I have put together a full breakdown of the two eSIMs: Ubigi vs Yesim. You will find the ratings, coverage details, plans, and the fine print to check before you buy. Everything here comes from a direct side-by-side test.
The key points and my verdict
Ubigi and Yesim both supply data-only eSIMs that work in more than 200 countries. They bill in euros, offer French-language apps, and let you top up without buying a new profile each time.
On paper they look similar. In practice they differ on several points that matter for travelers.
My direct verdict: Yesim is my default pick for most people. It earns a higher overall score, includes a built-in VPN, and offers 24/7 support. Ubigi remains a solid choice if you prefer an operator tied to a major European telecom group with a proven network.
Reliability and user reviews: which one earns more trust?
Here are the scores I gathered for both providers:
| Criterion | Ubigi | Yesim |
|---|---|---|
| Editor rating | 4,2/5 | 4,5/5 |
| Trustpilot | 4,2 | 4,3 |
| App Store | 4,59 | 4,61 |
| Google Play | 3,9 | 4,6 |
The clearest gap appears on Google Play: 3,9 for Ubigi versus 4,6 for Yesim. Android users rate Yesim higher.
Both companies have credible backgrounds. Ubigi belongs to Transatel, acquired by the Japanese telecom giant NTT, and has operated since 2017. Yesim launched in 2019, is based in Zug, Switzerland, and reports more than 3 million users. Neither is a short-lived startup.
Coverage and networks: 200 destinations on both sides
Both services reach more than 200 countries with 4G and 5G where available. No major difference stands out here.
Ubigi uses Transatel’s MVNO infrastructure and therefore connects to strong partner networks worldwide. Yesim states coverage in 140-plus countries and draws on a community of 3 million travelers.
For a specific destination (Japan, the United States, Thailand, Europe, etc.), check the live comparator on this page. It shows the actual operators and speeds per country.
Plans and pricing: how each service works
I do not list exact prices because they change with destination and length of stay. The live comparator on this page calculates the real cost for your trip.
What I can explain is each provider’s model.
Ubigi sells standard data bundles (set volume in GB for a fixed number of days). It also offers unlimited options subject to a fair-use policy. Once you pass a daily threshold, speeds may drop.
Yesim adds an “Unlim Day Pass” on top of classic bundles. You pay only for the days you actually connect. If you skip a day, you pay nothing for it. This suits trips where you do not need constant data.
Yesim also uses an internal currency called Ycoins. You load your balance once and draw from it across several trips.
App, installation, and features
Both apps are available in French. You install the eSIM with a QR code or directly in the app, the same way most eSIMs work.
Here are the main features side by side:
| Feature | Ubigi | Yesim |
|---|---|---|
| French interface | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in VPN | No | Yes |
| Hotspot (tethering) | Yes | Yes (on by default) |
| Reusable eSIM profile | Yes | Yes |
| Top-up without new profile | Yes | Yes |
| Virtual phone number | No | Optional (paid) |
The built-in VPN on Yesim is useful when you connect to public Wi-Fi in hotels, cafés, or airports. It encrypts your traffic. Ubigi does not offer this feature.
Hotspot works on both services, which is handy if you need to share the connection with a laptop or tablet.
Customer service, refunds, and terms to know
This area often decides the winner, so I will be direct.
Yesim:
- 24/7 support in French and English.
- Refunds possible within 30 days if the plan has not been used and has not expired.
- Watch for automatic renewal in your settings.
- Identity verification (KYC) is required to activate a virtual number.
- The company operates under Swiss law.
Ubigi:
- Support in French and English, though 24/7 availability is not confirmed.
- Refunds only if the plan has not been used and must be requested within 15 days.
- A copy of ID may be requested depending on local rules.
Yesim is more flexible on refunds and support hours. If you travel often and might need help at odd hours from Tokyo or New York, that difference counts.
Which one should you pick?
Here is how the choice looks in real situations:
- You travel once or twice a year: both work. Yesim gives you 30 days to request a refund if plans change.
- You use a lot of data (streaming, maps, social media): Yesim’s Unlim Day Pass charges only for days you actually connect.
- You need security on public networks: choose Yesim for the built-in VPN.
- You want an operator with strong European telecom roots: Ubigi, backed by Transatel/NTT, offers that reassurance.
- You are staying a month or longer: both allow reusable profiles and top-ups. Yesim’s Ycoins system can feel more flexible over time.
- You are on Android and check Play Store reviews: Yesim scores clearly higher (4,6 versus 3,9).
- You want a virtual phone number abroad: Yesim offers this option for a fee. Ubigi does not.