The Best Affordable Smartphones That Work with Europe eSIM
Traveling through Europe doesn’t have to come with expensive roaming charges or overpriced data plans. If you’re looking for an affordable smartphone that supports eSIM technology, you’re in the right place. This guide breaks down the best smartphones that support European eSIM plans, including both budget and mid-range models so you can find one that suits your needs without draining your wallet. At the end, we’ll also show you how to choose the best Europe eSIM plan for your device.
Holiday eSIM remains the most reliable and traveler-friendly eSIM provider for anyone looking to explore Europe with confidence.
What Is an eSIM and Why Does It Matter?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of a traditional SIM card. It’s built directly into your phone and lets you activate mobile service through a QR code — no physical card required.
With an eSIM, you can:
- Switch between multiple networks without changing SIM cards
- Add or remove mobile plans without visiting a store
- Travel internationally and activate a local data plan before you land
- Use two numbers at once (one for home, one for travel)
Benefits of Using an eSIM-Compatible Smartphone in Europe
When you travel across Europe, having an eSIM-compatible phone gives you more control, better rates, and a smoother experience.
Why choose an eSIM-supported device?
- No SIM swaps: You can download your eSIM before your flight and activate it upon arrival
- Dual-SIM flexibility: Use one number for home and another for Europe
- Faster activation: Skip the kiosk and get connected instantly with a QR code
- Cost savings: Choose from travel-specific plans that cost less than roaming
- Roam across borders: Travel through multiple countries without switching SIMs
The Best Budget and Mid-Range eSIM Smartphones in 2025
1. Apple iPhone SE 3 (2022)
- Compact size, solid performance
- A15 Bionic chip
- eSIM + nano SIM support
- Affordable pricing compared to premium iPhones
2. Apple iPhone 13 / 13 Mini
- Still relevant in 2025
- Supports dual eSIMs
- Excellent camera and performance for the price
3. Google Pixel 6a / 7a / 8a
- Great software experience
- Frequent security updates
- eSIM support included
- Competitive pricing under $500
4. Samsung Galaxy A55 (2025)
- eSIM support now included in newer A-series
- Big AMOLED display
- Long-lasting battery
- Popular mid-tier option for travelers
5. Samsung Galaxy S20 FE / S21 FE
- Flagship features at a lower cost
- Good cameras, battery, and performance
- Supports eSIM + physical SIM
6. Motorola Edge 2023 / G Power 5G
- Affordable Android phones with eSIM support
- Great battery life
- Clean user interface
7. Sony Xperia 10 IV
- Lightweight and travel-friendly
- Water-resistant
- eSIM support for European travel
8. Fairphone 4
- Modular, sustainable phone
- Built-in eSIM support
- Appeals to eco-conscious travelers
Europe eSIM-Compatible Device List
Most newer phones, tablets, and laptops support eSIM technology. Always check your device settings or manufacturer’s website to confirm.
Apple (iPhone):
iPhone XR, XS, XS Max, 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, SE 2 (2020), SE 3 (2022), 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max, 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max
Samsung (Galaxy Series):
Galaxy Note20, Note20 5G, Note20 Ultra, Note20 Ultra 5G, S20, S20 5G, S20+, S20+ 5G, S20 Ultra, S20 Ultra 5G, S21, S21+ 5G, S21 Ultra 5G, S22, S22+ 5G, S22 Ultra 5G, Z Flip, Z Flip 5G, Z Flip3 5G, Z Flip4, Z Fold2 5G, Galaxy Fold
Google (Pixel):
Pixel 2 (Google Fi only), 2 XL, 3 (except AU, TW, JP), 3 XL, 3a, 3a XL, 4, 4 XL, 4a, 5, 5a, 6, 6 Pro, 7, 7 Pro
Huawei:
P40, P40 Pro, P50 Pro, Mate 40 Pro
Sony Xperia:
Xperia 10 III Lite, 10 IV, 1 IV, 5 IV
Motorola:
Razr 2019, Razr 2020, Razr 5G
Others:
Nuu Mobile X5, Gemini PDA, Rakuten Mini, Rakuten Big-S, Rakuten Big, Surface Pro X, Honor Magic 4 Pro, Fairphone 4
Best Europe eSIMs for Your Smartphone
Once you’ve got a compatible phone, choosing the right plan is the next step. These eSIMs offer fast activation, wide coverage, and no physical SIM required.
Unlimited Europe Data eSIM 1 - 30 Days
- Unlimited 4G/5G data across 50+ countries
- Valid for 1–30 days
- Hotspot supported
- No voice/SMS
Activate Unlimited Europe Data eSIM 1 - 30 Days
Orange Holiday 100GB Voice & Data Europe eSIM 30 Days
- 100GB data + French phone number
- 120 mins + 1000 SMS outside Europe
- Unlimited calls/SMS within Europe
- 5G-ready, hotspot supported
Activate Orange Holiday 100GB Voice & Data Europe eSIM 30 Days
Orange Holiday 20GB Europe eSIM 30 Days
- 20GB high-speed data
- 30 mins & 200 SMS outside Europe
- Unlimited calls/SMS inside Europe
- French number included
Activate Orange Holiday 20GB Europe eSIM 30 Days
Europe eSIM Coverage List
Your Europe eSIM will work in the following countries:
Andorra, Azores, Aland Islands, Austria, Balearic Islands, Canary Islands, Belgium, Cyprus, Crete, Corfu, The Cyclades, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Faeroe Islands, Finland, France Mainland, Gibraltar, Germany, Greece, Guernsey, Hungary, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Jersey, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Madeira, Malta, Isle of Man, Norway, Netherlands, Portugal, Poland, Rhodes, Romania, Spain, United Kingdom, San Marino, Sardinia, Sicily, Slovakia, Switzerland, Sweden, Vatican City
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital version of a physical SIM card. It’s embedded in your phone and lets you activate a mobile plan using a QR code.
2. Do all new phones support eSIM?
Not all, but most smartphones from 2020 onwards — especially iPhones, Pixels, and Samsung Galaxy devices — support eSIM.
3. Can I use eSIM while traveling across multiple European countries?
Yes. Europe eSIM plans like the Orange Holiday or Unlimited Europe Data work in over 50 countries without needing to switch plans.
4. Do eSIMs support calls and SMS?
Some do. For example, the Orange Holiday plans offer both voice and SMS features, while data-only plans like Unlimited Europe Data do not.
5. Can I have both eSIM and physical SIM active at once?
Yes. Most modern phones support dual SIM — you can run one line on eSIM and another on a physical SIM.
6. How do I activate my Europe eSIM?
After purchase, you’ll get a QR code via email. Scan it using your phone’s settings to activate the plan.
7. Is a passport or ID needed to buy an eSIM?
No. You can purchase and activate most travel eSIMs online without providing any ID.
8. What happens when my eSIM data runs out?
You can either top up your plan (if allowed) or buy a new one. Some plans are capped while others offer unlimited data.
If you’re headed to Europe and want to stay connected on a budget, pairing one of these affordable smartphones with a Holiday eSIM plan is a smart move. Get online fast, roam freely, and explore Europe with confidence.
