Ubigi vs. Airalo: A Comparison of the Top eSIM Providers
eSIM (embedded SIM) technology allows devices to connect to cellular networks without the need for a physical SIM card. Instead, the SIM profile is integrated into the device and can be remotely provisioned over the air. Ubigi and Airalo are some of the best eSIM providers, and in this article, you will find out more about them and their advantages and disadvantages.Ubigi vs. Airalo
This brings several key benefits:
- Convenience – There is no need to obtain physical SIM cards when traveling internationally or switching carriers. eSIM profiles can be downloaded instantly.
- Flexibility – the ability to have multiple profiles stored and switch between them as needed. Useful for separating personal and business numbers or having coverage in multiple countries.
- Security reduced the risk of SIM swapping fraud since there is no physical SIM to steal.
- Streamlining – eSIMs simplify logistics for manufacturers by removing SIM slots from device hardware.
With eSIM technology, travelers can now easily access wireless networks worldwide without roaming fees or commitments to local providers. Top eSIM data providers like Ubigi and Airalo are making this connectivity even more accessible.
What is Ubigi? Ubigi vs. Airalo
Ubigi is Transatel’s brand for worldwide cellular connectivity dedicated to the Consumer Internet of Things.
Ubigi provides global cell phone plans through eSIM technology, allowing users to access data coverage worldwide without changing their physical SIM card. The eSIM or “embedded SIM,” is directly integrated into the device chipset and can be easily set up and managed through the Ubigi app.
The company aims to make international roaming affordable and simplified. Ubigi’s founders were frequent world travelers who were frustrated with the high costs of roaming or switching physical SIM cards in different countries. This led them to develop a solution for flexible and inexpensive cell phone service worldwide.
Ubigi operates its own virtual network, utilizing agreements with over 200 network operators globally to provide service. The company doesn’t own any network infrastructure itself but rather partners with local carriers to deliver connectivity. This allows Ubigi to offer coverage in multiple countries without setting up telecom hardware.
Today, Ubigi continues to expand its eSIM coverage and integrations. The service can be used on compatible iPhones, select Android devices and iPads. Users can access high-speed 4G LTE data starting at $2 per day in over 165 countries. Ubigi aims to provide seamless global connectivity without the hassles or fees of traditional international roaming.
Ubigi’s eSIM Offering Ubigi vs. Airalo
Ubigi offers both physical and digital eSIMs that provide cellular data connectivity in over 200 countries. Their eSIMs allow you to access mobile data without the need for a physical SIM card.
Some key details about Ubigi’s eSIM offering:
- Provides high-speed LTE data coverage using networks like AT&T, T-Mobile, Vodafone, and more
- eSIMs are available in different data packages ranging from 1GB to 10GB
- Data-only plans, no voice or texting
- Plans start at around €4 for 1GB of data
- You can choose between one-off, monthly, or annual plans
- Auto-renewing data plans so you never run out of data
- eSIMs work on cellular iPads and dual SIM-capable iPhones
- The Ubigi app allows you to monitor data usage in real-time
- eSIMs have no contract or commitment; pay as you go
- Physical eSIM cards ship quickly or digital eSIMs can be activated immediately
- Customer support is available via phone, email, and live chat
Ubigi aims to make international roaming easy and cost-effective. Their eSIMs offer flexible short-term data connectivity worldwide.
What is Airalo?
Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to eSIMs (digital SIM cards). With eSIMs from Airalo, you can download and install a digital data pack from 200+ countries and regions and be connected anywhere in the world the second you land.
The company has raised over $10 million in funding from investors and has partnered with major eSIM providers like GigSky, Truphone, and others to offer connectivity. Airalo’s main hubs are in Singapore, Istanbul, and Toronto.
Airalo aims to provide affordable, short-term international mobile data plans through eSIM technology. Users can access Airalo’s global data coverage through their smartphones by installing the Airalo eSIM app. Overall, the company seeks to revolutionize international roaming by giving travelers easy, pay-as-you-go eSIM data plans for any destination.
