Best e-SIM for the USA 2025 – Top Providers for Coverage, Speed, and Flexibility

Flying to the USA means you need strong signals of success. No one wants to be lost in the web of slow data and dropped calls. Your iPhone 16, Samsung Galaxy, or Pixel phone might look silly as well.

That’s where e-SIM and digital SIM providers shine. It’s a tiny chip already built into your phone. There’s no hassle of a plastic SIM card going in and out of the device. 

They’re easy, quick, and simply digital.

Because of such perks, many devices are designed in a way to support eSIMs. Mobilise Global mentions that we already have 169+ eSIM-compatible phones. 

So, if you want smooth surfing and zero roaming drama, you need the best e-SIM for the USA. 

This includes: OrbitMobile, Saily, Airalo, Holafly, Roamless

Top 5 e-SIM Providers Comparison [USA-Based]

Top 5 e-SIM Providers in the USA [Based on User Experience] 

OrbitMobile – Best Overall

OrbitMobile is the all-in-one eSIM solution for the USA. 

It ticks almost all the boxes of instant activation, fast internet, nationwide coverage, and flexible data plans. 

OrbitMobile also offers one of the cheapest prepaid eSIM plans in the US, starting at just $3. It supports dual SIM iPhones and Androids, making it ideal for modern travelers and remote workers.

eSIM Highlights:

• Nationwide US coverage with 4G and 5G
• Flexible plans (1GB to 20GB+)
• Quick activation via QR code or app
• Best hotspot support for data sharing
• Great customer support

Who Should Buy:

• Everyday users who need a fast and flexible eSIM in the US
• Travelers who occasionally fly to the US 

Saily – Best for High-Speed Connection

Saily provides lightning-fast mobile speeds across major US cities. 

Be it 3G, 4G, LTE, or 5G. Under optimal conditions, you can even achieve upload speeds of around 30- 40 Mbps and download speeds of around 80- 170 Mbps. 

eSIM Highlights:

• Ultra-fast 4G/5G speeds
• Multiple plans up to unlimited data
• Includes malicious URLs and ad blockers
• Local, regional, and global plans available

Who Should Buy:

• Digital nomads, gamers, streamers, and professionals needing top-speed internet

Airalo – Best Network Consistency

Airalo brings the most reliable network coverage throughout the US. 

Their eSIMs deliver consistent connectivity in both urban and rural areas. 

Plus, it offers plans for data, calls, and texts, unlike most competitors. This ensures you’re covered for all your needs. Not only internet browsing. 

You can also earn from the e-SIM through reference. 

eSIM Highlights:

• Consistent network across the US
• Flexible plans for data, calls, and texts
• Local, regional, and global plans available 
• Digital QR activation and management

Who Should Buy:

• Remote workers, professionals, and anyone needing consistent connectivity

Holafly – Best Flexible Plans

Holafly offers unlimited data plans in the US with flexible durations.

Just input the number of days and travelers. This gets you to the unlimited internet. It also lets you enjoy 500 MB every day to share with others. Ideal for heavy data users.

Moreover, the e-SIM has customizable plans. So, you can adjust according to your needs and avoid overspending. 

eSIM Highlights:

• Unlimited data option
• Flexible plan durations
• Urban and suburban coverage
• Instant activation through QR code

Who Should Buy:

• Travelers or visitors who need unlimited data for extended periods

Roamless – Best for Seamless Global Coverage

Roamless provides a single eSIM for multiple countries, including the US. 

With this, you can switch between the countries. The networks will shift automatically without any issue. 

It also has flexible plans. Just add RoamlessFLEX credits to your account. This will let you use your balance for mobile data or in-app calls wherever you go. 

eSIM Highlights:

• US coverage plus global roaming
• Flexible pay-as-you-go plans
• Supports multiple networks simultaneously
• Roamless-to-roamless calling through the app

Who Should Buy:

• Frequent international travelers and business users with global connectivity needs

What to Consider When Buying an eSIM in the US? 

Device Compatibility

Not all phones support eSIM. 

Most iPhones XR+ and Android 10+ devices work. But many don’t. As per 2020 GSMA data, only about 43% of smartphones had eSIM support. 

So, make sure your device works with eSIM before buying. Because without compatibility, the eSIM won’t activate.

Budget

eSIMs vary in price.

Some start as low as $3, like OrbitMobile. Meanwhile, others can go up to $5+ for high-speed or unlimited plans like Airalo and Saily. Some even cost more, depending on the data and duration 

Consider how much data you need. Also, think about how long you’ll use it to avoid overspending. Cheap isn’t always better if coverage or speed is poor.

