Saily review

NordVPN’s simple yet intuitive eSIM service with a focus on user experience

Saily landing page
(Image: © Saily)

TechRadar Verdict

Saily is a new eSIM launched in 2024 by the company behind NordVPN. While it comes with a great app that makes installation and usage a breeze, the coverage it offers is not as extensive as Airalo or Airhub. There aren’t many standout features to speak of, plus plans offer limited customizability.

Pros

  • +

    Affordable plans starting at $1.65 for 20GB of data

  • +

    Backed by the reputable NordVPN brand

  • +

    User-friendly app with on-screen prompts to simplify setup

Cons

  • -

    Saily does not offer a global plan

  • -

    Country-specific plans only, no regional bundles

  • -

    Requires using the Saily app for eSIM activation

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Saily is a new eSIM service launched in 2024 by Nord Security, the company behind the popular NordVPN. It provides affordable mobile data plans for international travelers on both iPhone and Android devices, with coverage in over 150 countries.

As a product backed by the reputable NordVPN brand, Saily benefits from the company's focus on security and privacy. Users praise its easy installation process, affordable pricing, and reliable coverage across the world.

However, limitations exist, such as the lack of regional data plans and the need to use the mobile app for installation and management. As a new player in the eSIM market, Saily doesn’t offer the same breadth of features and country-specific options as more established providers.

Saily: Plans and pricing

Saily offers a straightforward pricing structure for its eSIM plans, with options for both short-term and long-term use. Plans are priced based on the amount of data and the duration of the package, ranging from 1GB to 20GB and 7 to 30 days. Here’s an overview of a few popular plans: 

Swipe to scroll horizontally
RegionData AmountValidityPrice
US3 GB30 days$8.99
UK3 GB30 days$8.99
Australia3 GB30 days$7.99
Japan3 GB30 days$6.99
China3 GB30 days$9.99

While some competitors may offer unlimited data plans at higher prices, Saily’s pay-for-what-you-need approach is an attractive choice for budget-conscious travelers. 

Saily: Features

Saily features

(Image credit: Saily)

While it doesn’t offer many distinguishing features, Saily always makes it a point to get the basics right. Here are some things that stood out to us during our experience with the eSIM service from NordVPN:

Minimalistic UI

One of Saily's most notable features is the clean UI that makes it easy for first-time eSIM users to navigate the app interface. The app provides straightforward on-screen instructions for purchasing plans and activating the network, ensuring a smooth user experience.

From NordVPN

As a product of Nord Security, the company behind NordVPN, Saily benefits from the brand's strong association with privacy and security. However, our review didn’t find any particular security features or add-ons worth talking about.

Local Partnerships

Being a new eSIM provider, Saily is still behind more established players like Airalo or Nomad in terms of country coverage. But, it has built a network of quality partnerships with local telecom networks to provide excellent performance in the countries where it does business. 

Saily: Installation

Saily app

(Image credit: Saily)

Saily makes purchasing and activating an eSIM a breeze. The app-driven experience automates the process, allowing users to select a data plan for their destination and complete the transaction within minutes. The onboarding flow is intuitive and user-friendly, even for first-time eSIM users.

After purchasing a plan, Saily provides on-screen instructions for eSIM installation directly within the app. Users simply need to navigate to their device settings, scan the provided QR, and wait a few moments for activation.

One key aspect of Saily's onboarding is the ability to set up the eSIM before departing, ensuring connectivity upon arrival at the destination. This is especially important since Saily requires an active internet connection for eSIM activation. 

Saily: Coverage and speed

Saily offers eSIM coverage in over 150 countries across Europe, America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania. While the company partners with local providers to enhance network availability, the quality of coverage may vary depending on the telecommunications infrastructure in each country. Destinations include:

United States

Thailand

Japan

Malaysia

India

However, users can expect faster data speeds in North American, European, and Asian countries compared to Latin American and African regions. There aren’t any significant network problems, plus Saily offers 3G, 4G, and LTE browsing speeds in most nations.

Compared to other eSIM providers, Saily's coverage is slightly more limited, as competitors like Airalo boast coverage in up to 200 countries. However, Saily's partnerships with local providers help ensure a dependable connection.

Saily: Support

Saily support

(Image credit: Saily)

Apart from a detailed knowledge base for customer self-service, Saily offers 24/7 support through its app via live chat. It also provides an email address (support@saily.com) for general inquiries.

While we couldn’t find much information on Saily’s customer support through online reviews, our personal experience with the platform has been positive. It’s also worth noting that since Saily is from the same team that manages NordVPN, users can expect a similar standard for handling customer inquiries.

Saily: Final verdict

With its straightforward pricing structure, extensive coverage in over 150 countries, and commitment to security and privacy, Saily offers a compelling package for budget-conscious globetrotters.

However, it's important to note that Saily may not be the best fit for those seeking the most comprehensive coverage or unlimited data plans. As a new player in the market, Saily's country-specific options and features aren’t as extensive as some more established competitors. Still, it’s a viable option for those who prize simplicity and affordability over the most extensive feature set.

Saily: FAQs

How do I install the Saily eSIM?

Installing and activating the Saily eSIM is a simple process. First, download the Saily app on your compatible device. Once you've purchased a plan, the app will provide you with a QR code. Navigate to your device's settings, locate the eSIM settings, and scan the QR code. Your eSIM will be installed and activated within a few moments. 

Can I use Saily eSIM in multiple countries?

Saily currently does not offer regional or global plans that cover multiple countries. You will need to purchase separate plans for each country you visit. However, the company offers affordable rates and flexible durations, allowing you to tailor your plans to your specific travel needs. 

Does Saily offer any discounts or promotions on eSIMs?

Yes, Saily occasionally offers discounts and promotions to its users. Keep an eye out for special deals, particularly during holiday seasons or major travel periods. If you have a referral code, you can use it to get a discount on first-time usage as well 

Ritoban Mukherjee

Ritoban Mukherjee is a freelance journalist from West Bengal, India. His work has been published on Tom's Guide, TechRadar, Creative Bloq, IT Pro Portal, Gizmodo, Medium, and Mental Floss. Ritoban is also a member of the National Association of Science Writers.