Airalo vs Nomad: Which is Better for the Philippines?
Finding the best internet for working remotely in the Philippines is all about speed, reliability, flexibility, and value.
Especially when you’re bouncing between islands or juggling Zoom calls in beachfront cafés, these are the things you would want to look out for in your choice of eSIM.
After testing both Airalo and Nomad during my time in the country, I can confidently say Airalo’s Philippine eSIM hits that sweet spot.
With a variety of plans, better pricing, and solid network coverage in both cities and remote towns, it’s designed for digital nomads who want connection without complication.
In this guide, I’ll review both eSIMs side by side so you can decide which one truly fits your travel style.
Variety of Plans
When it comes to data plans, I like having options because not every trip looks the same. Sometimes I’m bouncing between islands and barely online, while at other times I’m stuck inside on a rainy day, uploading photo dumps and booking my next week of travel.
That’s where Airalo really earns points: it offers plans ranging from 1GB to over 20GB, allowing you to tailor your data usage to your travel style. Whether you’re hopping through cities or settling into one spot for a while, you’re not locked into a one-size-fits-all package.
Nomad, on the other hand, only offers unlimited plans. It’s convenient in theory, but often feels excessive. If you’re not streaming or working full-time from your phone, you’re paying for more than you need.
If you’re the type of traveler who likes control and customization, Airalo’s flexibility just makes more sense.
Price and Affordability
As a long-term traveler, I budget like it’s my second job because when you’re constantly booking flights, hostels, and coconut shakes, every dollar counts. That’s why Airalo wins hands down when it comes to pricing.
Their 20GB plan for the Philippines costs around $1 a day, which is an incredible value for anyone who isn’t constantly binge-watching YouTube or running data-intensive apps all day. For short stays or conservative usage, it’s a no-brainer.
Now compare that to Nomad’s unlimited plan, which charges a higher upfront cost even if you’re only using basic data. On a recent 5-day trip to Cebu, I gave Nomad a shot, thinking unlimited might provide me with peace of mind.
I barely used 4GB, primarily for maps and messaging. I felt like I paid for a buffet and only had soup. If you’re not a data glutton, Airalo’s à la carte pricing makes a lot more sense.
Security and Data Privacy
When you’re working remotely from a café in Manila or a hammock in Siargao, the last thing you want is to wonder who’s watching your data. That’s where Airalo gives me more peace of mind.
Their privacy policy is detailed and upfront, clearly stating what data is collected, how it’s used, and how it’s protected. For someone like me, juggling sensitive work files, secure access to tools like Gmail, Notion, and VPNs isn’t optional, it’s essential.
Nomad seems somewhat vague on the privacy front. There isn’t a lot of information available on how your personal or usage data is handled, and that raises red flags, especially when using unfamiliar networks in rural areas.
I’m not saying it’s unsafe, but let’s just say I wouldn’t log into my banking app with Nomad running unless I was behind a good VPN. For digital nomads who prioritize security as much as speed, Airalo just feels more trustworthy.
Network Coverage
When you’re bouncing between Manila’s skyscrapers, surfing in Siargao, or temple-hopping in Cebu, patchy mobile service can ruin your day fast.
That’s where coverage matters, and in my experience, Airalo edges out Nomad in this department. It partners with top-tier local networks, such as Smart and Globe, which means you get fairly reliable data even in smaller towns or beach destinations.
Nomad, while decent in metro areas, starts to struggle the moment you head off the beaten path. If your plans involve anything beyond city-hopping, or you’re a remote worker like me who can’t risk being offline, this difference could make or break your trip.
Device Compatibility
Here’s the deal: Airalo supports a broader range of eSIM-compatible devices, including older iPhones and various Android brands. That’s great news for travelers who haven’t upgraded in a while or those using budget-friendly models.
Installing Airalo was smooth on my Samsung Galaxy; the app walked me through both the QR and manual setup options in minutes.
Nomad’s device list is a bit more restrictive. While it works well on newer iPhones, some Android users may need to find workarounds. If you want plug-and-play ease, especially across multiple devices, Airalo is just more flexible and fuss-free.
Comparison Guide: Airalo vs Nomad
When it comes to plan options, Airalo offers a wide range starting from 1GB and going up to 20GB or more, making it ideal for users with light to moderate data needs. In contrast, Nomad provides only unlimited plans, which are more suitable for heavy streamers and active social media users who require constant high data usage.
In terms of pricing, Airalo tends to be more budget-friendly, with options averaging around $1 per day for a 20GB plan. Nomad, on the other hand, requires a higher upfront cost, which may not appeal to casual or occasional users.
Looking at network coverage, Airalo performs well, offering strong service in cities and reasonably stable connections in rural areas. Nomad’s coverage is generally less reliable outside urban zones, which could be a concern for travelers venturing into remote areas.
From a security and privacy perspective, Airalo stands out with a clear and transparent privacy policy, whereas Nomad’s privacy practices are less clearly defined, potentially raising concerns for more privacy-conscious users.
Regarding device compatibility, Airalo supports a broad range of devices, including both iPhones and Android smartphones. Nomad, while functional, has more limited compatibility, which may restrict usage for some users.
Finally, in terms of setup, both services use apps to facilitate eSIM activation. Airalo offers a slightly more flexible approach with QR code or manual installation options, while Nomad features a simpler setup flow within its app, which may be more convenient for first-time users.
Final Verdict: Go Smart, Go Airalo
After trying both eSIMs across different parts of the Philippines, Airalo emerges as the clear winner in terms of flexibility, affordability, and overall reliability.
While Nomad’s unlimited plan might seem like a no-brainer at first glance, the higher upfront cost and vague fair-use policies make it less ideal for travelers who don’t stream or scroll 24/7.
Airalo, on the other hand, gives you control over how much data you use (and pay for) while still delivering solid coverage and a user-friendly experience. If you’re looking for a travel SIM that works as hard as you do, whether for work, navigation, or staying connected on the go, Airalo is hands-down the better pick for the Philippines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Airalo or Nomad on dual-SIM phones?
Yes, as long as your phone supports eSIM, you’re all set. You can keep your physical SIM active for 2FA texts or as a backup for calls. It’s super handy when traveling.
Do these eSIMs allow hotspot sharing?
Airalo allows tethering on most plans, so you can share your internet connection with your laptop or travel buddy. Nomad also supports it, although local networks may occasionally interfere with speed.
Is an unlimited plan truly unlimited?
Technically, yes, but “unlimited” often comes with strings. After you hit a certain data threshold, providers may slow you down to preserve bandwidth.
Will I need to show ID to buy or activate these eSIMs?
No ID is needed for most Airalo or Nomad eSIMs. You just pick your plan, scan the QR code, and you’re live in minutes – no paperwork, no fuss.
Can I install the eSIM before I arrive in the Philippines?
Yes, and you definitely should. Installing it before your trip means you’ll have data as soon as you land. No scrambling for airport Wi-Fi or local SIM counters.
