Network coverage and quality can vary depending on your location within Iceland, so it’s a good idea to inquire about recommendations on the best carriers and services in the specific areas you plan to visit.

eSIM versus portable Wi-Fi devices like Trawire offer, serve different purposes and have distinct advantages and use cases. Let’s compare them:

eSIM (Embedded SIM)

Built-in Connectivity: eSIM is a digital SIM card embedded directly into your device, such as a smartphone or tablet. It eliminates the need for a physical SIM card. Setting up an eSIM can be more complex than inserting a physical SIM card, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. You may need to scan a QR code or go through a series of steps to activate the eSIM. eSIM is a Roaming connection.

Convenience: You can switch between mobile carriers and data plans without physically changing SIM cards. This is especially useful for travelers who want to switch to a local carrier when abroad.

Space-Saving: It saves physical space within your device since you don’t need to have a slot for a physical SIM card.

Permanent Connectivity: It’s always available on your device, so you don’t need to carry an extra device for connectivity. Not all mobile carriers support eSIM technology. The availability of eSIM support varies by region, and smaller carriers or virtual network operators may not offer eSIM plans. This limitation restricts your choice of carriers and plans. eSIM usually have daily data limit with slower speed when reached.

Portable Wi-Fi:

Pure Icelandic connection: Trawire Hotspot uses local connection that gives you higher priority and speed on local cell towers. Other than buying a phisical SIM card, Trawire Hotspot is the only NON-ROAMING option available. 

Separate Device – ready out of the box: A portable Wi-Fi device (also known as a mobile hotspot or pocket Wi-Fi) is a standalone device that provides Wi-Fi connectivity. It’s like carrying a small router with you.

Multiple Device Connectivity: You can connect multiple devices (e.g., smartphones, laptops, tablets) to a portable Wi-Fi device simultaneously, making it useful for sharing internet with others.

Control Over Data: Trawire Portable Wi-Fi comes with unlimited data plans, which can be useful for non worried data usage separately from your smartphone’s data plan.

Battery Life: They have their own battery, which can last longer than the battery of a smartphone. Portable wifi also uses it’s battery power to keep your connection up & running, sparing your phone battery.

Using Voice over wifi with Trawire ➡️

eSIM or Trawire Hotspot? To choose between depends on your needs.

eSIM is great if you primarily need internet access on your phone or tablet and want the convenience of switching carriers or plans easily.

Portable Wi-Fi is more suitable when you need to connect multiple devices, require a longer battery life, unlimited data or want to keep your phone’s battery for other purposes while still having internet connectivity.

Portable modems remain a valuable option for individuals and businesses that need local WiFi access in situations where other options may not be available or practical. It’s essential to consider your specific needs and usage patterns when deciding whether a portable modem is the right choice for you.

Many people use both options simultaneously when traveling or for redundancy, ensuring they always have an internet connection regardless of their location or device needs.