Getting an eSIM in the UK is easy, but choosing the right plan can be a challenge for some. There are many different options and prices to choose from.
This guide will help you find the best eSIM plans for the UK in 2025, including prices and providers. We will also give you tips on networks, prepaid plans, and how to avoid roaming fees to help you save money.
What is an eSIM in the UK?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of a SIM card that’s built directly into your device. Unlike traditional SIM cards, you can’t remove an eSIM because it’s a tiny chip inside your phone. It works just like a regular SIM, but instead of changing physical cards, you download your mobile network profile. This makes switching carriers or plans much easier without needing a new SIM card.
Traditional SIM cards are still common, but eSIM technology is growing in popularity because it’s more convenient and flexible. By October 2023, 134 phone models supported eSIMs, and by 2025, 98% of mobile carriers are expected to offer eSIM plans.
eSIMs aren’t just for phones, they’re also used in smartwatches, tablets, cars, and bike-sharing systems. They are great for travelers because they provide quick access to local networks and help save on roaming charges.
If you’re traveling to the United Kingdom, you can still choose between an eSIM and a prepaid local SIM card. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a simple comparison of both:
| Feature | eSIM | Prepaid SIM Card |
| Convenience | ✅ No physical swapping; digital activation | ❌ Requires inserting a physical SIM |
| Availability | ❌ Limited carrier options | ✅ Easily found at airports, kiosks, and stores |
| Activation | ❌ Can be tricky for first-time users. Simpler process, often just scanning a QR code | ✅ Quick and simple—just insert and use |
| Network Switching | ✅ Can store multiple profiles for easy switching | ❌ Requires buying a new SIM for a different plan |
| Device Compatibility | ❌ Only works on eSIM-compatible devices | ✅ Works with any phone that has a SIM slot |
| Dual-SIM Capability | ✅ Works alongside a physical SIM | ❌ Requires replacing your current SIM |
| Troubleshooting | ❌ Issues may require customer service help | ✅ Easier to replace if problems arise |
| Environmental Impact | ✅ No plastic waste | ❌ Uses more resources, emits carbon |
| Cost | ✅ Competitive pricing, often cheaper. | ✅ Often affordable, especially for short-term use |
| Coverage & Speed | ✅ Generally good with major carriers | ❌ Some prepaid options may have weaker coverage |
| Registration Requirements | ✅ Can be set up online | ❌ Some providers require ID verification |
An eSIM or a prepaid local SIM card for the UK: which one should you choose?
- Choose an eSIM if your phone supports it and you want a fast, digital setup.
- Choose a prepaid SIM if you need a physical card or your phone doesn’t support eSIM.
Why Choose an eSIM for Traveling in the UK?
Here’s why an eSIM might be the best option to stay connected during your travel in the UK:
No Roaming Fees
The first reason to use an eSIM for the United Kingdom is easy: avoid expensive roaming charges! Traditional roaming can cost up to $3 per MB, meaning just 5MB a day could add up to $90 a month. Instead, eSIMs let you use local UK data plans for much less.
For example, EE offers 100GB for $25 (only $0.25 per GB), while Jetpac has 10GB for $11. Compared to roaming fees that can exceed $300 a month, eSIMs can help you save up to 90%.
Related: Should Data Roaming Be On or Off While Traveling?
Easy and Fast Setup
With an eSIM, you can buy and set it up before arriving in the UK. So, you’re connected as soon as you land and don’t need to search for a SIM card at the airport or handle multiple SIM cards.
Just choose a provider like Yoho Mobile, EE, O2, or Vodafone, purchase a plan online, scan the QR code, and your eSIM is ready to go.
One eSIM to Rule Them All
If you’re traveling between England and other European countries and don’t want to use multiple SIM cards, that’s a good reason to switch to eSIM today. Many eSIM providers in the UK offer plans that work in multiple countries.
For example, Yoho Mobile and SimOptions provide regional eSIMs that cover both the UK and various European destinations. In fact, Yoho Mobile has regional eSIM plans whose price per country gets cheaper as you add more countries. So you don’t need to buy different SIM cards for each country.