Airalo’s eSIM Offering
Airalo provides eSIMs that allow you to access cellular and data plans in over 200 countries, with the ability to switch between plans and regions as needed.
Airalo’s eSIMs work seamlessly with a mobile app that makes managing your plans straightforward. Once you install their eSIM on your phone, the app enables you to view pricing, choose data packages or unlimited plans, and activate your eSIM in a new country with just a few taps.
Some key features of Airalo’s eSIM service include: Ubigi vs. Airalo
- Over 200 country options – Airalo has partnered with major carriers worldwide to ensure their eSIMs can connect you just about anywhere.
- Short-term pricing – You can purchase data packages for as little as €3 for 1 GB in some regions, with prices scaling up for more data-intensive needs. This pay-as-you-go model is handy for short trips.
- Big plans – The best eSIM plan for your trip will need to support your data needs, whether that’s 1GB, 10GB, or 20 GB. Most plans have a top-up option to add data when you run low.
- Multi-country support – With Airalo, you can use a single eSIM across multiple regions, activating a new plan as you travel. No swapping of physical SIMs is required.
- One eSIM for all devices – Airalo’s eSIM will work across smartphones, tablets, and cellular-enabled laptops from iOS and Android brands.
- Easy activation – Switching countries takes just seconds in Airalo’s app. No need to wait for activation codes.
With its vast country selection, flexible short-term pricing, easy app-based management, and multi-device support, Airalo aims to provide seamless international connectivity for travelers through eSIM technology.
Comparing Coverage
Both Ubigi and Airalo offer global eSIM coverage through partnerships with mobile networks around the world. However, there are some differences in availability across countries and regions.
Ubigi provides service in over 160 countries, though coverage maps are not publicly available on their website. Anecdotal reports from users suggest Ubigi has strong coverage across North America, Europe, and parts of Asia and South America. However, users have reported issues getting stable connections in some rural or remote areas.
Airalo is available in over 200 countries, and they provide detailed coverage maps on their website. These maps allow you to view the specific mobile networks and expected coverage quality in each country. Users report Airalo having excellent coverage across Europe in particular. However, the service can be more limited in some parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
Overall, Airalo appears to offer broader global coverage and more transparency around where exactly its eSIMs will work. However, Ubigi may have some coverage advantages in certain countries or regions. Checking user reports and testing the eSIMs can provide more insights into real-world coverage differences.
How to use the service?
→ To use Ubigi, you have to purchase a mobile data plan via the website. You’ll receive an email containing a QR code, simply scan the QR code to install your new eSIM profile on your device. Next, download the Ubigi application from PlayStore or AppStore and create your Ubigi account. This will instantly connect you to Ubigi connectivity, and your data plan will be ready to use.
Note: You can also download your eSIM manually or get your FREE eSIM profile via the Ubigi app, and top up whenever you’re ready.
→ To use Airalo, you must first purchase a mobile data plan online through their website or from their mobile app. Then you download the Airalo app, follow the instructions to install the eSIM on your compatible device, and access mobile data.
Like Ubigi, Airalo also offers to install its eSIM profile manually or with a QR Code.
Comparing Pricing
Ubigi and Airalo both offer pay-as-you-go pricing models for eSIM data plans without any contracts. However, there are some key differences in their pricing:
- Ubigi charges per MB used, with rates varying based on the country. For example, in the United States it’s €2.9/500MB, while in Japan, it’s €2.50/500MB. You only pay for the data you use.
- Airalo has fixed packages with set amounts of data. For instance, you could buy a 1GB package for the US for €4.11, a 5GB package for €14.60, or a 20 GB data package for €19.17 per month. Any unused data expires at the end of your billing cycle.
- For moderate data usage, while traveling, Airalo’s fixed packages can work out cheaper than paying per MB on Ubigi. However, for very light usage, Ubigi is generally the more affordable option.
