How to set up an eSIM on a laptop: Best providers, compatible laptops, and more
Electronic SIM cards make it easy to get mobile data wherever you go without needing a physical card.
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-Set up an eSIM on laptops-eSIM things to know-Best eSIM laptops-Best eSIM providers-eSIM FAQ
Being able to access the Internet from your laptop, regardless of where you are, is a common necessity for people who travel. While you could technically purchase a physical SIM card for your compatible laptop, I personally find electronic SIM cards (eSIMs) to be far more convenient. Thanks to several reliable eSIM providers, you can purchase an eSIM for a specific country and update your plan on the fly according to your needs.
This page will go over how to set up an eSIM on your laptop while providing a list of compatible LTE laptops and giving recommendations for the best eSIM providers.
How to set up an eSIM on your laptop
Earlier this year, I traveled to Taiwan for a work trip, and I used Airalo as my laptop’s eSIM provider while I was in that beautiful country. I had a great experience with Airalo, so I’ll be explaining how to set up a laptop eSIM using this company.
As long as Windows 10 or Windows 11 are set to your Airalo eSIM for cellular data, you should be good to use the eSIM. It won’t start using data until your laptop detects the appropriate network for the country you’ve purchased the virtual card for.
Things to know about eSIMs
Best eSIM compatible laptops
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Before purchasing an eSIM, you need to make sure that your laptop is compatible with eSIMs. If you want good suggestions, then you can check out our list of thebest 5G Windows laptops with LTE support. Each of the devices on that list should work with eSIMs.
I personally traveled with an HP Elite Dragonfly Max and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a good eSIM laptop for travel. It easily worked with eSIM provider Airalo, and I didn’t have any connectivity issues while I was in Taiwan. I also love that this laptop is small but still feels sturdy enough to be in transit. For further assistance, look below for a list of the best 5G and LTE laptop reviews (listed in alphabetical order) that we’ve done here at Windows Central.
Best eSim providers
Each eSIM company is a little different when it comes to pricing, data plan options, and the number of countries it provides eSIMs for. Here are four eSIM providers that we love along with a quick description of what sets them apart from others.
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eSIM FAQ
There is a lot to learn about eSIMs. If you have any further questions, this eSIM FAQ should hopefully provide the answers you need.
What is an eSIM?
This virtual SIM card allows you to determine what cellular plan is activated for your device. Unlike regular SIMs, eSIMS are completely digital rather than a physical card.
How do eSIM cards work?
An eSIM communicates remotely with networks to give data to whatever compatible device it’s installed on.
What is the difference between an eSIM and a SIM card?
An eSIM is simply a digital version of a physical SIM card. Many people prefer eSIMs because they don’t require dealing with a tangible object. You can simply download an eSIM and install it on compatible devices.
Can laptops use a SIM card or eSIM?
Yes! As long as you have a compatible laptop, such as an LTE or 5G laptop, you should be able to use a SIM card or eSIM. Some newer devices might not actually have a physical SIM card slot, so you might need to specifically rely on an eSIM.
Is an eSIM better than a regular SIM card?
Many people prefer eSIMs because they are easy to install without interacting with a physical SIM card. Additionally, it can be easier to swap mobile networks or adjust your coverage plan using an eSIM.
How do you get an eSIM in a laptop?
An eSIM must be purchased and then downloaded from an eSIM provider in order for your laptop to get a data connection. Some common eSIM providers are AirHub, Airalo, Nomad, and Flexiroam.
What is the best eSIM?
That really depends on what you want from your eSIM. Some eSIM plans might offer more coverage options while others might work in more locations. In my experience, Airalo is a great eSIM provider to go with since it offers a wide range of plans for over 200 countries.
5G vs LTE in a laptop: Which is better?
This depends on what you want from your laptop. 5G laptops tend to offer faster speeds and lower latency than LTE laptops. However, 5G laptops are usually more expensive. If you want to save money, consider an LTE laptop. But if you value faster Internet speeds, get a 5G laptop.
Should I get an eSIM or a SIM card?
While you definitely can get a physical SIM card, I’ve personally found it’s easier to work with an eSIM. You can adjust your coverage plan on the go and don’t have to worry about dealing with a physical SIM card.
Self-professed gaming geek, Rebecca Spear, is one of Windows Central’s editors and reviewers with a focus on gaming handhelds, PC gaming, and laptops. When she isn’t checking out the latest games on Xbox Game Pass, PC, ROG Ally, or Steam Deck; she can be found digital drawing with a Wacom tablet. She’s written thousands of articles with everything from editorials, reviews, previews, features, previews, and hardware reviews over the last few years. If you need information about anything gaming-related, her articles can help you out. She also loves testing game accessories and any new tech on the market. You can follow her@rrspearon X (formerly Twitter).
