Best eSIM U.S. 2025: Complete guide to providers
Are you about to leave for the US and don’t want to get fleeced by roaming charges? Great, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll explain everything you need to know to choose the best eSIM for the U.S. without wasting time (and money) on tourist pitfalls.
Why use an eSIM to travel to the U.S.
Let’s face it: mobile data in the United States costs an arm and a leg. With classic physical SIM cards, you risk paying crazy amounts of money or running out of connection just when you need it. The eSIM for USA solves all these problems in one fell swoop.
The benefits are clear as day:
- Guaranteed savings: goodbye to roaming charges that drain your bill
- Instant activation: download, activate and be online in 2 minutes
- Multi-operator coverage: access to AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon networks
- Zero stress: no airport lines or desperate search for stores
Quick comparison table – Top 5 US eSIM plans quick
| Provider | Price from | GB/validity | Network | 5G |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airalo | €16 | 5GB/30gg | T-Mobile/Verizon | ✔️ |
| Holafly | €19 | Unlimited/30days | T-Mobile | ✔️ |
| Nomad | €27 | 20GB/30gg | AT&T/T-Mobile | ✔️ |
| Ubigi | €15 | 10GB/30gg | T-Mobile | ✔️ |
| KeepGo | €90 | 25GB/365gg | AT&T/T-Mobile | ✔️ |
For whom is eSIM worthwhile in the United States?
Perfect for all these cases:
- Single travelers or families on vacation
- Business trip with Zoom meetings and continuous calls
- Digital nomads working remotely
- Those who road trip between multiple states
SIM vs eSIM: pros and cons
eSIM benefits:
- Cheaper price than roaming
- Zero physical SIM to be lost or broken
- Choice of several U.S. networks
- Immediate activation
eSIM disadvantages:
- Not all devices are compatible
- Customer support not always in Italian
How to choose the best US eSIM?
Assesses network coverage
AT&T vs T-Mobile: here’s the truth no one tells you. AT&T dominates in rural areas and along highways, T-Mobile is strong in cities. If you go on a desert road trip, go for AT&T. If you stay in New York and Los Angeles, T-Mobile is perfect.
How many GBs are really needed?
Don’t be fooled by “unlimited data” -always read the fine print. Here is my rule of thumb:
- 5GB: weekend in Miami, basic use
- 10GB: standard week with maps and social
- 20GB: business trip or heavy use
- 50GB+: digital nomad or continuous streaming
Duration of the trip
- 7-15 days: most convenient short plans
- 30 days: sweet spot for most offers
- Frequent travel: consider annual plans like KeepGo
5G support: when you really need it
5G pays off if:
- Do you often use the laptop hotspot
- Video posts on Instagram/TikTok
- Remote work with video calls
- Stream in 4K
US provider reviews
Airalo USA: the reliable all-rounder
Pros:
- Honest and transparent price
- Easy-to-use app
- Coverage on multiple U.S. networks
- 5G support included
Cons:
- Not the cheapest ever
- Data only, no calls
Real speed tests: in my tests in New York I recorded 45 MB/s download with T-Mobile 5G. More than enough for any use.
Coupon active: use code DISCOUNT10 for 10% off.
Holafly USA: “unlimited” data with asterisk
Pros:
- Captivating marketing on unlimited data
- Decent customer service
- Fast activation process
Cons:
- “Unlimited” means limited after 2.5GB/day
- T-Mobile network only
- Higher price than the competition
The truth about unlimited data: after 2.5GB per day it slows your speed down. For normal use it’s fine, but if you download movies you’re screwed.
Nomad USA: the premium choice
Pros:
- Access to AT&T and T-Mobile
- Excellent network quality
- Proven reliability
Cons:
- Higher price
- Only 20GB for the North America plan
When it pays off: perfect if you also visit Canada and Mexico with one plan.
Ubigi USA: the smart compromise
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Stable T-Mobile network
- Business support
Cons:
- Only one network available
- Fewer duration options
Strengths: Ideal for medium-duration business travel.
KeepGo USA: for serial travelers
Pros:
- Validity of 365 days
- 25GB lasting one year
- Perfect for multiple trips
Cons:
- High initial investment (€90)
- Convenient only if you travel often
Data management: the app allows you to monitor consumption in real time.
Frequently asked questions
What cell phones are compatible with eSIM in the USA?
iPhone: XS and above
Samsung: Galaxy S20 and onward
Google Pixel: 3 onwards
Xiaomi, OnePlus, Oppo: recent premium models
How do you install the eSIM?
I explain it in 3 steps:
- Buy online and get the QR code
- Go to Settings > Mobile > Add Plan
- Scan the code and activate
What happens if I run out of GB?
It depends on the provider:
- Airalo: crashes, you have to reload
- Holafly: slowing down but not stopping
- Nomad: you can buy refills
Can I use shared hotspot/WiFi?
Yes, most providers allow this. Always check in the terms of use.
Active discount codes and promos (October 2024)
- Airalo: DISCOUNT10 (10% off)
- Holafly: PUNTIFURBI10 (10% off)
- Nomad: use our direct link to Nomad for automatic 5% off
How to enter the coupon: during checkout, look for the “Promo Code” box and enter the code before payment.
Alternatives: physical SIM, portable WiFi and roaming
When alternatives are convenient
Traditional physical SIM:
- Device not compatible with eSIM
- Very long trips (more than 90 days)
- Need for continuous voice calls
Portable WiFi:
- Group of people who share
- Multiple devices to connect
- Remote areas with limited coverage
Traditional roaming:
- Very short trips (1-2 days)
- Sudden emergencies
But honestly, in 2024 eSIM almost always wins.
Checklist “How to activate US eSIM in 3 minutes”
✅ S tep 1: Choose provider and offer from our eSIM comparator
✅ S tep 2: Buy online with discount code
✅ S tep 3: Receive QR code via email (spam check!).
✅ S tep 4: Install on device (Settings > Mobile)
✅ S tep 5: Activate and verify connection before departure
Pro tip: Always test the eSIM in Italy before leaving. Better to solve problems at home than at the airport.
Why choose PuntiFurbi independent comparator
We are not paid by providers to tell you what to buy. Our tests are real, prices transparent, and discount codes personally verified.
What we do for you:
- Speed test under real conditions
- Updated price comparison
- Personalized assistance in Italian
- Exclusive discount codes
If you have already experienced the world of travel points, you know how important it is to have reliable information. With eSIMs, it’s the same story: the person who advises you makes the difference.
Interested in maximizing your travel points, too? Check out our comprehensive guide on American Express Membership Rewards.
Compare the best US eSIM deals now
Don’t waste your time with second-rate providers or inflated prices. The right eSIM can save you hundreds on your trip to America.
➡️ Compare all US eSIMs on our comparator and find the perfect one for your trip.
P.S. If you found this article helpful, please share it with those who are planning a trip to the US. Every dollar saved is an extra dollar for your next business class upgrade!