The 6 Cheapest eSIM Compatible Phones in 2024

For 2024, several affordable eSIM phones offer great options without breaking the bank. Here’s a guide to the top budget-friendly devices to help you stay connected on your journey.

An eSIM phone lets you easily make calls while abroad through a digital-only SIM card. Most major brands have been offering these devices for years. In fact, some iPhones are even eSIM-only.

If your current phone isn’t eSIM-compatible, you’ll need a new one. Luckily, there are already some affordable options from the past decade available on Amazon and other retailers. There’s also the option of buying second-hand.

In this post, we’ll show you the six cheapest eSIM phones available in 2024. We’ll also highlight how to choose the right device and why these phones are worthwhile.

Why Get a Cheap eSIM Phone in 2024?

A cheap phone with eSIM has much to offer any customer. Even if you can’t afford a new model, you won’t have to miss out on an eSIM. Here’s why you must consider a cheap eSIM phone:

• Cost-effective: Cheap prepaid eSIM phones work just as well as expensive models. You can get a great deal at a massive discount this way.
• Convenient size: Cheaper eSIM phones are generally more compact. This means they work great as a backup or travel phone when you’re overseas.
• Flexibility: You can switch between your main phone and your new device with ease. If you’re going on holiday, this keeps your first phone safe.
• Global roaming: As an extra saving, you can use local eSIM carriers. This is usually at a cheaper rate than your original plan’s global features.

Phone prices depend on where you’re looking and the specifications you have in mind. A cheap eSIM phone can be as low as $200, especially if you’re willing to try second-hand options. 

Most high-end eSIM phones cost up to $1,000. Anything which fits the $200-800 range will be both reliable and (relatively) cheap.

Cheap eSIM phones can still be reliable. Even if you get one second-hand, this typically comes with a warranty. Regardless, regular stores still sell affordable eSIM phones.

6 Cheapest and Most Affordable eSIM Compatible Phones in 2024

The cheapest eSIM phone options could give you a digital SIM without breaking the bank. With any of these models, you can simply scan your carrier’s QR code to unlock your eSIM. Here are six of our budget choices, whether you’re looking for iPhones or Androids.

1. Google Pixel 7a ($337-499)

Official Price: $499

Amazon Price: $350

Walmart Price: $337

Upon release, Google’s mid-range Pixel 7a amazed people with its high performance. While this does drain the battery, the Pixel 7a has the raw power to handle eSIM communications. It offers dual SIM support — and you can even make both of these eSIMs.

Pixel phones seem to embrace eSIM technology more than Samsung’s own Android phones. As a result, the Pixel series’ eSIM setup and activation processes are both quite simple. 

Looking more closely at the device itself, the 7a’s 64-megapixel sensor makes it a great camera. Especially for a low-cost Android option. It also comes standard with the Android 13 OS, and will seemingly offer upgrades up to Android 16.

2. OnePlus 12R ($400-600)

Official Price: $500

Amazon Price: $400

Walmart Price: $600

This Android phone prioritizes power without sacrificing battery life. This means you’ll be able to use your eSIM for longer. However, its camera quality isn’t amazing. If you’re traveling like many eSIM users, this could actually be a dealbreaker.

Back to the battery life, you can go days without needing to recharge. The charging will also only take around half an hour. If you only have a short reprieve between adventures, this is incredibly helpful. 

Like any other phone, the OnePlus 12R has some serious trade-offs. You have to consider your priorities before making a purchase. If you’re going abroad and using your eSIM, will you want a phone that lasts? Or one that takes great pictures?

3. iPhone 12 ($300-314)

Official Price: N/A

Amazon Price: $314

Walmart Price: $300

iPhones are a rarity on any cheap phone list. That’s because the company quickly moves onto a newer (more expensive) model. In fact, sourcing an iPhone 12 from Apple is already impossible, despite it releasing in 2020.

The iPhone 12 was one of the first eSIM-compatible iPhones on the market. Their later models are actually eSIM-only, meaning it’s much easier to use an eSIM on iPhones. As for the iPhone 12 itself, it’s 5G-compatible. In tandem with your eSIM, this gives your phone great connectivity.

This phone’s Mini equivalent is available for a similar price across most stores. If you’re looking for a cheap, compact travel phone, this could be a better choice. However, the iPhone 12 is also relatively small for an iPhone.

