We compare two of the best eSIMs in the market right now: Holafly vs Nomad eSIM
Comparing the two, while Nomad eSIM gives you several plan choices on data with smaller packages, Holafly is better for its unlimited data and wide coverage.
Let’s compare them in more detail in this guide.
In this article, we talk all about eSIMs, Holafly eSIM’s and Nomad eSIM’s pros and cons, and which eSIM between the two should you choose for your next data plan.
Read here Airalo vs Holafly, Ubigi vs Airalo, Holafly vs Gigsky and Holafly vs Ubigi
A Primer on eSIMs: What It is and Who Can Use It
What is an eSIM?
The easiest way to explain what an eSIM is that it’s having a virtual sim card that allows you to have a data plan to connect to the internet. You won’t have a physical sim card, like the ones we have for our phones daily.
An eSIM allows you to get data plans that you can use anywhere, whether you’re at home, or especially when you’re traveling to a new location, or a new country, to connect to the internet, without having to turn on and use roaming data service from your home sim card company.
Not all phones support eSIM. Here’s a list of smartphones and ultrabooks that allows you to have an eSIM:
Phones with eSIM
iPhone / iOS Devices
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone SE 2 (2020)
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 Mini
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 Mini
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone SE 3 (2022)
Samsung with eSIM
- Samsung Galaxy S20
- Samsung Galaxy S20+
- Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra
- Samsung Galaxy S21
- Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G
- Samsung Galaxy S21+ Ultra 5G
- Samsung Galaxy S22
- Samsung Galaxy S22+
- Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra
- Samsung Galaxy Note 20
- Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra 5G
- Samsung Galaxy Fold
- Samsung Galaxy Fold 3
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G Fold
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip
- Samsung Watch (via Samsung Wearable application)
Google Pixel Esim Phones
Have a Google Pixel phone, check this guide on how to activate eSIM. Below are the Google Pixel Phones that support eSIM:
Google Pixel 2 (only phones bought with Google Fi service), Google Pixel 2 XLGoogle Pixel 3, Google Pixel 3 XL, Google Pixel 3a, Google Pixel 3a XL, Google Pixel 4, Google Pixel 4a, Google Pixel 4 XL, Google Pixel 5, Google Pixel 5a, Google Pixel 6, Google Pixel 6 Pro.
Other Android Handsets that Support the eSIM functionality (Holafly vs Nomad eSIM)
Huawei P40, Huawei P40 Pro, Huawei Mate 40 Pro
Oppo Find X3 Pro, Oppo Reno 5A, Oppo Reno6 Pro 5G, Oppo Find X5, Oppo Find X5 Pro, Oppo A55s
Motorola Razr 2019, Motorola Razr 5G, Nuu Mobile X5, Gemini PDA, Rakuten Mini, Rakuten Big-S, Rakuten Big and Sony Xperia 10 III Lite.
There are also Ultrabooks that have eSIM functionality in them.
So check the following ultrabooks and laptops:
Microsoft Surface Pro X, Microsoft Surface Go 2, Microsoft Surface Pro LTE Advanced
Acer Swift 3, Acer Swift 7, Asus Mini Transformer
Asus NovaGo, Asus VivoBook Flip 14, HP Elitebook G5
HP Probook G5, HP Zbook G5, HP Specter Folio 13, Lenovo Yoga C630, Lenovo Miix 630
Lenovo Yoga 520, Lenovo Flex 5G and Samsung Galaxy Book 2
Holafly vs Nomad eSIM: Data Coverage
Now that we know what eSIMs are, and which devices support the eSIM capability, let’s go to the biggest reason one company should be chosen over another. The eSIM data coverage.
The Holafly eSIM offers maximum speed coverage (4GLTE), so you can enjoy a fast internet connection. The speed may be slower in some more remote areas.
Holafly Worldwide Data Coverage
Holafly eSIM can give you coverage for more than 160 countries worldwide. See below for countries currently serviced by the Holafly eSIM:
Argentina, Andorra, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Estonia, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Slovenia, Spain, United Arab Emirates, United States, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Laos, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Peru, Philippines, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Vietnam, and more.
