If you’re planning a trip to one of the many visa-free countries for Filipinos, there’s a good chance Singapore on your list, and rightly so. It’s a tech-forward, fast-paced hub where staying connected isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential. That’s where eSIMs come in. And when it comes to Singapore?
Airalo’s Singapore eSIM consistently outperforms its competitors. It’s affordable, reliable, and surprisingly easy to set up, especially if you’re not the type who enjoys fiddling with settings mid-transit.
In this guide, I’ll break down how both eSIMs performed for me in practice, comparing everything from price and data flexibility to device support and customer service, so you can decide which one deserves a spot in your travel toolkit.
Variety of Plans
Holafly’s All-You-Can-Data Buffet
Holafly keeps things simple: unlimited data on every plan. That’s a dream come true for data-hungry travelers who binge YouTube or run daily video calls from co-working spaces.
But here’s the catch: if you’re more of a “Google Maps and WhatsApp” kind of nomad, this buffet-style offering might be more than you need.
There’s also a quiet cap to consider: while data is technically unlimited, tethering (a.k.a. hotspot use) is often restricted to 500 MB–1 GB per day.
So if your plan was to fuel your laptop off your phone, you might want to rethink. The ease is there, but the flexibility? Not so much.
Airalo’s à la Carte Menu
Airalo takes the “choose your own adventure” route, offering data plans ranging from 1 GB to 20 GB+ with durations of 7, 15, or 30 days. This model is perfect for travelers who want control over both data and spending.
For light users, it’s a no-brainer. You’re not stuck paying for data you won’t touch. And even for moderate to heavy users, the higher-tier plans (like the 20 GB option) offer solid value.
Especially since you can hotspot without daily limits (depending on the plan). Flexibility is the name of the game here.
Price and Affordability
Holafly’s Flat Rate Reality
Holafly keeps pricing straightforward, but that simplicity comes at a cost. You pay a flat fee, such as $27, for 5 days of unlimited data, regardless of how much data you use.
That’s great if you’re constantly streaming or uploading, but not ideal for more minimalist digital travelers.
If you’re using data sparingly, such as checking your email, using ride-hailing apps, or translating menus, this can feel like paying for an all-you-can-eat buffet when you only wanted a snack.
Unless your usage is heavy and consistent, the value doesn’t really match the spend.
Airalo’s Budget-Friendly Breakdown
Here’s where Airalo shines.
The 20 GB plan for Singapore currently costs $26 USD for 30 days—around $0.87 per GB, or about $1.30 per day if you break it down by time. That’s seriously wallet-friendly compared to Holafly’s flat rates.
For cost-conscious travelers, that pricing structure makes a lot of sense. It provides you with the flexibility to scale your data plan according to your trip length and budget.
No wasted megabytes. No financial surprises. Just clear, affordable choices that keep your wallet and your WhatsApp happy.
Network Coverage
Holafly’s Partner Network in Singapore
Holafly currently uses StarHub for its Singapore coverage – a solid local provider with decent city-wide performance.
In daily use, I found the connection to be stable enough for most tasks, but speeds occasionally dropped in underground MRT stations or crowded malls.
It’s generally good, but if you’re working on the go (or just really dislike buffering), it might not always keep up during high-demand hours or in more complex environments, such as business hotels and basements.
Airalo’s Local Advantage
Airalo partners with Singtel and M1, two of Singapore’s most trusted networks. The result? Smooth, fast connections almost everywhere, even during rush hour or in tech-dense areas. It handled video calls, Google Drive syncs, and navigation like a champ.
If you’re juggling remote work with sightseeing, that level of reliability matters. I never had to second-guess whether the signal would drop mid-call or fail me in Chinatown’s winding streets.
Airalo just works, and that’s priceless when you’re living out of a backpack.
Device Compatibility
Holafly’s Device Limitations
Holafly supports most iPhones and many Android devices, but there’s a catch: not all Android models play nice. Some travelers report trouble with compatibility, especially on older or region-locked devices.
And while setup is straightforward—just scan a QR code and go—hotspotting isn’t universally available. Some plans restrict tethering, which can be frustrating if you’re planning to share your connection with a laptop or tablet.
Airalo Plays Nice with More Devices
Airalo works across a wide range of devices, from the latest iPhones to a significant number of Android devices. The setup process may take a minute longer than Holafly’s, but it remains relatively seamless through the Airalo app.
More importantly, most Airalo plans support hotspot use, so you’re not limited to using one device. That flexibility can be a game-changer, primarily if you work remotely or travel as a duo.
Security and Privacy — Who Keeps Your Data Safer?
