In Singapore, innovation meets tradition. Whether you’re admiring the futuristic Marina Bay Sands or exploring lively neighborhoods like Chinatown, there’s something for everyone in this dynamic city.
While the country is welcoming, you still want to make sure you pack well for your trip. This way, you avoid inconveniences and enjoy your time in Singapore fully. Beyond the appropriate clothing and toiletries, think about your digital needs. After all, finding your way around while you’re there and keeping in touch with home is essential.
Travelers often have a couple of alternatives to stay connected, one of which is using an eSIM. This is because eSIMs eliminate the need for physical SIM cards and allow you to activate a mobile plan instantly from your phone.
If you have an upcoming trip to Singapore and want to use an eSIM, I’ve got your back. In this article, I will review the best eSIMs for Singapore and help you choose the most suitable one for your trip.
There is no doubt that there are more eSIM providers on the market than we can count here. And since there are so many options, it’s easy to feel like a deer in the headlights. But the truth is, choosing the right eSIM doesn’t have to be complicated.
To begin with, it’s essential that you know what you’re looking for. Ask yourself a few questions to understand what kind of eSIM would work well for you in Singapore. In the end, the right eSIM is vital to fulfill your communication needs.
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 Singapore
Below, you'll find seven different eSIM providers that I've reviewed based on the criteria of coverage and network, plans and pricing, customer support, and user reviews.
Airalo
best value for Singapore
Networks
3G, 4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
First up on the list is Airalo. It has flexible pricing and reliable network coverage in Singapore. I can easily say that it’s one of the most ideal eSIMs for seamless connectivity. With its easy activation and a variety of plans, Airalo is a well-known name in the eSIM market. Here are more details:
Network and coverage. With Airalo, you can connect to 3G or 4G LTE and, depending on the country, 5G networks. However, for Singapore, the network availability isn’t as varied. Airalo’s local eSIM bundle for Singapore, “Connect Lah!”, only supports LTE connectivity.
Plans and pricing. As I mentioned earlier, Airalo has a local bundle called “Connect Lah!” comprising 6 plans with different validity and data plans. You can select from 1 GB up to 20 GB, and the validity varies from 7 to 15 and 30 days, depending on the amount of data you want to go with. That said, the cheapest deal in the bundle costs $4.50 with 1 GB of internet, valid for 7 days.
Customer support. Airalo’s customer support is responsive. If you need urgent assistance, reach out to them via their live chat feature so you can get help immediately. You can also email them or read their FAQ page for basic troubleshooting and general questions.
User reviews. Airalo scored around a 3-star rating on Trustpilot. People generally liked its reliable connection, good service quality, and user-friendly interface. However, dislikes included slightly high prices and relatively slow speeds in some countries. Interestingly, some comments mentioned persistent connection issues. Overall, Airalo has received mixed feedback from users.
Pros
- ✓ Worldwide coverage
- ✓ 24/7 customer support
- ✓ Allows tethering
- ✓ Unlimited data plans
- ✓ Regional and global plans available
Cons
- • Global plans don’t have unlimited data
- • Plans that include phone calls and texts are expensive
Holafly
unlimited data for travelers
Networks
3G, 4G LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
Most often, the biggest struggle when selecting an eSIM is not being able to calculate how much data you need for your travels. For a weekend getaway, this might not be an issue. But, for a month- or two-month-long journey, you want to make sure the amount of data you select is enough. In such a case, Holafly can be your safety net. Their whole premise is to offer unlimited data with flexible durations.
Network and coverage. In Singapore, you can connect to the internet with 3G, 4G LTE, and 5G networks. However, keep in mind that 5G availability depends on your device, exact location, and even the time of day. Besides, Holafly’s coverage is quite good. Whether you travel to Singapore’s most remote areas or its cities, it promises a reliable signal throughout the country.
