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Airalo eSIM vs. TSIM eSIM: Which is the Best for International eSIM Cards?

In today’s connected world, reliable mobile connectivity is essential for travelers. TSIM and Airalo esim are two leading eSIM providers that aim to keep travelers connected affordably and conveniently. TSIM esim has been evolving its offerings, while Airalo esim, founded in 2019, has quickly become a strong competitor. In this blog post, we’ll compare TSIM vs Airalo esim, examining their features, pricing, coverage, and customer support to help you decide which is the best option for your travel needs.

Airalo vs. TSIM: Overall Comparison

Although we’ll delve into the main features of both companies in detail, it’s crucial to first look at an overall comparison of their offerings.

In this section, we’ll discuss key aspects such as pricing, data availability, ratings, customer support, and other significant features provided by each company.

FeaturesAiraloTSIM
Rating Trustpilot2.6 stars3.7 stars
PricesFrom 4.5 USDFrom 4.5 USD
Amount of dataLimited data plansLimited/Unlimited data plans
Coverage+200 destinations+200 destinations
User experienceFast purchase, easy installationEasy to buy, install, and activate
Customer serviceAvailable 24/7 Available 24/6
Device SupportSmartphones, tablets and laptops that are eSIM compatibleAll smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, and laptops compatible with eSIM
Flexible Refund PolicyUp to a 100% under Airalo T&CsUp to 100 % *
Data SharingAvailable for limited data plansShare data available in limited and unlimited data plans
Top – UpYesYes

Overall, TSIM  surpasses Airalo with its tailored data plans that cater to your specific needs, offering unlimited data in many eSIM destinations. Additionally, some of their eSIMs allow you to share up to 500 MB of data per day, even on unlimited plans. Conversely, Airalo provides cost-effective options with limited data, which is ideal for travelers with low data requirements.

However, a closer examination reveals that TSIM has more advantages than Airalo, particularly regarding mobile data, flexibility, and tethering capabilities.

Data plans: Prices and amount of Data

Let’s discuss the data plans and pricing for Tsim and Airalo. We’ve already covered the basics of what each company provides, but it’s crucial to understand their specific offerings and what you can expect while traveling.

Tsim provides a range of plans tailored to each destination, such as a reliable Unlimited USA SIM Card option and an Unlimited Australia Sim Card. Airalo also offers different plans for various locations. Let’s compare the two to see how they stack up.

Let’s start with Tsim.

Tsim now offers coverage in over 200 destinations. For many of these, their data plans include unlimited data starting at 489 Rs for certain locations and 889 Rs for others. Prices for limited data plans may vary depending on the destination. It’s essential to keep this in mind when planning your travels. 

Tsim data plans: Advantages and disadvantages

  • Advantages:
  • Unlimited data plans are available.
  • Purchase and manage through the iOS and Android app.
  • Coverage with many important carriers.
  •   Daily data plans are available.
  • Disadvantages:
  • Only available for eSIM-compatible phones.
  • Doesn’t include phone calls for all destinations but, with unlimited data, offers calls through VOIP apps.

Airalo data plans: Advantages and disadvantages

  • Advantages:
    • Offer support with different local carriers.
    • Daily data plans are available.
    • Top-up available to add more mobile data to eSIMs.
  • Disadvantages:
    • Coverage may depend on the chosen eSIM.
    • Doesn’t offer unlimited data packages.
    • Text messages are sold aside from the eSIM.

Average Speed and Coverage Comparison

Connection speed and coverage are critical for travelers as they significantly impact the travel experience.

Average Speed

Let’s compare the average speeds of TSIM and Airalo. Both companies offer data speeds on 5G and 4G/LTE, depending on the user’s location.

While data speeds are generally good, they can vary in remote areas. TSIM provides more detailed information about where their eSIM performs best, whereas Airalo does not offer specific details about their speeds.

ProviderConnection
TSIM5G/4G/LTE
Airalo5G/4G*

Overall, both providers offer suitable connection speeds. TSIM delivers a high-speed connection with no significant issues, ensuring a smooth experience. Airalo also provides reliable speeds, but it’s advisable to check coverage if you are heading to a rural area to ensure you maintain a dependable connection.

