I test the eSIM for land, air and sea (GIGSKY ESIM REVIEW) how does it compare?

Cazzy Magennis
Written By:
Cazzy Magennis
Last Updated:
November 12, 2024
Wondering if the GIGSKY eSIM is trustworthy? Worth it? Wonder no more! My complete guide will take you through all the features GIGSKY has to offer!
gigsky esim review

If you’ve stumbled across this review, then it’s likely because you know who GIGSKY are, but you want to find out if they’re legitimate and worth it!

Well, lucky for you, I’ve tested over 20 eSIM brands and I provide my honest opinion on whether they’re good or not. 

With SO many eSIMS available, it is difficult for one to stand out above the crowd.

BUT, GIGSKY does exactly that, there are many great features about the eSIM brand that I will delve into further below, but the overall unique defining factor for me? The fact they offer eSIMS for land, air and sea. So you can be covered for your entire trip from A to B. 

If you want to go straight ahead and try it for free (you get 100MB to test it!), then go ahead right here. 

Otherwise, let’s get into it. 

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What is GigSky?

In a nutshell, GigSky is an eSIM provider that specializes in data plans for travelers.

Instead of having to swap out physical SIM cards every time you step foot in a new country, GigSky lets you download an eSIM directly onto your device. 

It's a virtual SIM card (hence the “e” in eSIM), so there’s no physical hardware needed. You just download the app, select your plan, and off you go!

GigSky’s esims covers over 190 countries and regions, so the chances are GigSky has you covered.

It’s particularly geared towards travelers who want reliable data without dealing with confusing and often expensive international roaming plans...ie, someone like myself.

Features of GigSky

What makes GigSky stand out from other eSIM providers? Here’s a breakdown of some of its standout features:

1. Global Coverage

With GigSky, you get access to data in more than 190 countries—from the United States to Europe, Asia, Africa, and beyond.

Whether you’re city-hopping in Europe or island-hopping in the Caribbean, you can expect consistent coverage in most travel hotspots. 

2. Flexible Data Plans

GigSky offers a range of plans from 1-day packs to 30-day options with varying data amounts, so you can pick one that fits your trip length and data needs.

3. Easy App Setup

No one wants to deal with complicated setups while traveling.

With GigSky, you just download the GigSky app, choose your destination, and pick a plan. Setup is fairly intuitive, and the app provides all the steps for installing the eSIM on compatible devices.

4. Automatic Renewal and Top-Ups

Planning a longer trip? GigSky makes it easy to add more data when you run out or set up automatic renewals, so you’re never left without internet.

This feature can be a lifesaver if you’re navigating in unfamiliar territory and need to stay connected, or you're a typical backpacker and have decided to stay in one country longer than planned.

5. Inflight Connectivity

GigSky provides inflight data services through a partnership with AeroMobile. This collaboration allows passengers to access the internet on select airlines equipped with AeroMobile's inflight connectivity systems. All you need to do is download the GigSky app and purchase an inflight data plan before boarding. 

Once the aircraft reaches cruising altitude (typically above 20,000 feet), you can activate the eSIM via their device settings to enjoy internet access during the flight.

This service is available on various airlines, including Aer Lingus, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines. 

How cool is that? 

6. Maritime Connectivity

For sea travelers, GigSky offers the "Cruise + Land" eSIM data plans, providing connectivity both onboard cruise ships and at port destinations. These plans utilize the Cellular at Sea service operated by Wireless Maritime Services (WMS), which maintains cellular networks on numerous cruise ships through satellite links. 

You can stay connected while at sea and seamlessly transition to land-based networks when docked. It's important to note that cruise ship cellular services are typically disabled when within 12 nautical miles of land to prevent interference with terrestrial networks, which may result in brief periods without connectivity during such times.

If I had known of this when I was on my 2 week cruise around the Caribbean last year, I 100% would have purchased this. It’s a game changer in my opinion, and I’ll definitely be testing it out on my next cruise. 

Additionally, GigSky has partnered with Tampnet to offer offshore data plans for regions like the North Sea and the Gulf of Mexico .You can purchase these offshore plans through the GigSky app to stay connected while at sea.

7. World Data Plan Option

GigSky offers a World Plan eSIM providing global data coverage across over 190 countries.

This plan includes 5GB of data valid for 30 days, allowing you to stay connected internationally without the need for multiple local SIM cards, especially great if you're doing a super long layover flight!

Pros of GigSky

1. Widely Available in Most Popular Destinations

GigSky has one of the widest coverage areas out there, making it ideal for international trips. It’s refreshing to know that you can have data from Europe to Asia without worrying about hunting down a new SIM in every country. Trust me, one of the most annoying parts of travel in the past was having to search for a physical esim at the airport just so I could get to my final destination. (yes, not all airports have Wifi, even in this climate of the world lol)

2. Easy to Use and Set Up

The app isn't complicated and gets right to the point.

