The eSIM market has exploded. Three names come up most often: Airalo, Holafly, and SIMPal. We break down how they compare so you can pick the right one for your trip.
Quick Summary
FeatureAiraloHolaflySIMPalCountries covered200+160+200+Pricing modelPer GBUnlimited data packagesLocal provider ratesCalls & SMSData only (mostly)Data onlyVaries by planPlan duration7–30 days5–90 days1–30 daysLocal networkAggregatedAggregatedDirect local partnersApp qualityPolishedFunctionalClean and fast Airalo
Airalo is the largest eSIM marketplace globally with over 200 countries covered. Plans are per-GB and generally competitively priced. The app is polished and widely trusted. The main limitation: most plans are data-only with no calls or SMS.
Best for: Data-only travellers who want wide coverage and an established platform.
Holafly
Holafly differentiates on unlimited data packages — a good fit if you're a heavy data user and don't want to worry about hitting a cap. Coverage is slightly more limited at 160+ countries and plans tend to be pricier than per-GB alternatives.
Best for: Heavy data users who want peace of mind with unlimited plans.
SIMPal
SIMPal focuses on local network partnerships to deliver genuine local rates — not resold aggregated data. This means better speeds and more reliable connectivity in many destinations. Plans include options for calls and SMS in addition to data, and the 1–30 day flexibility lets you buy exactly what you need.
Best for: Travellers who want local rates, calls+SMS support, and flexible short-term plans.
Bottom Line
All three are legitimate eSIM providers. If you need the widest possible coverage and don't care about calls, Airalo is a safe bet. If you're a heavy data user, Holafly's unlimited plans remove the anxiety. If you want local rates, call support, and short-term flexibility, SIMPal is the strongest choice.
Try SIMPal on iOS or Android — browse plans for your destination before you commit.
