1. Can I get an eSIM for India?

Yes, you can get an eSIM for India. Several eSIM providers offer services catering to travelers visiting India. These providers typically offer eSIMs with various data plans, coverage options, and additional features to enhance your connectivity experience during your stay in India.

2. Which Indian carrier has eSIM?

In the dynamic landscape of Indian telecommunications, three major players, namely Airtel, Reliance Jio, and Vodafone-Idea, have embraced the technological advancement of eSIM services. These carriers bring convenience and flexibility to their customers by offering eSIM activation options that cater to the preferences of a diverse user base.

3. Are eSIMs faster in India?

No. The speed of your mobile connection is not inherently different between an eSIM and a physical SIM when accessing mobile networks or data services. It is contingent on various factors such as the quality and coverage of the network, the type of device in use, and the specifics of the chosen service plan.

4. Which is the 1st eSIM in India?

The concept of “first” in the context of eSIM providers in India may not be applicable as several providers entered the market around the same time. However, notable eSIM providers in India include Airtel, Reliance Jio, and Vodafone-Idea. For a comprehensive overview and recommendations, we suggest exploring multiple providers such as Phonecaswise, Holafly, Ubigi, GigSky, and Flexiroam to find the one that best aligns with your specific needs.

To sum up,

Choosing the best eSIM for your trip to India can greatly enhance your travel experience. The five eSIM providers mentioned above – Phonecaswise, Holafly, Flexiroam, Ubigi, and GigSky – offer reliable coverage, competitive data plans, and user-friendly interfaces. By selecting one of these providers, you can stay connected seamlessly and conveniently throughout your journey in India. Don’t let the hassle of physical SIM cards hold you back – embrace the convenience of eSIM technology and explore India without missing a beat.