Yesim vs Airalo eSIM in 2025: Pick the Best for Your Trip

Having relied on digital SIMs for everything from quick weekend getaways in Tokyo to month-long remote work stints in Europe, we know that "best" is subjective. Airalo pioneered the marketplace model with affordable fixed-data packs, while Yesim has carved a niche with "unlimited" data options and built-in VPN features.

In this detailed Yesim vs Airalo comparison, we will cut through the marketing noise. We’ll analyze their pricing structures, real-world speeds, app usability, and hidden limitations (like Fair Usage Policies) to help you decide exactly which provider deserves a spot on your phone for your next adventure.

Quick Verdict: Yesim vs Airalo in One Look

If you are in a rush to catch a flight, here is the bottom line. Airalo is generally the superior choice for budget-conscious travelers and short trips where you want to control costs with fixed data amounts. Yesim shines for heavy data users who prefer "unlimited" style plans and want built-in extras like a VPN.

Choose Airalo if:

• You are a light to medium user: You only need data for Maps, WhatsApp, and occasional browsing.

• You are on a budget: Their small 1GB, 3GB, and 5GB packages are often the cheapest on the market.

• You want maximum country variety: With coverage in 200+ countries, they cover niche destinations well.

• You travel frequently: Their AirMoney reward system makes future eSIMs cheaper.

Choose Yesim if:

• You hate tracking data usage: You prefer buying a plan by "Days" (unlimited*) rather than "Gigabytes."

• You need a VPN: Yesim includes a built-in VPN for privacy on public Wi-Fi.

• You use a lot of data: You stream video or upload content often (just be aware of speed throttling).

• You want a "pay-as-you-go" feel: Their "Ycoins" and flexible duration options cater to non-standard trip lengths.

Traveler Tip: If you don't want to spend time comparing every provider manually, BitJoy allows you to instantly compare the best data plans for your specific route and pay securely with crypto or card.

What Are Yesim and Airalo, Exactly?

Both providers are eSIM marketplaces. This means they don't own the cell towers; instead, they partner with local carriers (like AT&T, Vodafone, or Docomo) to resell data to you via a digital app.

Yesim in a Nutshell

Based in Switzerland, Yesim positions itself as a premium connectivity provider. They focus heavily on ease of mind. Instead of making you count megabytes, many of their plans are sold by duration (e.g., 7 Days Unlimited). They also integrate a "switchless" technology that aims to connect you to the best available network automatically, plus a built-in VPN for security.

• Pros: Unlimited data options, VPN included, pay-as-you-go (international eSIM) option.

• Cons: Fewer "tiny" budget packs (like 1GB) in some regions; unlimited plans have strict Fair Usage Policies (FUP).

Airalo in a Nutshell

Airalo was the first major mover in the eSIM space and remains the most popular. It functions like the "Amazon of eSIMs." You browse a massive catalog of local, regional, and global cards. Their philosophy is flexibility: buy exactly what you need, from 1GB for 7 days to 20GB for 30 days.

• Pros: Huge variety of countries, very competitive low-end pricing, reliable app, loyalty rewards.

• Cons: Most plans are capped (hard data limits); if you run out, data cuts off until you top up.

Plans & Pricing: Unlimited vs. Capped – Who Wins for Your Budget?

The biggest difference between Yesim vs Airalo isn't the signal strength—it's how they charge you.

How Their Pricing Models Differ

Airalo sticks strictly to Fixed Data Bundles. You buy 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, or 20GB. It’s predictable. You know exactly what you are paying, and you know exactly when it stops working. This is perfect for travelers on a budget who don't want accidental overage charges.

Yesim offers fixed bundles too, but their flagship product is "Unlimited" Data. You pay for a duration (e.g., 5 Days, 15 Days). This feels more liberating because you never worry about hitting "0 MB."

Price Patterns by Use Case

• Short Trips / Light Use: Airalo usually wins. Here are real examples (December 2025):

  • Thailand: Airalo 1GB = $4.50, 3GB = $11 | Yesim 7-day unlimited = ~$18
  • Europe (Eurolink): Airalo 1GB = $4.50, 3GB = $13 | Yesim regional unlimited = ~$20
  • USA: Airalo 1GB = $4.50, 5GB = $16 | Yesim 7-day unlimited = ~$25

  For travelers using 1-5GB total, Airalo's fixed bundles offer better value. BitJoy also competes here with pricing starting at $2.50/GB, though availability varies by destination.

