Address
Office 6865 Vg 60 Tottenham
Court Road
Area 1/1, Fitzrovia
London
W1T 2EW
United Kingdom
Work Hours
Monday to Friday: 7AM - 7PM
Weekend: 10AM - 5PM
Instant eSIM Plans Across 200+ Worldwide Destinations
Join YeSIM | 150+ Countries Covery
The Brief — Applies to Both
What is an eSIM, exactly?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card already built into most modern phones, tablets, and laptops. Instead of queueing at an airport kiosk for a physical chip, you buy a data plan digitally, install it in a couple of minutes, and you're online the moment you land.
Your original phone number and physical SIM stay exactly where they are — calls and texts keep working as normal, while the eSIM handles data on a local network at local rates. Both Airalo and Yesim work this same way; the difference comes down to coverage, pricing style, and a few extras.
At a Glance
Airalo and Yesim, compared
| Aspect | Airalo | Yesim |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | 200+ countries & regions | 150+ countries, EU & Middle East focus |
| Plan types | Local · Regional · Global | Local · Regional · Global |
| Brand profile | Market leader, widest name recognition | Newer entrant, competitive pricing |
| Standout extra | Huge destination list, simple app | Virtual number option in select regions |
| Pricing style | Fixed data-and-validity bundles | Pay-as-you-go, no subscription |
The Steps — Same Flow for Both
How to get set up, either way
Whichever you choose, the process is nearly identical — five minutes, start to finish.
Check your device is eSIM-compatible
Most phones from the last few years qualify (iPhone XS onward, most Pixel and Galaxy flagships). Both providers list compatible devices on their sites — check yours before buying either.
Create a free account
Sign up on the app or website with your email. No cost to register with either provider — you only pay for the data plan itself.
Pick a Local, Regional, or Global plan
Match the plan to your itinerary: one country, one continent, or multi-region coverage — both providers structure plans this way.
Purchase and receive your QR code
Pay by card or digital wallet. Your eSIM appears instantly — install it before you fly, since setup only needs Wi-Fi, not the plan's data allowance.
Activate on arrival
Turn on data roaming for the new eSIM line once you land. You're connected — no kiosk, no queue, no swapped SIM tray.
Pick Your Provider
Where Airalo and Yesim differ
Same basics, different strengths — here's what each one brings specifically.
Airalo
The Market Leader
The world's first eSIM store, with the widest destination list and the most recognizable name in the space — a safe, familiar pick for first-time eSIM users.
200+ Countries
10M+ Users
Best For
- First-time eSIM buyers who want a trusted, well-reviewed app
- Trips to less common destinations — the largest country list on the market
- Simple, fixed data-and-validity bundles with no pricing surprises
Yesim
The Flexible Value Pick
A pay-as-you-go eSIM marketplace with strong EU and Middle East coverage, plus a virtual number option most competitors don't offer — built for travelers who want more control.
150+ Countries
Virtual Numbers
Best For
- Multi-country trips across the EU or Middle East on one plan
- Travelers who want a local-style virtual number, not just data
- Pay-as-you-go flexibility with no recurring subscription
Before you buy — three things worth checking, whichever you pick
- Confirm eSIM compatibility on the provider's device list — a two-minute check that avoids a wasted purchase.
- Check your plan's validity start — some plans count down from purchase, others from first connection. Pick the one that matches your landing date.
- Install before you fly, activate on arrival — installation only needs Wi-Fi; save the data validity window for when you actually land.
This page contains affiliate links (via the Travelpayouts network) for both Airalo and Yesim. If you purchase through either, Classy Jets may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Your Airalo eSIM, Sorted in Minutes
Getting your eSIM, professionally done
Skip the airport SIM kiosk and the roaming charges. Here’s exactly what Airalo is, and the simple steps to get connected before your wheels even touch down.
Yesim: One eSIM, Wherever the Trip Takes You
What is Yesim, exactly?
Yesim is a digital SIM marketplace — you choose a data plan for where you’re headed, load it onto your device in minutes, and skip the local SIM counter entirely. A Switzerland-based eSIM provider built for travelers who want stable data and real flexibility — including virtual numbers across the EU and Middle East. Here’s the brief, and exactly how to get set up.
