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eSIM vs. pocket WiFi: Which one is better?
Both eSIM and pocket WiFi allow you to stay connected on the go, but both are very different services. Follow along to learn which one is right for you.
Looking for the best way to stay connected when traveling abroad? Pocket WiFi and eSIMs are both popular options, but only one can be considered the best. Follow along to learn all you need to know about the pocket WiFi vs eSIM comparison, including pricing, convenience, and ease of use.
However you decide, staying connected shouldn’t be complicated. Holafly sells eSIM plans for over 200 destinations, built to skip the setup hassle either option can involve.
Unlimited data. Peace of mind.
Make sure you have travel data that's there when you need it most.
What is pocket WiFi?
Pocket WiFi, also known as MiFi, portable WiFi, or mobile hotspot, is a portable router that allows you to connect multiple devices to a single WiFi network. It uses mobile data from a physical SIM card or an eSIM mobile data, which it then turns into a WiFi network, much like setting up a hotspot on your mobile phone.
You can either buy a pocket WiFi device and buy separate data plans whenever you travel, or rent a device already set up with a data plan for the rental period.
The devices are battery powered, so you’ll have to charge the device before using it and after each day of usage.
Most pocket WiFi batteries last 8-12 hours. Keep the device on only when you’re actually using it to avoid running out of charge.
Depending on the device and the provider, you’ll be able to connect 5-10 devices at once.
Pros and cons of pocket WiFi
Pros
- Ability to keep multiple devices connected at all times
- Reliable coverage in most areas
- Option to own or rent the device
Cons
- Extra cost for renting or buying the device
- Need to have the device with you at all times
- Limited battery life
- Extra fees, such as shipping and insurance, can be attached to rentals
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a virtual SIM card technology that gets you online without any additional devices or physical SIM cards.
All you need is an eSIM plan and an eSIM-compatible phone. That shouldn’t be an issue, since most modern phones support eSIM technology nowadays.
You can purchase, set up, and activate your eSIM in a matter of minutes and enjoy instant internet access wherever you are.
There are plenty of eSIM providers on the market today, so you’ll always find one that matches your price and data requirements.
Most eSIM plans also allow data sharing, so you can turn your phone into a mobile hotspot for other devices.
Worth noting: the amount you can share is often limited, so keeping five or more devices connected at once may not be possible.
Pros and cons of eSIM
Pros
- Doesn’t require additional devices or cards
- Allows sharing data to other devices
- Usually cheaper than pocket WiFi
- Many providers and plans to choose from
- Can be set up online within minutes
Cons
- Data sharing is often limited
- Not all devices are compatible with eSIMs
Pocket WiFi vs eSIM comparison
Now that you know the basics of each, let’s compare pocket WiFi and eSIM on pricing, convenience, and other features.
Purchase and activation process
One of the biggest differences is the process from purchase to actually using your mobile internet.
You can buy and activate an eSIM in a few minutes, while the same process can take weeks for a pocket WiFi device.
With an eSIM, you’ll receive a QR code in your email as soon as you buy a plan. Scan the QR code and follow the simple instructions to activate your eSIM to enjoy internet access within minutes.
With pocket WiFi, the delivery alone can take up to a week.
Rentals come ready for use, but a personal device doesn’t include mobile data, so you’d need a new data-only SIM every time you travel.
Pricing
Comparing unlimited data plans, an eSIM runs around $6/day for short-term plans, with better value on longer ones.
Holafly’s eSIM for France, for example, costs $74.90 for 30 days — about $2.50/day.
As for pocket WiFi rental, you can expect to pay around $8-15/day for unlimited data. If you own the device, you only need to buy a data SIM card, which usually costs about as much as an eSIM.
Additional costs
With pocket WiFi, you’ll need to have your device delivered to you and returned to the provider. This alone can quickly add $10-30 or even more to your bill. On top of that, if you lose or damage your device, you’ll have to pay a fine that’s usually in the $100-300 range.
When it comes to eSIMs, the only unexpected cost can be a top-up if you’re using a fixed data plan. However, there are no additional costs as long as you use unlimited data plans or monitor your data usage carefully on fixed plans.
Convenience
Both pocket WiFi and eSIM are convenient once you start using them. However, you still need to carry and take care of an extra device everywhere you go when using pocket WiFi. This also means that you can lose it, have it stolen, or drop and damage it, which ends up costing you.
An eSIM is completely digital, so all you need to worry about is not losing your mobile phone. It’s embedded in your device, meaning that there’s no way to lose or damage it.
Pocket WiFi vs eSIM: Overview
Now that we’ve covered all the bases for the eSIM vs. pocket WiFi comparison, let’s sum up the key points to help you choose the service that fits you best.
| Features | eSIM | Pocket WiFi |
| Price | $2-6/day | $8-15/day |
| Time from purchase to use | 3-5 minutes | 3-5 work days |
| Internet connection sharing | Yes | Yes |
| Flexible plans and rates | Yes | No |
| Immediate delivery | Yes | No |
| Physical SIM required | No | Yes |
| Shipping costs | No | Yes |
| Fee in case of loss | No | Yes |
Looking at the table above, it’s clear that eSIM is both cheaper and more convenient than pocket WiFi.
The only good reasons to use pocket WiFi are if you don’t have an eSIM-compatible device, or you need multiple devices on the same network at once.
eSIM vs. pocket WiFi: Which one should you choose?
If you simply need mobile internet on the go, an eSIM will usually end up cheaper and easier to get, while still maintaining fast internet speeds pretty much anywhere in the world.
Browse Holafly’s travel eSIMs for a single trip, or Holafly Plans if you want a monthly subscription that covers you long-term: unlimited data, 5G speeds, and 24/7 customer support, so roaming fees and connectivity issues stop being something you have to think about.
Every plan also includes Always On: 1 GB of monthly backup data, at no added cost, for the moments you need a little extra before your next top-up. It’s peace of mind you carry with you, wherever you’re headed.
Unlimited data. Peace of mind.
Make sure you have travel data that's there when you need it most.
FAQs
Depending on your pocket WiFi data plan, you’ll be able to connect anywhere between 5 and 10 devices to the WiFi network at a time.
Some pocket WiFi providers have physical pick-up and drop-off locations in popular airports or other locations frequented by tourists. Others, however, only offer mail or courier deliveries, which can add to the price of your pocket WiFi rental.
The battery on pocket WiFi devices usually lasts 8 to 12 hours, though there are some devices that can be used for longer periods without charging.
All you need to use an eSIM is an eSIM-compatible phone that’s unlocked for use abroad and an eSIM data plan.
In most cases, eSIM is a better option than portable WiFi due to its pricing and convenience. That said, pocket WiFi can be a good option if your phone doesn’t support eSIMs or if you need to keep multiple devices connected to WiFi at all times.
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I am a Liverpool-based SEO content specialist with years of experience crafting content that connects. I combine my love for clear communication with a passion for travel and languages (currently diving into Japanese!). At Holafly, I'm here to help you understand everything about staying connected abroad, turning technical jargon into straightforward advice you can actually use.