• Medium Trips (1-2 Weeks): It's a toss-up. For a standard 10GB usage, prices are often comparable. However, Airalo's regional packages (like "Eurolink" for Europe) are highly competitive.

• Heavy Users: Yesim offers better value on paper. If you plan to burn through 30GB in a week, Yesim's unlimited plan will be cheaper than buying three 10GB Airalo top-ups.

Unlimited & Fair Usage: What "Unlimited" Really Feels Like

Important Warning: In the world of travel eSIMs, "Unlimited" rarely means truly unlimited at full speed.

Yesim's FUP (Fair Usage Policy): While they sell unlimited plans, they (like Holafly and others) implement an FUP. Typically, after you use a certain amount of high-speed data in a day (often around 1GB–3GB depending on the plan), your speed may be throttled (slowed down) to 512kbps. You can still message and use maps, but Instagram and YouTube will struggle.

Airalo is transparent because it is capped. If you buy 10GB, you get 10GB at full speed. Once it's gone, it's gone. For remote workers who need guaranteed high speed for Zoom calls, a large fixed Airalo package is often safer than a throttled "unlimited" plan.

Comparison: Yesim vs Airalo at a Glance

Coverage & Performance: Where Do They Work Best?

When you ask "Does Airalo have good coverage in Japan?", you are actually asking "Does SoftBank/Docomo have good coverage?" because that is the network Airalo uses.

Global Coverage Overview

• Airalo: Active in 200+ countries. They are incredibly strong in "multi-country" regions. Their "Eurolink" (Europe) and "Asialink" (Asia) packages are industry standards.

• Yesim: Also covers 190+ countries. They are rapidly catching up, but you might find fewer options for very obscure island nations compared to Airalo.

Local Carrier Partners & Speed Expectations

Both providers allow you to see the Network Provider before you buy. This is vital.

• In major cities (London, New York, Tokyo), both usually connect to 4G LTE or 5G networks. Speeds are fast and latency is low.

• In rural areas, coverage depends entirely on the local partner.

• Tip: Always check the "Additional Info" tab in the app. If Airalo uses a Tier-1 provider (like AT&T in the US) and Yesim uses a budget carrier (like T-Mobile), choose the one with better national coverage.

Coverage Reality: What to Actually Expect

All eSIM providers—Yesim, Airalo, and BitJoy—use the same local cell towers as regular SIM cards. This means your signal quality depends entirely on the local carrier's infrastructure, not which eSIM brand you bought.

Where You'll Have Issues (Normal for All Providers):

• Subway/metro tunnels: No signal until you exit
• Mountains, national parks, remote hiking trails: Spotty or no coverage
• Old buildings with thick walls: Weak signal (common in historic European cities)
• Small islands or rural villages: Limited tower coverage
• Building basements or interior rooms: Signal struggles to penetrate

How to Prepare:

1. Download offline maps:

   • Open Google Maps → search your destination → tap "Download"
   • Works without internet for navigation

2. Save important info offline:

   • Screenshots of hotel addresses, confirmation numbers, emergency contacts
   • Save restaurant addresses in Notes app

3. Find WiFi backups:

   • Hotels, cafes, shopping malls usually have free WiFi
   • McDonald's, Starbucks are reliable worldwide

4. For critical work calls:

   • Don't rely on eSIM in rural areas—book accommodation with WiFi
   • Test connection quality first day before important Zoom meetings

The Bottom Line: If you're in Paris, Tokyo, or New York City, your eSIM will work great. If you're hiking Machu Picchu or exploring rural Scotland, don't expect 5G—and sometimes no signal at all. This is true whether you pay $5 or $50 for your eSIM.

App Experience, Setup & Customer Support

If you are stranded at an airport with no signal, the app experience matters more than saving $2.

Buying & Installing: How Similar Are They?

Both apps are user-friendly and follow the same logic:

1. Download the app.

2. Select destination and package.

3. Pay (Apple Pay, Credit Card, etc.).

4. Install eSIM: Both support Direct Installation on modern phones. You just click "Install eSIM" and the phone handles the rest. Manual QR codes are available as backup.

Note: You must have Wi-Fi (or data from your home SIM) to install the eSIM. Do this at home before you fly!

App UX & Ratings

• Airalo: The interface is polished but busy. Because they have so many packages (Local, Regional, Global), it can take a minute to find the right one.

• Yesim: Slightly cleaner interface because there are fewer options to choose from. Their checkout flow is very fast.

• Ratings: Both consistently rate above 4.5/5 stars on app stores, indicating reliable software.