Usage Patterns

How do you use your phone? That matters. 

Heavy streamers or gamers need high-speed, large-data plans. Casual users who just check email and social apps can go with smaller packages within 1-5GB plans. 

Look at daily data usage averages before picking a plan. This will help avoid slow speeds or extra charges.

Network Coverage

US coverage varies by provider.

Some providers excel in urban areas like Saily. Others like OrbitMobile ensure rural and nationwide consistency. 

Check coverage maps and read user reviews for accuracy. Reliable coverage ensures fast internet, uninterrupted calls, and smooth navigation.

Data Speed

Fast internet makes all the difference.

Some eSIMs offer blazing 4G/5G speeds, while others can lag in certain areas. High-speed data ensures smooth streaming, gaming, and video calls without buffering or delays. 

Check the expected download and upload speeds before buying. A good download speed ranges around 50-200Mbps+. As for upload, it should be around 20-40Mbps+.

Plan Flexibility and Customization

Flexible plans let you adjust data, days, and sharing options.

Providers like Holafly, Roamless, and OrbitMobile offer customizable durations and adjustable plans. That way, you can save money and prevent data wastage. 

Fixed plans are typically for users who have steady and predictable data needs.

Call, Data, and Message Rates

Not all eSIMs offer calls and texts. 

Some eSIMs provide separate plans for calls, data, and texts. Sadly, most are data-only. 

If you have to make international calls or texts, pick providers that give plans beyond the internet. For instance, Airalo. 

Rates can vary. Data can cost $1-$3+ per GB, calls $0.5-$2.5+ per minute, and texts $0.01-$0.5 each. 

Check if plans bundle these services or charge separately. That way, you can avoid unexpected costs while traveling.

Purchase Method

Instant QR code activation is the fastest. 

If that doesn’t work, most eSIMs have other ways, like using an app. This allows remote provisioning and multiple profiles. 

You may also find some options that require more steps. Then again, instant activation saves time at the airport. 

For that, you need to check how easy it is to buy and activate your eSIM. 

Customer Support

Good support is super essential. 

Look for those who ensure 24/7 chat or email help. You need that assistance if activation fails or your network drops. Make sure they’re approachable and understand your issues. 

Providers like OrbitMobile and Roamless offer reliable online help.

How to Install an eSIM? 

Installing an eSIM is usually quick and easy. 

First, make sure your WiFi is active. Then, go to the settings. 

For iOS Devices

1. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM or Cellular Plan.
2. Scan the QR code provided by your eSIM provider.
3. Enter activation code
4. Follow the prompts to activate the plan.
5. Enable Data roaming

For Samsung Devices

1. Open Settings > Connections > SIM card manager.
2. Select Add mobile plan and scan your QR code.
3. Enter activation code
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish activation. 
5. Enable Data roaming

For Most Android Devices

1. Open Settings > Network and Internet > Mobile Network.
2. Select Add Carrier or SIMs (then Download eSIM) and scan your QR code.
3. Enter activation code
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish activation.
5. Enable Data roaming

Bonus Tip: Always restart your phone after activation to ensure the eSIM works properly.

10 Advantages of eSIM Cell Phone Plans

1. No physical SIM card required
2. Instant activation
3. Multiple carriers on one device
4. Ideal for international travel
5. Eco-friendly alternative
6. Flexible switching between plans
7. Reduced risk of losing a SIM
8. Compact and future-proof
9. Easy plan management via phone settings
10. Cost-effective for travelers

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying an eSIM [and What to Do Instead]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use multiple eSIMs on one phone?

Most modern phones support multiple eSIMs, but only one may be active at a time.

Is eSIM safe and secure?

Absolutely. eSIMs are encrypted and managed digitally. This reduces the risk of loss or theft.

How do I switch carriers with an eSIM?

Simply download a new carrier plan and activate it via your phone settings.

Can I use eSIM while traveling internationally?

Providers like Roamless and Airalo make global connectivity seamless.

Do all US carriers support eSIM?

Most major carriers like T-Mobile and Verizon support eSIM. However, always check with your provider.

Ready To Get Started with OrbitMobile? 

Still wondering how to get an eSIM in the US that offers the best 5G speed, flexible plans, and nationwide coverage?

OrbitMobile checks all the boxes for most travelers, digital nomads, and professionals.

Activate your OrbitMobile eSIM today and enjoy seamless US connectivity!