eSIMs are a useful replacement for physical SIM cards, but support isn’t universal. It may work digitally but still requires compatible hardware.
It used to be a premium smartphone feature, but these days you can pick up a Samsung Galaxy A37 with eSIM support for R7,999.
I use an eSIM on my business line and when travelling. I no longer need to remove a physical SIM to insert a travel data SIM.
When KnowRoaming launched its KR.One universal travel eSIM, it appealed to me. Instead of installing a new eSIM for every country or region, you do it once and buy data as you travel.
I’ve used Airalo for the past four years, buying one for each destination. It’s a tried-and-tested solution, but the downside is the accumulation of expired eSIMs when switching devices. Removing them wasn’t always straightforward, but I eventually found a workaround.
I like the KR.One approach: install its eSIM once, then buy data through the app for whichever country you’re visiting. No unnecessary installations ahead of each trip.
I tested it on a recent business trip to South Korea. Founded by South Africans and now based in North America, KnowRoaming supports connectivity in more than 200 countries through over 800 partner networks. It also offers 24/7 support.
The process from downloading to installation was seamless. Upon landing, I connected to a 5G network on the first attempt. You need to enable data roaming under settings.
This is why I prefer travel eSIMs instead of buying physical SIMs. I can skip the queues and paperwork at the airport, and I don’t have to hand over a copy of my passport — you never know how personal data is stored or shared.
For the most part, connectivity in Seoul was reliable. It supports 5G with the option to switch to LTE.
I didn’t experience signal issues, which is key in a new city, especially if you rely on e-hailing, navigation or on-demand services.
Compared with Airalo, KR.One offers more competitive rates for fixed data bundles, which makes sense for business trips given the validity period. For example, 3GB for 10 days is $16 on KR.One; Airalo charges $24 for 30 days.
However, unlimited data bundles on KR.One are $60 for five days but $35 on Airalo. Unless you’re a data-heavy user, the fixed data bundles for a shorter validity period make sense for most.
One issue is the referral system. I’ve earned hundreds of dollars in Airalo credit previously, but when colleagues tried to use my KR.One code, it wasn’t accepted. It is a minor complaint, but referral credit is a useful perk for frequent travellers.
Overall, the KR.One universal eSIM is a compelling option for frequent travellers who want to avoid managing multiple profiles. Thanks to its reliable connection and one-time installation, I’d use it again.
Cool factor: 4/5
Usability: 4.5/5
Value for money: 4/5
