Whether you’re traveling to Taiwan for its stunning natural landscapes, cultural heritage, or delicious food, having a reliable internet connection is key. While there are several options to choose from, one of the most affordable and convenient is using an eSIM.
Digital SIM cards, also known as eSIMs, allow you to connect to local networks without swapping physical SIM cards or paying high roaming fees. With just a few taps on your phone, you can have mobile data wherever you go.
In this article, I’ll walk you through my top picks for the best eSIM for Taiwan, highlighting each provider’s coverage, pricing, plans, and user reviews.
When choosing your best eSIM for Taiwan, it’s important to do it based on several key criteria, such as data plans, pricing, connectivity types, and customer reviews.
To help you out with the selection process, I’ve made a list featuring my top picks.
How We Rank eSIM Providers
While we strive to provide an objective ranking, our recommendations are grounded in thorough research and key factors such as:
Reliability
Network quality and consistency across different regions in Germany
Pricing
Value for money and competitive rates for data packages
User Ratings
Customer satisfaction and reviews from real travelers
Ease of Use
Simplicity of activation, app interface, and setup process
Extra Features
Additional benefits like tethering, multi-device support, and customer service
📌 Note: Prices and features may change, so we always recommend checking the latest details on the provider's official website before purchasing.
Best eSIM providers for Taiwan
When choosing your best eSIM for Taiwan, it’s important to do it based on several key criteria, such as data plans, pricing, connectivity types, and customer reviews. To help you out with the selection process, I’ve made a list featuring my top picks.
Nomad
eSIM with broad plan selection
Networks
3G, 4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
190+
First on my list is Nomad, known for its affordability and wide selection of plans, including both regular and customizable data options.
Coverage and speed. Nomad offers extensive coverage in over 190 countries and regions. In Taiwan, the provider promises 5G connectivity. While 4G and LTE are great for most needs, 5G means faster speeds and more reliable connections. For instance, 5G is better for things like quicker downloads, smoother video calls, and streaming on the go.
Plans and pricing. With Nomad, you can currently choose from nine different data plans, which is a wide selection compared to some other providers. The cheapest plan, as of now, is 1 GB for $4, valid for a week. Besides regular packages, they also offer the option to customize your own plan by choosing the duration and the amount of data you need per day.
User reviews. Feedback about Nomad’s eSIM is generally positive, with users praising it for being easy to set up, reliable, and affordable, especially for international travel. Customer support also seems to be generally helpful. That said, a few people ran into issues with the initial setup and some had trouble getting a signal in more remote areas.
Pros
- ✓ Global coverage in 190+ countries and destinations
- ✓ Budget friendly data
- ✓ Broad selection of plans for Taiwan
- ✓ Offers customizable plans
- ✓ Provides 5G in Taiwan
Cons
- • No unlimited data plans
- • Doesn’t include traditional phone calls and texts
Airalo
easy-to-use eSIM for Taiwan
Networks
3G, 4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
Airalo is one of the most well-known eSIM providers out there, offering a good selection of plans and an easy-to-use app.
Coverage and speed. Airalo covers over 200 destinations and offers LTE connectivity in Taiwan. While LTE is enough for most travelers, if you need super-fast speeds for HD streaming or gaming, you might want to check out other providers that offer 5G.
Plans and pricing. Airalo offers a solid selection of six plans for travelers to Taiwan, with the smallest being 1 GB for a week at $4.50. While this is a reasonable price, keep in mind that their larger data packages can get quite expensive.
User reviews. The feedback online is mixed. What users seem to enjoy the most about Airalo is its easy setup, convenience, and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional data roaming. Yet, in terms of the biggest pain points, a recurring theme is the frustration with Airalo’s customer service. Many users experienced delays in responses, impersonal chatbot support, and unhelpful or generic replies. Also, there seem to be occasional issues with connectivity in remote areas.
Pros
- ✓ Global coverage in 200+ countries and territories
- ✓ Good selection of plans for Taiwan
- ✓ Provides LTE in Taiwan
- ✓ Wide selection of multi-country plans
- ✓ Some countries offer unlimited data
Cons
- • Users report issues with customer support
- • No 5G in Taiwan
Saily
reliable eSIM with budget-friendly data
Networks
3G, 4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
190+
Next on my list of the best eSIM for Taiwan is Saily, a relatively new player in the eSIM market, brought to you by the creators of NordVPN.
To learn more about this provider and its budget-friendly plans, check out my dedicated Saily review.
Coverage and speed. Saily’s destinations include an impressive number of over 190 destinations. In Taiwan, they offer 5G connectivity, so it definitely can be a great choice for those in need of fast speeds.
Plans and pricing. The selection of plans is pretty good, with five different options currently available. In terms of pricing, Saily is valued in the eSIM market for its budget-friendly data. The smallest Taiwan prepaid eSIM plan is 1 GB for a week, and it costs only $3.99.
