eSIM technology is making headlines as an alternative to traditional SIM cards. Would would you choose between eSIM or physical SIM, though? What’s the difference between the two options and why do more and more Americans prefer eSIM plans by Tello? To know the answer, explore this Tello eSIM review. The article dives into the eSIM solutions for daily needs and while traveling, and learns the importance of Tello for cost-effective connection.
Understanding the eSIM Technology
Saying shortly, eSIM is a digital analogy of traditional SIM cards. The cell data plan and phone number work the same, but you don’t put a plastic card in your smartphone’s slot. As a result, users benefit from multiple advantages:
- activate several eSIM plans for different needs/countries, and don’t limit yourself to the number of slots in your phone;
- keep your initial phone number and switch to another Internet provider by using eSIM;
- Reduce plastic waste and carbon emissions by avoiding plastic cards.
For a user, everything is simple: you select the data plan, its features, and duration, and pay online. After an easy activation process (commonly, you scan the QR code), the data is installed in your smartphone.
Tello’s eSIM Solutions for the USA
Unlike many eSIM providers, Tello is a local company for US citizens. It collaborates with T-Mobile to provide you with cell data and mobile Internet. Just register, receive a phone number, a select a virtual data plan you prefer.
In addition, Tello positions itself as a budget-friendly option for people who cannot spend too much on cell data. You can buy a month of connection for only $5, combine your family’s plans into one, and economize in many other ways. Let’s see how it works, and what are Tello’s advantages and drawbacks.
Get Calls, Internet, and SMS All At Once
While most eSIM services offer you a choice, Tello combines all services in one. By buying an eSIM, you purchase a new phone number, phone calls, SMS, and the Internet. This is a convenient option for beginners who find eSIMs confusing. Buy and activate once to receive the full service.
Choose from Cost-Effective Data Options
Tello has several offers for different budgets and needs:
- Economy: $10 per month for 2 GB and unlimited calls and SMS;
- Value: $14 per month for 5 GB and unlimited calls and SMS;
- Smart: $19 per month for 10 GB and unlimited calls and SMS;
- Data: $25 per month for unlimited data, calls, and SMS;
As you see, the difference lies in the amount of Internet. But what if you don’t need SMS or that many calls? Order a customized plan then – leave a request, and the team will reach out to you. This way, you can create a unique plan with the needed amount of Internet, calls, and SMS.
Receive a Virtual Number
By buying eSIM by Tello for the first time, you automatically receive a new phone number. This is a digital number, generated depending on your state and postal code. Each data plan you buy from Tello will be connected to this number. However, you can change it or even switch to your initial SIM card number. For this, reach out to customer support.
The number supports local calls and free calls in 60+ regions, including Latin America, Canada, and Mexico.
Activate with Ease
eSIM activation at Tello is quite easy. The company will send you a QR code – this is a unique combination that contains your new number and data. Scan it and follow simple instructions. Later, you’d need to switch from your initial cell data to the new plan. According to reviews, customer support helps with these procedures.
What About International Trips?
Unfortunately, the service is focused on the USA. By using eSIM, you can connect to foreign Internet and make calls – yet, you pay roaming charges. In most European countries, you would pay around $0.25 for a minute of phone calls. Roaming charges are always high, and it is not Tello’s fault. To see prices for particular destinations, use the “international roaming” page.
Is your Phone Compatible?
Not all smartphones support eSIM technology. For this, the device needs a special chip, put in by a manufacturer. If you don’t have one, the phone won’t connect to the Internet and cell data without a plastic SIM card. Before purchasing a plan, check the compatibility page and enter your phone’s model in the search bar.
Customer Reviews about Tello eSIM Provider
Real reviews are the best way to form a fair opinion about a brand. Let’s see what other users think about Tello mobile eSIM, its reliability, and quality.
| Trustpilot reviews | Our rate | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing |   | 5 |
| Coverage |   | 4 |
| Speed |   | 3 |
| Customer support |   | 5 |
Overall, the company is known for great customer support and fair pricing. Tello always claims to use lower prices than alternative companies, which is partially true. The speed and coverage, however, are according. You pay less and receive slower Internet. Outside cities, the speed may lower to 2G. Be prepared for these disadvantages and consider alternatives if you need faster Internet.
Tello’s Advantages and Pitfalls
| Pros | Cons |
| One of the cheapest eSIM providers on the market;Customizable plans depending on your needs;The “Pay as you Go” system allows you to pay for data you actually use without prepaying it. | A poor choice if you need a lot of data;US-based provider with no international options. Slow connection, especially far from cities. |
Alternatives to Tello in 2024-2025
For those who seek better connection quality and unlimited data, Tello may be problematic. In this case, explore the alternatives. Some have better coverage, while others offer additional features for convenient trips:
- YeSIM is well-known for its customizable eSIM plans for 190+ countries, not only the US. For each destination, choose from 4-5 prepaid plans and several options with unlimited Internet. The unlimited connection starts from $7.70 if you buy only one day, but long-term options are much cheaper.
- Holafly is fully focused on unlimited connection in 200+ regions, including the USA. The company allows you to choose the number of days in the plan manually. More days, of course, mean better pricing. A single day of unlimited Internet in European countries would cost you $5.90 or way less if you buy several days within one paycheck.
- Instabridge offers only prepaid Internet but focuses on special features and bonuses. This eSIM provider has a free Wi-Fi map, so you can find and connect to Wi-Fi to economize your data. Additionally, the service offers its own VPN to access foreign content and a data-saving browser with a dark theme. According to Instabridge, you spend half as much data as usual by using its products.
Among budget-friendly alternatives, consider Saily. Its prices are similar to Tello, but the connection is commonly better. All these options cover 190+ countries, not only the USA. Using them, you can buy separate plans for each destination and travel with no limits.
The Verdict: Should You Give a Chance to Tello?
If you’re interested in a budget-friendly connection in the USA, try Tello. This is a cost-effective eSIM provider, enough for chatting and using maps. Yet, this is not an option for international travel. Tello is focused on local connection – to use the Internet abroad, you’ll need roaming. Don’t expect the perfect connection, since it is impossible with low pricing. Yet, Tello is a good option for a new eSIM user to try all the features and ensure a basic connection. Try it by yourself and share your experiences below.
Currently, Tello is focused on eSIM plans for the USA. When visiting other countries, you use roaming. To see particular costs, visit the international roaming page and choose your destination.
Each new users receive a virtual phone number. You can use it as the main number for calls and SMS, or replace it with your existing T-Mobile phone number. In this case, data plans merge, and you continue using your initial phone number.
Tello offers a standard QR code activation. Once you purchase the tariff and a phone number, the service will send you a unique code. Scan it and follow the instructions in the message.
