Ubigi eSIM review: What you need to know

Need a reliable way to stay online when travelling? An eSIM is a handy option that helps you avoid expensive roaming charges outside the UK, without having to switch out your current SIM card.

An eSIM is a built-in digital SIM that works just like a physical one, allowing your device to connect to mobile networks without needing a separate card. One of the leading providers in this space is Ubigi, known for offering flexible data plans and reliable international coverage.

In this Ubigi eSIM review for 2025, we’ll cover everything from how to set up and activate your eSIM, to an overview of plans on offer. We’ll also discuss the main pros and cons of using a Ubigi eSIM too.

And, if you’re looking for a way to make your travel money go further - we’ll show you the Wise card from the money services provider Wise. This clever card automatically converts your pounds to the local currency in 150+ countries at the mid-market exchange rate, with only a tiny, transparent conversion fee*.

💳 Learn more about the Wise card

What is Ubigi eSIM?

Ubigi is an eSIM provider founded in 2017 by the international operator Transatel-NTT, Europe’s largest MVNO enabler. Transatel has established agreements with more than 200 mobile network operators around the world, ensuring that Ubigi eSIMs offer stable and reliable connectivity.¹

Ubigi eSIM coverage is available in over 200 destinations, catering to both private and business travellers. Their data plans are available for mobile phones, tablets, tablet laptops and connected cars.¹

How does Ubigi eSIM work?

You can buy a Ubigi eSIM plan through their app or official website. To get started, request a Ubigi eSIM profile and activate it on your device. Once it’s activated, you’ll be able to create an account and choose a data plan.²

Ubigi provides local, regional and global eSIM data plans. Some of their most popular destinations are Japan, France, the United States and South Korea.³

Ubigi eSIM are data-only, so you’ll be able to use your UK number for phone calls and SMS while abroad. You can share the data from your plan via hotspot and top up even without internet access. Your eSIM plan will be activated as soon as you arrive at your destination.³

How to activate Ubigi eSIM?

To manually install a Ubigi eSIM on an Android device using an activation code, follow these steps:

• Open your phone’s Settings
• Tap on Connections
• Select ‘SIM card manager’
• Tap ‘Add mobile plan’
• Choose ‘Scan carrier QR code’ and then ‘Enter code instead’
• Open the email you received from Ubigi and copy the activation code
• Enter the code and tap ‘Connect’
• Tap ‘Add and use it now’⁴

The installation process is slightly different on iOS. These are the steps:

• Open your device’s Settings
• Tap on Mobile data
• Select ‘Add data plan’
• Choose ‘Enter details manually’
• Copy the activation code from your Ubigi confirmation mail and press ‘Next’
• Tap ‘Add data plan’
• Select the default number and press ‘Continue’
• Choose which line to use for iMessage and FaceTime and tap ‘Continue’
• For mobile data, select ‘Secondary’ (your Ubigi profile) and then tap ‘Done’⁵

Supported eSIM devices

To use a Ubigi eSIM, your device must support eSIM technology. Ubigi eSIMs work with a range of smartphones, tablets and laptops. You can find the full list of supported devices on their website, but here are some examples:

Please note that Apple devices sold in mainland China aren’t compatible with Ubigi eSIM plans.⁶

Ubigi eSIMs are also supported on several Windows laptops. Below are some of the compatible models:

These laptops must be running Windows 10 or Windows 11 to use a Ubigi eSIM.⁶

Ubigi eSIM plans and pricing

Ubigi eSIM plans are available in country-specific, regional and global options, with data allowances starting at 500 MB and going up to unlimited plans. These flexible options make it easy to choose a plan based on how much data you need and where you’re travelling.

In terms of duration, Ubigi offers a variety of timeframes, including daily plans for short stays, as well as monthly and annual plans for longer trips or frequent travel.

Let’s go through some examples of Ubigi eSIM plans available for a few popular tourist destinations:

Ubigi’s World eSIM works in more than 200 countries, making it a practical choice if you’re visiting multiple countries. It activates automatically when you arrive at your destination, so there’s no need to adjust any settings or think about switching plans as you move from country to country.⁸

Ubigi eSIM: Pros and Cons

Not sure if the Ubigi eSIM is right for you? Here are some pros and cons:

Going abroad? Get the Wise Card for low-cost international spending

An eSIM is one of the most convenient and flexible ways to stay connected while travelling and exploring new destinations. Ubigi offers a range of eSIM plans starting at £2 for 500 MB of data, making it an affordable choice for light users. For those who require more data, unlimited plans are also available, as well as regional and global plans too.

If you are travelling abroad soon, the Wise card could be your perfect travel companion.

Open a Wise account online and you can order the Wise card for a one-time fee of £7 or get the virtual Wise card for £0. It’s a dedicated contactless travel card, letting you spend like a local in 150+ countries worldwide.

It automatically converts your pounds to the local currency at the mid-market exchange rate whenever you spend, only adding a tiny, transparent conversion fee* – or it’s free if you already have the local currency in your Wise account.

And when you need cash, you can use it to withdraw up to £200 a month (max. 2 withdrawals) fee-free. Wise will not charge you for these withdrawals, but additional charges may occur from independent ATM networks.

Sign up with Wise for free

Ubigi eSIM - FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions about using Ubigi eSIM:

Can I make calls with the Ubigi eSIM?

Ubigi eSIMs only provide data, so you won’t be able to use them for phone calls. However, you can use messaging and call platforms such as Skype, WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger.²

Can I use other eSIMs along with Ubigi eSIM?

You can install eSIM plans from other providers on your device, but you’ll only be able to use one at a time. Only certain devices that don’t have a physical SIM tray allow using two eSIMs at a time.⁹

Is 5G available on Ubigi?

Yes, 5G is supported on compatible Android, Windows and iOS devices.¹⁰

Can I use Ubigi eSIM on another device?

Yes, you can transfer your Ubigi eSIM profile to another device. To do this, simply delete the eSIM from your original device, then download the Ubigi app on your new device.¹¹

Log into your Ubigi account using your existing username and password. Then go to Settings and find the ‘Re-install my Ubigi eSIM’ option.¹¹

Sources used:

Sources last checked on date: 14-Aug-2025