User reviews. Saily gets a lot of praise on various platforms online for its easy setup, reliable connectivity, and helpful support. While a few users mention occasional connectivity issues in certain regions or problems with troubleshooting, it’s generally seen as a great option for international travel.
Pros
- ✓ Global coverage in 190+ countries and destinations
- ✓ Budget-friendly plans
- ✓ Provides 5G in Taiwan
- ✓ Single-install eSIM
- ✓ Reliable 24/7 customer support
Cons
- • No unlimited data plans
- • Doesn’t include traditional phone calls and texts
Holafly
eSIM with unlimited data for Taiwan
Networks
3G, 4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
If you’d like unlimited data with your Taiwan eSIM, it’s worth taking a look at Holafly. To learn more about this provider, check out my in-depth Holafly review.
Coverage and speed. Holafly boasts coverage in over 200 countries and regions. Another perk is that it provides 5G connectivity in Taiwan, making it a high contender for travelers looking for high-speed data.
Plans and pricing. The unique thing about Holafly is that all of their plans are customizable and offer unlimited data. You simply choose how many days you’ll need the data for. While this is incredibly convenient for those who don’t want to worry about data limits while traveling, Holafly’s plans tend to be on the pricier side. For instance, one day of unlimited data costs $6.90.
User reviews. Most of the feedback about Holafly is positive, with many users praising its customer service, ease of use, and solid connectivity across various regions. That said, there are a few common complaints, like inconsistent service quality in certain countries and a handful of frustrating customer support experiences.
Pros
- ✓ Global coverage in 200+ countries and destinations
- ✓ Unlimited data plans
- ✓ Provides 5G in Taiwan
- ✓ Reliable 24/7 customer support
Cons
- • No limited data plans
- • Quite expensive
- • Doesn’t include traditional phone calls and texts
JetPac
eSIM with flexible data plans
Networks
3G, 4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
150+
If you’re exploring other countries as well and looking for an eSIM for international travel, Jetpac could be a great option, as its plans for Taiwan also work in several other countries. Plus, they offer a wide selection of multi-country plans.
Coverage and speed. Jetpac’s coverage is slightly less extensive compared to other providers on this list — over 150 destinations. That said, it’s still a solid number. In Taiwan, Jetpac promises 5G connectivity, providing fast and reliable speeds.
Plans and pricing. Jetpac offers a wide selection of plans for Taiwan, with eight different options to choose from. What’s interesting about these plans is that they also work in three other regions — China, Hong Kong, and Macau. The smallest data plan costs $4, providing 1 GB of data for a week. While this is an affordable starting price, keep in mind that prices are generally on the higher side for larger plans.
User reviews. The feedback for Jetpac is mostly positive, with many users praising its easy setup, good coverage in cities, and affordable pricing. The app’s data tracking and helpful customer support are also big wins. However, there are a few complaints about coverage in remote areas, occasional connection drops, and some inconsistent customer service experiences.
Pros
- ✓ Taiwan plans also work in China, Hong Kong, and Macau
- ✓ Provides 5G in Taiwan
- ✓ Broad selection of plans for Taiwan
- ✓ Budget-friendly small data plans
Cons
- • Relatively limited coverage (150+ countries and destinations)
- • Doesn’t include traditional phone calls and texts
- • No unlimited data plans
Maya Mobile
eSIM with customizable data plans
Networks
3G, 4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
Lastly, let’s take a look at Maya Mobile, which offers customizable plans, some of which even provide unlimited data.
Coverage and speed. Maya Mobile’s coverage includes over 200 countries and regions. For Taiwan, the provider promises 3G connectivity.
Plans and pricing. Maya Mobile offers customizable data plans, including some with unlimited data. Users can choose the amount of data they need and the duration. The smallest plan available is 3 GB for 5 days, priced at $6.99. Overall, the pricing is quite budget-friendly compared to other providers.
User reviews. Overall, Maya Mobile is generally well-regarded for its service, with most users recommending it for its ease of use, pricing, and customer support, though there are occasional coverage or technical hiccups in certain locations.
Pros
- ✓ Global coverage in 200+ countries and destinations
- ✓ Provides 5G in Taiwan
- ✓ Offers customizable plans
- ✓ Unlimited data plans
Cons
- • Doesn’t include traditional phone calls and texts
- • No 1 GB plan for Taiwan
Comparison table of plans for Taiwan
| Provider | Countries covered | Customer support | Starting price | 24/7 customer support | Tethering | Unlimited data |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nomad |
🌍 190+
|
Great | $4.00 (for 1 GB) | ✓ Yes | − No | − No |
| Airalo |
🌍 200+
|
Avarage | $4.50 (for 1 GB) | ✓ Yes | − No | − No |
| Saily |
🌍 180+
|
Great | $3.99 (for 1 GB) | ✓ Yes | − No | − No |
| Holafly |
🌍 200+
|
Great | $6.90 (for one day of unlimited data) | ✓ Yes | − No | ✓ Yes |
| JetPac |
🌍 150+
|
Great | $4.00 (for 1 GB) | ✓ Yes | − No | − No |
| Maya Mobile |
🌍 200+
|
Great | $6.99 (for 3 GB) | ✓ Yes | − No | ✓ Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Find helpful information to answer common questions about eSIMs in Taiwan
How to delete an eSIM from your phone?