The countries mentioned above are independent. However, Holafly also has a Multi-country eSIM that includes other destinations in Latin America, North America, Europe, and Asia.
Holafly for sure is in all bucket list destinations covering more than 100 countries you will be covered with your eSim since you land in the country.
The best sellers in Holafly are Mexico eSIM and Turkey eSIM and Europe destinations like Germany eSim, Greece eSim, Spain eSIM and Italy eSIM. Check them out!
Nomad eSIM Data Coverage
Now that we know what eSIMs are, and which devices support the eSIM capability, let’s go to the biggest reason one company should be chosen over another. The eSIM data coverage.
The Nomad eSIM offers 5G LTE available in 165+ countries, just like all the other eSIMs in the market. Of course, the signal will always be based on their network partners, and your location, but definitely a good coverage around the world.
For United States, for example, the data coverage is provided by the Truphone network.
The best sellers in Nomad eSIM are United States eSIM, a few countries in Europe and countries in Asia like Singapore eSIM and Vietnam eSIM where you can get as cheap as $5 USD for 1 GB data valid for 7 days. Check out destinations in Europe like Portugal and the best sellers in Asia are countries like Malaysia and South Korea.
Holafly eSIM Pros and Cons
Holafly eSIM Pros
- Quick and easy purchase
- UNLIMITED data plans available
- Receive your eSIM QR code immediately upon payment
- Your phone will become a dual-SIM.
- Data sharing with other devices!
- You will be able to keep your phone number on WhatsApp.
- A dedicated customer service and support team is available 24/7, in different languages.
- Get data connection to more than 160 countries worldwide (based on data plan location)
- eSIMs provide internet connection for up to 90 days
Holafly’s eSIM Cons:
- You cannot renew your data plan.
- Your eSIM can only be activated on one device. If you delete the eSIM from your device, you will not be able to reuse it.
- You can’t share data with other devices like your laptop and other family members
Nomad eSIM Pros and Cons – Holafly vs Nomad eSIM
Nomad eSIM Pros:
- Easy installation of eSIMs
- Nomad App available for iOS users
- Competitive Pricing on Nomad eSIM data plans
- Once you finish your original Nomad eSIM data plan, you can top it up with Nomad’s additional top-up plans
Nomad’s eSIM Cons:
- No unlimited data plans
- Once your original eSIM data plan usage is over, you’ll need to top-up. If not, you’ll have to buy another eSIM plan
Holafly vs Nomad eSIM: Data Plans and Services
Holafly eSIM Data Plan Pricing
Holafly’s eSIM prices will depend on the destination you’ll travel to and the data plan you choose. All plans are unlimited. You can find unlimited data plans from 7 days to 30 days, and some areas and regional plans can even have up to 90 days.
Likewise, the different eSIM plans can range from $19 to $104 when they are for a single country. A 7-day, unlimited data plan can be priced at $27. On the other hand, you can also choose plans for several countries, for around $34 to $54.
See the image below for a sample of data plans available in the United States. The biggest pro of using Holafly is their offer of unlimited data. For example, you can get unlimited data for 5 days for $19, for 30 days, unlimited data costs $64. If having continuous internet data is important to you, then this might be a really good option.
Nomad eSIM Data Plan Pricing
Nomad’s eSIM prices will depend on your travel destination and the data plan you choose. You can find data plans from 7 days to 30 days, with availability from 1 GB to 30 GB. However, plan specifics tend to vary by country.
Likewise, the different eSIM plans can range from $7 to $30 when they are for a single country.
For example, for the Nomad eSIM data for the United States, you can get a data plan for the following prices: $6 for 1 GB valid for 7 days, $9 for 3 GB valid for 30 days, $14 for 5 GB valid for 30 days, $20 for 10 GB valid for 30 days, and $32 doe 20GB valid for 30 days.
You can also top up your data plan with the same prices (except for the $30 plan).
THE BEST THING ABOUT HOLAFLY ESIM
The best thing about Holafly eSIM is their offer of unlimited data. If you’re someone who will need a lot of internet access and data plan during your travels and are happy to spend for that, for example you’re on a business trip or doing it for work, then Holafly eSIM can be a good option for you.
