Introduction: Why Compare eSIM Plans in Singapore?

In 2025, eSIM technology is no longer just a futuristic concept—it's the standard for mobile connectivity in Singapore and beyond. As more devices ship with embedded SIM (eSIM) capabilities, users are ditching physical SIM cards in favor of faster activation, travel convenience, and multi-profile flexibility. This shift is especially prominent among travelers, remote workers, and digital natives who demand seamless connectivity across borders.

Whether you're comparing prepaid plans for a weekend getaway or looking to switch to a more flexible local provider, understanding how eSIMs work—and which plans offer the best value—can help you make a smarter choice. This guide breaks down the best travel eSIM options in Singapore, including top picks from Circles.Life, Singtel, M1, StarHub, and more.

What Is an eSIM and How Does It Work?

An eSIM (short for embedded SIM) is a digital SIM embedded directly into your smartphone, smartwatch, or tablet. Unlike traditional SIM cards that must be physically inserted and removed, eSIMs can be activated remotely through a QR code or carrier app. This allows users to switch plans, activate roaming, or port numbers with just a few taps—no need to visit a retail store or wait for delivery.

The eSIM standard is supported by most flagship smartphones released in the past few years, including Apple, Samsung, Google, Oppo, and Xiaomi devices. In Singapore, the top telcos and mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) now offer full eSIM compatibility for both local and international plans.

Compare eSIM Plans by Providers in Singapore

Here's an updated comparison of the most popular eSIM plans in Singapore, showcasing each provider's data offering, features, and value for money:

Last updated on: 21 May 2025

Compare eSIM Data Roaming by Providers in Singapore

Traveling abroad? Here's how each provider’s roaming benefits stack up:

Best eSIM Plans for International Travel (Popular Destinations)

eSIMs make staying connected while travelling effortless. Skip the hassle of hunting for a local SIM card - with instant activation and no need to swap physical SIMs, you can easily switch to local data plans wherever you go. Avoid costly roaming fees by connecting directly to local networks and manage everything from your phone in just a few taps.

Check out the tables below for a quick comparison of the best eSIM plans for popular travel destinations - so you can pick the perfect plan before your next trip.

Best eSIM for Malaysia Travel

Verdict: Circles.Life stands out with free 8GB monthly and generous data without expiry limits.

Best eSIM for Thailand Travel

Verdict: With 8GB free every month to Thailand, Circles.Life again delivers the most value and volume for frequent travelers.

Best eSIM for Indonesia Travel

Verdict: Circles.Life’s plan includes larger roaming allowance and support across multiple Southeast Asian countries.

Best eSIM for Australia Travel

Verdict: Circles.Life’s Borderless Plan gives you 100GB shared across Singapore + 7 countries for travelers in the region.

eSIM Compatibility and Setup

How to Check If Your Phone Supports eSIM

Before you subscribe to an eSIM plan, ensure your phone is eSIM-compatible. Most newer models from Apple, Samsung, Google, Huawei, and Oppo support eSIM.

To check:

• Go to Settings > Mobile Service

• Look for "eSIM" or "Digital SIM"

Check our full list of eSIM-supported phones

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How to Activate Your eSIM

• Sign up online and choose an eSIM plan

• Scan the QR code provided via email or app

• Your eSIM profile will be downloaded and activated instantly

• No physical SIM swap needed

Why Choose Circles.Life for eSIM?

Circles.Life offers more than just data. Every eSIM plan is backed by:

• CirclesAI – Access to CirclesAI (powered by OpenAI’s latest models) with unlimited queries

• Free monthly roaming data (1GB to 8GB depending on plan)

• Exclusive perks like $10 Golden Village movie tickets

• No contracts and full flexibility to pause or upgrade anytime

What to Look for in an eSIM Plan

When choosing the right eSIM plan, focus on these features:

• Monthly price and data allowance

• 4G/5G network speed

• Roaming data inclusion

• Extra perks like unlimited calls, streaming offers, and AI support

• Contract flexibility (or no contract at all)

• Coverage in key travel destinations

Circles.Life eSIM Plans: Value Meets Innovation

Circles.Life stands out for its contract-free flexibility, generous roaming data, and tech-forward features like CirclesAI powered by OpenAI’s latest models. Two standout eSIM offerings include:

1. Circles.Life 4G Plan

Price: $12.80/month for 3 months, then $15/month

Data: 150GB Includes:

• Free 1GB roaming (Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Taiwan, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, Bangladesh)

• Unlimited incoming/outgoing calls

• CirclesAI powered by OpenAI’s latest models (free)

• Circles of Joy rewards

• Free caller ID

2. Circles.Life 5G Most Unrestricted Plan

Price: $15/month for 3 months, then $18/month

Data: 400GB (then 250GB) Includes:

• Free 8GB monthly roaming

• Unlimited calls + SMS

• Golden Village movie vouchers ($10 tickets)

• CirclesAI powered by OpenAI’s latest models (free)

• Loyalty rewards and exclusive promos

Additional Roaming Options:

Circles also offers a travel-focused plan at $30/month with 100GB data for use in Singapore + 7 Asian countries—perfect for frequent flyers.

How Circles.Life Compares to Other Providers

Here's a breakdown of how Circles stacks up against popular alternatives like SIMBA, MyRepublic, Giga, and M1.

