Having Issues with eSIM Data Speed? Try This Fix

Slow mobile data on travel eSIMs is often caused by automatic connection to a weaker local network. Manually switching to a different available network in your phone’s settings can quickly resolve the issue.

In many cases, slow mobile data can be fixed in just a few taps — by manually switching to another network in your phone’s settings. Why does this problem happen in the first place? 

Travel eSIMs often rely on roaming agreements with multiple local carriers (such as Orange, Claro, Movistar, etc.). By default, your phone connects to the first available network – not necessarily the fastest or most reliable one. If that network is congested at the moment or has low signal strength in your area, your internet speed can suffer. Below is a quick step-by-step guide for iOS and Android users that shows how to manually switch networks – and potentially solve the issue in seconds.

How to Do It on iPhone

All actions should be done in the «Settings» app of your iOS smartphone (model doesn’t matter):

  1. Open «Cellular» (sometimes called «Mobile Data»).
  2. If you have multiple SIMs or eSIMs, you’ll see several options – select your travel eSIM.
  3. Tap «Network Selection».
tap network selection

Turn off «Automatic» mode

wait a few seconds for available networks to load

Wait 2–5 seconds for the list of available networks to appear.

Choose another network manually and then exit «Settings».

How to Do It on Android Phones

Similar to Apple devices, all actions should be performed in the «Settings» menu. This instruction works universally for Samsung, Huawei, Google Pixel, and other Android phones, although the section names might vary slightly:

  1. Go to «Connections».
  2. Open «Mobile Networks».
  3. If you have multiple SIMs or eSIMs, select the one you want to use.
  4. Tap «Network Operators».
  5. Turn off «Select automatically».
  6. Wait a few seconds without closing the menu – a list of available networks (Vodafone, T-Mobile, etc.) should appear.
  7. Select a different network from the list, then exit «Settings».

Faq

How can I check my internet speed and see if it has improved?

You can use third-party tools like Speedtest, Fast.com, or nPerf to measure your connection speed. They're free.
I see a 3G/4G signal on my phone – how can I get 5G?

One effective way is to switch to a different network manually. When using an eSIM, your phone often connects to the first accessible network, but that carrier might only offer 3G or 4G speeds. By selecting another operator that supports 5G, you can potentially get faster internet.
Will I always have access to 5G with an eSIM?

Unfortunately, 5G coverage is still limited in most countries. Outside major cities, local operators often only offer 3G or 4G networks. So, in some areas, your internet speed may be slower no matter which network you choose. Moreover, some local carriers that your eSIM connects to might restrict 5G access, so it’s a good idea to try different networks to find the best option.