eSIM in India: A smart choice, great value

1. eSIM Unlimited Data Plans in India

With the rapid development of 5G technology, India has stepped into the era of high-speed mobile internet. Traditional SIM cards are being replaced by the more convenient and flexible eSIM. eSIM, or embedded SIM, brings unprecedented convenience to users by allowing them to switch between operator networks via software without having to plug in or unplug a physical SIM card. In India, eSIM technology is growing in popularity, especially when it comes to 5G Unlimited Data Plans, offering users more options. Imagine being on the streets of Mumbai and being able to switch to the operator's network with the best signal at any time via eSIM, watching HD videos smoothly without worrying about traffic overages.

2. India: Asia's 5G Leader

India has made significant progress in building 5G networks and has become one of the leading 5G markets in Asia. By early 2025, 5G network coverage in major Indian cities and regions has exceeded 95%, providing users with high-speed and stable network connectivity. This has laid a solid foundation for the widespread adoption of eSIM in India. Although some reports have pointed out that operators are under pressure in terms of return on investment for 5G, which may even affect the launch of 6G, it is undeniable that 5G has profoundly changed the mobile communication landscape in India. As of February this year, Indian telecom operators have deployed 469,000 5G base stations locally, covering most of the country. For example, in the Delhi Metro, commuters can watch online videos smoothly over the 5G network, which was unimaginable just a few years ago.

3. Operators push for 5G unlimited data plans

To meet the demand for high-speed mobile internet, major Indian operators such as Jio and Airtel have launched attractive 5G unlimited data plans. These packages not only offer high-speed 5G network connectivity, but also feature unlimited traffic, allowing users to enjoy various application scenarios such as HD videos, online gaming, and telecommuting. These travel esim packages are undoubtedly the best choice for users who often need to travel for business or pleasure. For example, a software engineer working in Bangalore can video conference anytime, anywhere without worrying about traffic with Jio's 5G unlimited data plan.

4. iPhone becomes standard for youngsters

With the growing maturity of eSIM technology, more and more smartphones have started to support eSIM function. iPhone 12/13 series and other high-end smartphones are very popular among young people in India, and they all support the eSIM function, which allows users to easily switch between operator networks and enjoy a more convenient communication experience through eSIM. This has further boosted the popularity of eSIM in the Indian market. According to Counterpoint Research, the sales of eSIM-enabled phones in the Indian smartphone market grew 35% year-on-year in 2024, indicating that eSIM is becoming a new trend in the Indian smartphone market.

5. eSIM package selection pointers

Choosing the right eSIM data package in India requires consideration of various factors, including the city of travel, traffic demand, validity period, and recharge method, etc.

Match the traffic and validity period to your itinerary

When choosing an eSIM package, first of all, you need to evaluate the required traffic and validity period wisely according to your schedule. For example, if it's just a 3-day business trip in Delhi, then choosing a package with 5GB of traffic and a validity of 7 days might be enough. But if one is planning an in-depth 15-day trip to Rajasthan, then one needs to choose a package containing 15GB or even more traffic with a validity of 30 days. Sharing his experience, a travel blogger suggests that while choosing an eSIM package, it is better to reserve some extra traffic for unexpected situations such as the need to upload a lot of photos or videos.

Flexible top-ups and stacking packages

Considering the possibility of running out of traffic during traveling, it is recommended to choose eSIM services that support flexible recharge and stacking package features. This way, even if you run out of traffic, you can always purchase additional packages online to ensure smooth internet access during your trip. For example, eSIM service providers such as Airalo and Nomad offer flexible top-up options, allowing users to purchase additional traffic as and when they need it.

6. Comparison of mainstream eSIM packages

In India, there are several operators offering eSIM services including Airtel, Jio, Vi (Vodafone Idea) and BSNL. They differ in terms of package types, prices, network coverage, etc. Here is a comparison of some of the major eSIM packages to help you make a more informed choice.

• Airtel eSIM: Airtel is one of the largest mobile operators in India and offers a wide range of eSIM package options with nationwide coverage.Airtel's eSIM packages usually include voice calls, SMS and data traffic, making it suitable for users with comprehensive communication needs.
• Jio eSIM: Reliance Jio is known for its affordable data packages and the eSIM packages are also competitive.Jio's eSIM packages are usually data traffic oriented and are suitable for subscribers with high data traffic requirements.
• Vi eSIM: Vi (Vodafone Idea) is another major mobile operator that offers various eSIM package options with better network coverage especially in urban areas. eSIM packages of Vi are better in terms of network speed and stability in urban areas.
• BSNL eSIM: BSNL is a state-owned telecom company in India that also offers eSIM services.BSNL's eSIM packages are comparatively less expensive and are suitable for price-sensitive users.

Recommended eSIM for 3-5 days city tour

If you are planning a 3-5 day city tour in India, such as visiting cities like Delhi, Mumbai or Bangalore, here are some eSIM package recommendations:

• Airalo: offers a wide range of Travel esim packages starting from $4.50, allowing you to choose the right amount of traffic and validity according to your needs.Airalo's eSIM packages are available globally, making them ideal for users who need to travel abroad frequently.
• Nomad eSIM: Offers 4G/5G data coverage in India with fast speeds, no roaming, and affordable prices.Nomad eSIM's strength lies in its high speed internet connectivity and affordable prices.
• Saily: Offers eSIM traffic packages priced as low as $3.99, with the option to choose from 1GB to 20GB packages as per the need.Saily's eSIM packages are suitable for users with low traffic requirements.

