TechRadar Verdict
Airalo offers prepaid data plans in more than 190 countries around the world, guaranteeing reliable coverage close to almost everywhere. However, most plans are data-only with no additional voice minutes or messaging facility. Since this eSIM provider is expensive, Airalo users can also run out of limited data pretty quickly.
Pros
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Easy to install and activate through the mobile app
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Cheaper than most international roaming plans
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Wide coverage spanning more than 190 countries
Cons
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Data-only eSIMs don’t offer voice minutes
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Some users report sporadic network problems
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Buying a local SIM can sometimes be cheaper
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Airalo is an eSIM marketplace that provides affordable prepaid data plans for over 190 countries and regions worldwide.
Founded in 2019, Airalo claims to have served more than 5 million customers to date. It offers eSIM plans that can be easily purchased and installed through its mobile app or website.
It’s an eSIM provider powered by a user-friendly platform and wide network coverage. Users often praise its helpful customer support, competitively priced plans, and reasonable connection speeds across multiple continents. But, a key disadvantage is that most plans are data-only with no voice minutes. That means you need to be online to make calls, using apps like WhatsApp, Facetime, Skype, etc.
Airalo: Plans and pricing
Airalo offers a wide range of eSIM plans with competitive pricing that varies based on the destination, data allowance, and validity period. The plans are categorized into local, regional, and global options to cater to different travel needs. Here’s a summary of the most popular ones:
| Region | Data Amount | Validity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global | 5 GB | 30 days | $35 |
| US | 5 GB | 30 days | $20 |
| Europe | 3 GB | 30 days | $13 |
| Asia | 3 GB | 30 days | $20 |
| Africa | 1 GB | 30 days | $27 |
Airalo's pricing structure is straightforward and transparent, with no hidden fees or contracts. However, purchasing a local SIM can sometimes be a cheaper option in some regions than Airalo.
Airalo: Features
We were impressed with some of the features that Airalo provides over its competitors, especially the usage-based rewards program. Here’s a look at some things that set it apart:
Airmoney Rewards
Airalo's loyalty program, Airmoney, rewards users with cashback on every new purchase. You can earn up to 5% Airmoney on each transaction, which can be applied to future purchases. This is a great way to save money on data plans, especially for frequent travelers.
Tethering Capabilities
Airalo eSIMs support tethering, allowing you to share your data connection with other devices via hotspots. This can be a lifesaver when you need to connect a device that doesn't have its own cellular data capabilities.
Global Plans
In addition to country-specific eSIMs, Airalo offers regional and global data plans that cover multiple countries. These are perfect for travelers visiting several destinations in a single trip, providing a seamless connectivity solution across borders.
Airalo: Installation
Airalo makes purchasing and activating an eSIM a breeze. The onboarding process is straightforward and user-friendly, with plenty of resources guiding first-time users through the steps.
To get started, simply visit the Airalo website or app, select your destination, and choose a data plan that suits your needs. After creating an account and completing the purchase, you'll receive a QR code for your eSIM.
Installing the eSIM is a snap. Just scan the QR code using your phone's camera and the eSIM will be automatically added to your device.
However, you should check the specific activation policy for the plan that you’re purchasing from Airalo. While some plans activate immediately upon installation, others only start once you arrive at your destination and connect to a supported network.
Airalo: Coverage and speed
Airalo offers extensive coverage in over 190 countries and regions worldwide, partnering with reputable local networks to ensure reliable connectivity for travelers. It provides consistent coverage and good data speeds across various destinations, from popular tourist hubs to more remote areas. Key regions include:
United States
Canada
United Kingdom
Germany
Spain
Saudi Arabia
Oman
Japan
China
Thailand
South Africa
Nigeria
Airalo primarily provides 3G/4G LTE data, with 5G access available in select locations like the US and Europe. While generally sufficient for typical travel needs like navigation and messaging, speeds may not always support high-bandwidth activities like streaming. Some users have also experienced issues with throttling, particularly after exhausting their data allowances on certain plans.
Compared to other eSIM providers, Airalo's coverage is among the most comprehensive. Its data speeds are competitive, with plans striking a good balance between global coverage and reliable performance.
Airalo: Support
Airalo offers several support channels, including email, in-app chat, and social media. However, they do not provide phone support.
While generally helpful and knowledgeable, the responsiveness of customer support is a mixed bag based on user reviews. Some customers praise the support team for resolving issues quickly via chat or email. But a few others complain about the lack of real-time support options causing wait times of up to 24 hours.
It's also important to note that Airalo's support is available exclusively in English, which could be a limitation for some international users.
Airalo: Final verdict
With its extensive coverage, competitive pricing, and user-friendly platform, Airalo is a strong contender in the eSIM market. It particularly shines for those who frequently visit multiple countries, thanks to its coverage spanning across borders.
However, those who require a lot of data for streaming or heavy internet usage might find the data allowances on some plans to be insufficient. Additionally, travelers who need reliable voice calling and texting facilities should consider other options.
Overall, if you’re a budget-conscious traveler who prioritizes affordable data connectivity and ease of use, Airalo is a good choice for you.
Airalo: FAQs
Is Airalo eSIM legit?
Yes, Airalo is a well-established company founded in 2019 as the world's first eSIM store. They have a proven track record of providing eSIM data plans to travelers in over 190 countries.
Does Airalo eSIM give you a phone number?
For the majority of Airalo's data-only eSIMs, you won't have access to a phone number that can make traditional phone calls or send text messages. However, Airalo’s Discover+ Global eSIM provides an international phone number that can be used to make calls and send texts in 130+ countries.
Should I install Airalo eSIM before traveling?
Whether you should install your Airalo eSIM before traveling depends on the specific eSIM's activation policy. If the eSIM's activation policy states "The validity period starts when the eSIM connects to any supported network(s)", then you can install it before traveling without activating it. Otherwise, wait to install the eSIM until you’re close to your departure date to minimize data loss with Airalo.
