Telcel eSIM Review: Setup, Compatibility & Performance

With the rapid changes in the mobile world, eSIM technology is changing the way we stay connected, offering more flexibility and convenience than a traditional SIM-card.

As that nation’s largest mobile provider, Telcel has adopted the change, leading to a better digital mobile experience.

In this article, I break down Telcel’s eSIM service and discuss why it is so beneficial and what you need to know in order to take advantage of this modern solution.

What is Telcel eSIM?

Telcel is the largest mobile network operator in Mexico. Established in 1989, it is a subsidiary ofof América Móvil. They offer coverage across over 99% of Mexico (including rural), as well as full 4G and increasingly 5G support.

In line with its commitment to modern connectivity—including IoT solutions—Telcel introduced support for consumer eSIMs, allowing users to ditch traditional plastic SIM cards in favor of a fully digital experience .

An eSIM is a tiny, re-writeable chip (it stands for embedded SIM or eUICC) that is inserted into your device, is in essence, the same as a physical SIM, but it gets activated by a QR code or just by downloading your information digitally.

Telcel’s offering uses eSIM technology, allowing users of compatible, unlocked smartphones to seamlessly switch to a Telcel profile without having to physically swap SIM cards.

Telcel eSIM: Pros and Cons

Before diving deeper, let’s quickly summarize the main advantages and drawbacks of Telcel’s eSIM:

Pros

1. Top-tier national coverage

Telcel has the country’s widest coverage and the most robust 4G/LTE, reaching into a lot of far corners of the country that other companies do not.

2. Same full-featured service — digitally

You’re basically using a virtual SIM card. Voice calls, SMS, and data work like they would on a physical SIM. Plans (including prepaid “Amigo Sin Límite”) offer unlimited minutes and texts to Mexico, the U.S., and Canada.

3. Convenient for travelers and locals

After it’s been installed using a QR code or in-store activation (which takes a few minutes), your eSIM is immediately active and requires no physical SIM card. You can also order it online in advance.

4. Mobile hotspot support

One neat benefit is the fact that you can tether with the Telcel eSIM; this makes it appealing for visitors or if you need to work remotely.

Cons

1. Must activate in-store, manual setup is time-consuming

Telcel eSIMs can’t be activated online. Many reports online seem to indicate the in-store experience can take hours or even a 2.5-hour wait, as well as signing up for auto bill pay.

2. Customer service frustration

However, a few travelers who’ve used prepaid eSIM plans have mentioned a lack of communication around data usage and slow customer service.

3. Lower priority during network congestion

Additionally, there have been reports from a few users that eSIM data might be deprioritized in favor of physical SIMs and that they’ve experienced slower speeds when using it in heavy-use areas.

4. Limited availability—and only for postpaid plans

Unlike other providers, Telcel does not offer prepaid eSIMs. If you want a prepaid SIM card, you’ll only get a traditional one.

Telcel eSIM Coverage and Data Plans

Types of Telcel eSIM Data Plans

In general, the Telcel eSIM’s data plans are two main types:

There are both Prepaid (Amigo Sin Límite) and Postpaid plans. Both can be obtained via eSIM, however the method of activation and features differ slightly.

• Prepaid eSIM plans: Prepaid “Amigo Sin Límite” plans are often used by tourists and others visiting for short periods of time. These plans are available without any long-term contracts and can be purchased either online or in-store, while you can start using them immediately by scanning an eSIM QR code.

• Postpaid eSIM Plans: Postpaid plans are better for long-term users needing the convenience of a monthly billing cycle, eSIM plans often include voice and text along with higher data caps and the option for unlimited data.

Evaluation of Telcel eSIM Data Plans

If you’re looking for a prepaid plan, Telcel is the most affordable option  — and also the easiest to activate — whether you’re a traveler or just a low data user. However, prepaids are limited, and speeds are capped after you run out, unless you refill.

On the other hand, postpaid plans are generally unlimited data tiers and come with additional benefits, like family plan deals and international calling credit. The downside is that you’ll generally have to sign a contract or undergo a credit check, which is less flexible and will deter some people.

However, both plans come with full Telcel 4G/5G coverage and hotspots and voice services, ensuring that they can be used as needed by a variety of customers.

Telcel Prepaid eSIM Data Plans (Amigo Sin Límite)

Here is a cleaned-up table listing only the Amigo Sin Límite packages with 500MB or more, based on the official Telcel website:

Telcel eSIM Postpaid Plan Packages

There are two types of Telcel eSIM postpaid plans: The first type includes packages with calls, SMS, and data.

All packages not only include free GB data, unlimited call time, and SMS within Mexico, the United States, and Canada, but also unlimited social media data and cash back. Below are details of some of the packages:

The second type is a data-only plan without an expiration date, which also offers a proportionate cashback from Telcel. Below are the plan details from the official website:

Telcel eSIM Plan Overview:

Unlimited Data Restrictions: The unlimited social media data included in both types of plans is subject to regional limitations and is typically only available within Mexico. Be sure to carefully review the terms before use.

Telcel Cashback Service: The cashback is deducted as a percentage from the original amount and used to pay for additional services on the monthly bill of the SIM card.

Limited Plan Flexibility: There are no truly unlimited plans, and the range of options is very limited, making them unsuitable for short-term travelers. If you need to travel to another country, international roaming must be activated.

The Telcel eSIM's Amigo Sin Límite plan offers data packages ranging from 500MB to 8GB, with no large-capacity data options, making it unsuitable for heavy users.

In contrast, many eSIM brands, such as iRoamly, not only provide packages for multiple destinations but also offer regional plans and various data options to meet the needs of different users.

Telcel eSIM Additional Features Overview

Building on Telcel’s strong coverage and flexible data plans, it’s important to understand the additional features that come with their eSIM service. These extras significantly enhance user convenience and connectivity management.

Additional Functionality Overview

• Support for Multiple Profiles: On eSIM, you can have multiple profiles, making it easy to switch between different plans or carriers without having to physically change SIM cards.

• Remote Management: Customers can control their eSIM via the Telcel app remotely. This includes activating/deactivating the profiles, and checking usage.

• Easy Integration: The eSIM can be easily integrated with Telcel’s current services to bring you a seamless experience across devices and platforms.

• Higher Security: Telcel’s eSIM offers security enhancements to keep your data and your eSIM safe, reducing the risk of unauthorized use.

FAQ

1. How do I change to a Telcel eSIM from a physical SIM card?

You’ll have to go to your closest Telcel store or authorized center to request the eSIM and to transfer your current phone number and plan.

2. What will happen to my Telcel eSIM if I factory reset my phone?

If you do a factory reset, the eSIM profile will be erased, and you will need to reactivate the eSIM by scanning the QR code or contacting Telcel again.

3. Can I have a Telcel eSIM on more than one device?

No, a Telcel eSIM profile can be used on only one device at a time. If you have more than one device, you will need to set up a separate eSIM profile for each device.

Conclusion

Overall, Telcel’s eSIM offers reliable network connectivity, all coupled with an easy registration process, other plan options, real-time data monitoring, and decent customer service that really complete the package.

While it has its limitations, the Telcel eSIM is still a great choice for those looking for a more modern and dependable source of connectivity in Mexico as they travel.

Consider your needs carefully to see if it fits your lifestyle and travel plans.