- Neither of the services don’t offer unlimited talk and text packages.
- Airalo frequently runs promotions on its data packages, making them even more competitively priced compared to Ubigi.
Overall, Airalo will likely be cheaper for most travelers who need more than just occasional data access. But Ubigi remains the most flexible, pay-as-you-go option for minimal data requirements. Checking both services’ rates for your specific travel plans is recommended.
Review Ubigi vs Airalo comparison table:
Nb of destinations coveredwith the same eSIM profile |
200+ |
200+
|
eSIM for IOS |
||
eSIM for Android |
||
eSIM for Windows 10/11 |
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Available data plans |
One-offMonthlyAnnual |
One-off |
Recharge without having tobe connected |
Ease of Use Ubigi vs. Airalo
When it comes to ease of use, both Airalo and Ubigi aim to make getting connected as quick and simple as possible, but there are some differences in their approaches.
The Airalo app is designed to be very user-friendly and intuitive. Their app allows you to view a map of coverage options, easily choose a plan, and get set up with just a few taps. Account setup is straightforward, with minimal information required. Airalo’s app also includes useful features like data usage monitoring, auto-renewal options, and international calling. The simple interface makes Airalo a great choice for those who want a fuss-free experience.
Ubigi’s app is also easy to use, albeit with a bit more complexity. You need to create an account and add funds before purchasing a plan. The account setup process is still fairly quick, though there are more steps compared to Airalo. Within the app, you can view and manage your plans and usage. But the interface isn’t quite as slick and modern as Airalo’s.
When it comes to getting started, Airalo may have a slight edge with its more streamlined app. But Ubigi still offers a relatively smooth setup process and app experience for accessing eSIM plans globally. For most users, either option should provide an easy way to get connected.
Customer Support
Both Ubigi and Airalo offer customer support to help users with any issues they encounter.
Ubigi provides email and chat support. Chat is available 24/7, while email responses are typically within 24 hours. Based on reviews, Ubigi’s customer service team is responsive, knowledgeable, and able to quickly resolve most issues. They seem to take customer feedback seriously and are dedicated to improving the user experience.
Airalo offers support through email only. Response times vary, with some users reporting quick replies within a few hours while others had to wait multiple days. Airalo’s support coverage also seems more limited, as they are unable to assist with certain carrier-specific issues. Some customers have expressed frustration with lengthy back-and-forth conversations before issues get resolved.
Overall, Ubigi appears to have the edge for customer support due to offering more options with chat and faster response times. Their hands-on approach and dedication to the user experience make it easier to get issues addressed compared to Airalo’s more limited email support. When choosing between the two, Ubigi’s superior support could be the deciding factor.
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Summary and Recommendations
Both Ubigi and Airalo offer eSIM data plans that can be helpful for travelers who need flexible connectivity options. Here is a quick summary of the pros and cons of each service:
Ubigi
Pros:
- Works in over 160 countries
- Pay-as-you-go plans with no contract or monthly fees
- Reasonably priced data packages
- Supports eSIM-compatible phones, tablets and smartwatches
Cons:
- Website and account setup process could be smoother
- Customer support response times can be slow
Best Use Cases: Good option for infrequent or light data usage while traveling. The pay-as-you-go model works well if you just need data occasionally.
Airalo
Pros:
- Simple setup directly from their app
- Works in over 120 countries
- Competitively priced data packages
- Good customer support
Cons:
- Limited to only phones and tablets
- Doesn’t offer pay-as-you-go, only set data packages
Best Use Cases: This is a great choice if you need regular data access while traveling and want a straightforward setup. The set of data packages is a good fit for steady daily usage.
Overall, Ubigi and Airalo both provide solid eSIM solutions. For convenience and ease of use, Airalo may be slightly better. But Ubigi offers more flexibility with its pay-as-you-go model. Evaluate your specific travel connectivity needs to decide which one fits best. Ubigi vs. Airalo