Customer Support Reality Check

Both claim 24/7 support. In reality:

• Airalo: Uses a chat bot initially, which escalates to a human. During peak travel seasons (summer/holidays), response times can lag from minutes to hours.

• Yesim: Generally reports slightly faster response times via their in-app chat, but this varies by time zone.

Quick Troubleshooting Checklist

If your Airalo or Yesim data isn't working upon landing:

1. Go to Settings > Cellular/Mobile Data.

2. Ensure your eSIM line is toggled ON.

3. Tap the eSIM line and ensure Data Roaming is toggled ON (Crucial step!).

4. Check that "Cellular Data" source is set to the eSIM, not your primary SIM.

5. Restart your phone.

Where BitJoy Fits In

If comparing individual carrier specs feels overwhelming, BitJoy simplifies the process. Our platform aggregates options for your specific route, uses AI to recommend plans based on your trip duration, and even lets you pay with crypto—ideal for privacy-focused travelers.

Step-by-Step: How to Activate Your eSIM in 3 Minutes

Getting your eSIM working is easier than you think. Here's the exact process:

Before You Buy (5 minutes at home)

1. Check if your phone supports eSIM:

   • iPhone: Settings → General → About → scroll down to see "Digital SIM" or "EID"
   • Android: Settings → About Phone → look for "EID" number
   • If you see an EID number (32 digits), your phone has eSIM 

2. Verify your phone is unlocked:

   • Contact your carrier or try: Settings → General → About → if no "Carrier Lock" or it says "No SIM restrictions", you're good
   • Locked phones (still on contract) won't work with eSIM from other providers

3. Have WiFi ready:

   • You need internet to download the eSIM profile
   • Do this at home, hotel, or airport WiFi BEFORE you need the data

Purchase & Install (2-3 minutes)

Step 1: Buy Your Plan

• Open Yesim/Airalo/BitJoy app or website
• Select your destination
• Choose data amount
• Complete payment → You'll receive email instantly

Step 2: Install eSIM

For iPhone:

1. Open the email with QR code
2. Go to Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data → Add eSIM
3. Tap "Use QR Code" and scan the code from your email
4. Tap "Add Cellular Plan"
5. Label it (e.g., "France Travel Data")
6. Keep this eSIM turned OFF until you arrive at destination

For Android:

1. Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile Network
2. Tap "+" or "Add carrier"
3. Scan QR code from email
4. Tap "Download"
5. Name your eSIM (e.g., "Japan eSIM")
6. Keep disabled until you land

At Your Destination (1 minute)

1. Turn ON Airplane Mode (yes, really!)
2. Go to Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data
3. Turn ON your eSIM line
4. Enable "Data Roaming" for the eSIM line (CRITICAL STEP - this is NOT the same as expensive home carrier roaming)
5. Select eSIM as "Cellular Data" source
6. Turn OFF Airplane Mode
7. Wait 30-60 seconds for connection
8. Restart phone if no signal after 2 minutes

If It's Not Working After 5 Minutes:

Check these settings:

• Is the eSIM line toggled ON?
• Is Data Roaming ON for the eSIM (not your home SIM)?
• Is your home SIM's data roaming OFF? (to avoid charges)
• Did you select the eSIM as "Cellular Data" source?
• Are you in an area with coverage? (check app or website)

Still not working?

• Restart phone
• Toggle Airplane Mode on/off
• Check if eSIM plan is activated in the app
• Contact provider support (Yesim/Airalo/BitJoy all have 24/7 chat)

Pro Tip: Take a screenshot of your QR code and save it offline. If you accidentally delete the eSIM, you can reinstall it from the QR code (most providers allow 1-2 reinstalls on the same device).

When Things Go Wrong: Real-World Troubleshooting

"My eSIM says 'No Service' or 'Searching...'"

Most common causes:

1. Data Roaming is OFF → Go to Settings → tap your eSIM line → turn ON "Data Roaming"
2. Wrong line selected for data → Settings → Cellular → tap "Cellular Data" → select your eSIM, not home SIM
3. eSIM not activated yet → Check app/email for activation status (some plans activate only when you arrive)
4. Poor coverage in your specific location → Try moving outdoors or near a window

Fix: Follow the activation steps above again, carefully. 90% of issues are settings-related, not the eSIM itself.

