How we test eSIMs

We test eSIMs during trips or real-world travel scenarios. We use data for maps, messaging apps, social media, ride -hailing platforms, translation tools, and streaming.

This includes things like navigating unfamiliar places, booking tickets or tours last-minute, sharing data across devices via mobile hotspot, or trying to stay connected while riding trains or the subway.

We do not rely on provider claims or technical specs alone. What matters most to us is whether the eSIM actually works smoothly.

What we look at

Set-up

Some eSIMs take only a few minutes to set up. Others can be surprisingly frustrating.

One of the first things we evaluate is the installation experience. We go through the setup process ourselves, including QR code or app-based activation, setup instructions, app usability, and whether data starts working after activation.

Some eSIM apps look sleek but can be difficult to navigate, while others may have more user-friendly interfaces that are simpler in looks. We pay attention to these details.

Screenshot of the QR code that we received from BNESIM via email after purchase.

Reliability

We appreciate fast internet speeds (South Korea definitely spoiled us), but speed alone is not enough. We also evaluate if the eSIM performs consistently throughout our trip. When possible, we check for downtime or unusual speed reduction or slowdowns in places like the train, bus, beaches, or mountains.

Support

Responsive customer support matters a lot when you’re traveling abroad. This is why we place importance on customer service. Some things we factor in include response times, refund experiences, troubleshooting quality, and whether the provider’s knowledge base offers sufficient and helpful information.

Screenshot of our sample interaction with live chat support with Yesim.

Our Stash Scores: How we rate providers

Every eSIM we review is scored across five categories. Each rating reflects first-hand personal testing, not provider claims or marketing materials.

  • Performance (30%) - Real-world download and upload speeds, tested at multiple times of day and locations. We use both the ‘Run Speed Test’ feature on Google and Speedtest by Ookla and record every result with screenshots.

  • Value (20%) - Price per GM compared to equivalent plans from Airalo, BNESIM, Nomad, and Holafly at the time of testing. We note when pricing changes.

  • Features (20%) - Unlimited plans, VPN, hotspot support, virtual numbers, reusable eSIM, and any extras the provider offers

  • Experience (20%) - Installation time, daily app usability, and how the eSIM performs during real travel activities (navigation, social media uploads, streaming, communication)

  • Support (10%) - We submit a real support request during every review and record the response time and quality.

How we deduct Stash Scores

  • Missing features that competitors offer at a similar price range

  • Claims on the provider’s website that do not match our experience

  • Support that is slow, unhelpful, or unavailable

Our ratings are never adjusted based on affiliate relationships. A provider we earn commission from receives the same honest score as one we don’t.

How we keep this updated

  • Pricing, plan inclusions, supported networks, and eSIM provider policies change, so we revisit providers and update our content when new information becomes available.

  • We use both iPhones and Android smartphones for testing. Learn more and see where we have traveled in our About Page.

  • eSIMStash is reader-supported. We use affiliate links to support our tests and keep this site running, at no extra cost to our readers. Take a look at our Affiliate Disclosure Page.

  • If you spot any error or outdated information, please feel free to contact eSIMStash. We welcome your feedback.