Coverage

Currently, both TSIM and Airalo offer coverage in over 200 destinations. In this TSIM vs. Airalo comparison, instead of focusing on the number of destinations, let’s examine where each company provides coverage in detail.

Both companies offer global and regional data packages. For example, if you plan to visit multiple countries within a continent like Europe, you can choose an eSIM for Europe or an eSIM for the UK, providing coverage across several countries without needing multiple eSIMs.

A key difference is that TSIM’s data packages include unlimited data options.

It’s also important to note that neither company offers phone calls to certain destinations, as previously mentioned.

Overall, both companies offer excellent global coverage. However, TSIM holds a slight edge due to the additional unlimited data features available with their eSIMs.

Airalo vs. Tsim: User Experience and Customer Service

When comparing two services, assessing the quality of user experience and customer service is crucial.

Let’s evaluate how Airalo and TSIM perform in these aspects.

User Experience

Both the Tsim and Airalo websites are easy to use. Their user-friendly design ensures that customers can effortlessly find and purchase the eSIM they need without any difficulties.

Both companies offer apps available for Android and iOS devices. Airalo previously had its app, but it is now shut down in India. In contrast, TSIM has a functional app that is operational and user-friendly. 

The TSIM app enables users to make purchases, manage eSIMs, access support, and more, enhancing convenience for all users.

Both eSIMs offer simple installation and activation processes, with both companies providing guides to assist users, even those unfamiliar with the product, in adding an eSIM to their devices.

Customer Service

When it comes to customer service, TSIM outperforms Airalo. While Airalo provides a “live chat” feature, it is essentially a bot that prompts users with several questions. Depending on the complexity of the issue, users may need to resort to email communication for further assistance.

In contrast, TSIM offers live chat support with real individuals handling customer queries promptly and efficiently. TSIM ensures there is no delay in response, enhancing the overall customer experience.

Device Support

Both companies offer broad support for mobile devices, ensuring compatibility with popular models like the Samsung Galaxy S24 and iPhone 15. This extensive compatibility assures users that their devices will work seamlessly with eSIMs from TSIM and Airalo while traveling.

Additionally, both TSIM and Airalo eSIMs are compatible with tablets, further expanding the range of devices that users can take on their trips to stay connected abroad.

Overall, both companies excel in terms of device compatibility.

Flexible Refund Policy

When seeking a refund, it’s important to understand that each company has its own policies. Customers need to be informed about the steps involved in the process and the various reasons companies might offer refunds.

Tsim refund policyAiralo Refund Policy
Full or partial refunds to usersRefunds are only available for 30 days after the purchase
Up to 6 months after the purchase to ask for a refundTerms and Conditions are less flexible towards customers
Activation type of SIM cards are fully refundable till they are activatedActivation type of SIM cards are partially refundable till they are activated

Overall, TSIM has a superior refund policy compared to Airalo. TSIM offers a variety of options and shows flexibility in assisting customers with issues related to their eSIMs. 

Conversely, Airalo’s refund policy is highly restrictive, limiting who can request a refund and the process for doing so. As a result, obtaining a refund from Airalo is more challenging, and their customer support is more likely to seek alternative solutions instead of issuing a refund.

Data Sharing: TSIM vs. Airalo compared

Both TSIM and Airalo offer data sharing on some of their data plans, though Airalo does not clearly advertise this feature on its product pages—it’s only mentioned in FAQs and blogs without full details. Rather than choosing an eSIM solely for its data sharing, travelers should select the one that best meets their needs. 

Voice calls 

In recent months, both companies have introduced phone calls to their eSIM packages. However, there are significant differences in where this feature is available.

TSIM provides phone calls for numerous destinations including Europe, the USA, the UK, and Thailand. In contrast, Airalo offers phone calls in only a few countries but includes text messages in their packages as well.

Depending on the traveler, having unlimited data might be more beneficial than phone calls and text messages, so it’s crucial to choose the most suitable data package. 

