eSIM UK
Best eSIM For London: Top 9 Providers
Feb
Compare the best esims and top providers like eSIM4 and Saily for fast internet access in London. We review esims for the uk to help every traveller stay connected. We may earn a small commission from affiliate links.
Written by Peter Moore – Tech Content Writer
Our Verdict: eSIM4
eSIM4 stands out as the best esim for London. With plans starting from an incredibly low $2.98, it offers premium coverage on O2, EE, and Three—the UK’s leading mobile providers. Whether you are on a business trip or holiday, our travel blog identifies it as the leading esim provider. Whether you need a simple 5GB data allowance for a weekend in Shoreditch or unlimited data for a month-long stay in Westminster, eSIM4 delivers reliable 5G mobile data. Unlike buying a local sim or purchasing via Sim Local at a vending machine in the airport, buying online helps you organise your trip and allows you to scan the qr code before you travel. It is perfect if this is your first eSIM purchase.
Why We Chose eSIM4
- Unbeatable Value: Plans start at just $2.98 for 1GB.
- Top Connectivity: Uses multiple premium networks (EE, O2, Three) for redundant coverage.
- Instant Setup: Install an eSIM and auto-connect on arrival at Heathrow with no store visits required.
- Full Features: 24/7 support and optional app for calls and SMS.
Quick Comparison: Best eSIMs for the UK
We compared the top eSIM providers offering service in the UK and prepaid esim plan options, including Saily, Airalo, and Nomad, to help you find the perfect match for your London vacation. This esim comparison shows options for every traveller. Avoid expensive roaming fees with our top picks for a reliable esim and the best esims for London available.
| Rank | Provider | Rating | Starting Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ⭐ eSIM4 | 4.9/5 | $2.98 | Best Overall Value |
| 2 | Saily | 4.6/5 | $4.27 | Security Features |
| 3 | Airalo | 4.5/5 | $4.50 | Reliable EE Coverage |
| 4 | Nomad | 4.5/5 | $4.50 | 5G Speeds |
| 5 | Jetpac | 4.4/5 | $1.00 | Ultra-Budget |
| 6 | aloSIM | 4.3/5 | $5.00 | Phone Number Included |
| 7 | Instabridge | 4.2/5 | $2.00 | Flexible PAYG |
| 8 | GigSky | 4.2/5 | FREE | Free Trial |
| 9 | Holafly | 4.0/5 | $3.90 | Unlimited Data |
Choosing the Right eSIM for the UK to Stay Connected
London is a sprawling metropolis, from the historic streets of the City to the trendy markets of Camden. Your amount of data needs will depend on your itinerary. Before you buy an eSIM, consider these factors to ensure uninterrupted connectivity. Order an eSIM before you fly so you are ready upon arriving in the UK.
| Factor | Details | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Network Quality | Look for providers using EE or O2 networks. | EE generally offers the fastest 5G speeds in London, while O2 has excellent building penetration, which is key for older pubs and hotels. |
| Data Needs | Determine if you need a fixed allowance or unlimited data. | Using Citymapper to navigate the Tube and video calling home consumes data quickly. Unlimited plans are great for peace of mind if you need data for 30 days. |
| Tube Coverage | Check if the network works underground. | EE and Three have the best connectivity in Underground stations and tunnels, letting you stay online during your commute. |
| Hotspot | Check if tethering is allowed on unlimited plans. | Essential if you need to create a Wi-Fi hotspot to connect laptops or share internet with travel companions. |
Top eSIM Providers for London: Reviews & eSIM Comparison
We reviewed the leading eSIM providers for London based on price, coverage, and ease of use. Say goodbye to roaming fees and expensive airport SIM cards from Sim Local or vending machines. Here are the detailed results of our analysis.
eSIM4
Best Overall Value
eSIM4 takes the top spot as the premier eSIM choice for London travelers. Trusted by thousands of visitors to the UK, it combines premium connectivity with unbeatable prices. By partnering with major networks like EE, O2, and Three, eSIM4 ensures you have blazing fast 5G speeds whether you are shopping on Oxford Street or visiting the Tower of London. You can easily buy this eSIM online.
Coverage
Users benefit from extensive multi-network support. If one network has a weak signal in a specific area, you have backups available, ensuring stable connections throughout the city. This reliable esim performance is hard to beat.
