Top 8 Cheap & Reliable eSIM Providers for Data in Africa (2025)

eSIMs weren’t a thing until 2016, when they first came on board. Ever since launch they have allowed phone users a convenient way to connect without the rigidity of physical SIM cards. In Africa, eSIMs have grown in popularity, providing Africans with a reliable way to stay in touch while travelling freely.

As it stands, multiple providers have launched, such as Airtel, but each has its strengths and limitations. It is essential to understand which eSIM providers are the best across various African destinations in terms of coverage, reliability, value, pricing and ease of use. Therefore, this article highlights the top 8 cheap and reliable eSIM providers for data in Africa.

8 Best Cheap and Reliable eSIM Providers for Data in Africa 

Some of the best cheap & reliable eSIM data providers in Africa include Cardtonic, GoMoWorld, RedteaGO, MobiMatter, Roamify, eSIMCard, Eskimo and BetterRoaming.

1. Cardtonic

Cardtonic is a foremost fintech brand with an established business and customer base in Africa. It is one of the best eSIM providers in Africa, with data connectivity, which lets users connect with partners and loved ones. Cardtonic supports up to 140 countries and is perfect for tourists or even business travellers navigating the African continent.

To start, you get to choose from three categories of eSIMs: local, regional and global, depending on your needs. Cardtonic offers one of the most flexible payment options: wallet balance, funding via bank transfer or gift cards. Once you make payment, the eSIM QR code will appear immediately on your dashboard. You can activate eSIM instantly in just a few minutes. 

Depending on your device, you may choose to install either directly, via QR code or even manually under the eSIM sections of the Cardtonic app. Once done, your eSIM is ready for use. You enjoy strong connections across several African destinations without the hassle of physical SIMs. You may still keep your SIMs for calls and texts.

Additionally, the Cardtonic multi-service app also offers extra convenience by allowing users to trade gift cards, shop for gadgets, and pay utility bills all on the same platform. No need to go elsewhere.

1. GoMoWorld

GoMoWorld stands out because it’s cheap and supports a far larger number of countries. Up to 200 countries and counting. And then you have prepaid plans, starting at €3.99. How about a 1GB free trial on select destinations? That’s the fun of eSIMs on GoMoWorld. 

Additionally, you get support to share excess data with all your devices via hotspot. You also get a VPN to access any platforms without limitations.

eSIM installation on GOMOWorld is also straightforward. In just three simple steps, you will be set and ready to go. And then data plan activation can be done at any time you’re ready. 

Furthermore, GoMoWorld offers access to dedicated support via email or socials.  In case you run into any issues. You also enjoy strong security within the app. GoMoWorld protects your personal information from intruders.  

1. RedteaGO

RedteaGO connects 150+ countries, including popular African destinations. It’s definitely one of the few providers with plans that support not just data but also calls and SMS. This feature means you get issued a phone number to text or make calls just like you would on a physical SIM card. 

At RedteaGo, you get affordable local rate data prices that prove value for money. Prices are quite cheap, starting at $0.52 for 200 MB and $2.59 for 1 GB – 7-day plan.

Best of all, RedteaGO’s networks are not only stable but also fast. You can browse at optimum speed at many locations in Africa. Recharge is also straightforward; you can top up anytime on your device. 

Extra perks for users are occasional Black Friday deals. You get up to 20% extra credit on top-ups or even bonuses when you refer a friend.

1. MobiMatter

MobiMatter is more than just an eSIM provider; it’s an aggregator. It compiles data plans across mobile operators under one roof. Users enjoy a wide selection of cheap data plans, starting at $3.99 for 3GB for select locations. 

Besides, users also enjoy high-speed connection and connectivity for up to 190+ global locations. This helps African travellers stay active and connected during their trips.

MobiMatter offers three product options: the data-only package, the phone number without calls and SMS package, and the phone plus calls and SMS package. All plans do offer unique advantages and cost savings and allow you some flexibility. Users can earn up to 10% cashback on purchases or bonuses for referring friends.

1. Roamify

Roamify is regarded as one of the most affordable eSIM providers globally, with coverage in over 200 countries. It recorded over 20,000 active eSIM plans in 2025. Roamify boasts budget-friendly plans with pricing starting at $2. It also offers unlimited plans without a fixed data cap, letting users do heavy stuff without incurring extra charges. 

Roamify offers flexible plans with not just data but voice and text bundles. Its website and app experience are not only standard but also easy to navigate. You get clear information on the network you wish to connect to. Something you don’t get to see often across providers. You can also choose your preferred currency and language.