"Data is Working But Extremely Slow"

Possible reasons:

For Yesim users:

• You've hit your daily Fair Usage Policy limit (usually 1-3GB high-speed per day)
• Check the Yesim app for your usage → after FUP, speed drops to 512kbps
• 512kbps is enough for: WhatsApp, Google Maps, Email
• Too slow for: Instagram videos, YouTube, Zoom calls
• Solution: Wait until tomorrow for speed reset, or buy additional top-up

For Airalo users:

• You're running out of data → Check remaining balance in app
• Solution: Top up before you hit zero, or buy a new plan

For all providers:

• You're in a rural/remote area with weak signal (mountains, countryside)
• Network congestion (during events, rush hour in cities)
• Solution: Move to a different location or wait for better signal

"I'm Getting Charged for Data on My Home Carrier"

This is serious - fix immediately:

1. Turn OFF Data Roaming for your HOME SIM:

   • Settings → Cellular → tap your HOME carrier line
   • Toggle OFF "Data Roaming"
   • Leave your eSIM's Data Roaming ON

2. Check which line apps are using:

   • Some apps (iMessage, FaceTime) may default to your home SIM
   • Settings → Cellular → scroll down to see per-app data usage
   • Change apps to use eSIM line

3. Set eSIM as default for Cellular Data:

   • Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data → select eSIM

Prevention: Before you travel, turn OFF your home SIM entirely (if you don't need to receive calls on your home number). Only turn ON your eSIM.

"App Says My eSIM is Active But I Have No Internet"

Check list:

1. Is Airplane Mode OFF?
2. Did you restart your phone?
3. Is the eSIM selected as "Primary" or "Cellular Data" source?
4. Does your phone show signal bars (even 1 bar)?

If signal bars show but no internet:

• Try accessing a website in Safari/Chrome (not just apps)
• Some apps cache content, making it seem like you have internet
• If websites load, your internet is working → the app has an issue
• If websites don't load → contact provider support

"When Should I Contact Support?"

Contact support if:

• No signal after 4-6 hours in a major city
• Worked yesterday, completely stopped today (and you didn't run out of data)
• QR code won't scan or gives error message
• Charged wrong amount or got wrong plan
• Need to transfer eSIM to a new phone (most providers allow 1 reinstall)

Don't bother support for:

• Slow speeds in rural areas (this is normal)
• No signal in subway tunnels (physics, not the eSIM)
• Settings questions (read activation guide above first)

How to contact:

• Yesim: In-app chat or support@yesim.app
• Airalo: In-app chat (AI bot → escalate to human)
• BitJoy: support@thebitjoy.com or WhatsApp chat
• All offer 24/7 support, but human response may take 1-4 hours depending on time zone

Extra Features: Hotspot, VPN, and Phone Numbers

Hotspot & Tethering

• Airalo: Almost all data plans allow tethering. You can share data with your laptop or travel partner easily.

• Yesim: Tethering is generally allowed on fixed-data plans. On Unlimited plans, check the fine print—sometimes hotspotting is throttled or limited to save bandwidth.

What the VPN does:

• Encrypts your internet traffic (makes it unreadable to outsiders)
• Masks your IP address (websites see Yesim's server, not your location)
• Helps access geo-restricted content (like Netflix home country shows)

However, be realistic about limitations:

• This isn't a full-featured VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN
• You won't get advanced features (split tunneling, multi-hop, dedicated IPs)
• Speed may be slower than standalone VPN services
• Server locations are limited compared to premium VPNs

Who benefits most:

• Leisure travelers using airport/cafe WiFi occasionally
• Anyone accessing banking apps on public networks
• Travelers who want basic privacy without paying $10-15/month extra
• VPN power users needing specific server locations or features
• Streamers wanting to access every geo-blocked service

For Airalo and BitJoy users: If you need VPN protection, you'll have to buy a separate subscription:

• Budget option: ProtonVPN free tier (limited servers)
• Mid-range: Surfshark ($2-3/month with 2-year plan)
• Premium: NordVPN, ExpressVPN ($5-12/month)

Verdict: Yesim's VPN is a genuine value-add worth $5-10/month if you'd otherwise buy one. For short trips (under 2 weeks), this alone can justify choosing Yesim over Airalo.

Phone Numbers

• Standard Rule: Both Yesim and Airalo plans are mostly

• Data-Only. You will not get a local number to make calls or receive SMS texts. You must use WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Telegram.

• Exception: Airalo’s "Global Discover" plan sometimes includes a phone number (Austrian +43 usually) with minutes/data, but it is more expensive.

Scenario Guide: Who Should Choose What?

Still unsure? Find your traveler profile below for our direct recommendation.

1. The Weekend City Breaker (3-5 Days)

Verdict: Airalo. You likely only need 1GB-3GB for maps and finding restaurants. Airalo’s small packages are cheaper and perfectly sized. You don't need "unlimited" data for 3 days.