Data Plans
Flexibility is key with eSIM4. You can choose from budget-friendly 1GB options for light use, or robust 20GB plans for longer stays. For heavy data consumers, unlimited data packages are available.
Activation Process
The process is entirely digital. After purchase, you receive an email with a QR code instantly. Scan it to install, and your plan will auto-connect the moment you land at Heathrow or Gatwick.
Price
With discounted rates currently available, eSIM4 offers exceptional value, with plans starting as low as $2.98 (USD). It is the best value esim we tested. Keep an eye out for a discount code on their site.
eSIM4 Pricing Plans
| Data / Type | Duration | Price | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $8.10 $2.98 | SAVE 63% |
| 2 GB | 15 Days | $12.60 $5.98 | SAVE 52% |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $15.30 $6.98 | SAVE 54% |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $21.60 $10.98 | SAVE 49% |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $32.40 $16.98 | SAVE 47% |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $52.20 $27.98 | SAVE 46% |
| Unlimited | 3 Days | $22.50 $10.98 | SAVE 51% |
| Unlimited | 5 Days | $36.90 $18.98 | SAVE 48% |
| Unlimited | 7 Days | $53.10 $27.98 | SAVE 47% |
| Unlimited | 10 Days | $63.00 $33.98 | SAVE 46% |
| Unlimited | 15 Days | $88.20 $47.98 | SAVE 45% |
| Unlimited | 30 Days | $130.50 $70.98 | SAVE 45% |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Best price-to-data ratio
- Multi-network backup (EE/O2/Three)
- Instant QR delivery
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Device must be unlocked
- Voice calls require app usage
Saily
Security Features
Created by the NordVPN team, Saily offers competitive pricing across 200+ countries. It is a solid choice for security-conscious travelers to London, with plans starting at $4.27. It includes features like ad blocking and extra web protection, making it a reliable eSIM provider for those who want a safer browsing experience on public Wi-Fi networks. It works in almost every country and includes VPN-like benefits.
Coverage
Saily uses multiple networks to keep you connected, ensuring you have options even in busy tourist spots.
Data Plans
Saily provides data-only plans ranging from 1GB for short trips to larger allowances for extended vacations.
Price
Pricing is competitive, with the 1GB plan priced at $4.27.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $4.27 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $8.54 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $12.34 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $18.99 |
| Unlimited | 15 Days | $46.54 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Backed by NordVPN team
- Extra web protection
- Sleek app
Cons
- No phone number included
- Pricing slightly higher than lowest budget options
Airalo
Reliable Coverage
Airalo is a popular esim among frequent flyers and connects to the EE network, which is widely regarded as having the best coverage and 5G speeds in the UK. This makes it an excellent choice for reliable connectivity throughout London.
Coverage
With EE as its partner network, Airalo offers broad coverage and excellent 5G availability, which is great for fast downloads and streaming.
Data Plans
Airalo offers a variety of standard data packages perfect for most travelers.
Price
Plans start at $4.50 for 1GB.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $4.50 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $9.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $13.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $19.50 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $32.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- EE network – excellent UK coverage
- Easy top-up via app
- Reliable speeds
Cons
- Slightly higher price per GB
- Data-only
Nomad
5G Speeds
Nomad stands out with its plans offering strong 4G and 5G coverage across London using e-sim technology. By partnering with Three and O2, it ensures you have solid connectivity in major cities. It offers a lot of data and is a popular choice for any digital nomad working remotely.
Coverage
Nomad leverages Three and O2 for robust coverage. This combination works well in London and other major UK cities.
Data Plans
Nomad offers a good range of fixed and unlimited options to suit different trip lengths.
Price
Starting at $4.50 for 1GB.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $4.50 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $9.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $16.00 |
| Unlimited | 3 Days | $11.00 |
| Unlimited | 10 Days | $31.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Multiple UK networks (Three, O2)
- 5G where available
- Data add-ons available
Cons
- Data-only (no phone number)
Jetpac
Ultra-budget
Jetpac is the ultra-budget king for London, with an entry price of just $1.00. It is great if you don’t need a number and want to save money. It connects to multiple networks, ensuring you stay connected without breaking the bank. It’s an ideal choice for short layovers or backup data.
