eSIM Cards
How to activate and use Airalo eSIM hotspot?
If you want a convenient and reliable way to stay connected while traveling, the Airalo eSIM hotspot can be a game-changer. Airalo offers eSIM services that allow you to connect…
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.
The Sprint prepaid eSIM is replacing the need for physical SIM cards. Here’s everything you need to know about how to get and activate your Sprint prepaid eSIM and why it could be the right choice for you.
The Sprint prepaid eSIM is available for Sprint customers who want the flexibility of a prepaid plan. Since Sprint’s merger with T-Mobile, Sprint users now operate under the T-Mobile network. They can benefit from its expanded coverage and advanced services, which include eSIM. Thanks to this merger, Sprint customers enjoy an enhanced network and multiple mobile plan options with no physical card.
We will cover all the necessary information for obtaining and activating a Sprint prepaid eSIM. Furthermore, we will look for Sprint prepaid eSIM alternatives and assist you in evaluating whether those options best fit your requirements.
Table of Contents
What is Sprint eSIM?
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a type of SIM which is digital in nature and helps you activate the cellular plan without the need for a physical SIM card. Sprint’s eSIM functionality continues under T-Mobile and now all Sprint prepaid and postpaid customers are managed by T-Mobile systems. Following the merger, Sprint’s website no longer handles customer services. Everything related to Sprint eSIMs is processed through T-Mobile’s website and app.
eSIMs offer convenience by allowing users to activate services instantly without needing a physical SIM card. You simply need to scan a QR code or follow the Sprint SIM activation steps via T-Mobile’s app or website to start using your prepaid eSIM Sprint plan.
Is T-Mobile eSIM the Same as Sprint eSIM?
Due to the merger, the T-Mobile eSIM is basically the same as the previous Sprint eSIM. Therefore, if you have a Sprint plan, not much has changed for you aside from the name and ownership of the company since everything is now in the T-Mobile family to simplify operations. This gives Sprint’s legacy customers instant access to T-Mobile’s 5G network and newer offerings.
How to Get and Activate a Sprint/T-Mobile Prepaid eSIM
To get a prepaid eSIM from T-Mobile, you must subscribe to an eligible prepaid or postpaid plan. This is quite convenient as the procedure is quick and can be performed online or in the T-Mobile application. Here’s how you go about it.
- Requirements
- A compatible, eSIM-enabled device.
- A T-Mobile account with an eligible prepaid or postpaid plan.
- Internet access for downloading and activating the eSIM.
- Instructions to Download and Activate
- Download the T-Mobile app or go to the T-Mobile website.
- Sign in to your account, then locate the eSIM request section.
- After selecting a plan or transferring an existing plan, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the activation.
Activate on iPhone
On an iPhone, users can acquire a prepaid T-Mobile eSIM by downloading the eSIM profile and configuring it in their device settings, which is quite easy.
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap on “Mobile Service”.
- Select “Add eSIM”.
- Scan the Sprint eSIM QR code provided by T-Mobile. It is usually found in the welcome email or physical SIM card packaging.
- Confirm the Sprint eSIM activation.
- Choose a data plan that suits your needs.
- Select eSIM as your preferred line.
Your eSIM will be usable right after it has been enabled. Now you can access mobile data, send texts, and make calls without using a physical SIM card.
Activate on Android Phone
To activate a T-Mobile prepaid eSIM for Android, the process is largely the same. However, the steps can differ slightly based on the manufacturer.
- Open the Settings app on your Android phone.
- Tap on “Network & Internet”.
- Select “Mobile Network”.
- Look for and tap on “Add Carrier”.
- You will be prompted to scan the Sprint eSIM QR code. Your phone will automatically download and set up the eSIM settings after scanning the QR code.
- Verify your carrier to complete the Sprint SIM card activation.
- Set the eSIM as your default line for mobile data and calls. This guarantees that your daily cellular operations will use the eSIM.
Sprint/T-Mobile eSIM Supported Devices
The first phone with eSIM technology was released in 2016, and several others followed shortly. If you want to check whether your phone is a model that supports it, you can refer to the list of popular models below.
| Brand | Models with eSIM Capability |
| Apple iPhones | – iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max- All newer models |
| Samsung Galaxy | – Galaxy S20 series- Galaxy S21 series- All newer models |
| Google Pixel | – Pixel 2 (limited to certain carriers/regions)- Pixel 3 and Pixel 4- All newer models |
You may also look for T-Mobiles’ support webpage for all other supported models or look into the specifications of your gadget.
