HelloRoam vs Google Fi: which eSIM is better in 2026?

For most travellers, yes. HelloRoam runs on local partner networks in 185+ countries with no monthly subscription. Google Fi requires a monthly plan plus a US address and Google account, which puts it out of reach for most international travellers.

Every Google Pixel from the Pixel 4 onward supports eSIM, and some Pixel 3 and 3a units do too, depending on where they were bought. The Pixel 7, 8, and 9 all handle dual eSIM profiles with no issues. Travellers can keep their Bell or Rogers SIM for calls at home and load a HelloRoam travel eSIM for data abroad. Manage both under Settings, then Network and Internet, then SIMs.

The Google Pixel 9 supports eSIM and holds multiple profiles at the same time. Travellers on the Pixel 9 can load a HelloRoam eSIM for data in 185+ countries while keeping their Telus or Rogers SIM active for Canadian calls. Open Settings, then Network and Internet, then SIMs, tap Add SIM, and scan the HelloRoam QR code. Note that an eSIM cannot be moved to another device once installed.

Switching between eSIM profiles takes a few taps in settings. On iPhone, go to Settings, then Cellular, and tap the line you want for data. On Android, go to Settings, then Network, then SIM Manager. Many travellers keep their Rogers, Bell, or Telus plan active for calls and set HelloRoam as the data line as soon as they land at their destination.

HelloRoam eSIM data plans start at CA$1.44 as a one-time payment with no monthly fees. Buy your eSIM online from HelloRoam in minutes and get your QR code before you leave Canada. Google Fi requires a monthly plan whether you travel that month or not. For travellers who go abroad a few times a year, HelloRoam's pay-as-you-go model costs far less than a year-round Google Fi subscription.

A travel eSIM is a smart choice for European trips from Canada. Google Fi charges a monthly fee, and that cost continues whether you are home or away. HelloRoam charges one flat price per plan, and a single Europe plan covers multiple EU countries. HelloRoam plans start at CA$1.44 worldwide, and plans for EU countries start higher. You pay for the weeks you are in Europe, not the months you are not.

A travel eSIM is worth it for any international trip from Canada. HelloRoam plans start at CA$1.44 with no subscription. Google Fi requires a monthly plan to access Google Fi international calls and data. For travellers who travel abroad a few times each year, a pay-as-you-go HelloRoam eSIM costs far less than maintaining a Google Fi subscription for twelve months.

The downsides of eSIM include needing a phone that supports it, needing Wi-Fi to download the profile the first time, and not being able to move the eSIM to another device. Supported phones include the iPhone XS and newer, most Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer models, and the Google Pixel 4 and newer, so check your phone's settings before you buy. An eSIM is not transferable between devices once installed. For most travellers, those trade-offs are minor compared to skipping Bell or Rogers international roaming charges and avoiding a monthly carrier contract.

HelloRoam offers eSIM compatible plans for visitors travelling to the United States, on the AT&T and Verizon networks. International travellers landing in the US get instant data for navigation, ride-sharing, and staying in touch from the moment they clear customs. Google Fi requires a US address and a Google account, making it inaccessible to most international visitors.

HelloRoam is a great pick for travellers visiting Europe, with regional plans that cover several EU countries under a single purchase. A trip across Spain, Italy, and France can run on one plan with no monthly fees. Google Fi's Unlimited Premium plan covers European data for a monthly fee, an ongoing cost that rarely makes sense for a single holiday.