Data Plans
Jetpac offers data-only plans starting from a very low entry point.
Price
Plans start at an incredible $1.00.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 4 Days | $1.00 |
| 3 GB | 7 Days | $9.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $12.00 |
| Unlimited | 3-30 Days | From $12.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lowest possible entry price ($1)
- Free lounge access on high-tier plans
- App-based management
Cons
- Data-only (no voice/SMS)
- Short duration on cheapest plan
aloSIM
Phone Number Included
aloSIM is an excellent choice for travelers who need a local presence, as their plans include a +44 UK phone number. It is great for calls and texts to keep in touch with family. Connecting to Vodafone, O2, and Three, they offer solid coverage and great utility.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $5.00 |
| 2 GB | 15 Days | $7.50 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $10.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $15.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $22.50 |
| Unlimited | 10 Days | $35.00 |
Instabridge
Flexible PAYG
Instabridge offers a flexible pay-as-you-go model that works on all 4 major UK networks. It’s perfect if you want flexibility and short validity windows.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $2.00 |
| 3 GB | 15 Days | $4.50 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $12.00 |
| Pay/Go | N/A | $2.00/GB |
GigSky
Free Trial
GigSky is a great option for those who want to test the service first, as they offer a free trial. They also specialize in plans for cruises and offer a solid global esim, making them a unique option if your London trip is part of a larger voyage, or even if you are traveling to Thailand next.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 500 MB | 7 Days | FREE |
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $5.99 |
| 3 GB | 15 Days | $9.34 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $15.29 |
Holafly
Unlimited Data
Holafly specializes in unlimited data plans for travelers who want worry-free connectivity. A key feature is their esim with unlimited data offering on the Three network. There is no physical SIM card needed, and you can keep in touch with friends easily. Note that hotspot sharing is restricted to 500MB per day.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Unlimited | 1 Day | $3.90 |
| Unlimited | 3 Days | $11.70 |
| Unlimited | 5 Days | $19.50 |
| Unlimited | 7 Days | $27.30 |
| Unlimited | 10 Days | $36.90 |
| Unlimited | 15 Days | $50.90 |
| Unlimited | 30 Days | $74.90 |
Our Verdict: The Best eSIM for London for the Traveller
After thorough testing and comparison of 9 different providers, eSIM4 is our clear winner for London travel.
The combination of excellent pricing (starting at $2.98), premium network access (EE, O2, Three), and reliable support makes it the smartest choice. We recommend using eSIM4 if you are exploring the British Museum or catching a show in the West End. It ensures you stay connected without overpaying. The ease of setup and reliable speeds give it the edge over competitors like Saily and Airalo.
Get eSIM4 For London →Order an eSIM: How Do I Know If My Phone Is Compatible?
Most modern smartphones released in the last few years support eSIM technology so an esim can be used. This includes iPhone XR and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and Google Pixel 3 and newer.
To be sure, check your device settings for an “Add eSIM” or “Add Cellular Plan” option, or consult our detailed compatibility guide below.
Check Compatibility List →Can I Make Phone Calls with My eSIM?
Most travel eSIMs for London are data-only. You can still use standard VoIP apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Skype to contact friends and family, provided they have the same app and an internet connection.
A Smarter Way to Call with Yabb
While standard apps are great for chatting with friends, they often fail when you need to call a hotel, book a restaurant in Shoreditch, or contact a tour operator on a landline. Yabb solves this by allowing you to make high-quality voice calls to any mobile or landline number worldwide using your eSIM data. It works just like a regular phone call without the recipient needing an app, and it avoids the massive roaming fees charged by your home carrier.
- Standard Apps: Use WhatsApp for free app-to-app calls in the UK.
- Yabb Advantage: Call real phone numbers (hotels/restaurants) that don’t have apps.
- Zero Roaming: Avoid expensive per-minute voice charges from your home provider.
Can I Send Text Messages with My eSIM?
Need to send a quick text to a friend or confirm a booking? Yabb allows you to send and receive global SMS messages using your eSIM data. It also includes packages for international minutes.
Global Messaging
Unlike apps that require both parties to be online, Yabb lets you send real SMS texts to any mobile phone, ensuring your message gets through.