Save the Planet
eSIM usage has skyrocketed in recent years, and Europe is no exception. For instance, the use of eSIMs in the UK has grown by 287% since early 2023, with around 14.3 million active eSIMs by March 2024.
This change in user behavior helps cut down on plastic waste, potentially saving 8.3 tons of plastic each year in the UK. eSIMs also create 46% less pollution over their lifetime compared to regular SIM cards. They’re a more eco-friendly way to stay connected and help protect the environment in the UK.
Wide Coverage
The UK has a variety of cities, countryside, and coastlines. Main providers like EE and O2 provide strong 4G coverage, even in remote areas. By 2025, EE aims to cover 75% of the UK with 5G. In rural areas, you can count on providers like Yoho Mobile or EE for better coverage.
How to Choose the Best eSIM for the UK
What to consider when choosing eSIM for travel in the UK? To choose the best eSIM for the UK, you need to compare data plans, coverage, pricing, and compatibility with your device to find the most suitable option for your needs.
Network Coverage
The UK has different types of landscapes, so it’s important to have good connectivity. Most eSIM providers offer reliable coverage in major cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh.
For rural areas or remote coastlines, that’s when choosing a top eSIM provider is crucial. EE currently has 87% 4G coverage, and a project called the Shared Rural Network aims to increase that to 95% by December 2025. For 5G, EE plans to cover 75% of the UK by 2025, while O2 already provides 5G in more than 750 locations.
Tip: Find out which local provider your eSIM provider partners with to know the coverage you’ll have.
How Much Data?
Light users, who mainly check emails, browse social media from time to time, or use apps like Google Maps, will do well with 1GB to 3GB of data per week.
Moderate users who stream music, watch some videos, and spend a couple of hours browsing social media each day may need between 5GB and 10GB of data for two weeks.
Heavy users, such as those who stream HD videos, play mobile games, or work remotely with video calls and cloud tools, would need 15GB to 30GB of data over two weeks.
If you use the internet a lot, like working online full-time or downloading large files, you should get an unlimited data plan to avoid interruptions.
Tip: Yoho Mobile makes it simple to add more data if you run out. They have the best and most flexible eSIM plans in the UK ranging from 1GB to unlimited, with durations from 7 to 30 days, making them great for any type of traveler.
Plan Duration
eSIM plans for the UK provide various options based on how long you plan to stay. There are short-term plans for visitors who only need service for a few days or weeks, as well as longer-term plans for those staying for a few months.
For short trips lasting 1-7 days, weekly plans start at $4.49 for 1GB of data. For longer stays ranging from 2 weeks to a month, there are options like 10GB for $14 or 20GB for $36, both valid for 30 days. Frequent travelers can choose regional plans that cover both the UK and Europe, such as an 8GB plan for 14 days at $29.90.
However, the pricing and data options can vary widely depending on your chosen service provider.
Calls and Texts, or Just Data?
Most UK eSIM plans only offer data, so you’ll need apps like WhatsApp for messaging. However, some providers do offer plans that include local phone numbers and call minutes.
If you’re only looking for data and don’t need voice calls or text messages, you can save a lot of money by choosing a data-only plan. However, if you need calls and texts, make sure to choose a plan that includes those features for the UK.
eSIM Hotspot
Many UK eSIMs let you share your phone’s data with other devices, like laptops. This feature is helpful if you need to work from a different location or if you’re traveling with other people and want to share your phone’s internet connection.
However, some providers may limit or charge extra if you want to use your phone as a hotspot.
Before choosing an eSIM plan for the United Kingdom, it’s important to check if hotspot usage is included and if there are any additional costs, so you can choose the plan that best meets your needs.
Pricing
UK eSIM prices vary based on data, provider, and coverage. Budget plans can start at about $2.50 for 1GB over 7 days. Better value plans offer 10GB for $14 over 30 days, while unlimited data plans cost around $64 for 30 days.