Notably, TSIM does not charge extra for eSIMs that include phone calls, whereas Airalo adds a fee for phone calls and text messages.

Conclusion: Which eSIM is better?

After evaluating the data plans, customer service, user experience, and additional features of both companies, it’s clear which one is better for travelers.

At this point, TSIM eSIM stands out as the better option for travelers.

This is due to TSIM’s more user-friendly features compared to Airalo. While the unlimited data packages are appealing, the additional features truly set TSIM apart and can significantly enhance the travel experience.

So, if you want to travel the world and stay connected, choose an eSIM from TSIM and enjoy their services as you

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German Prepaid SIM Cards For Travelers

Buying a prepaid German SIM card in Germany is often difficult for tourists due to insistence on local address by some vendors, and language barriers.

Documents required for buying a prepaid German SIM card

For pre-paid SIM cards, the retailer has to see and put on record official ID, i.e. the passport or national ID card. Unfortunately, many stores require you to have a local address. Foreign addresses are often not accepted. If you do not have a German address, try to use your name with c/o name and address of someone else, e.g. the hotel you’ll stay. This may not be accepted always.

Availability

Prepaid German SIM cards are available at airports like at Frankfurt Airport e.g O2 Shop is located at T1, Area B, Level 1. The most convenient way to purchase a SIM card for a visitor is to go to one of the big supermarket, drugstore, service station or electronic market chains. Buy top-up vouchers called Ladebons in many stores with a PIN to enter. Go to one of the three drugstore chains (Rossmann, Müller, dm) or to cash and carry markets like “real” to top up most brands. You can use MNOs vouchers for MVNOs e.g.Vodafone vouchers for Otelo, Fyve, Edeka and LIDL Connect.

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Sri Lanka SIM Cards For Travelers To Sri Lanka

Buying a Sri Lanka SIM card in Sri Lanka is easy and rates to call India are low.

Registration

When purchasing Prepaid Sri Lanka SIM Cards, registration is a prerequisite by the regulator.
You may need to prove your identity by showing a passport. A digital photograph of you is taken at some stores. If you do not wish to be photographed, please produce a recent passport-size photograph conforming to passport specifications.

Sri Lanka Mobitel
Sri Lanka Mobitel

General Availability

When you arrive in the Sri Lanka at Bandaranaike International Airport near Colombo, you can see counters of mobile companies at the Arrivals Lounge  such as Dialog, Mobitel, Etisalat ,Hutch and Airtel. A map of airport lobby can be seen by this link for ease. In the city, Mobile outlets or authorized partner retail outlet  located island wide. You can top-up cards and electronic top-up at any retail outlet on the street or via International top-up partners using your international Credit/ Debit card via PayPal on Ezetop.

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France SIM cards For Travelers To France

France SIM cards can be bought at the airport in France, but they are not cheap. After the first few minutes, you may be paying high rates to call India

Document required for buying a France SIM card
You will need to show a photo ID at point of purchase to activate SIM cards in France, as it is a legal requirement. A passport usually suffices.
General availability
SIM cards are available in tobacco shops, Relay shops, SFR stores or Orange store. SIM cards are also available at Charles De Gaulle Airport.
There is a facility of online top-ups your sim card from provider’s website, such as Orange. Alternatively you can buy a voucher in an Orange shop, any tobacco shop or supermarket.

Continue reading France SIM cards For Travelers To France

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UAE SIM Cards For Travelers To The UAE

Buying UAE SIM cards for travelers is easy in the UAE, with multiple options at the airport and activation in a few hours.

Document required for buying a UAE SIM card
To purchase of a SIM card, tourists must show their Passport with valid UAE visa. They will copy it and do some paperwork, which can take a while.
General Availability

Etisalat Sim cards are available at Airport Arrivals in Dubai & Sharjah, your nearest Etisalat Business Centers and in all the major malls across UAE and authorized dealers such as WH Smith at Abu Dhabi Airport & in malls, Dubai Duty Free, at Major Retailers like Jumbo, Emax and select hotels across UAE. Du sim cards are available at shops across the UAE or at authorised dealers.

