Best eSIM for International Travel: KnowRoaming eSIMs vs. Saily eSIMs
Last Updated: September 4, 2026
4.5
Tested by: Caitlin, KnowRoaming Network Testing Team Last updated: November 6, 2025 Devices and locations tested: iPhone 14 in South Africa. Pricing and coverage last checked: September 4, 2026
Quick summary
Coverage: KnowRoaming's global eSIM currently reaches 133 countries. Saily's reaches 121. Both connect automatically to a local network on arrival.
Plan flexibility: KnowRoaming offers both fixed and unlimited global plans. Saily's global eSIM is fixed-data only, from 1 GB up to 20 GB.
Unlimited fair-use limits: KnowRoaming's unlimited plan runs at full speed for 5 GB a day. Saily's unlimited plan isn't offered on the global tier at all, so there's nothing to compare it against there.
Price: KnowRoaming's global eSIM starts at $6.50 for 1 GB over 7 days. Saily's starts at $8.99 for 1 GB over 7 days.
KnowRoaming vs Saily: Global eSIM Comparison
| KnowRoaming | Saily | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | 133 countries | 121 countries |
| Plan types | Fixed and unlimited | Fixed only |
| Fixed plan, entry price | $6.50 for 1 GB, 7 days | $8.99 for 1 GB, 7 days |
| Fixed plan, top tier | Up to 10 GB (top up as needed) | 20 GB for 365 days, $66.99 |
| Unlimited plan, entry price | $11.99 for 3 days (current promotional rate, list price $39.95) | Not offered on the global plan |
| Unlimited speed | 5 GB/day at full speed, then throttled (confirm 500 kbps vs 256 kbps, see flag above) | Not offered on the global plan |
| Multiple networks | Yes | Yes |
| Tested download speed | 45.9 Mbps | 31.0 Mbps |
| Tested upload speed | 10.4 Mbps | 64.7 Mbps |
| Calls and texts | Not included, data only | US phone number with a calls and text plan available as an add-on |
| Hotspot | Included | Included |
| App usability | Clear data tracking, in-app top-ups, 24/7 WhatsApp support | Loads quickly, but data tracking has been reported as inconsistent |
| Installation | Automatic, no issues found | Automatic, though the on/off toggle after install isn't obvious to some users |
| User reviews | 4.7/5 (as tested) | 2.5/5 (as tested) |
| Support Response Time | 1 minute 13 seconds | 1 minute 38 seconds |
Provider Overviews: Specific to Global eSIM Plans
KnowRoaming and Saily both offer over 200 destinations for their eSIMs. They also offer global plans, meaning their services are available in 100+ countries. However, the quality of service, data speeds, and customer experience varies.
KnowRoaming
Offers both fixed and unlimited global eSIM plans across 143 countries, making it a flexible and reliable choice for travelers.
Saily
Offers fixed global plans in 105 countries, making it an option for travelers looking for cost savings.
Global eSIM Comparison: Breaking Down the Details
We tested Saily and KnowRoaming across multiple factors, including pricing, data speeds, app usability, and customer service. All using their Global eSIM plans.
1. KnowRoaming
Price: $9.00 for 1GB over 7 days. An unlimited plan is available for $7.99 for 3 days (Sale Price)
Data: 1GB fixed plan (or choose their unlimited plans).
Duration: 7 days, aligning with typical short-term travel needs.
Coverage: Available in 143 destinations, providing one of the most extensive coverage maps for Global eSIMs.
Multiple Networks: Yes, ensuring stronger connectivity by switching between networks where available.
App Usability: Excellent user experience. Clearly displays remaining data allowance, offers seamless top-ups, and includes a convenient 24/7 WhatsApp support button for quick assistance.
Customer Support: Took 1 minute and 13 seconds to get in touch with a live agent. The bot provided useful help before the handoff.
Installation and Setup: Easy automatic installation with the app. No issues at all.
Data Speed: Download: 45.9 Mbps | Upload: 10.4 MbpsFast and reliable for browsing, social media, and light streaming.
User Reviews: 4.7/5
Final Comments: Best for travelers who want fast, reliable service and global coverage. The fixed 1GB plan is ideal for short-term trips, while the unlimited option is great for high-data users.
All Destinations Covered: 200+
Fixed or Unlimited Plans: KnowRoaming is the only provider, in this comparison, that offers both Fixed and Unlimited eSIM Plans.
2. Saily
Price: $8.99 for 1GB over 7 days.
Data: A 1GB plan.
Duration: 7 days, a standard duration that aligns with short-term travel needs.
Coverage: Covers 105 destinations, providing a decent range of global connectivity.
Multiple Networks: Yes, but network options are more limited compared to KnowRoaming, which may lead to connectivity gaps in certain regions.
App Usability: The Saily app loads quickly, but data tracking isn’t always accurate. While it includes a countdown timer displaying remaining validity in days and hours.
Customer Support: It took over 1 minute and 30 seconds to connect with an agent. However, users need to go through multiple steps with the bot before reaching a representative.
Installation and Setup: The installation process is automatic and simple, but users would benefit from a guide on how to switch the eSIM on once installed.
Data Speed: Download speeds reached 31.0 Mbps, while upload speeds were significantly higher at 64.7 Mbps. The download speeds are slightly lower than KnowRoaming, which could impact streaming and browsing.
User Reviews: 2.5/5
Final Comments: Saily is a budget-friendly choice (by $0.01), but its slower download speeds and multi-step customer support process may be a drawback for frequent travelers.
All Destinations Covered: 200+
Fixed or Unlimited Plans: Fixed only.
KnowRoaming vs. Saily: Best Global eSIM?
For international travelers demanding reliable connectivity, KnowRoaming excels over Saily. Offering both fixed and unlimited eSIM plans, KnowRoaming caters to diverse travel needs. Experience rapid customer support, a user-friendly app, and seamless coverage in 200+ destinations. With a 4.7/5 rating, KnowRoaming is the top choice for global eSIM users seeking both value and performance.