Rob has 15+ years experience running price comparison & review websites that empower consumers to find the cheapest cell phone services, cell phone deals, home phone, and internet providers available. He has been published in Forbes, US News, Entrepreneur, Huffington Post, Inc.
MoneySavingPro independently researches the products & services to bring you our recommendations. We may earn money when you click our links - disclosure policy.
For inexpensive eSIM deals, the best eSIM carriers can be found with MVNOs like Mint Mobile and Ultra Mobile.
Mobile Virtual Network Operators, are powered by the main networks cell phone towers, but their plans can save you up to $600 a year.
As a fairly new technology, not all phones use eSIM, but it can offer a number of benefits including a super quick set-up.
We've compared the best eSIM carriers and their plans below to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
Mint Mobile 4GB plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and 4GB data for only $15 per month. Mint Mobile plans offers wireless coverage on the T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE network. Read Mint Mobile review
US Mobile 5GB plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and 5GB data for only $15 per month. US Mobile plans offers wireless coverage on the Verizon & T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE networks. Read US Mobile review
Ultra Mobile 2GB plan includes unlimited mins, unlimited texts and 2GB data for only $14 per month. Ultra Mobile plans offers wireless coverage on the T-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE network. Read Ultra Mobile review
If you have a phone that will support eSIM, there are a number of benefits to getting an eSIM over buying a physical SIM card. With MVNOs, you'll find the best eSIM carriers with inexpensive plans like a Visible eSIM.
Save money: From prices as low as $15 a month you'll get lower-priced plans with all the same perks from low-cost eSIM providers.
No annual contract: There are no lengthy contracts with these prepaid plans. You've got the freedom to amend or cancel your plan at any time without early termination fees.
Customize your plan: Choose a plan that fits your needs instead of paying for features that you don't use.
4G LTE data speeds: Operating on the major US networks gives you the same 4G LTE data speeds depending on whether you opt for Verizon, T-Mobile, or AT&T.
5G network: If your phone is compatible you can get access to the 5G network at no extra cost.
Unlimited plans: If having unlimited calls, texts, and data is important to you, Mint Mobile eSIM has an option for you.
Multiline discounts: If you need two or more lines, low-cost carriers offer multi-line discounts to help you save money. With a US Mobile eSIM, you could save on each additional line added to your plan.
Multi-month discounts: Some carriers offer lower monthly prices if you choose to bundle for three or six months.
Instant connectivity: This new technology is quick to process. Once you've picked and paid for your plan your eSIM service will be activated. You'll be sent a QR code and get instant access.
4G LTE & 5G data speeds: Since MVNOs operate on the big three cellular networks you'll pay less without sacrificing speed. More and more are adding 5G coverage all the time so you can expect high-speed data.
Unlimited talk and text messaging: Finding a new unlimited plan has never been easier. Virtually all small carriers include unlimited text and calls in their plan options. Compare cheap talk and text plans with or without data.
International calls to Canada and Mexico: International calling is a must for many people. Luckily MVNOs offer some of the best international phone plans, with free calling to certain countries like Canada and Mexico, and discounted rates on others.
Wi-Fi calling: This feature is handy when you're out of your service area, allowing you to make calls over the internet instead of on your cellular connection.
Tethering/hotspot data: Many low-cost carriers allow you to use your phone as a hotspot. Pick an MVNO with the best mobile hotspot plans so you can share your mobile hotspot data with other devices.
HD video streaming: Just like the big guys, some MVNOs offer HD video streaming and some don't. Read the fine print to find the option you want.
eSIM plan types
Unlimited plans: Looking for unlimited talk text and data? Alternative carriers have got you covered. Data-hungry users looking for unlimited plus plans can save serious money by switching to one of the cheapest unlimited data plans. Not sure how much data you need? Check out our data usage calculator.
Family plans: Need four lines or more? Many MVNOs offer group plans. Compare the cheapest family phone plans so you can pick and choose what each family member needs.
Bring your own phone plans:BYOP plans are the norm with smaller carriers. Compare cell phone prices and get a great deal to go with your cheap cell phone plan!
Low-cost carriers such as Mint Mobile, Visible, Red Pocket, PureTalk, Ultra Mobile, and US Mobile are eSIM compatible.
What are the best prepaid eSIM carriers?
Some of the prepaid carriers that currently offer eSIM are Mint Mobile, Visible, and US Mobile.
Recap
eSIM works by using a digital SIM instead of a physical SIM card. They're mostly available in the latest smartphones like the iPhone, smartwatches including the Apple Watch, and Samsung Galaxy phones.
The great news is when you choose a plan with your eSIM carrier, you won't have to wait for a SIM card to be delivered, you'll be activated almost immediately using a QR code.
eSIM technology is new, but there are a variety of eSIM providers available to help you save money on your cell phone plan.
Also if your phone supports dual SIM, you can simultaneously have an eSIM and a regular SIM card, which is ideal for traveling.
