Airalo
Airalo
SM Score
9.3
Last Updated:

Airalo eSIM Review: Best Mobile Data For International Travel?

At EM/eSIMMatch we believe that staying connected while traveling should be hassle‐free and affordable. That’s why we’ve turned to Airalo—a digital eSIM solution that has transformed international mobile data access. Gone are the days of scrambling for physical SIM cards or battling exorbitant roaming fees. With Airalo, you simply download, install, and activate your eSIM in minutes, ensuring you’re connected the moment you land. Our firsthand experience shows that Airalo offers a seamless setup process, broad global coverage, and competitive pricing—making it the ideal choice for modern travelers seeking reliable connectivity on the go.

What We Like About Airalo

  • Ease of Use: Simple, direct installation and activation.
  • 24/7 Support Available: Reliable email support around the clock.
  • Easy Refund Policy: Quick resolution if any issues arise.
  • Wide Device Compatibility: Works seamlessly on both Android and iOS.
  • Robust Data Options: Prepaid plans with 4G/5G speeds and a helpful data calculator.
  • Online/App Top-Up & Ordering: Seamless management through the Airalo app.

What We Dislike About Airalo

  • Live Chat Support: Not available for instant assistance.
  • eSIM Reusability: The eSIM cannot be reused after plan expiration.
  • Single Destination eSIM: No option for a universal eSIM covering all destinations.
  • Local Number Provision: Lacks an option for a local phone number.
  • Unlimited Data Plans: Not offered in their portfolio.

Table of Contents

Is Airalo Legit?

We at EM/eSIMMatch confirm that Airalo is a legitimate eSIM provider, serving over 200 destinations worldwide. Its transparent processes and verified user feedback affirm its authenticity in the travel connectivity market.

Is Airalo a Trustworthy Company?

Airalo has earned the trust of millions through its reliable digital SIM solutions and clear refund policies. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and strict data security practices make them a trustworthy choice.

How Good Is Airalo's Service Quality?

Airalo’s service quality is consistently solid. The platform scores highly for ease of use, 24/7 email support, and efficient online ordering. Users enjoy prepaid plans with reliable 4G/5G speeds and a helpful data calculator. Although live chat support is missing, the overall performance remains commendable.

Airalo Compatibility

Airalo supports both Android and iOS devices, ensuring broad accessibility. With its user-friendly interface and compatibility with unlocked smartphones, users can quickly set up and activate their eSIM for seamless international connectivity.

How Good Is Airalo's Coverage?

Airalo offers extensive coverage in over 200 destinations worldwide by leveraging local mobile network operators. It provides consistent 4G/5G connectivity, automatically connecting to the strongest available network to ensure reliable data speeds and uninterrupted access during your travels.

How Much Does Airalo Cost?

Airalo’s pricing is positioned as average. Country-specific plans typically start at around $4.50 for 1GB in markets such as the United States, Japan, and Qatar. Its competitive pricing, particularly when compared to physical SIM options, makes it a cost-effective solution for international travelers.

Airalo vs Physical SIMs

Airalo offers distinct advantages over physical SIM cards. Physical SIMs often involve additional fees, shipping delays, and time-consuming activation processes. In contrast, Airalo allows you to purchase and activate your plan online in minutes. Even though some packages may be slightly pricier than local SIM cards, the convenience and instant connectivity make Airalo an ideal choice.

Airalo Mobile Data Prices

Below is an approximate price comparison for popular countries, focusing on 1.5GB and 10GB packages:

Country 1.5GB Price (Approx.) 10GB Price (Approx.)
United States $6.75 $22.50
Japan $6.75 $22.50
Qatar $7.50 $25.00
Ireland $7.50 $25.00

*Prices are estimated and reflect Airalo’s competitive positioning in the international market.*

Our Experience Using Airalo eSIMs

At EM/eSIMMatch, we have tested Airalo in multiple destinations:

  • United States: Seamless activation with reliable 4G connectivity for navigation and streaming.
  • Japan: Instant network access with consistent speeds in both urban and rural areas.
  • Qatar: Reliable data during short layovers, ensuring smooth communication.
  • Ireland: Efficient setup and steady performance for daily travel needs.

Setting Up Your Airalo eSIM

Step 1: Choose Your Destination and Plan

Visit the Airalo app or website, select your destination, and review the available data packages. We recommend choosing a plan that aligns with your travel duration and anticipated data usage.

Step 2: Ensure Device Compatibility

Confirm that your device is unlocked and eSIM-compatible. Airalo supports both Android and iOS devices, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free setup process.

Step 3: Install the eSIM

Follow the in-app instructions to install the eSIM. You can either scan the provided QR code or manually enter the activation details for an effortless installation.

Step 4: Activate and Start Using Your eSIM

Once installed, activate your eSIM upon arrival at your destination. The data plan will only begin when you connect to a local network, ensuring you only pay for data when needed.

Airalo Customer Satisfaction

Airalo enjoys strong customer feedback, boasting high ratings on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Users appreciate its simple setup, reliable connectivity, and competitive pricing, though some have noted the lack of live chat support as a minor drawback.

Positive Airalo Reviews

  • Fast and easy activation process.
  • Extensive coverage across 200+ destinations.
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
  • Responsive 24/7 email support.
  • User-friendly app interface.

Negative Airalo Reviews

  • Lack of live chat support.
  • eSIMs cannot be reused after expiration.
  • Limited plans that include call and text options.
  • No provision for a local phone number.
  • Absence of unlimited data plans.

EM/eSIMMatch Experience Using Airalo

Our experience with Airalo has been consistently positive. We value the straightforward activation, extensive coverage, and flexibility in data packages. Despite minor issues such as the absence of live chat support, the overall convenience and reliability make Airalo a top choice for international travelers.

Pros and Cons of the Airalo App

  • Pros: Supports 4G/5G speeds, prepaid plans with no roaming fees, easy top-up and ordering via the app, compatibility with major devices, extensive global coverage.
  • Cons: No live chat support, non-reusable eSIMs, limited call/text options on most plans, no local phone number provided, absence of unlimited data plans.

Airalo eSIM Review Summary

  • Easy setup with quick digital installation and activation.
  • Cost-effective pricing compared to physical SIMs.
  • Reliable coverage in over 200 destinations worldwide.
  • Responsive 24/7 email support and clear refund policies.
  • Limitations include no live chat support and non-reusable eSIMs.

FAQ

Does eSIM slow down your phone?
No, eSIMs function similarly to physical SIMs and do not impact your device's performance.
Is eSIM better for international travel?
Yes, eSIMs offer hassle-free activation, cost savings, and instant connectivity upon arrival.
Does eSIM give you a phone number?
Typically, Airalo eSIMs are data-only; only select global plans include a phone number for calls and texts.
Can I still receive calls on my primary number?
Yes, if your device supports dual SIM functionality, you can use your primary SIM alongside the Airalo eSIM.
Can I use Airalo eSIMs for streaming services?
Absolutely—Airalo provides reliable 4G/5G speeds suitable for streaming and other data-intensive applications.
Does Airalo allow texts?
Most plans are data-only; however, certain global packages include SMS functionality.
Does Airalo have a loyalty program?
Yes, Airalo offers a rewards system where you earn Airmoney on purchases, redeemable on future orders.

Airalo Provider Scores

  • Credibility
    8.0
  • Pricing
    8.0
  • Customer Support
    8.0
  • App Experience
    6.4
  • Refund Policy
    7.0