eSIM Compatibility List: Which Devices Support eSIM?

Most flagship smartphones released since 2018, including iPhone XS and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and Google Pixel 3 and newer, are eSIM compatible. You can quickly verify your hardware by checking for an 'Add eSIM' or 'SIM Manager' option in your cellular settings or by consulting our check your phone compatibility guide. If your device is unlocked and appears on the list below, you can bypass expensive roaming fees and use a digital travel plan for your next trip.

The Evolution of eSIM for Long-Stay Travelers

For digital nomads and remote workers, the transition from physical SIM cards to eSIM (embedded SIM) technology has been a game-changer. In the past, arriving at an airport like Suvarnabhumi in Thailand (dest:th) or El Prat in Spain (dest:es) meant queuing at a kiosk, handing over your passport, and fumbling with a tiny piece of plastic. Today, if your device supports it, you can install a high-capacity data plan before you even board your flight.

NomadGB focuses on providing high-data-volume plans (20GB to 100GB) that last for months, not days. This is particularly useful for those who need to maintain a consistent connection for work. However, before you commit to a 50GB plan for your three-month stint in Europe (dest:eu-42), you must ensure your hardware is ready. An eSIM is a small chip built directly into your phone's motherboard; it allows you to download a 'profile' that tells your phone how to connect to local networks like Movistar in Spain or AT&T in the USA (dest:us).

Apple iPhone eSIM Compatibility

Apple was a primary driver of eSIM adoption. Starting with the 2018 models, every flagship iPhone has included eSIM technology. In fact, starting with the iPhone 14, US-market iPhones have removed the physical SIM tray entirely, moving to an eSIM-only architecture.

Compatible iPhone Models

• iPhone 15 Series: iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 14 Series: iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 13 Series: iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 12 Series: iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 11 Series: iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
• iPhone XS & XR: iPhone XS, XS Max, XR
• iPhone SE: iPhone SE (2020) and iPhone SE (2022)

Note for China/Hong Kong: iPhones manufactured for the Mainland China market (and some from Hong Kong/Macau) often feature two physical SIM slots and do not support eSIM. Always verify the model number if your device was purchased in these regions.

Android eSIM Compatibility: Samsung, Google, and More

Android compatibility is slightly more fragmented because manufacturers often disable eSIM for specific carriers or budget models. Generally, if you have a flagship device from the last three years, you are likely covered.

Samsung Galaxy

Samsung introduced eSIM with the S20 series. Note that 'FE' (Fan Edition) models often lack eSIM support, with the exception of the S23 FE.

• Galaxy S Series: S24, S23, S22, S21, S20 (all variants including Ultra and Plus)
• Galaxy Z Series: Z Fold 5, 4, 3, 2 and Z Flip 5, 4, 3, 5G
• Galaxy Note Series: Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra

Google Pixel

Google Pixels are among the most reliable for eSIM users, as they run a clean version of Android.

• Pixel 8 & 9 Series: 8, 8 Pro, 8a, 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold
• Pixel 4, 5, 6, 7 Series: All models including 'a' variants (4a, 5a, 6a, 7a)
• Pixel 3 Series: Pixel 3 and 3 XL (check carrier specific restrictions)

Other Android Manufacturers

• Xiaomi: 13, 13 Pro, 13 Lite, 12T Pro
• Sony: Xperia 1 V, 1 IV, 5 IV, 10 IV, 10 V
• Motorola: Razr 2022, Razr 40, Edge 40 Pro, G53 5G (region dependent)

Tablets and Laptops for Remote Work

If you are a nomad who prefers to work from a park in Mexico (dest:mx) or a cafe in Brazil (dest:br), you might prefer an eSIM in your tablet or laptop rather than relying on a phone as a hotspot.

iPad Compatibility

• iPad Pro: 11-inch (all generations), 12.9-inch (3rd gen and newer)
• iPad Air: 3rd gen and newer
• iPad: 7th gen and newer
• iPad Mini: 5th gen and newer

Windows Laptops

Many modern Windows Ultrabooks come with eSIM capabilities. Look for 'Always Connected PCs' from brands like Microsoft (Surface Pro 7+ and newer), Lenovo (ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9+), and HP (EliteBook series). Note that Apple MacBooks currently do not support eSIM technology natively; you will need to tether to your iPhone or use a physical dongle.

