Airalo Review: : Is the eSIM Worth it for Travelers?
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Table of contents
Introduction
In this modern world where technology is ever-evolving, it is crucial to stay connected with the world. For those that are travelling across countries, staying connected can be a challenging task.
Also, the hefty roaming charges and the trouble of finding a reliable and affordable network provider can be a daunting task.
This is where Airalo comes in as a lifesaver. In this article, we will explore the Airalo Review and how it can provide the ultimate solution for travelers’ connectivity needs.
In this article, we have provided a comprehensive review of Airalo. If you are considering using Airalo for your next trip , we hope that this information will be helpful in informing your decision.
What Is Airalo?
Airalo is a mobile data eSIM provider that offers affordable and reliable data plans for travelers worldwide.
It is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that provides international mobile data plans. It is the world’s first eSIM-based MVNO and offers international SIM cards with data plans for over 190 countries. Airalo plans include data-only and voice+data plans, as well as a family plan, which allows up to 5 members to share data.
With Airalo, travelers can stay connected with their loved ones and business partners without having to worry about hefty roaming charges.
What Is An eSIM?
An eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a small chip that is built into a device and serves the same purpose as a physical SIM card. The eSIM can be programmed with mobile network information and authentication details, allowing it to connect to a carrier’s network without requiring a physical SIM card to be inserted.
This technology is becoming increasingly popular in mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, as it allows for more flexibility in switching carriers and enables devices to be easily activated and connected to networks.
eSIMs also have the potential to support multiple subscriptions on a single device, making it easier for users to manage their mobile connectivity needs.
How does Airalo eSIM work?
Airalo eSIM works by storing digital data that is used to identify and authenticate your device with your carrier’s network.
The eSIM chip is a small electronic component, usually measuring around 5×6 mm, that is integrated into your device’s motherboard. The eSIM chip stores your cellular plan’s information and allows your device to connect to the cellular network.
When you purchase an eSIM plan, your carrier sends a QR code containing the eSIM’s activation code, which is scanned by your device’s camera to activate the plan.
Once the plan is activated, the eSIM chip stores the plan’s information, and your device is connected to the cellular network. You can also activate eSIM plans remotely, which is convenient when you’re traveling and need to switch to a local data plan.
How many eSIMs can you install on your device?
The number of eSIMs you can install on your device varies from device to device. For example, you can install up to eight eSIMs on an iPhone, and use two phone numbers simultaneously.
What are the advantages of using an eSIM?
eSIM technology offers several advantages over traditional physical SIM cards. For one, eSIMs are smaller and lighter than physical SIM cards, making them ideal for use in small devices such as smartwatches and tablets. eSIMs also eliminate the need for a physical SIM card slot, which allows device manufacturers to design devices with more screen real estate.
Another advantage of eSIM technology is that it allows users to switch between cellular plans without having to remove or replace a physical SIM card.
With eSIMs, users can switch between plans instantly, without having to wait for a new SIM card to be delivered.
Furthermore, eSIM technology allows users to have multiple phone numbers and cellular plans on a single device, which is particularly useful for business travelers or individuals who need to keep their work and personal communications separate.
What Devices Support eSIM?
Popular smartphone devices that support eSIM are the iPhone 13 series, Samsung Galaxy S21 series, Google Pixel 6, and the latest OnePlus devices.
Additionally, many smartwatches and other wearables also support eSIM technology, including the Apple Watch Series 7, Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, and the latest Fitbit models.
It is worth noting that not all carriers support eSIM, so it is important to check with your carrier before purchasing a device with eSIM capabilities.
Overall, eSIM technology offers users more flexibility and convenience by allowing them to easily switch between carriers without the need for a physical SIM card.
Does eSIM Drain Battery?
According to a report from TechRadar, the eSIM technology itself does not have a significant impact on battery life. However, the process of switching between different carriers on a device with eSIM may drain the battery more quickly than usual. This is because the device has to communicate with different carriers and switch between them, which can use up more energy.
Another article from Tom’s Guide suggests that eSIM technology may actually improve battery life in some cases. This is because eSIM-enabled devices can often be more power-efficient than traditional SIM-card devices, thanks to improved connectivity and more efficient use of resources.
Overall, it seems that the impact of eSIM technology on battery life can vary depending on several factors, such as the specific device, the network provider, and the usage patterns of the user.
Therefore, it is difficult to make a definitive statement on whether eSIM drains battery or not. However, it is unlikely to have a significant impact on battery life in most cases.
Pros and Cons of Airalo
Pros:
- Convenient: Airalo allows you to purchase an eSIM for a country you plan to visit before you arrive, so you don’t have to worry about finding a local SIM card vendor upon arrival.
- Cost-effective: Airalo’s eSIMs are often cheaper than buying a local SIM card or paying for international roaming fees from your home carrier.
- Easy to install: Installing Airalo’s eSIM is a straightforward process that can be done through their mobile app, and you don’t have to worry about physically inserting a SIM card.