Plans and pricing. Holafly only offers unlimited plans, so the only decision left for you is picking the duration. You can customize your unlimited data plan’s duration from 1 day up to 90 days. However, an unlimited data plan with such flexibility doesn’t come cheap. An unlimited data plan for only a day costs $6.90. While this doesn’t sound too bad, you should know that tethering has daily limits, and Holafly applies the Fair Usage Policy (FUP). This means that after using a few GB, you may experience slower speeds despite having an unlimited plan.
Customer support. Holafly’s support team offers two live chat options. You can also reach them on WhatsApp or via the chatbox on their website. In addition, they respond to email inquiries quickly.
User reviews. Holafly scored exceptionally on Trustpilot, with a rating of around 5 stars. People mainly appreciated the live chat with customer support and the amendments provided in case of connection or signal issues. For some, the service was simply sufficient. However, many users expressed concerns and dissatisfaction regarding the fair usage policy.
Pros
- ✓ Flexible validity selection
- ✓ 24/7 customer support
- ✓ Allows tethering
- ✓ Offers unlimited data plans
- ✓ Regional and global plans available
Cons
- • Plans are expensive
- • No limited data plans
- • Doesn’t include traditional phone calls and texts
Nomad
easy eSIM management
Networks
4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
190+
If the Singapore trip will be your first rodeo with eSIMs, you might want to give Nomad a chance. With its user-friendly design and step-by-step instructions, it’s perfect for travelers who are new to the technology and just want convenience during their trip.
Network and coverage. Nomad mainly supports 5G networks in Singapore, yet depending on availability, you might connect to 4G or LTE networks. That said, Nomad has decent coverage in Singapore, and the service coverage extends to 190+ locations around the globe.
Plans and pricing. If you want Nomad’s Singapore eSIMs, you have 8 different options. All of these plans support 5G connectivity, which is ideal if your data needs require faster internet speeds. The plans start from 1 GB of data up to 50 GB, so you have quite the selection. However, the validity period options are not as varied — most plans have a validity of 30 days. The cheapest plan costs $4, including 1 GB of data you can use for a week.
Customer support. You can use the chat feature on the Nomad app to reach customer support. The chat is particularly useful if you need urgent help with your eSIM. For general inquiries, you can also send them a ticket through their webpage.
User reviews. Nomad scores high on Trustpilot with a rating of around 4 stars. What people liked the most was the ease of installing and activating the eSIM. On the flip
Pros
- ✓ 5G network is available
- ✓ 24/7 customer support
- ✓ Allows tethering
- ✓ Variety of plans for Singapore
- ✓ Regional and global plans available
Cons
- • Limited validity period options
- • No traditional call minutes and text messages
Saily
affordable plans for travel
Networks
3G, 4G LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
For full-time travelers, having a budget and sticking up with it is just a casual Tuesday. If you can relate to this, it’s best you evaluate affordable eSIM options for your Singapore trip. However, low prices can often mean poor quality. Though with Saily, you get good service throughout your trip at a fraction of the price. To know more about this eSIM provider, check out my detailed Saily review.
Network and coverage. Saily supports all kinds of networks. Whether you have a device lagging behind the technology or the newest model, you can connect to 3G, 4G LTE, and 5G networks. Saily has good coverage in Singapore as well.
Plans and pricing. Saily offers 5 plans for Singapore. The deals range from 1 GB to 20 GB. The validity period is either 7 days or 30 days. The cheapest plan has 1 GB of data that you can use in Singapore for a week, and it costs $3.99.
Customer support. If you have any questions, Saily provides 24/7 support, no matter where you are. They have a live chat equipped with professionals to assist you. In addition to the live chat, you could email them or check their helpful FAQ section on their webpage.
User reviews. Despite being a new eSIM service, Saily scores 4 stars on Trustpilot. Most people were pleased with the connection quality and the pocket-friendly prices for many destinations. Meanwhile, some complained about the service performance in select regions.