MyRepublic – 250GB Value Plan

Price: $17.90/month

Data: 250GB (4G only)Roaming: 1GB (Malaysia/Indonesia)Pros: Large data capCons: No 5G, limited roaming

SIMBA – SIM-Only 100GB

Price: $10/month

Data: 100GB (50GB base + bonus 50GB)Roaming: 1GB to 57 countriesPros: Cheapest big-data planCons: No AI, no extra perks

Giga – 20GB Plan

Price: $10.19/month

Data: 20GBRoaming: One-time 1GB APACPerks: Data rollover for 2 cyclesCons: Limited initial data, not ideal for heavy users

eSIM Plans with the Best Roaming Benefits

If you're a frequent traveler, roaming data is a must-have. Here's how the top contenders compare:

Verdict: Circles.Life wins on consistent monthly roaming and Southeast Asia coverage.

Best eSIM Plans for Light, Moderate & Heavy Users

Let’s match user types to ideal plans:

Light Users

• Giga 20GB Plan – Budget-friendly for casual use

• Circles.Life Base Plan – Better flexibility and perks

Moderate Users

• MyRepublic 250GB Plan – Suitable for steady streaming/browsing

• Circles.Life Max Plan – Higher data, with rewards and AI access

Heavy Users

• Circles.Life Max Plan (400GB) – Perfect for gamers, streamers, and remote workers

• SIMBA 100GB Plan – Great budget option but lacks smart tools

Phones Compatible with eSIM in Singapore

Before activating an eSIM, ensure your phone supports it. Here's a quick list:

• iPhone XS and newer

• Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer

• Google Pixel 4 and newer

• Huawei P40 series

• Oppo Find X3 Pro and newer

For a complete eSIM mobile list, check your device’s settings or manufacturer specs.

The Best eSIM for International Travel (2025)

Looking for the best eSIM for international travel? Consider these:

• Circles.Life: 8GB roaming monthly in Asia; global add-ons available

• Airalo/Jetpac: Pay-as-you-go eSIMs for tourists

• GigSky: Regional bundles by destination

Circles.Life is ideal if you want a permanent number with built-in travel flexibility.

Compare Prepaid Plans with eSIM

Some users prefer prepaid plans for flexibility. Here’s how the eSIM-enabled prepaid options compare:

eSIM for Frequent Travelers: Why Circles Leads

• Easy activation while abroad

• Monthly roaming included

• Travel plan with 100GB usable across 7 countries

• Travel eSIM compatible with latest Android and iOS devices

• CirclesAI support for real-time trip planning and translation

What’s Next in eSIM Technology

Expect these developments in the near future:

• Dual eSIM profiles on a single device

• Better roaming agreements across continents

• 5G-only eSIM plans with AI integration

• Deeper bundling with apps, insurance, and IoT

Stay ahead with telcos like Circles.Life that are leading in digital-first experiences.

CirclesAI: The Smart Companion Built Into Your Plan

Unique to Circles.Life is CirclesAI, an embedded AI assistant powered by GPT-4o. Use it for:

• Instant help with plan queries

• Travel research

• Booking assistance

• Local recommendations

It's free and unlimited with Circles eSIM plans.

Why Circles.Life is Still the Best eSIM Provider in 2025

• Contract-free freedom

• GPT-4o access via CirclesAI

• Free monthly roaming to 7 countries

• Budget-friendly pricing from $12.80/month

• Exclusive perks: movie discounts, F&B deals

• High-speed 5G coverage

• Instant eSIM activation via app

No other telco offers this combination of affordability, AI support, and travel-readiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the difference between a local eSIM and a travel eSIM?

Local eSIMs are meant for use within Singapore, while travel eSIMs work across multiple countries. Circles.Life offers both options in a single plan.

Can I use the same eSIM for multiple countries?

Yes, Circles.Life’s Borderless Plan and roaming eSIMs cover up to 7 countries with a single subscription.

How do I know if my phone supports eSIM?

Check our full list of eSIM-supported phones

Is it cheaper to use a travel eSIM than international roaming?

Generally yes. Travel eSIMs, especially from Circles.Life, offer better value and avoid expensive pay-per-use charges.

Can I switch back to my physical SIM while abroad?

Yes. You can switch between eSIM and physical SIMs using your phone’s network settings.

Do I need to install the eSIM before I leave Singapore?

It’s best to activate your eSIM before you travel to ensure connectivity the moment you land.

Will my WhatsApp number change if I use a travel eSIM?

No. WhatsApp remains tied to your original number, even when using a different eSIM for data.

Final Thoughts: The Best eSIM for Travel and Daily Use in Singapore

Choosing the right eSIM plan in Singapore isn’t just about the cheapest deal—it’s about finding a solution that fits your daily habits, travel routines, and future needs. From seamless eSIM activation to contract-free flexibility and monthly roaming benefits, eSIMs have reshaped the mobile experience. Circles.Life stands out with generous data, strong 5G coverage, and smart features like CirclesAI powered by OpenAI’s latest models and intuitive app management. Compared to other eSIM providers like SIMBA, Giga, and MyRepublic, Circles.Life delivers a complete package that adapts to your lifestyle.

Whether you’re looking for the best eSIM plan for travel, heavy streaming, or simple everyday use, Circles.Life offers excellent value with no hidden fees. With perks like referral bonuses, exclusive vouchers, and intelligent tools, Circles.Life proves that mobile plans can be both powerful and personal. Use their Plan Selector tool to get a custom match and start experiencing the freedom and intelligence of a smarter eSIM today.