Alternatives to Sprint/T-Mobile eSIM
For those considering alternatives, there are several other connectivity options available. If you’re looking for alternatives to a Sprint/T-Mobile eSIM, there are several options to stay connected while traveling or for flexible connectivity.
- Data roaming: Use your current SIM’s roaming services for international travel.
- Local SIM Cards: For direct access to local networks, get a local SIM card in the country where you will be traveling.
- Devices for Pocket WiFi: Rent a portable WiFi device to access the internet while on the road, without a SIM card.
- Other eSIM Providers: Universal eSIM suppliers provide greater flexibility.
Each of these alternatives suits specific connectivity needs. This allows you to choose the best fit based on your usage and budget requirements.
Global eSIM Providers as an Alternative to Sprint/T-Mobile eSIM
Travelers looking for an alternative can opt for global eSIM providers that offer country-specific or regional plans. Here are a few recommended providers.
- Holafly: Known for extensive coverage and affordability, Holafly’s eSIM is easy to use and covers numerous countries.
- Nomad and Airalo: These providers offer various plans for international travel. Therefore, they are perfect for tourists.
- Saily: With competitive rates and reliable connections in many regions, Saily provides a solid eSIM alternative.
If you’re looking for an eSIM for the USA, consider options that offer reliable coverage and competitive rates.
Local SIM Card as an Alternative to Sprint/T-Mobile eSIM
A local SIM card is an effective alternative to the Sprint/T-Mobile eSIM. It provides similar connectivity options with some unique benefits. A local SIM card in the USA is a physical SIM you purchase upon arrival in the country. It will give you access to a local number and data plan. This option often allows for more flexible and potentially cheaper plans compared to international roaming fees. It’s ideal for travelers who want a reliable connection and are willing to switch SIM cards for access to local networks. By choosing this option, you can avoid the need to rely solely on a carrier-specific eSIM.
Pocket WiFi as an Alternative to Sprint/T-Mobile eSIM
A Pocket WiFi is a portable router that generates a private WiFi hotspot using cellular data networks. It’s ideal for anyone traveling for business or leisure who needs temporary access to Internet-connected devices without changing a SIM card or activating an eSIM. A Pocket WiFi also accommodates connections via phone, tablet, and laptop all at once. Therefore, the service is best for families traveling with children who want to use the service together or small work teams. Anyone who uses the internet in the comfort of their own home usually needs a Pocket WiFi while traveling to avoid disrupting their regular cellular plan. A pocket Wi-Fi in the USA will serve you well for connecting to the internet while traveling or exploring the country.
Local Internet as an Alternative to Sprint/T-Mobile eSIM
Using local internet services, such as WiFi at cafes, hotels, or public spaces, can be another practical alternative to the Sprint/T-Mobile eSIM. This option works well for travelers who may not require constant connectivity but still need occasional access for navigation, browsing, or communication. Public WiFi networks are often free or come at a low cost. This makes them an affordable option, though they may have limited security compared to private connections. Local internet access can also help reduce data consumption on other plans by providing high-speed WiFi for data-heavy activities, like streaming or file sharing.
Getting and activating a Sprint prepaid SIM card is now entirely a T-Mobile process. By following the steps above, you can activate your eSIM quickly and make sure that you have reliable service at home or abroad. If you’re considering alternatives, eSIM providers like Holafly offer reliable options for international connectivity.
Sprint eSIM FAQs
Is Sprint eSIM still available?
No. Sprint’s eSIM service has been phased out, as Sprint officially merged with T-Mobile in 2020. As a result, Sprint customers are now directed to T-Mobile’s eSIM services. Former Sprint customers can use T-Mobile’s eSIM options for similar functionality and benefits. This includes flexible data plans and compatibility with eSIM-enabled devices.
Is Sprint eSIM and T-Mobile eSIM the same thing?
Yes and no. Following their merger, Sprint has been replaced by T-Mobile’s eSIM services. This implies that Sprint users are now using T-Mobile’s eSIM network and functionalities. Although they were once separate brands, T-Mobile now handles all eSIM services for both. This makes the experience pretty much the same for Sprint customers under the T-Mobile name.
Are there eSIM alternatives to Sprint?
Yes. There are several alternatives to Sprint eSIM, such as eSIM services from AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and Google Fi. These providers offer eSIM options that let you activate and switch plans easily on compatible devices. This makes them great for travelers and anyone wanting flexibility without a physical SIM card. Beyond eSIM providers, other connectivity solutions include physical SIM cards, Pocket WiFi devices, and local internet access points through public networks. Local SIMs give users a dedicated U.S. number, Pocket WiFi provides a private hotspot for multiple devices, and local internet options offer budget-friendly connectivity for occasional use.
