GigSky is a versatile data-only eSIM service designed for frequent travelers or anyone seeking affordable international prepaid data. Its pricing is competitive, and its global coverage keeps your phone connected in most destinations. An extensive 365-day activation window adds flexibility for travelers planning ahead, though it lacks voice and text services, which may push some users toward a local network provider’s eSIM service. While GigSky is a solid option for international travelers, if you require affordable data in the US specifically, MobileX is our Editors’ Choice thanks to its great value and speedy service on Verizon’s network.
Plans and Supported Phones
GigSky is a data-only eSIM provider that describes itself as a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), which means it manages its service through deals with mobile carriers. GigSky says this allows it to diagnose outages or slowdowns more easily.
(Credit: GigSky/PCMag)
The service covers more than 190 countries, offering inexpensive connections around most of the world. Plan pricing depends on your chosen destination and duration of service. Individual nations covered include China, India, Japan, the US, and many more. Seven regional plans provide access to groups of countries, while a single World Plan covers 163 nations. GigSky also offers plans for cruisegoers, ensuring you have a connection on or off the ship. This service supports over 200 ships and up to 134 countries.
GigSky offers a free 100MB data plan active for 7 days without the need to input any payment information. By comparison, the data-only eSIM service Airalo offers a free 500MB data plan over three days without needing a credit card if you sign up through its app.
(Credit: GigSky/PCMag)
In the US, GigSky offers four data-capped plans: 1GB for $4.49 (valid for 7 days), 3GB for $10.99 (15 days), 5GB for $15.99 (30 days), and 10GB for $25.99 (30 days). Two unlimited options are also available—a 7-day plan for $26.99 or a 15-day plan for $48.99.
By comparison, the Nomad eSIM service offers shorter day plans ranging from 1 to 10 days with 1GB of high-speed data and unlimited data at 512Kbps thereafter. GigSky’s US pricing is competitive with Airalo and Nomad, which charge $4.50 each for 1GB of data over 7 days.
(Credit: Iyaz Akhtar)
GigSky supports unlocked, eSIM-compatible devices, including iPhones from the XR onward, Pixels starting with the Pixel 2, and Galaxy S models beginning with the S20. Most modern phones support eSIMs, but if you are unsure about yours, GigSky provides a list of compatible devices. One drawback is that its eSIM is not transferrable from device to device. However, GigSky lets you add more countries to your account without forcing you to download another eSIM. Nomad, meanwhile, requires you to install a new eSIM for each country you visit on a given trip.
Setup
We tested a GigSky eSIM with a 5GB US data plan on a Google Pixel 9 in New York City. To set up a GigSky eSIM, you must download the free app (available for Android and iOS), select a country, choose a plan, create a free GigSky account, and verify your email address. Installing the eSIM itself is as easy as tapping a text link, though you can opt to use a QR code if you wish.
(Credit: GigSky/PCMag)
GigSky does not want you to accidentally start an installation. After initiating an install, a pop-up message tells you that eSIMs are not transferrable. Then, a full-screen message warns that installation results in your plan beginning immediately. GigSky gives you up to 365 days to activate your plan; Nomad gives you 60 days, while Saily gives you only 30.
(Credit: GigSky/PCMag)
The app is simple, with four sections: Home, My Plans, Account, and Help. Using the app, you can select plans, see how much data you’ve used, manage your account, and get answers to frequently asked questions. It’s simple, clean, and easy to understand. The app has one quirk: You can’t select a regional or global plan directly. Instead, you must first choose a single country and then swipe to view broader options that include that country. For a more straightforward experience, GigSky’s website allows direct access to these plans.
Service
In testing, the Pixel 9 connected to GigSky’s LTE and 5G networks. I experienced download speeds as slow as 9.36Mbps and as fast as 113Mbps, with the average around 74Mbps. Upload speeds varied, ranging from 2.77Mbps to 37.1Mbps, with an average of 11.6Mbps. Service remained steady with no dropouts.
(Credit: Iyaz Akhtar)
These speeds are fast enough to handle tasks like web browsing, social media, and streaming music and video content. Since GigSky is a data-only service, it does not support traditional cellular voice calls or SMS messaging. However, its network speeds are good enough for video and voice chat through apps like FaceTime or WhatsApp.
Verdict: Affordable Data Worldwide
GigSky’s eSIM service delivers reliable, affordable data in countries around the globe with a smooth, hassle-free installation process. The flexibility to activate an eSIM anytime within 365 days is a standout feature for travelers who plan ahead. Speeds are solid for everyday use, though navigating plan options within the app could be better. While GigSky is a great option for international travel, MobileX takes the edge for US users with its top-tier combination of speed, reliability, and value, making it our Editors’ Choice winner.
The Bottom Line
GigSky’s eSIM service is a reliable and affordable option for travelers seeking data-only connectivity in more than 190 countries.
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About Iyaz Akhtar
Mobile Analyst