Airalo’s Transparent Policies
As someone who works remotely and handles sensitive files on the go, I don’t take digital privacy lightly. That’s why I was genuinely relieved by how upfront Airalo is about their data practices. Their privacy policy is easy to find, clearly worded, and refreshingly free from legal gymnastics.
There’s no vague “may share with partners” kind of language. No weird opt-outs buried five clicks deep. Just solid, straightforward info on how your data is handled—and more importantly, how it’s not being misused.
That level of transparency fosters significant trust, especially when relying on mobile data in unfamiliar places.
Holafly’s Grey Zones
Holafly, on the other hand, left me with more questions than answers. Sure, there’s a privacy policy, but it’s not as digestible or reassuring. For a service that sells unlimited data, you’d expect a bit more clarity around how that data is managed behind the scenes.
Their security FAQs felt more like a checklist than a comprehensive review. While nothing seemed overtly sketchy, the lack of detail doesn’t inspire the same confidence. When you’re hopping countries and networks, you want a provider that treats your info like gold, not an afterthought.
Setup and Ease of Use
Holafly’s QR Code Convenience
Holafly wins big on simplicity. After booking a plan, they send you a QR code that you scan once, and bam, your eSIM is live. I’ve used it while in transit at Changi Airport and was up and running before I even left the terminal.
It’s hands-off, which is a dream when you’re jet-lagged or juggling two phones. There’s no need to fumble through multiple menus or tinker with app settings. For less techy travelers, this is as close to plug-and-play as eSIMs get.
Airalo’s Slightly More Manual Approach
Airalo takes a more app-driven route. Instead of scanning a code, you download the app, choose your destination, and follow the setup instructions. It’s not rocket science, but it does involve a few more steps—and if you’re new to eSIMs, it might take an extra minute or two.
That said, the added steps come with a perk: more control. You can track your data usage, top up your plan, and even switch countries right from the app. Once you’ve done it once, it feels intuitive. But yeah, definitely a touch more hands-on than Holafly’s one-click setup.
Support and Reliability
Holafly’s Mixed Bag
In theory, Holafly offers 24/7 chat support, which sounds great on paper. But in real-world use? I found the response times to be variable. One time, I waited over an hour just to troubleshoot a setup hiccup while passing through Bugis.
The reps are friendly when you get through, but the lag can be frustrating, especially if you’re stuck without data and relying on hotel Wi-Fi to even ask for help. If support is something you lean on heavily, Holafly might test your patience.
Airalo’s Fast, Friendly, and Actually Helpful
Now here’s where Airalo shines. Their live chat support is not just there for show—it works, and fast. Every time I’ve needed help (even during odd hours), I got a real human who knew what they were doing—no weird bots running me in circles.
Even better, their app is packed with innovative troubleshooting features, so you may not even need to contact support. Whether it’s activating a plan or fixing a connectivity quirk, everything feels thoughtfully designed with travelers in mind.
When you’re country-hopping solo, that kind of reliability becomes your digital safety net.
Airalo vs Holafly at a Glance
| Feature | Airalo | Holafly |
| Variety of Plans | 1GB to 20GB+ plans | Unlimited only |
| Data Type | Capped data | Unlimited data |
| Pricing (Example) | ~$1/GB/day (e.g., $20 for 20GB/30 days) | Flat rate (e.g., $27 for 5 days) |
| Best For | Flexible, budget-conscious users | Heavy streamers and social media users |
| Network Partner(s) | Singtel, M1 | StarHub |
| Coverage Quality | Strong, stable—great for remote work | Generally good, can dip in dense areas |
| Device Compatibility | Broad (iOS & Android) | Mostly iOS, some Android limitations |
| Hotspot Support | Usually allowed | Often not allowed |
| Setup Process | App-based, takes a few extra steps | QR code scan—quick setup |
| Customer Support | Fast and reliable | Mixed reviews, slower response |
| Privacy Policy Transparency | Clear, user-friendly | Less clear, more vague |
The Verdict: Why Airalo Wins in Singapore
After testing both Airalo and Holafly across Singapore’s sleek cityscapes and tucked-away MRT corners, the choice became pretty clear. Holafly’s unlimited data sounds tempting, especially if you’re constantly on TikTok or running Zoom calls from Sentosa, but for most travelers, it’s overkill. It’s also pricier, less flexible, and has a few hiccups in device compatibility and customer support.
Meanwhile, Airalo hits that sweet spot: a variety of plans, transparent pricing (approximately $1/GB/day if you opt for the larger plans), stable coverage via top local networks, and transparent privacy practices that genuinely respect your data.
If you’re a digital nomad like me, Airalo is the more intelligent choice. It’s budget-friendly, reliable, and easy to manage straight from your phone. Whether you’re staying a week or a month in Singapore, Airalo lets you stay connected without the drama.