Critical Requirement: The Network Lock

Compatibility isn't just about the hardware. The most common reason a NomadGB eSIM fails to install is a 'Carrier Lock.' If you bought your phone on a contract from a provider like Verizon, EE, or Vodafone, they may have locked the device to their network until the contract is paid off.

To check this on an iPhone: Go to Settings > General > About and scroll down to Carrier Lock. It should say 'No SIM restrictions.' If it says otherwise, your travel eSIM will not work, even if your phone model is on the compatibility list. For Android users, you typically need to contact your carrier or try inserting a different physical SIM to see if it is accepted.

Comparing Connectivity Options for Nomads

When staying in a country for 30 to 180 days, you have three main choices. Here is how they stack up for a heavy data user:

Feature	Travel eSIM (NomadGB)	Local SIM Card	International Roaming
Setup	Digital (Instant)	Physical (Manual)	Automatic
Cost per GB	Low (Bulk pricing)	Lowest (Usually)	Very High
Multiple Regions	Yes (Regional plans)	No (Single country)	Yes
Phone Number	Data Only (No number)	Yes	Your Home Number
Ease of Top-up	App/Web	Local Shop/App	Automatic

While a local SIM is often the cheapest option, the convenience of a NomadGB regional plan is hard to beat when you are crossing borders frequently, such as traveling through Southeast Asia or the Schengen Area. Furthermore, many nomads find that eSIM vs local SIM is no longer a contest of price, but one of time management and security, as you don't have to remove your primary SIM and risk losing it.

How to Install Your eSIM: A Step-by-Step Guide

Once you have verified your device is on the eSIM compatibility list, the installation process is straightforward. Remember that NomadGB plans are data-only, meaning they do not come with a local phone number for traditional calls or SMS. You will use apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, or Telegram for communication.

On iPhone (iOS)

1. Open Settings and tap Cellular (or Mobile Data).
2. Tap Add eSIM.
3. Select Use QR Code and scan the code provided in your NomadGB confirmation email.
4. Label the new plan as 'Travel' or 'NomadGB'.
5. Set your Primary line for Default Voice and iMessage, but set the Travel line for Cellular Data.
6. Ensure Data Roaming is turned ON for the travel profile.

On Android (Samsung/Pixel)

1. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager (Samsung) or Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs (Pixel).
2. Tap Add eSIM or the + icon.
3. Scan the QR code.
4. Once downloaded, go into the SIM settings and ensure the new eSIM is toggled 'On'.
5. Set the eSIM as the preferred SIM for Mobile Data.
6. Turn Data Roaming ON for the eSIM profile.

For a more detailed walkthrough, see our guide on how travel eSIMs work.

Coverage Realities: Cities vs. Rural Areas

Compatibility is the first step, but coverage is the second. In major hubs like Tokyo, London, or New York, you can expect 5G or robust 4G LTE speeds. However, if you are heading to the digital nomad hubs of Bali or rural Tuscany, coverage can vary.

NomadGB partners with Tier-1 local carriers to ensure the best possible signal. For example, in the UK, your device might switch between EE and O2 depending on which has the stronger signal in your specific neighborhood. If you are working remotely, always check if your accommodation has backup Wi-Fi, as even the best eSIM can struggle inside thick-walled historic buildings or in remote mountainous regions.

The bottom line

eSIM technology is now standard for almost all mid-range and flagship devices produced in the last five years. Before you travel, ensure your device is network-unlocked and that you have selected a high-capacity data plan suited for your stay duration. By moving to a digital SIM, you gain the flexibility to stay connected the moment you land, without the hassle of physical cards or the shock of roaming bills.