Pros
- ✓ Switching plans don’t require a reinstall
- ✓ 24/7 customer support
- ✓ Flexible top-up options
- ✓ Affordable starting price
- ✓ Allows tethering without a cap
Cons
- • Doesn’t include traditional phone calls and texts
- • No unlimited data plans
aloSIM
easy to use
Networks
LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
aloSIM is another user-friendly option on this list. Its mobile app got high scores on Google and the app store due to simplified eSIM installation. Users also like its unique features. Auto-activation is one example. You don’t have to activate your plan; it activates automatically once you land at your destination.
Network and coverage. In Singapore, aloSIM is partnered with StarHub, and it typically offers LTE and 5G connections. However, your device should be compatible to connect to 5G networks.
Plans and pricing. You have 8 local plan options if you want to use aloSIM for your Singapore trip. The plans range from 1 GB of data to 20 GB. The validity period of these plans depends on the amount of data they offer, with options for 7, 15, or 30 days. aloSIM also offers an unlimited plan for Singapore. The cheapest plan costs $4.50 for a GB of data, valid for a week.
Customer support. aloSIM support team is at your reach via live chat so that you can get assistance with urgent inquiries. Email support is also available for less urgent questions and general support. Additionally, they have a helpful FAQ section on their website.
User reviews. aloSIM got 4.2 points on Trustpilot. Users are generally happy with the quality of the service, with responsive and quick customer support being a notable mention. Of course, there were complaints as well. Some users weren’t impressed with the connection quality and performance in specific countries. Some technical issues were also mentioned.
Pros
- ✓ Comes with an international phone number
- ✓ Responsive customer support
- ✓ Easy top-up
- ✓ User-friendly app interface
- ✓ Data calculator to track usage
Cons
- • No global plans
- • Plans don’t include call minutes or text messages
GigSky
cashback for loyal travelers
Networks
4G LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
GigSky is worth checking out if you travel often. They offer 5% credit on every purchase, which you can use later. This means that frequent travelers can benefit from the cashback opportunity they provide. But this is not all GigSky has to offer. If you want to learn more about it in detail, read my comprehensive GigSky review.
Network and coverage. With GigSky, you can get 4G LTE and 5G network connectivity. However, 5G might not be available at all times or in all locations. Additionally, remember that your device needs to support 5G for you to be able to connect.
Plans and pricing. GigSky has 4 plans for Singapore that you can choose from. Plans’ data allocation ranges from 1 GB to 10 GB. As for the duration of the plans, they vary between 7, 15, or 30 days. The cheapest plan, which costs $8.99, includes 1 GB of data and is valid for a week.
Customer support. Reaching GigSky support is very easy, and you can do this in a few different ways. If you need fast replies, you can ring their call center. In other cases, you can either send a ticket or an email. However, keep in mind that email replies might take up to 24 hours. Lastly, they have an FAQ page on their website.
User reviews. On Trustpilot, GigSky has a 2.7-star rating. People generally seem to appreciate the ease of use that GigSky provides. Meanwhile, a significant number of users have complained about the lack of transparency regarding GigSky’s unlimited plans. Many reported that GigSky throttles speed after a few GBs of use.
Pros
- ✓ Cash-back for loyal customers
- ✓ Flexible regional and multi-country plans
- ✓ Offers unlimited data plans
- ✓ Regional and global plans available
- ✓ Competitive prices for high-data users
Cons
- • Doesn’t include traditional phone calls and texts
- • Slower speeds in some areas
Yesim
flexible travel plans
Networks
3G, 4G LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
The last eSIM provider in this list is ideal if you are looking for flexible plans for Singapore. In addition to the local bundles, Yesim offers regional plans. Let’s say you decide to extend your Singapore trip — you don’t have to buy, for example, a separate eSIM for Thailand. Instead, you go with the Asia Pacific bundle, which has as many plan options as the local one.
Network and coverage. Yesim supports all kinds of networks, including 3G, 4G, LTE and 5G. As for every eSIM, your network connection will depend on your device, location as well as the time of the day. Currently, Yesim is partnered with two networks that has 5G capacity — StarHub and SingTel.
