SimOptions eSIM Review

3.8/5

eSIM aggregator offering curated plans from multiple mobile operators worldwide.

Updated March 2026
Countries 180+
Starting Price £4.00
Data Type Data only (some plans include calls)
Unlimited Data No
Tethering Supported
App Store 3.9/5
Google Play 3.8/5
Trustpilot 3.8/5 (5,200)

Our Review

SimOptions takes a different approach to the eSIM market. Rather than sourcing all plans from a single network partner, they aggregate offerings from multiple operators in each country. This means you can choose which network you connect to — a genuine advantage if you are heading to an area where one carrier has better coverage than another. Their detailed coverage maps are the best in the industry and help you make an informed decision.

The downside of this approach is complexity. Where Airalo or Holafly give you a simple recommendation, SimOptions presents you with multiple options that require research to navigate. For first-time eSIM users, this can be overwhelming. The website interface, while functional, also feels dated and could use a modernisation effort to match the cleaner designs of newer competitors.

On pricing, SimOptions sits in the middle of the pack. They are rarely the cheapest but offer reasonable value, particularly for their larger data plans. The fact that they still sell physical SIM cards is a unique advantage for travellers with older devices. SimOptions is best suited to experienced travellers who know what they want and appreciate the ability to choose their network rather than having it chosen for them.

Pros & Cons

What we like

  • + Multiple operator options per country give you network choice
  • + Detailed coverage maps help you choose the right network for your itinerary
  • + Established company with roots in the SIM card industry since before eSIM existed
  • + Good for niche destinations that other providers may not cover
  • + Still sells physical SIM cards for devices without eSIM support
  • + Helpful destination guides with practical connectivity tips

What could be better

  • - Website interface can feel cluttered and dated compared to modern competitors
  • - Pricing is not always the cheapest — often beaten by Airalo or MobiMatter
  • - The multiple operator options can be confusing for users who just want a simple recommendation
  • - Activation process can be more complex than single-provider solutions

Pricing & Plans

SimOptions offers approximately 600 plans across 180+ countries, with prices starting from £4.00.

Destination Data Validity Price
Japan 3 GB 30 days £9.00
USA 5 GB 30 days £12.00
Europe 10 GB 30 days £24.00
Australia 5 GB 30 days £14.00
Japan £9.00
Data 3 GB
Validity 30 days
USA £12.00
Data 5 GB
Validity 30 days
Europe £24.00
Data 10 GB
Validity 30 days
Australia £14.00
Data 5 GB
Validity 30 days

Coverage

SimOptions covers 180+ countries and regions worldwide. Plans are available as single-country, regional (e.g. Europe, Asia) and global options.

Key Features

  • Aggregates eSIM plans from multiple network operators per country
  • Detailed coverage maps showing exact network coverage areas
  • Long history in the SIM card market — transitioned early to eSIM
  • Wide selection with 600+ plans across 180 countries
  • Offers both eSIM and physical SIM cards for older devices
  • Useful destination guides with local connectivity advice

How to Buy & Activate

1

Visit the SimOptions website and search for your destination country or region.

2

Browse available plans from different network operators — check coverage maps to find the best network for your area.

3

Add your chosen plan to the cart and complete the checkout process with your email address.

4

Receive the eSIM QR code and installation instructions via email after purchase.

5

Scan the QR code in your phone's eSIM settings and enable data roaming when you arrive at your destination.

Rating Breakdown

Coverage
4.4/5
Pricing
3.5/5
Ease of Use
3.4/5
Support
3.6/5
Value for Money
3.7/5
Overall
3.8/5

SimOptions vs Alternatives

SimOptions differentiates through choice — they offer plans from multiple operators per country, so you can pick the network with the best coverage for your specific area. This is useful if you are heading to rural regions where one network has better signal than another. Against Airalo, SimOptions usually loses on price and app experience, but wins on operator flexibility and coverage maps. They also uniquely still sell physical SIM cards for travellers with older devices.

Feature SimOptions Airalo Holafly Saily
Countries 180+ 200+ 160+ 150+
Starting Price £4.00 £3.50 £5.00 £3.99
Unlimited Data No No Yes No
Tethering Yes Yes No Yes
Trustpilot 3.8/5 4.2/5 4.3/5 4.0/5
Our Rating 3.8/5 4.5/5 4.2/5 4.1/5
Airalo 4.5/5
Countries 200+
From £3.50
Unlimited No
Tethering Yes
Read Review
Holafly 4.2/5
Countries 160+
From £5.00
Unlimited Yes
Tethering No
Read Review
Saily 4.1/5
Countries 150+
From £3.99
Unlimited No
Tethering Yes
Read Review

User Reviews Summary

Trustpilot
3.8/5
5,200 reviews
App Store (iOS)
3.9/5
Google Play
3.8/5

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SimOptions?

SimOptions is an eSIM and SIM card aggregator based in Berlin, Germany. They source plans from multiple mobile operators worldwide, giving you the ability to choose which network you connect to in each country.

Is SimOptions safe to buy from?

Yes, SimOptions has been operating since 2017 and started as a physical SIM card provider before expanding into eSIMs. They are a legitimate company with thousands of customers and established relationships with network operators.

Does SimOptions still sell physical SIM cards?

Yes, SimOptions is one of the few providers that still sells physical SIM cards alongside eSIMs. This is useful for travellers with older phones that do not support eSIM technology.

How do I choose between operators on SimOptions?

SimOptions provides detailed coverage maps for each operator in each country. Check the coverage map for your specific destinations and choose the operator with the strongest signal in the areas you plan to visit.

Is SimOptions cheaper than Airalo?

Not usually. SimOptions tends to be slightly more expensive than Airalo for comparable plans. However, they sometimes have competitive prices for specific destinations and plan sizes, so it is worth checking both.

Does SimOptions have an app?

SimOptions has an app available on both iOS and Android, though many users purchase directly through their website. The app provides plan management and installation guidance.

Can I use SimOptions for a long trip?

Yes, SimOptions offers plans with validity periods up to 30 days or more. For longer trips, you can purchase additional plans. Some destinations have 60 or 90-day options available.

Does SimOptions support tethering?

Most SimOptions plans support tethering and hotspot sharing. However, since plans come from different operators, tethering policies may vary. Check the specific plan details before purchasing.

How does SimOptions deliver the eSIM?

After purchase, SimOptions sends the eSIM QR code and activation instructions to your email address. You then scan the QR code using your phone's eSIM settings to install the profile.

Does SimOptions cover Africa and South America?

Yes, SimOptions covers many countries in Africa and South America, including popular destinations like South Africa, Brazil, Argentina and Kenya. Their coverage in these regions is broader than many competitors.

Final Verdict

3.8 out of 5

Best for: Experienced travellers who want to choose their specific network operator and travellers visiting less common destinations.

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