A few more BIG and impressive developments to Holafly’s service this year 2024:
Holafly Calling Features (You can Receive a Phone Number in Europe with 60 minutes of calls)
For calling features, the eSIM provides the ability to make calls within Europe for up to 60 minutes and receive calls for up to 60 minutes, enhancing connectivity without the worry of incurring expensive roaming charges. This feature comes at no additional cost to the user and utilizes an Austrian phone number (+43) provided by Holafly. The countries where this calling feature is applicable include the Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Sweden.
These offerings aim to provide a seamless and convenient communication solution for travelers across Europe, ensuring that staying connected with friends, family, or work does not come with the added stress of managing multiple SIM cards or dealing with unexpected roaming fees.
Holafly’s Generous Refund Policy (Up to 6 Months)
Holafly’s refund policy is quite accommodating, offering customers up to 6 months from the date of purchase to request a refund under certain conditions. The policy covers several scenarios, including:
- Refund for Service Withdrawal: If you no longer need your Holafly eSIM due to changes in your plans, you can receive a full refund. This option requires that the eSIM must not have been activated or used, and the purchase must have been made within the last 6 months.
- Refund for Incompatible or Locked Device: If the eSIM is incompatible with your device or if your device is locked, you’re eligible for a full refund. This applies as long as you haven’t scanned the QR code or used any data from the plan.
- Refund for Connection Issues: Should your eSIM not work due to issues with Holafly or the network infrastructure of the destination country, you may receive a full or partial refund depending on the specific circumstances.
For detailed information about the refund process, including how to request a refund and the conditions that apply, you should check Holafly’s official policy or contact their customer support for personalized assistance.
THE WORST THING ABOUT HOLAFLY ESIM
My least favorite thing about Holafly is prices can be expensive. It’s not fair the same price for unlimited data in the United States in Asia. But they are improving data packages in Asia and hopefully be more affordable soon. They started adding Holafly unlimited data packages in Asia in popular destinations like Hong Kong, Thailand and Singapore.
THE BEST THING ABOUT NOMAD ESIM
If you’re looking for the most bang for your buck, the Nomad eSIM is definitely more affordable. International travelers are the biggest users of eSIM at the moment, but Nomad is able to actually offer prices close to even local SIM prices. So if you want to use an eSIM in your own country, you can even do it. Check Spain eSim and Norway eSim.
THE WORST THING ABOUT NOMAD ESIM
They don’t have as many competitive prices in areas like Asia and South America. But hopefully soon it will be improving this with affordable data packages like the United States and Europe.
Verdict: Our Final Thoughts on Holafly vs Nomad eSIM
While both Holafly and Nomad eSIM give good coverage around the world, Holafly is the more popular choice when it comes to unlimited data.
Holafly has gained popularity among frequent travelers due to its unlimited data packages. The company offers various data plans tailored to the duration of your travel, covering over 160 countries around the world as of 2024.
What sets Holafly apart is its unlimited data feature. This is particularly beneficial for travelers who heavily rely on the internet for navigation, researching places to visit, staying connected with people back home, and uploading pictures or videos to social media. Having unlimited data means you don’t have to worry about running out of data in the middle of the day or limiting your internet use to conserve data. The Unlimited data with calling features in Europe and 6 month refund policy, it’s just reassuring to use Holafly especially if you know that your data needs will be high during your travels.
On the other hand, Nomad eSIM also offers global coverage with an emphasis on pay-per-use rates, which can be more economical for light data users. They also provide coverage to more than 165 countries around the world as of 2024. However, their plans tend to come with a data cap, which means you need to monitor your data usage or risk running out of data.
In conclusion, both Holafly and Nomad eSIM provide reliable international data services. If your internet needs lean more towards heavy usage and you prefer the peace of mind that comes with unlimited data, Holafly could be the better option. On the other hand, if your data needs are more modest or you prefer pay-per-use rates, Nomad eSIM might be the more suitable choice.
🚩 GET HOLAFLY PLAN HERE DISCOUNT CODE: GAMINTRAVELER
🚩 GET NOMAD ESIM PLAN HERE DISCOUNT CODE: GAMINOMAD
Happy travels and let us know if you have any questions!
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.