7-10 Days Circle Tour eSIM Recommendations

If you are planning a 7-10 days loop tour in India, such as visiting the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), here are some eSIM package recommendations:

• Holafly: offers India Unlimited Traffic eSIM card for users with high traffic requirements.The advantage of Holafly's eSIM packages is its unlimited traffic feature, which allows users to use as much data as they want without worrying about traffic overload.
• Ubigi: offers a flexible selection of eSIM packages, allowing you to choose the right amount of traffic and validity period according to your needs. the advantage of Ubigi's eSIM packages lies in their flexibility, allowing users to choose the right amount of traffic and validity period according to their needs.

15 days in-depth tour eSIM recommendation

Here are some eSIM package recommendations if you are planning a 15-day in-depth tour in India, such as exploring Rajasthan or Kerala:

• Voye Global: Offers eSIM packages with 15 days validity and 8GB of traffic included for quick trips abroad.Voye Global's eSIM packages are suitable for users with moderate traffic requirements.
• RedteaGO: Offers the best network coverage with multiple local operators to ensure that you travel at fast data speeds.The advantage of RedteaGO's eSIM packages is its extensive network coverage, which allows users to enjoy high-speed internet connectivity in most parts of India.

7. Easy switching when traveling abroad

The convenience of eSIM is not only for domestic use but also when traveling abroad. When traveling abroad, Indian users do not need to change their SIM cards, and can easily switch to the local eSIM network and enjoy local mobile communication services by simply setting up their cell phones. This is undoubtedly a great blessing for business people who often need to travel abroad. An Indian engineer working in the IT industry shared his experience that he often needs to travel to the U.S. for business, and through eSIM, he can easily switch to a U.S. carrier network without buying a local SIM card.

8. Say goodbye to expensive roaming charges

Traditional international roaming charges are often very expensive, making it prohibitive for many users. With the advent of eSIM, users are offered a more affordable solution. By purchasing local global esim packages, subscribers can enjoy favorable local tariffs and avoid high international roaming charges. For example, an Indian student traveling to the UK to study can save a lot of international roaming charges by purchasing a local eSIM package.

9. eSIM becomes the new favorite of dual SIM users

Dual SIM phones are very popular in India. eSIM has taken the hassle out of dual SIM. Users can virtually manage multiple SIM accounts through eSIM and easily switch between different cell phone numbers without inserting or removing the physical SIM card to meet the needs of work and life.

9.1 eSIM cell phones are highly favored

Due to the many advantages of eSIM, eSIM-enabled cell phones are highly favored in the Indian market. More and more users choose to buy eSIM-enabled cell phones to enjoy a more convenient mobile communication experience. According to IDC, the sales of eSIM-enabled cell phones will account for more than 20% of the Indian smartphone market in 2024, and this percentage is still rising.

9.2 Virtual Management of Multiple Accounts

eSIM card is gradually replacing the traditional SIM card. Users can manage multiple eSIM accounts virtually through eSIM. This means that users can use multiple cell phone numbers on the same phone without having to plug and unplug a physical SIM card. For example, an Indian businessman can use one eSIM account for business purposes and another eSIM account for personal purposes.

9.3 Work-life balance

For many users, work and life need to be separated. With eSIM, users can use both work and life eSIM accounts at the same time to realize identity separation and avoid work and life interfering with each other. For example, a doctor can use one eSIM account for work and another eSIM account for personal life, so as to avoid receiving work calls during break time.

9.4 Switching Accounts More Conveniently

The convenience of eSIM is also reflected in account switching. Users can easily switch between eSIM accounts, both for traveling and working. For example, a salesperson who needs to travel frequently can easily switch between different countries' operator networks through eSIM without changing SIM cards.

10. eSIM Recommendations for Traveling in India

When planning your trip to India, don't forget to choose the right eSIM! PhoneSIMGo is a global eSIM service provider dedicated to providing you with the best travel eSIM. Whether you need a 5G unlimited data plan or other traffic packages, PhoneSIMGo can meet your needs. Whether you need a 5G unlimited data plan or another traffic package, PhoneSIMGo has you covered. Visit the PhoneSIMGo website to find out more about the global eSIM options available to you to make your journey smoother.

11 eSIM FAQs

11.1 Compatibility and Activation

For further information on compatibility issues, please click on esim compatibility list.

• Does my phone support eSIM?
  • Most modern smartphones support eSIM, including iPhone 11 and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and Pixel 4 and newer. You can check your phone's specifications or contact the manufacturer to confirm.
• How do I activate eSIM?
  • Activating an eSIM usually involves scanning a QR code provided by your carrier. You can also enter the activation code manually. Make sure your device is connected to a Wi-Fi or mobile data network.
• What if eSIM activation fails?
  • Please check that your device is eSIM compatible and make sure you are connected to a stable network. If the problem persists, contact your carrier or eSIM provider for assistance.

12. Conclusion

eSIM technology is profoundly changing the mobile landscape in India. With the proliferation of 5G networks and the increasing maturity of eSIM technology, eSIM will play an increasingly important role in the Indian market. Whether it's a 5G unlimited data plan or a travel esim, it will bring users a more convenient, economical and flexible mobile experience. If you are planning to travel or reside in India, consider using eSIM and enjoy seamless connectivity.