2. The Eurotrip Backpacker (Multiple Countries)

Verdict: Draw (Lean Airalo). Airalo’s "Eurolink" regional eSIM is legendary for value and ease of crossing borders. Yesim offers similar regional plans, but Airalo’s tiered pricing (1GB to 100GB) offers more flexibility for different budget levels.

3. The Digital Nomad (Working Remotely)

Verdict: Yesim (with caution) or BitJoy. If you need massive amounts of data without buying top-ups every 3 days, Yesim’s unlimited options are attractive. However, ensure the FUP won't kill your Zoom calls. Alternatively, use BitJoy to find a heavy-duty local carrier eSIM which might be cheaper than both.

4. The Business Traveler

Verdict: Airalo. Reliability is key. Airalo’s established network partnerships and clear "what you buy is what you get" data caps ensure you don't hit a sudden speed throttle right before sending a presentation.

Summary & Final Verdict

The battle of Yesim vs Airalo doesn't have a single winner—it has two specialists.

Airalo remains the safe, versatile king of the hill. It is perfect for 90% of leisure travelers who want affordable, predictable, high-speed data in almost any country on earth. Its app is polished, and the rewards program is great for repeat trips.

Yesim is the powerful challenger for users who want freedom. If you value built-in privacy (VPN), dislike tracking your gigabyte usage, or need "unlimited" data for streaming, Yesim is the better pick.

Our Recommendation:

1. Check your device: Ensure your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM.

2. Check your usage: Be honest—do you just need Maps (Airalo) or do you stream Netflix (Yesim)?

3. Compare: Prices fluctuate weekly.

For the fastest way to check pricing across multiple providers without downloading every app, try BitJoy. We help you find the perfect connectivity match so you can stay online the moment you land.

Ready to connect? Browse the best eSIM plans for your destination on BitJoy and travel with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which eSIM provider is best: Airalo or Yesim?

Both Airalo and Yesim are reliable eSIM providers with extensive global coverage. Airalo often excels with its vast selection of smaller data bundles and rewards, making it a top choice for light to moderate usage and frequent travelers. Yesim shines with its unlimited-style plans and built-in VPN, appealing to heavy data users and those prioritizing simplicity for longer trips.

Can I trust Airalo and Yesim for my travels?

Absolutely. Both Airalo and Yesim are established and reputable providers in the eSIM market, used by millions of travelers worldwide. They offer secure transactions and reliable connectivity, ensuring you can stay online abroad as long as your device supports eSIM technology.

Which eSIM provider is better for international travel with heavy data use?

For heavy data users, Yesim often presents a more cost-effective solution with its unlimited-style plans and larger data bundles. These plans offer more flexibility for streaming, hot-spotting, and extensive browsing without constant worry about data limits, though it's crucial to understand their Fair Usage Policies.

Does Yesim or Airalo offer better value for short trips and light data needs?

Airalo generally offers better value for short trips and light data users. Its extensive catalog includes numerous small, affordable data packs (e.g., 1GB to 3GB) with specific validity periods, allowing you to pay precisely for what you need without overspending.

Which provider offers more destinations for eSIMs?

While both providers cover over 200 destinations, Airalo slightly edges out Yesim with a catalog often listing around 210+ destinations compared to Yesim’s 200+. For less common travel spots, checking Airalo’s comprehensive list is often a good starting point.

Can I use my phone as a hotspot with Yesim or Airalo?

Yes, most eSIM plans from both Yesim and Airalo allow you to use your phone as a hotspot (tethering). However, it’s essential to check the specific plan details, as data usage via hotspot can consume your allowance much faster, and some "unlimited" plans may have specific hotspot restrictions.

What’s the difference in app experience and customer support between Yesim and Airalo?

Both providers offer user-friendly apps with good ratings. Airalo's app feels like a large marketplace with many options, while Yesim’s is often simpler with fewer choices per country. Customer support is available 24/7 via chat for both, with user reports varying on response times but generally indicating good service for both.

Which provider is better if I need a phone number or SMS capabilities?

Most standard data-only eSIM plans from Yesim and Airalo do not include a phone number or SMS capabilities. If this is a critical requirement, you’ll need to look for specific ‘phone + data’ packages, which are less common and might be offered by specialized providers or specific regional plans.

Read more:

How to Fix SIM Card Showing Network Active But Not Working

Do eSIMs Expire? Understanding eSIM Validity and Activation Rules