eSIM Cards
Which Motorola phones are eSIM compatible?
Motorola has a great range of eSIM-compatible phones, providing a more convenient and flexible alternative to traditional SIM cards. Models in the Razr, Edge, and G series are among the…
Advertising Disclosure
Advertising Disclosure
Roami was founded to serve as a trusted resource for travelers in need of reliable internet solutions abroad. Our team, comprising avid travelers, provides comprehensive reviews and guidance on data SIM cards, eSIMs, pocket WiFi devices, and free WiFi apps, drawing from firsthand usage during our travels.
We are committed to offering unbiased and thorough recommendations. To support our website, we earn affiliate commissions from links to products on our site. While our reviews are independent and based on our own experiences and detailed product testing, these commissions allow us to cover costs and continue bringing valuable advice to travelers worldwide.
Our reviews and articles are updated regularly to ensure relevance and accuracy. Please note that we may not review every product in the market, but we strive to cover as many as possible to maintain a wide-ranging resource for our readers. Join us at Roami to stay connected wherever your travels may take you.
You can absolutely use a hotspot with your eSIM, especially if you’re using a popular provider. It’s not only possible, but super convenient! It means you can keep all your devices connected without buying and swapping out SIM cards for each of them.
In other words, you can say goodbye to roaming fees and SIM card swaps in one fell swoop. In this article, we’ll explain how the setup works, why it’s perfect for travelers, and how to do it with ease. Whether you’re country-hopping or need multiple devices on vacation, here’s how an eSIM can make it easier.
Table of Contents
Using hotspot with eSIM – how to activate it
Activating your hotspot when you’re using an eSIM is the same as activating it normally; the exact steps depend on the device you’re using. Once your eSIM is active, you can activate the hotspot to connect other devices to the network and use your eSIM WiFi hotspot.
The actual setup varies depending on whether you have an iPhone or an Android, and which mobile hotspot eSIM you’re using. That said, it’s a pretty similar process either way. Here’s what you need to do.
Using hotspot with eSIM on iPhone
It goes without saying that the first step is to buy your eSIM and activate it. From there, follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Make sure data roaming is turned on.
- If you manually set the APN for your eSIM, you need to do it again to use the hotspot. Or, if you automatically installed the eSIM data plan, you can skip this step.
- Go to Settings then Mobile Data, then Personal Hotspot.
- Toggle the switch to allow users to join, and make sure you set a WiFi password to secure your connection.
- Use the details provided on your screen (like the hotspot name and password) to connect your other devices.
Using hotspot with eSIM on Android phones
Activating a hotspot with an eSIM on any Android device is equally straightforward. Follow these steps.
- Turn on data roaming.
- Head to Settings, then Connections or Network & Internet.
- Tap Hotspot & tethering, then turn on the WiFi hotspot.
Do all eSIM providers support hotspot?
Most popular eSIM providers support hotspotting on most devices. For instance, Holafly offers plans that support hotspot, which allows you to share your eSIM data while traveling.
Here are some of the other popular options that allow hotspots:
- Holafly
- Airalo
- Nomad
- Saily
That being said, it’s always important to check with your provider if you plan on using your hotspot. Different providers have different allowances, too, which means you should check how much data you’re allowed to use with your hotspot.
Providers like Saily allow limitless hotspot data within the confines of the plan you select. So, if you get a 3GB eSIM plan, you can use up to 3GB of hotspot data.
Alternatives to using hotspot with eSIM when traveling
As we mentioned, there are limits to using your eSIM with hotspot. Namely, the plan you purchase caps the amount of data you can use across multiple devices. Plus, an eSIM hotspot can be unreliable depending on the network you’re using.
Thankfully, there are plenty of other options for staying connected while you travel these days. Each one has its pros and cons, including connection speed and price, so make sure you carefully consider your options before you jet off.
- Local SIM cards: Purchasing a local SIM card when you arrive is a popular option. Most local carriers will allow you to use your mobile data for hotspot sharing. Depending on your needs, this option can provide more reliable coverage.
- Pocket WiFi: Portable WiFi devices offer a convenient way to stay connected without relying on mobile networks. These devices provide a dedicated internet connection specifically for sharing across multiple devices, which can provide a cost-effective option.
- Public WiFi: These days, many hotels, cafes, and public spaces offer free WiFi access all across the world. This is, of course, the cheapest option, but it can be less secure and unreliable.
Depending on where you’re going and how long for, any one of these options could be best for you. You might even choose a combination!
FAQ about using hotspot with eSIM
Can hotspot be used with eSIM?
Yes, you can usually use a hotspot while you’re on an eSIM, but this capability must be supported by both your device and the provider. Creating a hotspot allows you to share your eSIM mobile hotspot with other devices, in the same way as using a traditional SIM card. As a result, it can be a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers; but make sure you choose an eSIM provider that allows hotspotting.
Do all eSIM providers support hotspot with eSIM?
Not all eSIM providers (or indeed, local networks) allow hotspot functionality. However, the popular providers like Holafly and Airalo do support it, which means you can share your eSIM data with other devices. If hotspotting is an important consideration, make sure you check the specific plan and provider before you purchase.
Are there good alternatives to using hotspot with eSIM?
Yes, there are plenty of alternatives to using a hotspot with your eSIM. An eSIM is the perfect option for a lot of travelers, offering convenient, cost-effective WiFi without having to change your SIM. You could get different eSIMs for each of your devices, but the cost adds up. Alternatively, you can opt for local SIMs in each of your devices, which might offer a more reliable connection, but can again be expensive. Other options include free public WiFi and pocket WiFi devices. Make sure you choose the right option for you.