What to consider when choosing an eSIM for travel in Taiwan
To choose the eSIM that best matches your needs, take the time to consider key factors like coverage, cost, and validity period, among others. Below, I’ll break down the most important aspects to think about before making your purchase.
Coverage
When choosing an eSIM for Taiwan, coverage is key. Taiwan-only eSIMs can be a great option if you’re sticking to the island, but regional or global options might be better if you’re planning to hop around nearby countries. Look for a provider that offers strong, fast coverage across Taiwan, especially in popular tourist spots, to ensure reliable service throughout your trip.
Cost
It’s important to compare prices across different providers. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, make sure you’re also getting essential features like enough data and solid coverage. A slightly higher price could be worth it if it means better service and more reliable internet during your travels.
Compatibility
Make sure to check that your phone supports eSIM technology. While most new phones do support eSIMs, not all of them are compatible, so it’s a good idea to confirm with the provider first. This ensures a smooth setup and saves you from any surprises later on.
Validity period
Another important factor to consider is the validity of your data plan. Think about how many days you’ll need data and choose a plan accordingly. This way, you won’t run out of data or lose coverage while you’re still traveling.
Activation process
Some eSIMs can be activated at home before you even leave, allowing you to have everything ready for your trip. Others may activate automatically upon arrival in Taiwan, making it a seamless experience when you land. Always check the activation instructions to ensure you’re prepared.
Where to get eSIM in Taiwan?
That’s a valid question that might pop into your mind if you’ve never had a chance to use an eSIM before. The good news is, unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIMs don’t require a physical store — they can be easily purchased online. All you have to do is pick a provider, choose a plan, and buy it through an app or a website.
Besides that, there are several other reasons why eSIMs might be a more convenient option than a local Taiwan SIM card. For one, they save you time — no need to hunt for a store when you arrive in a new country. Plus, eSIMs let you switch between networks without physically swapping SIM cards, which is especially handy if you’re traveling to multiple countries.
Another advantage is that eSIMs are more environmentally friendly since they don’t involve plastic cards. You also don’t risk losing your usual SIM card, as it stays safely inside your phone. Finally, some eSIM providers allow you to activate your plan before you even leave home, so you can stay connected as soon as you land.
How to set up your eSIM for Taiwan
Setting up your eSIM for Taiwan is pretty easy, but there are a few steps to keep in mind.
While buying the eSIM is simple, the setup can be a little more involved. Some providers will have you scan a QR code, which can be tricky if you’re using just one device. In that case, you have an option to enter the details manually. Others make it easier with a direct installation.
Just remember, the setup process will look a bit different depending on whether you’re using an iPhone or Android, so be sure to follow the instructions for your specific phone.
What to know before arriving in Taiwan
First, before purchasing a plan, make sure your phone supports eSIM to avoid any surprises.
To have an internet connection the moment you land in Taiwan, I recommend setting up your eSIM while still connected to Wi-Fi. This way, you can choose a plan that suits your data needs and ensure everything is ready to go.
Keep in mind that your eSIM won’t activate until you connect to a local network in Taiwan. Once you’re there and connected, it will automatically start working.
Activating your eSIM in Taiwan
First, open your provider’s app to start the activation process. Follow the prompts to install your eSIM, which usually involves scanning a QR code or entering a manual activation code.
After installation, set the eSIM as your primary data source in your phone’s settings. You may also need to select the eSIM as your preferred network for data and calls.
Once you’re in Taiwan and connected to a local network, the eSIM will automatically activate, and you’ll be ready to start using mobile data without any additional steps. Just make sure everything is set up properly beforehand to avoid delays.
Checking eSIM compatibility with your phone
As I already mentioned above, before purchasing an eSIM, it’s important to ensure your phone supports eSIM technology. Here’s how to check for both iPhone and Android devices.
For iPhone devices
Most iPhones from the iPhone XS onward are eSIM compatible. To confirm:
- Go to “Settings” > “Cellular.”
- Look for the “Add Cellular Plan” option. If you see this option, your iPhone supports eSIM.
For Android devices
Most Android phones from 2018 onward support eSIM, but it can vary by model and carrier. To check:
- Go to “Settings” > “Network & Internet” > “Mobile Network.”
- Look for the “Add Carrier” or “Add eSIM” option. If it’s there, your Android phone supports eSIM.
Final thoughts
Choosing an eSIM to stay connected in Taiwan is a great option if you value convenience and affordability. With so many providers to choose from, it can be tough to find the right one. The eSIM providers I discuss in this list are all excellent options, but it’s important to consider your travel plans first. Think about how much data you’ll need, check the validity periods, and compare prices to find the best eSIM for your trip to Taiwan.