Best eSIM Providers for the UK in 2025
Everything Everywhere (EE) (Sim Local)
EE (Sim Local) offers four eSIM plans for the UK, with data ranging from 30 GB to unlimited, and prices between $19 and $50.50 for 30 days. All plans include unlimited calls and texts, with the higher-tier plans also offering international minutes.
EE provides great coverage and fast speeds, using their network with both 4G and 5G. Hotspot usage is also supported. However, some travelers have pointed out that the data can only be used within the UK, and it doesn’t cover EU roaming.
Jetpac
Jetpac offers eSIM data plans in the UK, starting at $1.00 for a 1GB plan that lasts for 4 days. The more data you buy, the cheaper the price per GB. While this price is competitive, other providers like Yoho Mobile offer similar plans at similar or slightly lower prices.
Jetpac works with major UK network carriers, such as Everything Everywhere (EE), Three, and O2, to provide 3G, 4G, and 5G coverage. However, some users have reported to only get LTE speeds in certain areas, with 5G available in select regions.
For customer support, Jetpac offers 24/7 assistance via live chat and email.
SimOptions
SimOptions provides several eSIM plans for travelers in the UK, varying in price and data, starting at $4.50 for 1GB of data and going up to $49.90 for 50 GB. The more data you buy, the cheaper the cost per GB. They also offer plans for Europe, with options from two companies: Orange and Bouygues Telecom.
SimOptions partners with various local carriers, such as Drei (3 Austria) in Europe, to ensure reliable connectivity. Their eSIMs also support hotspot functionality, so you can share your mobile data with other devices.
However, a major downside is the are no unlimited data plans available. The highest data limit offered is 20GB, which might not be enough if you use a lot of data. Also, some plans are only valid for a short time (like 14 or 30 days), so if you run out of data or need more service after the plan ends, you’ll have to buy another one.
In terms of pricing, SimOptions tends to be on the pricier side. For example, a 5GB data plan costs $14 for 30 days, which is more expensive compared to other providers that offer similar data amounts for less.
Customer support is available 24/7 via chat, but it’s only in English, which could be an issue for non-English speakers. Additionally, response times can be slow, and getting quick assistance can be challenging.
Yoho Mobile
Yoho Mobile provides a range of eSIM plans for the UK, offering nearly unlimited combinations so you can fully customize your plan. They offer plans for both the UK and Europe to suit various travel needs. Prices start at $1.52 for short-term plans, and the cost per GB drops as you choose larger data packages, making it affordable for travelers. Their unlimited data plans are great for people who use a lot of data.
Yoho Mobile uses the main UK networks, offering strong 4G and 5G coverage nationwide. You can also share your connection using hotspot features. Customer support is available 24/7 via chat, WhatsApp, and email for quick assistance. Their service has great reviews, with a 4.8/5 rating on Trustpilot, praised for its reliability, low prices, and excellent customer support.
For all of these aspects, Yoho Mobile is considered the best eSIM provider in the UK because it offers affordable and highly flexible plans, along with great coverage. It’s a good option for both people living in the UK and those visiting the country.
How to Install and Activate a UK eSIM
Before you start, check if your phone supports eSIM. If it does, follow this simple guide to buy and set up an eSIM for your trip to the UK:
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Go to Yoho Mobile’s website or download their app.
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Choose the UK as your destination and select other countries where you’ll need data. You can select as many destinations as you want.
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Customize your plan:
- Pick how many days your trip will be.
- Choose how much data you need.
- Use the code YOHO12 at checkout for a 12% discount!
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Finish your purchase on the website or in the app. Enter a valid email to get your eSIM confirmation. Then, choose a payment method (credit card, WeChat, Amazon Pay, Alipay, or Cash App Pay) and enter your payment details.
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Receive the QR code by email.
To activate your Yoho Mobile eSIM on iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular, Tap “Add Data Plan,” Scan the QR code, Tap “Add Cellular Plan,” Name your eSIM (e.g., “YOHO MOBILE eSIM”), Set it as your default line if needed, Enable data roaming when you arrive in the UK.