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Japan SIM Card For Travelers To Japan

It is impossible to get a Voice enabled Japan SIM card without a permanent address once you reach Japan, but data only SIM cards are available for travelers to Japan
Getting a Japanese SIM card
The process getting a Japan SIM card is quite painful, anyone who intends to buy a voice-call-capable SIM card (prepaid or postpaid) needs to show a proper identification which indicates that he/she has a residential (permanent) address in Japan. A hotel address is not sufficient for this purpose. However, this law does not apply to data services and data-only SIM cards.
SIM at airport

Data Only SIM cards are available at Narita International Airport, where you can get a  SIM card through vending machines .The airport will have two such machines, for Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, with only credit cards accepted for added ease. users will need to register their information in order to activate the service. However, it can be done by scanning their passport information at the vending machine.

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Hong Kong SIM Cards For Travelers To Hong Kong

Buying a Hong Kong SIM card in Hong Kong is easy for travelers, but calling India is not cheap.

Availability of SIM cards and Registration

International SIM Card in Hong Kong
International SIM Card in Hong Kong

SIM cards in Hong Kong don’t need registration and are sold in many stores. It’s recommended to go to stores of the operators or a small independent phone shops where somebody speaks English, so he/she can help you with setting up. Reload vouchers can be found all over the city in places like 7-Eleven, 1010, HKT , Grayline or Circle K convenience stores.

SIM cards are also available at the Airport. There are shops of cellular networks e.g. China mobile is located Terminal 1, Arrivals Meeters & Greeters Hall, Level 5. Furthermore, some retailer shops such as Nobletime AV & Telecom, 1010 and FORTRESS also sell sim cards.
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China SIM Cards For Travelers To China

Buying China SIM cards in China is difficult for travelers due to language barriers, national roaming charges, the lack of International calling on most cards and the sometimes high cost to call India. Beware also of the occasional scams!

 

General Availability
SIM Cards in China
SIM Cards in China

Most Chinese SIM cards are regional, which means if you travel to a different province you’ll pay higher rates, so try to buy a SIM card in the province where you’ll be spending the most time. SIM card information related to Beijing will be discussed below.

SIM Cards are sold everywhere in Beijing. You can buy a SIM card right at the airport. Alternatively, they are available in departmental stores, bookstores, post office, and sometimes on the street. The value of the card is stated clearly on the card, and that’s how much they sell it for. You might get a SIM card from a retail store on street, but you still have to go to the service point of the carrier for official registration and activation before using it.

 

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Italy SIM Cards For Travelers To Italy

Buying an Italy SIM card is relatively easy for travelers to Italy, and there are packs available that include some free calls to India. After the pack however, you may end up paying high rates to call India. Also, these SIM cards are not useful if you intend to travel to multiple countries

Availability of Italy SIM card

SIM Cards at Fiumicino
SIM Cards at Fiumicino

Italian sim cards are available at Fiumicino Airport, Rome, Italy. It has a Vodafone shop, at Area B, T1 Departures Mezzanine Floor and TIM shop at T1 – Boarding Area B. At branded shops you will pay the original price. You can get them in the shops of the providers where they will be registered as well. Top-ups can be bought at many more places like tobacconists(blue-‘n-white / black-‘n-white “T” signs), supermarkets, newsagents and even bars or coffeeshops

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Australia SIM Cards For Travelers To Australia

Buying Australia SIM cards in Australia is easy for travelers, but beware of per call connection charges of some SIM cards.

Registration

Visitors who come to Australia for a holiday and purchase a prepaid SIM card will need registration. You require your passport for registration.

General Availability of Australia SIM card

Vodafone at Sydney airport
Vodafone at Sydney airport

Australian SIM Cards can be obtained from phone shops at most airports such as Melbourne airport, Optus is located in T2 Arrivals, ground level, whereas at Sydney airport Vodafone  kiosk is located at T1 International (Arrivals) near exit A. Australian SIM Cards can also be obtained from a supermarket and online from mobile network provider’s website. Try to get your SIM card in a branded store of the provider at airports where you pay the original price.