A comparative analysis of the best eSIM plans for Switzerland

While roaming within the European Union has undeniably simplified and made travel more affordable, unfortunately, Switzerland is not included in this arrangement. Here, using the internet on your smartphone inevitably incurs high roaming charges. However, a judicious solution might lie in acquiring a second eSIM with a cost-effective plan. This becomes particularly relevant in this specific context.

Comparative Analysis of Plans for Switzerland

In our in-depth examination of eSIM plans, finding the ideal and most affordable option becomes a straightforward task.

Advantageous Options in Terms of Providers

Among our selected choices, Airalo and Maya Mobile emerge as the most cost-effective providers for the majority of users. Airalo, frequently positioned as the most affordable in our extensive eSIM comparison, is a wise choice for those seeking simplicity without compromising on cost.

However, do not underestimate BNESIM. Its data volume without an expiration date (for the One-Time option) and validity across all of Europe (under regional plans) make it an intriguing alternative. Opting for the monthly subscription, with 1 GB at €2.41 or 3 GB at €7, you could theoretically spend less than with Airalo, making BNESIM a seriously considerate option.

Unlimited Data Options

Holafly and Airhub offer plans with unlimited data. Holafly charges €34 for 10 days, €47 for 15 days, and €69 for 30 days. Airhub is more cost-effective, with rates of $25 USD (around €24) for 10 days, $32 USD (around €30) for 15 days, and $42 USD (around €40) for 30 days.

For an extended stay, Digital Republic's eSIM card offers Flat 10 at 10 CHF (about €10) per month with unlimited data but limited speeds. Add 30 CHF (about €31) for Flat 300 with higher speeds and unlimited calls/messages in Switzerland. The subscription is monthly and can be suspended or canceled. Identity verification is required after registration.

Pay As You Go

MTX Connect and Surfroam allow you to pay based on usage. MTX Connect charges 1.2 euro cents per MB, cheaper than Surfroam's 2 euro cents. MTX also offers free chat activated 7 days after eSIM activation and valid for 15 days after each top-up.

Data without expiration

Frequent travelers in Switzerland have the option to purchase data volumes from BNESIM without any expiration date. While slightly more expensive than alternatives with time limits, this option provides appreciable flexibility for extended and conservative use.

Extended coverage throughout Europe

Many eSIM providers extend their offerings to cover all of Europe, including Switzerland, for a slight increase in cost. However, this becomes advantageous for those without a European mobile plan, offering coverage in the EU, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Iceland. For instance, with Airalo, the Europe plan offers 1 GB of data for 7 days at $5 (~€5) and 3 GB for 30 days at $13 (~€12).

Quality network coverage

Swisscom, Sunrise, and Salt, the primary network operators in Switzerland, ensure excellent network coverage, alleviating major concerns about network quality.

In conclusion

The seamless integration of European roaming into our daily travels has almost made us forget about the pitfalls of roaming costs in Switzerland. However, with the right eSIM-compatible smartphone and an affordable plan costing just a few euros, it is still possible to browse the web effortlessly in Switzerland.