To activate your eSIM on Android: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager, Tap “Add mobile plan,” Choose “Scan Carrier QR code,” Scan the QR code, and Confirm to save the eSIM profile.
Things to Know Before Buying an eSIM in the UK
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eSIM compatibility: To make sure your phone works with an eSIM, check its compatibility in the settings. Most newer smartphones do, but it’s best to confirm your model. You can also check this eSIM compatibility list.
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Fair Use Policies (FUP) & Unlimited Data Plans: Most UK eSIM providers have rules about fair use, which limit how fast you can use data each day. For unlimited plans, once you reach 4-10 GB of data in a day, your internet speed will slow down to about 128 kbps. Be sure to check the provider’s details before buying to understand these limits and make sure the plan fits your data needs.
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Refund & Customer Support: Most UK eSIM providers give refunds only if the eSIM isn’t delivered or has technical problems. Refunds are usually available for 5 to 14 days after purchase. You can get support through email and live chat. Before buying, make sure your phone supports eSIM, as most providers won’t refund for incompatibility. Always check the refund policy for any conditions or extra fees.
Final Thoughts: Is an eSIM Worth It in the UK?
Yes, using eSIM technology while traveling in the UK makes staying connected both simpler and more cost-effective. Travelers can save up to 90% on roaming charges, with plans starting at just $1.52. Cost-value options, like Yoho Mobile’s customizable eSIM plans, offer even more savings. As more carriers adopt eSIMs, travelers will enjoy greater flexibility, lower costs, and better connectivity throughout the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best eSIM for the UK?
Based on recent reviews, Yoho Mobile is the best eSIM provider in the UK, offering flexible plans, good prices, and reliable coverage. Other providers in the country include Airalo, with affordable data-only plans but without unlimited data plans. Jetpac offers 30GB for $24, though coverage can be inconsistent in some areas. EE, through Sim Local, provides eSIMs with calls and texts, but its plans are more expensive than other options.
Which is better, Airalo, Holafly, or Yoho Mobile?
Yoho Mobile, Airalo, and Holafly are popular eSIM providers for travelers to the UK. While Airalo provides budget-friendly options with limited data and Holafly offers unlimited data at higher prices, Yoho Mobile strikes a perfect balance between value and performance. It also has higher customer ratings than Airalo.
If you want great coverage, flexible plans, and excellent customer support at an affordable rate, Yoho Mobile is a great option to consider.
Can I keep my number while using an eSIM in the UK?
Yes, you can keep your number with an eSIM in the UK. To keep it active, you need to use credit at least once every 180 days by sending a text or making a call. Most UK providers allow you to transfer your number to an eSIM. You’ll need an unlocked phone to work with your current provider. Some companies, like EE, may require a contract to activate an eSIM.
Can I make calls and send texts with a UK eSIM?
It depends, some UK eSIMs offer voice and text services, while others are for data only. With data-only plans, you can use apps like WhatsApp or FaceTime to make calls. If you have a voice and SMS plan, you get a UK phone number for calls and texts.
Make sure to check the details of your eSIM before buying. Check this article for more information.
Can I use 5G with an eSIM in the UK?
Yes, you can use 5G with an eSIM in the UK. The main networks, EE, Vodafone, Three, and O2, support 5G for compatible devices. 5G is available in 55 locations, including London, Manchester, and Birmingham, with speeds of up to 205.5 Mbps on some networks.
Coverage may vary, so it’s a good idea to check your provider’s 5G map. You’ll also need a 5G-capable phone to access these speeds.
What happens if my eSIM runs out of data?
When your eSIM runs out of data in the UK, your mobile service stops completely, meaning your phone won’t work for browsing, messaging, or using apps. Some providers let you add more data, while others require a new plan. To avoid this, keep track of your data and get a new plan before it runs out. You could also choose a plan with more data or use WiFi instead.