How I Test eSIMs – The TechNovice Testing Methodology

TechNovice clearly separates hands-on field tests from researched provider comparisons.

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Field-tested reviews

When I describe an eSIM as field-tested, I have personally used it as a mobile data connection during real travel. Where applicable, I document measurements such as location, date, network, connection type and public Speedtest IDs.

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Researched provider comparisons

I also publish comparisons for destinations or providers I have not personally field-tested. These articles are based on information verified through provider websites, checkout pages, direct support inquiries and, where useful, clearly identified independent sources.

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I never present provider-supplied information, desk research or third-party experiences as my own field-test results.

All speed tests on TechNovice are conducted using the Ookla Speedtest app (speedtest.net). I use Ookla because each result is assigned a unique, public test ID: Anyone can look up my results on speedtest.net and verify that the numbers in my articles are accurate.

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My standard procedure for eSIM speed tests:

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1. I disable mobile data on my regular Swiss SIM card so that the test eSIM is the only active data connection.

2. I check the available local network information and connection technology, such as 5G or LTE, where this can be reliably identified.

   I run the Ookla Speedtest and record the download, upload, ping, and packet loss.

3. I note the location, date, and time, and save the test ID.

Whenever possible, I repeat the test at the same location at a different time—and at multiple locations throughout the trip.

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A single speed test doesn’t tell the whole story. Mobile performance varies depending on crowd density, time of day, and signal conditions. That’s why my reviews show multiple tests across different locations and days—not just a single best result.

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Note on speed test servers: Ookla may select a test server that is not located at the physical test location. Where this materially affects the interpretation of a result, I point it out in the article.

A typical TechNovice eSIM test includes location, local network, connection type, date, Ookla test ID, download speed, upload speed, ping, and notes from the field. Here’s a real-life example from my test in Portugal:

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• Location: Lagos, Portugal (Algarve)

• Network: MEO

• Connection: LTE

• Date: June 24, 2026, 10:28 a.m.

• Ookla Test ID: 7126788543

• Download / Upload: 137.03 Mbps / 24.28 Mbps

Ping: 111 ms

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Practical Use: Google Maps, WhatsApp, hotspot, and video calls worked reliably​

I use the devices I actually travel with rather than a fixed laboratory setup. The device and relevant test conditions are documented in the individual article where they affect the interpretation of the results.

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When I publish setup instructions for a device or operating system I have not personally tested, I base them on official manufacturer or provider documentation and do not present them as hands-on experience.

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VPN use or other conditions that could materially affect a measurement are disclosed where relevant.

Raw download numbers only matter if the connection works in practice. Depending on the trip, I also test:

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• Video calls: Google Meet (including screen sharing) and FaceTime via the eSIM connection.

• Hotspot usage: Working on another device through the eSIM connection where tethering is supported.

  Streaming: Netflix and YouTube via mobile data.

• Navigation and messaging: Google Maps, WhatsApp, iMessage – what travelers really need.

• Activation behavior: How quickly the eSIM connects after landing – even before leaving the aircraft.

My own measurements represent performance at a specific place and time. Where useful, I contextualize them with official network information, coverage data or other clearly identified third-party sources.

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Third-party information is labelled as such and is never presented as a TechNovice field-test result. An eSIM also depends on the underlying local mobile network and cannot provide coverage where that network has none.

Where possible, prices and discount codes are verified directly in the provider's checkout. I document the verification date and relevant conditions in the article.

A successful checkout test confirms that a price or code worked for the tested configuration at that point in time. It does not automatically prove that the same conditions apply to every plan, destination or customer.

TechNovice is financed through affiliate partnerships, and I disclose this in every relevant article. Three principles apply:

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1. Commissions do not change the testing criteria. Providers are compared using the same methodology – regardless of whether a partnership exists. Providers are evaluated using the same editorial criteria regardless of whether an affiliate partnership exists.

2. Negative results are published. My reviews document connection drops, slow connections, and practical disadvantages – because a review that only shows the best results isn't a review at all.

3. Transparency regarding test conditions: Where possible, I purchase the tested eSIM plans at regular retail prices. If I receive free test credit, early access, or a special agreement from a provider, I disclose this in the corresponding article.

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Using one of my codes will never increase your price. Full details: Transparency page .

eSIM plans, prices, networks and product features can change. I update articles when relevant information changes or when new test evidence becomes available.
If I discover an error, I correct it transparently. Readers can report potential errors through the TechNovice contact page.

I conduct documented eSIM field tests during my own travels. Individual reviews show where, when and under which conditions each test was performed.