GigSky vs. Airalo eSIM Review: Which Is Best for Your Trip Abroad?

Staying connected while traveling has never been easier, or more confusing.

‍

In 2025, dozens of companies offer eSIMs that let you access mobile data abroad without swapping physical SIM cards. Among them, two stand out for redefining the experience: GigSky and Airalo.

‍

Founded in 2010, GigSky was invited by Apple to help shape the eSIM standard, when the first eSIM-compatible iPhone launched (the iPhone XS) GigSky was integrated into the ecosystem.

‍

Today, GigSky is known as the only eSIM provider that keeps you connected both on land and at sea, with service in 200 countries and coverage aboard 200 cruise ships. This depth of coverage has earned it consistent praise in GigSky review.

Meanwhile, Airalo has built a reputation for offering affordable global data plans, making it a popular option among budget-conscious travelers. 

‍

So, how do you choose between them, or figure out if there’s an even better fit out there for you? In this eSIM review we’ll break it all down and help you find the best eSIM for your kind of travel.

‍

GigSky vs. Airalo eSIM Review

Pricing & Data Plans

GigSky offers unlimited data plans valid for up to 30 days, while Airalo offers unlimited data in limited regions only.

‍

Both providers offer global plans, but with different structures. GigSky’s global eSIM delivers data options ranging from 1 GB to 150 GB, with a validity period of up to 180 days.

‍

In contrast, Airalo’s global eSIM package offers affordable data plans ranging from 1 to 20 GB, valid for up to 365 days.

‍

Both GigSky and Airalo provide free data options and do not require a credit card. GigSky offers a 100 MB plan available in 125 destinations, while Airalo includes a free Welcome eSIM, available in 8 destinations. 

‍

For a limited time, GigSky is offering 500MB of free data with Europe eSIM plans, try it now and stay connected effortlessly across the continent.

‍

For Visa Infinite or Signature cardholders in the US, Canada, Colombia, Peru, or Ecuador, you can get up to 1–3GB of free data for up to 15 days with a GigSky eSIM, usable in 175 countries. 

‍

If you're in Brazil and your bank is Caixa, you can get up to two free 3GB plans per year for travel, and 30% off to any destination.

‍

GigSky is the only eSIM provider offering Cruise + Land data plans and Cruise alone, with coverage on 200+ cruise ships equipped with Cellular at Sea service. The land options include Europe, Asia, the Americas and the Middle East.

‍

The best eSIM for you will depend on your usage patterns, destination, occasional check-ins or heavy streaming.

‍

Coverage & Network Quality

When choosing an eSIM for travel, both network coverage and connectivity reliability matter.

‍

GigSky operates as what’s known as a heavy MVNO (mobile virtual network operator). This means it partners directly with local networks around the world and has control over how your device connects while you’re abroad. 

‍

Thanks to this setup, GigSky can automatically switch to the best available local network based on signal quality, no action needed on your part.

‍

Airalo, by contrast, functions as a reseller rather than a network operator, offering access to a wide range of networks through third-party providers. That difference often emerges in a typical eSIM review comparing real-world usage.

‍

Both providers offer global, regional, and local eSIM plans. If you're planning a trip, it’s worth comparing their coverage by region to see which aligns best with your destination, connectivity expectations, and insights from any recent eSIM review.

GigSky’s global plan covers 172 countries, compared to Airalo’s 137. It also leads in regional coverage across North America, Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. However, Airalo has a broader reach in Latin America and the Middle East. 

‍

In Europe and Oceania, their coverage is roughly equal.

‍

Ease of Setup & App Usability

Both GigSky and Airalo simplify global connectivity through intuitive, app-based eSIM solutions, no physical SIM card needed. 

‍

GigSky offers one eSIM you install once for use across 200+ destinations and reuse anywhere, with no QR codes or extra steps. 

‍

Everything happens in-app, and when you land, it connects automatically without needing to tweak settings or manually start the plan.

‍

Airalo, on the other hand, offers country-based eSIMs you set up per trip with quick, sub-5-minute setup and optional QR-based and manual installs. 

‍

Upon arrival, users need to open the app and manually activate the plan to begin using data.

‍

While both deliver smooth onboarding, GigSky’s one-eSIM-for-all model appeals to those who prefer simplicity over switching profiles per trip.

Data Speed & Performance

GigSky and Airalo both rely on local LTE/5G networks in 200+ countries. In urban hubs users generally enjoy fast, stable data suitable for streaming, navigation, and calls. 

‍

GigSky review highlights its reliability in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia, though speeds on cruise ships or remote inland areas may vary. Shipboard performance reaches ~3Mbps down/1Mbps up, enough for browsing or hotspotting, though cabin and coastal interference can cause drops. 

‍

Airalo, offering strong city performance, doesn’t support maritime access and may be slow in rural zones. 

‍

Both services shine in coverage and ease of use, but GigSky has a subtle edge in travel scenarios involving sea routes or global mobility beyond land-based connectivity.

‍

Customer Support

‍

Both brands provide global eSIM support with 24/7 chat and email, but their support structures work differently. GigSky operates its own network, which helps streamline troubleshooting and enables direct, multilingual assistance. Airalo, built around a reseller-based model, requires additional steps to address connectivity issues and it leans on structured, policy-driven assistance.

‍

Refund & Reliability Policies

‍

GigSky and Airalo offer flexible refund options, each with its own strengths. 

‍

Airalo sets a 30-day window from purchase and handles requests via in-app or web chat, while GigSky evaluates requests based on reason, no fixed deadline and accepts them through chat, email, or forms. 

‍

Processing time also varies. Airalo takes up to 30 business days post-approval, while GigSky completes transfers within a week once approved.

Partnerships

‍

GigSky has carrier-level integrations with Apple and Google.

‍

GigSky users with Visa Infinite or Signature cards in the US, Canada, Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador can get between 1GB and 3GB of free data. There’s no bank-specific requirement, check your eligibility in the app.

‍

Meanwhile, Airalo doesn’t disclose partnership details.

‍

GigSky vs Airalo: Which one is better?

‍

GigSky is ideal for travelers wanting simplicity, unlimited data, and cruise ship coverage. Airalo works well for those seeking affordable, smaller data plans. 

‍

Both offer 200+ country coverage, easy setup, and 24/7 support. 

‍

For travelers who prefer one reusable eSIM, smart network switching, and seamless land + sea connectivity, GigSky offers a seamless experience.

Enjoy Seamless Connectivity Worldwide (Even at Sea) With Gigsky

‍

This eSIM review shows with GigSky’s unlimited data plans, instant in-app activation, and coverage in 200+ countries and 200+ cruise ships, you skip SIM swaps, surprise fees, and weak signals.

‍

Travel smart and stay connected, wherever your journey takes you.