4. Samsung Galaxy S23 FE ($445-600)

Official Price: $600

Amazon Price: $550

Walmart Price: $445

The Galaxy S23 FE is perhaps one of the more expensive “cheap” options. This is because you can’t easily source many of the older models without a second-hand retailer. However, it’s still a relatively affordable choice for an eSIM smartphone, especially during a sale.

Please note that you cannot use this specific model’s eSIM in Hong Kong or China. Beyond this, however, you’re guaranteed global eSIM functionality. On the topic of functionality, the device’s performance also rivals iPhones.

This phone’s durability makes it a great choice for any traveling eSIM user. You can trust it to survive the trip, and its power-saving features help you use your eSIM for longer.

5. iPhone SE, Third Generation ($179-429)

Official Price: $429

Amazon Price: $216

Walmart Price: $179

The latest iPhone SE’s official price is already quite low by Apple standards. This makes it ideal for other budget-conscious eSIM users. Other retailers sell it for lower, but unlocked iPhones are more expensive. This is necessary if you want to use your eSIM on another network.

The iPhone SE is much smaller than its flagship counterparts. This makes it handy as a backup phone, but the compact size also crowds the screen. For Apple, this is most likely the cheapest phone with eSIM capabilities.

Make sure you buy the third generation iPhone SE. The first generation doesn’t support eSIMs; and it’s not always easy to tell which one you’re buying at first glance.

6. Nokia G60 ($280-400)

Official Price: $400

Amazon Price: $280

Walmart Price: $280

Nokia has a reputation for durable phones. The G60 is no exception; this extends to the phone’s battery life and processor. This combined with a plastic build helps the G60 handle the wear and tear of any trip. The phone also offers 5G; this lets your eSIM’s data work even better.

Cheap phones with eSIM capabilities need strong performance. This is because — as useful as eSIMs are — two lines will drain your battery quickly. The Nokia G60 beats several Samsung Galaxy models in this respect.

When it comes to phones, Samsung, Google, and Apple often take center-stage. But Nokia can still stay competitive in the realm of cheap eSIM phones. This makes it a strong contender when choosing a cheap eSIM phone.

How to Choose a Cheap Phone With eSIM Wisely?

Selecting an affordable phone with eSIM functionality takes a lot of consideration. You’ll have to balance plenty of factors, not just your budget. Here are a few tips for picking the right phone:

• Your specific requirements: Are you taking the phone abroad? If so, will you want one that takes great photos? The Google Pixel 7a might be your best bet.
• Dual SIM: Does the phone have dual SIM functionality? This lets you switch between a physical and eSIM on the fly. The iPhone SE even lets you use two eSIMs.
• Locked or Unlocked: Unlocked phones let you choose an eSIM carrier. But many deals lock you into a network. An unlocked phone (such as a Galaxy S23 FE) is more costly.
• Battery life: A second eSIM network often drains phone batteries faster. Opt for a phone with great battery life. The OnePlus 12R still holds up after near-constant use.
• Durability: Many people use eSIM phones as a backup whilst traveling abroad. If this is your plan, pick a phone (such as the Nokia G60) that stands up to wear and tear.

Where to Buy Cheap eSIM Phones?

Official sources usually offer the phone at their highest possible price. While you can get lucky with a sale, it’s best to look at other retailers. Amazon, Walmart, and other similar stores have a full range of cheap eSIM phones. Including models no longer available on their brand’s website.

Apple and Samsung always prioritize their latest models. For example, the iPhone 13 is now the oldest iPhone you can buy on Apple’s website. You can still find older phones from big brands at most online retailers. But as the devices are no longer in production, they have limited stocks.

This means you may need to resort to second-hand phones. For the most part, however, these offer the same performance as a brand-new mobile. Amazon and Walmart also offer renewed or refurbished phones. These are typically cheaper than new models and come with a guarantee of exceptional performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Alessia Copolla

I’m Alessia Coppola, and I combine my love for writing with a passion for travel and staying connected. Through my work, I guide readers to the best solutions for staying connected while on the move, covering options like eSIMs, SIMs, and pocket Wi-Fi. My goal is to help travelers stay connected easily and seamlessly, no matter where they are in the world.