Plans and pricing. Yesim offers 8 local plans for Singapore. Some of these are unlimited plans with different validity options, while the others are standard plans with various data allocations ranging from 3 GB to 70 GB. The cheapest plan from the standard bundle costs $10, includes 3 GB of data, and is valid for a week.
Customer support. You can reach Yesim customer support via the chatbox on their website. If you’d prefer email, they also reply to customer support requests there, too.
User reviews. Yesim scores 4.3 on Trustpilot. Users generally express satisfaction with the quality of the connection and the variety of plans Yesim offers. Meanwhile, some users were displeased with the throttled speeds that they experienced with unlimited plans.
Pros
- ✓ Variety of deals
- ✓ Unlimited data plans
- ✓ 24/7 customer support
- ✓ Allows tethering
- ✓ Regional and global plans available
Cons
- • Relatively expensive
- • Doesn’t include traditional phone calls and texts
Comparison table of plans for Singapore
| Provider | Countries covered | Starting price | Validity period | 24/7 customer support | Tethering | Unlimited data |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airalo |
🌍 200+
|
$4.50 (for 1 GB) | 7 days | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Holafly |
🌍 200+
|
$6.90 (for unlimited GB) | 1 day | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Nomad |
🌍 190+
|
$4 (for 1 GB) | 7 days | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | − No |
| Saily |
🌍 200+
|
$3.99 (for 1 GB) | 7 days | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | − No |
| aloSIM |
🌍 200+
|
$4.50 (for 1 GB) | 7 days | − No | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| GigSky |
🌍 200+
|
$8.99 (for 1 GB) | 7 days | − No | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Yesim |
🌍 200+
|
$10 (for 3 GB) | 7 days | − No | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Find helpful information to answer common questions about eSIMs in Singapore
Are eSIMs safe to use in Singapore?
Are eSIMs really better than regular SIMs in Singapore?
Are eSIMs free for Singapore?
Can an eSIM be used for calling from Singapore?
Can I use 5G with an eSIM in Singapore?
How to choose the best eSIM for travel in Singapore
Prioritize coverage when selecting an eSIM for your journey to Singapore. With a good network, staying connected for everything from using maps to texting is easier. This way, your travels will be hassle-free thanks to the uninterrupted connection.
A local eSIM with good coverage should be sufficient if your stay in Singapore is short. Yet, it’s not a bad idea to get a global or regional eSIM that covers numerous countries if you intend to travel around the region. By doing this, you can avoid the hassle of continually exchanging SIM cards when you cross countries. In short, local eSIMs tend to be cheaper, but a regional or global plan might offer more flexibility, especially when it comes to exploring beyond Singapore.
Now that you’ve got an idea of how coverage impacts your choice, let’s look at how to pick the right plan for your travel style.
Cost
There is no doubt that eSIMs are cost-effective alternatives to hefty roaming charges. With an eSIM, you can avoid such fees and enjoy cheaper rates while staying connected in Singapore.
While local SIM cards can be a good option for long stays, they often require extra setup, like finding a store and physically swapping out SIM cards. eSIMs, on the other hand, you activate them instantly. This makes it a convenient and budget-friendly choice for travelers who need flexibility without the extra hassle.
Compatibility
Before jumping on the train and choosing a provider, check if your device supports eSIM technology. After all, not all smartphones or tablets are eSIM-compatible. Confirm the compatibility upfront so that you can save time and frustration.
You should also make sure that the eSIM plan offers coverage in Singapore. While most providers offer extensive coverage, it’s always worth double-checking that the plan you choose will work well in your destination. All the providers I reviewed in this article are covered in Singapore.
Data
When choosing an eSIM, think about how much data you’ll actually need. If you’re a heavy data user with lots of streaming and video calling needs, opting for a data plan with extra GBs is a smart step to take. This way, you will never have to worry about whether the data plan will be enough or not.
