The ideal eSIM plans for the United States: a comparison

For a seamless smartphone experience while traveling through the United States, choose an eSIM wisely before your journey. No more hassle of buying a SIM card upon arrival – eSIMs provide the flexibility to select a plan tailored to your needs.

How it Works:

There are now numerous eSIM providers available online. Typically, you purchase a prepaid plan for a specific duration and data volume. Once depleted, there are no additional charges, and no subscription is required. The eSIM profile, usually free, is set up by scanning a QR code after purchase. Most smartphones, such as iPhone 11/12/13 and some Androids like Google Pixel or Samsung Galaxy, are compatible. If your Android doesn't support eSIM profiles, eSIM.me offers a compatible physical SIM card. eSIM providers often focus on data rather than minutes, and outgoing calls are generally not included, although some smartphones, like the iPhone, still allow calls via the regular SIM card.

Comparing Plans for the United States

Easily find the right plan for you in our comparison.

Most Affordable Provider

Currently, Knowroaming offers the most economical plan for our combinations, charging only $3.85 US (~€3.65) for 1 GB. Ubigi is also an excellent option for longer stays, charging only $9 US (~€9) for 3 GB.

Unlimited Data Options

If you prefer worry-free data, Holafly offers plans with unlimited data on the AT&T network for 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 60, or 90 days. However, for a 30-day period, you'd pay €69. Airhub also provides prepaid plans with unlimited data on the AT&T network for 10, 15, or 30 days, with 30 days costing $57 US (~€54).

Data without Expiry

For those traveling to the U.S. multiple times without a fixed data requirement, BNESIM offers 1, 3, 10, or 20 GB plans with no expiration date, providing great flexibility. Be sure to select the "One Time" plans under "Choose data."

Pay As You Go

If you're uncertain about your data needs, Yesim offers a Pay As You Go option. In the U.S., you pay $3.50 USD (~€3.32) per started GB of data. The paid data for a country is valid indefinitely and can be reused on your next trip, offering a cost-effective and flexible option.

With Telephony

Most prepaid eSIM plans do not include outgoing or incoming calls (which are also charged in the U.S.). However, Airhub offers some plans with unlimited minutes, such as 6 GB for 30 days at the price of $20 US (~€19). This requires the provider's iOS app.

Including Canada

For those planning to visit Canada during their North American trip, choosing a plan covering both the U.S. and Canada might be worthwhile. Discover Global, through Airalo, offers a plan for 84 countries, including the USA, Canada, and Mexico. For example, 5 GB for 30 days costs $35 US (~€33). KnowRoaming's global plan is pricier, with 5 GB costing $50 US (~€47) for 30 days. Always check if two national eSIM plans are more cost-effective. If bought from one provider, they can often be used simultaneously via the same eSIM. Do some research before purchasing.

Choosing the Right Network in the U.S.

In the U.S., three major network operators—AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon—each operate their own mobile network with varying quality. AT&T has the best network overall, especially in large cities, while T-Mobile and Verizon work well in urban areas. If you're specifically traveling to rural regions and want consistent reception, look for a plan on the AT&T network, despite a national roaming agreement between providers. Most modern smartphones bought in Europe can generally be used seamlessly on AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon's 4G and 5G networks. While Verizon once had restrictions on 2G and 3G networks, these have since been deactivated.

Conclusion

If your smartphone supports eSIM, it's the most convenient way to secure data during your U.S. trip. Purchase it in advance, install it, and start surfing immediately upon arrival in the U.S. eSIM prices are so budget-friendly in the U.S. that it's seldom worth the trip to the nearest Walmart.