- Multiple options: Airalo offers eSIMs for over 100 countries, giving you the flexibility to choose the country you will be visiting or plan to visit in the future .
Cons:
- Limited support: Airalo’s eSIMs may not work on all devices or with all carriers, so it’s essential to check if your device and carrier are supported before purchasing.
- No physical presence: As Airalo is an online-only service, there is no physical store or customer service center that you can visit for support, which could be an issue if you experience problems with your eSIM.
- Data speed: While eSIMs are generally faster than traditional SIM cards, Airalo’s eSIMs have been reported to have slower data speeds than local SIM cards.
Airalo offers a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers looking for an international eSIM. However, it’s essential to ensure that your device and carrier are compatible, and you may experience slower data speeds compared to local SIM cards.
Can You Make Calls With Airalo?
Airalo is a mobile virtual network operator that provides international eSIM cards to travelers. The eSIM card allows travelers to stay connected while traveling without the need to swap out physical SIM cards.
While Airalo provides data connectivity, it does not provide voice calling services. Therefore, it is not possible to make traditional phone calls using Airalo’s eSIM card.
However, users can use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services such as WhatsApp, Skype, or Google Voice to make voice calls over the internet using Airalo’s data connectivity.
Travelers can make calls to other users who have the same VoIP service installed on their devices, and they can also receive calls from other phone numbers that have been added to their VoIP accounts.
How to activate airalo esim
Activating an Airalo eSIM is a straightforward process.
Step 1: First, you’ll need to ensure that your device is compatible with the Airalo eSIM
Step 2: Then, you’ll need to purchase an Airalo eSIM plan from the Airalo website.
Step 3: After purchasing your plan, you’ll be able to download the Airalo app, which will guide you through the activation process
Step 4: Once you’ve downloaded and opened the app, you’ll be asked to scan the QR code that was sent to you after you purchased your plan.
Step 5: After scanning the QR code, you’ll be asked to enter your Airalo account details and select your Airalo plan.
Once you’ve done that, you’ll be able to activate your eSIM and start using it.
How to get Airalo discount code
You can get Airalo discount codes by signing up for their newsletter, following them on social media, or checking for offers through their official website and partner websites. Airalo’s newsletter offers exclusive discounts and promotional codes to subscribers.
Also, sign up for their newsletter through their official website.
Airalo also offers promotional codes and discounts through their social media platforms. You can follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
The company also offers promotional codes and discounts through their official website and partner websites. You can check the offers section on the Airalo website and look through the partner websites on their website.
You can also check third-party websites such as Honey (Read our article on how to use honey app to get deals) Groupon and RetailMeNot.
Use this link for a special discount.
Does My Phone Need To Be Unlocked To Use Airalo?
Yes your phone must be unlocked in order to use Airalo. As it needs to be able to access the local cellular network.
You can check if your iOS device is eSIM compatible and carrier unlocked by going to Settings > General > About, and scrolling down to view the Carrier lock section. It should say NO SIM restrictions, which means that the device is unlocked.
Similarly, for Google Pixel, you need to ensure that your phone is unlocked and eSIM-capable to use Airalo’s eSIM service. You can follow the steps given on the Airalo website to install and activate your Airalo eSIM on your Google Pixel
Airalo Alternatives
Airalo is an online platform that provides access to prepaid mobile data plans in over 135 countries. It is a great option for travelers, digital nomads, and expats who need to stay connected while on the go.
Airalo Vs Holafly:
Holafly offers prepaid SIM cards for 30 countries and provides users with access to a global mobile network. Its plans and packages offer competitive prices and the company offers customer support in multiple languages. Holafly also provides access to global roaming, which allows users to use their SIM card in multiple countries.
Airalo Vs Nomad
Nomad also offers a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) service, which provides international data-only plans in over 190 countries. The Nomad plans are designed to be flexible and affordable with no long-term commitments, allowing customers to use their data when they need it.
Skyroam Solis:
This is a portable WiFi hotspot device. It offers unlimited data in over 130 countries, with no roaming fees or long-term contracts. Skyroam Solis also comes with a global 4G LTE SIM card pre-installed, so you can connect to the internet anywhere.
Tep Wireless:
Tepwireless is a global mobile WiFi network. It offers unlimited data in over 100 countries, with no roaming fees or data caps. Tep Wireless also has a wide selection of international mobile phone plans, so you can stay connected on your trip.
Keepgo:
keepgo is a global mobile data provider. It offers unlimited data in over 70 countries, with no roaming fees or long-term contracts.
Conclusion
Overall, Airalo is a convenient and affordable option for international travelers. Its flexible plans and easy-to-use app make it a popular choice. However, its limited coverage and device compatibility, as well as the lack of transparency about its data usage policy, are concerns that users should consider before making a decision.
References
https://support.airalo.com/hc/en-us/articles/360041123691 .