On the other hand, if you’re only in Singapore for a short time or plan to use data sparingly for things like messaging and checking emails, budget-friendly options with lower data allowances might be more than enough.
If you know your average data consumption or estimate based on your online activities, you will avoid overpaying for your plans.
Buying and activating an eSIM for Singapore
Step 1: Check compatibility. I cannot stress this enough: before purchasing, make sure your device supports eSIM. Most newer smartphones and tablets are compatible, but it’s always good to double-check.
Step 2: Choose your plan. Decide on the data plan based on your usage needs. You can either select a local plan for Singapore for cheaper option. Though, if you plan to travel beyond Singapore, regional/global plan could be the best option.
Step 3: Purchase the eSIM. Before your trip, visit the eSIM provider’s website or use a mobile app to buy your eSIM. You’ll receive a QR code via email or the app.
Step 4: Activate the eSIM. Once you’ve received the QR code, go to your device’s mobile settings, scan the QR code, and follow the prompts to activate the eSIM.
Once you activate, you’ll be connected to a network within seconds. Getting started with using an eSIM is that simple!
Additional options for Internet in Singapore
eSIMs are an excellent option for most travelers. Yet, there are other ways to stay connected in Singapore. Below, I will break down alternatives for using the internet in Singapore.
Local prepaid SIM
Local prepaid SIM cards are widely available and can offer good coverage, but they require physical activation and may require registration with the provider, which takes some extra time.
Singapore SIM cards are easy to find, offering good coverage for your stay. Here’s where you can buy them:
- Airport: SIM cards are available at kiosks and shops in the arrival terminals.
- Retail shops: Mobile service providers like Singtel and StarHub have stores in shopping malls around the city.
- Convenience stores: Many 7-Eleven stores also sell prepaid SIM cards.
These options make it simple to stay connected. Depending on the provider, the validity of plans may vary. Though, they are typically valid for 7 to 30 days.
Pocket WiFi rental
Pocket WiFi rentals are another popular option for those who would rather not deal with SIM cards at all. Renting one in Singapore has its perks. For starters, it’s portable. That means you can stay connected while exploring. In addition, you can link multiple devices, which is great if you’re traveling with others. Plus, it’s easy to pick up at the airport or local shops.
On the flip side, it can get a bit pricey for the longer stays. You’ll also need to return the device before you leave. Although, you’ll need to lug around an additional device. For those who like to travel light, carrying an extra gadget might not be the best idea. So, make sure you know what you are signing up for.
Free WiFi
Free Wi-Fi is available in many public places like malls and cafes. If you are giving a coffee break or want to save data while walking in a mall, it’s certainly an option. Here are the popular places you can find free WiFi:
- Cafes and restaurants often offer free WiFi to their customers. Particularly, those that are part of international chains like Starbucks should work for you.
- Big shopping malls often offer free WiFi in all areas of the building.
- Parks, libraries, and even certain bus stops offer free Wi-Fi in public spaces.
Although these choices are practical, you should be aware that free WiFi is not always safe. Because of the risks involved, you should not use it for online banking or purchases.
Overall, free WiFi should be a substitute for your data plan, not an option to rely on for the internet during your trip.
Final thoughts
How you want to spend your time in Singapore will determine which eSIM is ideal for you. If you want unlimited data, flexible plans, or good customer support, there are many choices.
Think about how your travel plans and data needs will affect your plan’s coverage, allocation, and length. Different services cater to different needs. Some provide more flexibility with limitless possibilities, while others provide faster speeds and better network coverage in specific locations.
Whether you value speed, price, or customer service more, your priorities will ultimately determine which eSIM provider is best for you. To make a well-informed decision, you should consider your data usage, the length of your stay, and the possibility of going to other surrounding places/countries. You can stay connected while visiting Singapore with an eSIM, regardless of your chosen carrier. It’s convenient and efficient.