The app guides you through the process, and there are clear steps for each type of device. It’s as easy as downloading the app, buying a plan, and activating your eSIM profile.

3. Flexible Data Options to Fit Every Type of Traveler

GigSky offers a range of plans, so whether you’re taking a weekend getaway or planning a month-long adventure, there’s something for you. Sometimes I only need data for a day or even half a day as a stopover, and just buying an eSIM plan for a day is super convenient.

4. No Contract or Extra Fees

Unlike traditional international roaming, which often comes with hidden fees or long-term commitments, GigSky keeps things simple with pay-as-you-go options. You pay for the data you want without worrying about getting hit with surprise charges.

Cons of GigSky

Of course, no service is perfect. Here are some potential downsides to consider before you go all-in with GigSky:

1. Data-Only Service Means No Calls or Texts

If you’re someone who relies on regular phone calls or SMS texts, GigSky may not be the best option since it’s data-only. However, this is less of an issue if you use WhatsApp to keep in touch, and who makes phonecalls nowadays anyway ;) 

2. Costlier for Heavy Data Users

While GigSky’s plans are fairly priced for average data usage, they can add up if you’re a heavy user, especially over longer trips. Frequent travelers who stream a lot might find themselves needing to top up often.

Cost and Plan Options

GigSky has several options to suit different travel durations and data needs. Here’s a quick breakdown of some typical plan prices (these are examples and may vary by region):

  • 1-day plan: Ideal for layovers or short trips
  • 7-day plan: Great for a quick getaway, with around 1GB data options
  • 15-day and 30-day plans: Best for longer stays, with higher data limits

Prices vary depending on the country, but generally, you can expect to pay $10–$15 per GB of data.

Let's take the USA for example

As you can see there are a FULL range of options available to you.

Under $4 for 1GB of data is a great deal, and the unlimited options are very competitive, especially as you get 2.5GB of highspeed data daily, this is higher than many other eSIM brands that either cap at 1GB or 2GB.

READ: Best eSIMS for USA travel

GigSky eSIM compatible phones

Apple

  • iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus 
  • iPhone 15 and any sub versions
  • iPhone 14 and any sub versions 
  • iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
  • iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
  • iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
  • iPhone XS, XS Max, XR
  • iPhone SE (2020, 2022)
  • Apple watch series 3, 4, 5 and 6
  • Apple watch SE

All iPads with 4G connectivity that have come out since 2018 support eSIM:

  • iPad Pro 11″ (model A2068, from 2020)
  • iPad Pro 12.9″ (model A2069, from 2020)
  • iPad Air (model A2123, from 2019)
  • iPad (model A2198, from 2019)
  • iPad Mini (model A2124, from 2019)

Samsung

  • Galaxy S24 and S24+
  • Galaxy S23 and S23+
  • Galaxy S22, S22+ 5G, S22 Ultra 5G
  • Galaxy S21, S21+ 5G, S21 Ultra 5G
  • Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra
  • Galaxy Note 20, 20+, 20 Ultra
  • Galaxy Fold, Fold 2, Fold 3
  • Galaxy Z Flip, Flip 3
  • Samsung Watch (through Samsung wearable application)

The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 4G or 5G is not compatible with eSIM.

Google

  • Google Pixel 2 (only phones bought with Google Fi service), 2 XL
  • Google Pixel 3 (not including phones bought in Australia, Taiwan or Japan. Phones bought with US or Canadian carriers other than Spring and Google Fi don't work with eSIM), 3a (not including phones bought in Japan or with Verizon service), 3a XL, 3 XL
  • Google Pixel
  • Google Pixel 4, 4a, 4 XL
  • Google Pixel 5, 51
  • Google Pixel 6, 6 plus

Other ESIM Compatible Devices

  • Huawei P40, Huawei P40 Pro, Huawei Mate 40 Pro (The Huawei P40+ is not compatible with an eSIM)
  • Oppo Find X5, X5 Pro, X3 Pro
  • Oppo Reno 5A, Reno 6 Pro 5G
  • Sony Xperia 10 IV, 10 III Lite
  • Honor Magic 4 Pro
  • Fairphone 4
  • Motorola Razr 2019
  • Nuu Mobile X5
  • Gemini PDA
  • Rakuten Mini
  • Microsoft Surface Duo

Final Verdict

So there you have my review on the GIGSKY eSIM. I actually think they're a great option for staying connected on your travels.

I find the app easy to use, and appealing, not clunky, and I think the eSIM plans are very well priced. I also like that there are air and cruise options, as this is something quite unique, and whilst it's not something I've tried yet, I'd definitely give it a go in the future when I have the chance and report back!

PLUS, I think the fact you can try 100MB for free, with no need for a credit card, gives you a chance to test the product, and if you like it, you can continue on!

Have you used GIGSKY? What did you think?

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Some images courtesy of Deposit Photos.
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