In terms of payment, you enjoy the most flexibility, be it Apple Pay, Google Pay, or credit and debit cards. There are simply no hidden fees or charges.

Furthermore, users enjoy up to 5% off on select plans. You can also earn extra cash from the Roamify affiliate or reseller programme.

1. eSIMCard

If you’re looking for an affordable data plan that beats roaming, then eSIMCard is definitely worth considering. With prices starting at $1.94, you can stay connected with friends anywhere across the globe without paying through your nose. 

eSIMCard connects up to 200 global destinations with strong flexibility. You can always switch between different plans depending on which has the strongest coverage or rate. You get to choose between the local, regional or global eSIM plans.

eSIMCard also offers flexible data plus call and SMS plans. You are spoilt for choice. Meanwhile, your data stays secure. You never have to worry about the safety of your personal info. Furthermore, eSIMCard provides a robust customer experience. As evidenced by Trustpilot.

Best of all, you get to enjoy exclusive deals of free calls and texts when you activate a data bundle. 

1. Eskimo eSIM

Eskimos is definitely one of the best plans for saving data. Among its offerings is a single data plan that is valid for two years with unlimited rollover. It’s an upgrade from the typical 7- or 30-day plans. The unlimited feature nips data wastage in the bud by limiting the short window for data expiration in between trips. Hence, you can always save leftover data for your next trip. 

Eskimos cover over 102 countries, with 26 of them in Africa. The service allows you to stay connected while travelling globally. Other special features include 5G support on major networks, support for over 13 languages and personal hotspots. 

Hence, you can share data with your other devices seamlessly. Other extra perks may include over 50% off on your first purchase

1. BetterRoaming

UK-based BetterRoaming supports up to 160 countries, allowing users to stay connected while abroad without the stress of physical SIM cards. With plans starting at just $2.99 per 1GB, BetterRoaming is well suited for short trips, especially when you need only a few gigabytes of data.  

BetterRoaming stands out with dedicated plans for not just smartphones but other devices like Apple Watches and iPads. This feature is rarely offered by other eSIM vendors.

Besides, BetterRoaming doesn’t just cover accessible areas but connects even the most remote of locations, i.e., the North Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. 

Starting with BetterRoaming is straightforward; you can either scan to install the free eSIM or download the BetterRoaming app. Plan activation is rapid and the most seamless. Additionally, you get 5G support to browse and use all your apps on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions About eSIM Providers in Africa

1. What is the Best eSIM Provider in Africa?

Cardtonic is one of the best eSIM providers in Africa due to its strong operational presence, particularly in Nigeria and Ghana. Further to that, Cardtonic offers instant connection from major locations across Africa plus flexible payment options. Its multiservice app also appeals to a variety of users who rely on it for gift cards, gadgets, and utility payments.

1. What is an eSIM?

eSIMs are primarily digital SIM cards built into modern devices. They do the same jobs as the physical SIM cards but are more flexible, allowing users to switch between multiple providers without manually changing SIMs.

1. How Do eSIM Providers Work?

eSIMs are preinstalled on your device. They enable you to download and activate a mobile plan digitally. This step is done by scanning the QR code or installing the app directly. Once done, eSIMs can connect to a network provider and browse or even make calls.

1. How to Know if eSIM is Compatible?

The quickest way to check eSIM compatibility is to dial *#06#. It will display your IMEI number. If an EID number is listed, then your device is eSIM compatible. Another way is to look out for the “Add eSIM” option in your phone’s settings menu. Check under Mobile/Cellular Data for iPhone or SIM Card Manager or Mobile Network for Android.

1. Can I Convert My physical SIM to eSIM?

Yes, it is possible to convert your physical SIM to an eSIM. When you convert to an eSIM, it’s essentially transferring your phone number and details from your physical SIM card to the digital profile on your eSIM. 

However, the exact procedure might differ across Android or iPhones. The process generally involves adding the eSIM in the phone settings and either scanning the carrier’s QR code or entering the eSIM details manually. 

Conclusion

E-SIMs are emerging in Africa, providing travellers with a reliable way to stay in touch without the rigidity of SIM cards. Despite infrastructural challenges, the best ones keep innovating, providing cheap and reliable eSIM coverage across the most remote locations.

Among the best performers is Cardtonic, which has strong coverage across Africa with over 140 supported countries, offering cheaper data plans and instant activation. The likes of MobiMatter and GoMoWorld are also top options for cheap plans. Eskimo and Roamify also provide additional features and benefits.

The post Top 8 Cheap & Reliable eSIM Providers for Data in Africa (2025) first appeared on Technext.