Whether for a layover or an extended stay, in metropolises like Singapore, one wouldn’t want to be without a smartphone. To avoid expensive roaming fees, it’s a good idea to get a local SIM card. It’s especially convenient with an eSIM and a specific plan for Singapore or the entire Asia region. With such a setup, 1 GB of data costs only €2-€4, and you can arrange for a suitable plan before arrival, using it directly at the airport upon landing.
However, it’s crucial to check whether your smartphone supports eSIM profiles:
What is an eSIM and is my smartphone compatible?
An eSIM is a digital SIM card that can be loaded directly onto a compatible device without the need for a physical SIM card. This type of SIM card is particularly convenient for travellers because it is easy and quick to buy and activate online without having to worry about a physical SIM card.
You will find numerous providers of eSIM plans on the Internet. With most of them, you buy a one-off prepaid plan for a certain number of days and data volume. After expiry, there are no further costs and you do not need a subscription.
Unfortunately, not all smartphones support an eSIM. You have good odds with an iPhone 11 / 12 / 13, but also with an Android smartphone, e.g. Google Pixel 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 or Samsung Galaxy S20, S21, or Note 20. You can find a list of smartphones that support eSIM here: Which devices support an eSIM?
If your Android smartphone does not support eSIM profiles, eSIM.me is a physical SIM card that you can use with eSIM profiles.
Most eSIM providers only offer data volume and no free minutes. Since these are also prepaid plans, outgoing calls are generally not supported. With some smartphones, e.g. iPhones, you can still be reached via your normal SIM card and make calls.
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Comparison of Plans
You can easily find the right plan here. Just select your travel period and the needed data volume and suitable eSIM plans will be displayed:
For many, Singapore is just a layover. Some providers also offer plans for multiple Asian countries and the Pacific region. You can search for plans that support both Singapore and your destination under Countries.
Cheapest Providers
Currently, YohoMobile usually offers the most affordable plan, but the prices are quite competitive at Manet and Nomad.
Unlimited Data Plans
For those who want unlimited data, Holafly or Maya Mobile have you covered. However, this is only worthwhile if you need a significant amount of data.
Pay-as-You-Go
Yesim offers a Pay-as-You-Go plan for Singapore. You pay €0.06 per MB, which equals €6 per GB. With this plan, you have complete freedom in terms of both time and data volume.
Best Network in Singapore
As Singapore is a city-state, you don’t have to worry much about mobile coverage. Generally, there are three network operators in Singapore: Singtel, M1, StarHub, and Simba. Most eSIM providers rely on the Singtel network.