Key Features
- Pay As You Go: Purchase credits only when needed.
- Two-Way: Receive replies directly within the app.
- Global Reach: Works across London and worldwide.
How to Buy an eSIM and Activate in London
Getting online in the UK is straightforward. Follow these steps to activate the eSIM.
- Buy Online: Buy the uk plan from eSIM4 before your flight.
- Scan QR Code: You’ll receive a QR code via email. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM and scan it.
- Connect: Upon arrival at Heathrow (LHR) or Gatwick (LGW), turn on the eSIM line and enable “Data Roaming”. You will connect to the local network automatically.
Essential Tips for Using eSIMs in London
To ensure a smooth experience while traveling across the capital, here are three critical factors to keep in mind regarding your eSIM usage.
Tube Stations
Most central Underground stations now have 4G coverage on platforms, but connectivity in tunnels can still be patchy. EE and Three generally offer the best underground signal when using a mobile network.
Westminster & Thames
All major carriers have excellent coverage in tourist hotspots like Westminster and along the Thames, perfect for sharing those iconic photos instantly. This connectivity is essential for using Google Maps to find your way around.
EU Travel
Since Brexit, some UK eSIMs do not include free roaming in the EU. If you’re planning a day trip to Paris or Amsterdam, check if your plan covers it to avoid extra cost.
How We Ranked These eSIM Providers
While many reviews rely on simple speed tests that only reflect a single moment in time, our approach is built on rigorous industry analysis. Our team of telecommunications experts audits the technical specifications that average users might miss but definitely feel in real-world performance. We look under the hood to see how the connection is delivered, not just if it connects.
Our Technical Evaluation Criteria
- Tier 1 vs. Tier 2 Network Access: We analyze the backend agreements to see if the eSIM connects to premium Tier 1 networks (like EE) with priority access, or if it is relegated to a congested Tier 2 roaming partner (sometimes an MVNO). This determines if your data slows down in crowded areas.
- Latency & Routing Stats: Speed isn’t everything; responsiveness is key. We evaluate the data routing paths (latency) to ensure your traffic isn’t being routed halfway around the world before reaching the internet, which causes lag in video calls and maps.
- Carrier Aggregation Support: We check if the eSIM profile supports carrier aggregation – a technology that allows your phone to connect to multiple frequency bands simultaneously. This technical feature, often missing in budget SIMs, is crucial for maintaining high speeds in dense urban environments.
- Fair Usage Policy (FUP) Analysis: We scrutinize the fine print of unlimited data plans to identify hidden throttling thresholds, ensuring our top picks offer genuine high-speed data that meets the demands of modern travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which eSIM is best for London?
eSIM4 is our top recommendation for London. It offers the best combination of low prices (often plans under £10), reliable EE/O2 coverage, and responsive support. It is the best way to buy the best eSIM for your trip.
Do I need a physical SIM card in the UK?
No. If your phone supports eSIM, a digital plan is cheaper and more convenient. You avoid the hassle of finding a store and swapping tiny physical SIM cards at Heathrow Airport.
Can I keep my WhatsApp number?
Yes. Your WhatsApp will continue to work with your original number. It simply uses the data in London from your UK eSIM to send messages.
Should I buy from Sim Local at the airport?
While purchasing a Sim Local also has kiosks at the airport is an option, it is often more expensive than buying online. Online providers offer better deals on data plans and the convenience of instant activation. Buying a new plan online is easier.
Does eSIM4 work on day trips to Oxford or Bath?
Yes. Because eSIM4 uses the EE network, which has the widest rural coverage in the country, it works excellently on day trips to cities like Oxford, Cambridge, and Bath.
How fast is the internet speed?
In major cities like London, you can expect fast 5G speeds. In more rural areas, the cellular network typically switches to a stable 4G LTE signal.
Can I get a local phone number?
Most travel eSIMs are data-only. However, aloSIM offers plans that include a +44 UK phone number if receiving calls and SMS is essential for you. Other options like Ubigi or Roamless are data-only.
Do I need 200GB of data?
Unless you are working professionally with huge files, you likely won’t need 200gb. A standard plan is usually much data enough for maps and social media. Visitors from Indonesia and Malaysia often find 10-20GB sufficient for a 2-week trip. Click on the link for our detailed guide.
