In March 2024, Revolut made waves by becoming the first financial institution in the UK to launch its own travel eSIM service. Known for its innovative approach to financial services, Revolut now extends its offerings to include mobile data plans across 100+ countries. This move solidifies its position as a go-to platform for travelers by adding seamless connectivity to its existing travel-friendly features like affordable insurance and global ATM withdrawals. With an easy-to-install eSIM available directly through the Revolut app, customers can enjoy cost-effective data plans on the go, while Ultra plan subscribers gain an extra perk of 3GB of data monthly at no additional charge. Here you can find out Revolut’s review and more about their services.

In this review, we take a look at how Revolut’s eSIMs work, including their key features and fees, to help you decide whether they’re right for your travel needs.

How does the Revolut eSIM work?

Revolut’s eSIM allows people with eSIM-compatible devices to make use of data plans abroad without having to use a physical SIM. Everything from buying the plan to installing the eSIM and activating it happens digitally.

Revolut uses the 1GLOBAL network, and Revolut’s eSIM only supports mobile data packages. This means you won’t be able to make phone calls or send texts like you would with your normal physical SIM. But you will still be able to call over the internet using apps like WhatsApp. And, if your device supports Dual SIM technology, you’ll be able to keep your own existing phone number active while using the eSIM for mobile data.

You can buy an eSIM data plan via the app. But, before purchasing a data plan, you need to select the level of coverage you require. You can choose between:

• Local coverage – this provides coverage for one country of your choice and works well if you’re only spending time in a single destination.
• Regional coverage – this provides coverage for a whole region; within Europe, for instance, this includes 44 different countries.
• Global coverage – this provides coverage for all 108 countries included with Revolut’s eSIM.

When you first buy a data plan with Revolut, an eSIM will be prepared for you. You’ll be notified by Revolut when this is ready and you’ll be able to install it on your device via a digital download. The exact installation process will differ depending on whether you’ve got an iOS device (such as an iPhone) or an Android device. Instructions are available via the app.

Once you’ve installed the eSIM, you’ll then need to activate it by connecting to a mobile network and verifying your details to start using your data plan.

You only have to go through the installation process when you first purchase a data plan. You won’t need to do it again when you top up or when you buy further plans. You can also easily track how much data you’ve got via the eSIM page under “Active” plans and top up your plan if you need to.

Which devices are compatible with the Revolut eSIM card?

Your device needs to be carrier-unlocked and e-SIM compatible to use the Revolut eSIM card. In general, newer tablets and mobile phones can support eSIMs. Here are some devices that support Revolut eSIM in particular:

• iPhone 11 and above versions
• iPad Air (3rd gen) and above versions
• Samsung Galaxy S20 and above versions
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip and above versions
• Google Pixel 3 and above versions
• Huawei P40 and above versions
• NOKIA G60 and above versions
• Motorola Edge 40 Neo and above versions

A full list of compatible devices is available via the Revolut app. This list is constantly updated as new devices come out.

How much does the Revolut eSIM cost?

The cost of your eSIM will depend on whether you’ve opted for a local, regional, or global package, as well as your data requirements and the duration of your trip.

There are no unlimited data plans available with Revolut, so take a minute to consider how much data you might need for your trip. If you do run out, you can top up the plan with more data, which, of course, will cost extra.

Here are the current data packages on offer by Revolut. We’ve included prices for the Europe package for the Regional option, but you can toggle between Africa, Asia Pacific, LATAM, North America, and Europe. Prices vary depending on your region of choice.

The pricing above is correct as of 04/12/2024

If you opt for a cheaper package but end up needing more data for longer, it’s easy to top up automatically via the Revolut app. So you don’t necessarily need to buy lots of data if you’re not sure you’ll need it before you set off.

How to find the Revolut eSIM within the app

To find the eSIM feature within the Revolut app, head to the “RevPoints” section, which should be located at the bottom right of your screen right next to the Crypto button. See the image below if you need further guidance.

To get your plan, tap the RevPoints button on the bottom menu, choose the eSIM option, and select a local, regional, or global data plan that suits your needs. This is also where you can claim your free 100MB offer. Once you’ve done that, simply activate your eSIM and enjoy instant internet access.

If you want to purchase a plan, simply select the one that works for you, click “Continue,” and check out. Bear in mind that the plan will activate immediately upon purchase, so if your trip is a few weeks away, it’s best to put a reminder on your phone and buy it closer to your leaving date.

Key features

The eSIM is part of Revolut’s main app, which has its pros and cons. Since the eSIM is connected to your Revolut account, the payment process is super simple. In addition, you can use services like travel insurance and even get deals on airport lounges and flights.

On the other hand, tracking your data usage isn’t as comfortable as it is on dedicated eSIM apps. You also must be a Revolut customer to get the eSIM. This means setting up an account, complete with your banking details, to get the eSIM, even if you don’t intend to use any other services offered by Revolut.

Other than that, Revolut offers the main things you’d expect from an eSIM service. These include data top-ups if your plan runs out and data sharing via hotspot, allowing you to connect multiple devices at once.

One thing worth mentioning is that all Revolut eSIM plans become active as soon as you buy them. Many other eSIM providers allow you to buy the plan in advance and activate it when you need it.

Revolut customer support

Since Revolut is a big company with a worldwide user base, it offers 24/7 customer support via live chat to help you in case of any issues. You can also browse its vast knowledge base to find answers to the most common questions or contact the customer support team by email at support@revolut.com.

That said, as Revolut outsources the eSIM network from 1GLOBAL, Revolut customer support agents may not be able to help immediately if there’s an issue with the network itself.

If live chat is your preferred way of getting help, keep in mind that you’ll first be directed to an AI chatbot. Only if it’s unable to help you with your issue are you going to be connected to an actual support agent.

Revolut eSIM review final thoughts: Is it right for you?

The Revolut eSIM is a cheap way to use data abroad without having to worry about excess roaming charges. It’s easy to set up and top up and compatible with newer mobile devices and tablets. Revolut’s eSIM may offer fairly affordable and easy-to-use travel plans to its customers.

That said, it’s still essentially just a Revolut sticker placed on a different service that’s integrated into the Revolut app. If your device is eSIM friendly and you’re planning a holiday abroad, Revolut’s eSIM can be a great way to get data set up seamlessly. Revolut also offers a range of other features that might be attractive to travellers, particularly if you opt for one of its paid plans.

If you want an eSIM that only focuses on providing the best eSIM experience, get a service with 100% focus on eSIM—any of these companies.

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