Data vs Voice vs SMS: Which USA eSIM Plans Offer All Three?

For travelers heading to the United States, staying connected means more than just having internet access. Many need a plan that also allows phone calls and SMS – whether for confirming hotel bookings, contacting local businesses, or staying in touch with family.

Choosing an eSIM USA calls and data helps you enjoy complete connectivity without juggling multiple SIM cards. Let’s explore how these plans differ, what they offer, and which ones suit your trip best.

Understanding eSIM USA Plans: Data-Only vs. Data + Calls

Data-Only eSIMs

• Provide internet access for browsing, navigation, and social media.
• Ideal for travelers who use apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or FaceTime for communication.
• Usually cheaper and simpler to set up.
• Perfect for short-term visitors or digital nomads relying mainly on Wi-Fi and messaging apps.

Data + Calls eSIMs (All-in-One Plans)

• Include both mobile data and a local U.S. phone number.
• Allow you to make/receive local calls or SMS directly.
• Great for business travelers, students, or anyone needing full carrier features.
• Slightly higher in price, but far more versatile and convenient.

Best Use Cases for Each Type

Criteria	Data-Only eSIM USA	eSIM USA Calls and Data (All-Inclusive)
Ideal Users	Short-term tourists, digital nomads	Long-term travelers, expats, business users
Features	Internet access only	Data + Voice + SMS (with U.S. number)
Communication	WhatsApp, Telegram, Zoom	Local calls, text messages
Setup Complexity	Very easy (scan & use)	Slightly longer (requires number registration)
Cost	Lower (budget-friendly)	Higher, but includes more services
Best For	Browsing, maps, and social media	Calling hotels, booking services, receiving OTPs
Duration Fit	3–10 days trips	15–90 days or longer stays
Support Need	Minimal	Prefer providers with 24/7 assistance
Example Use Case	Tourist visiting for a week	Freelancer or student staying for 2–3 months

Tip: If you only need internet and already use WhatsApp for calls, choose a data-only plan.
If you need a U.S. number for calls or verifications, go with an all-in-one eSIM.

Top 3 eSIM USA Calls + Data

Twise:

• Offers both data-only and data + calls plans.
• Reliable 4G/5G coverage with 24/7 support.
• Instant activation and flexible durations (7, 15, 30, 60 or 90 days).

AT&T Prepaid eSIM:

• Local number included.
• Excellent coverage nationwide.
• Ideal for professionals or long stays.

T-Mobile eSIM:

• Strong urban network.
• Affordable pricing and easy setup.
• Great for travelers who stay in major cities.

Pro Tip: Check if your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM before purchasing. Always save your QR code securely in case you need to reinstall it.

Read more: Affordable eSIM Phones in 2025: Compare the Best Budget Options

Activation and Compatibility Tips

• Ensure your phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked.
• Keep a backup of your QR code in case of reinstallation.
• Check network partners and coverage before purchasing.
• If you use dual SIM, assign data to your eSIM and keep your main SIM for personal calls.

Conclusion

Choosing an eSIM USA with calls and data gives you the freedom to stay online, make local calls, and receive texts — all from a single digital SIM. It’s the smartest option for travelers who want reliable, all-in-one connectivity without worrying about roaming charges or SIM swaps.

Explore Twise’s USA eSIM plans — from affordable data-only options to full-featured plans with calls, data, and SMS — designed for every traveler’s needs.

Related Articles:

• Using eSIM Hotspot/Tethering in the USA: Which Providers Support It?
• 7-Day USA eSIM: Stay Connected with Stable Internet Anywhere
• Best USA Travel SIM Alternatives to Lyca Mobile — Strong Coverage, Great Price!

FAQs:

1. How does Twise work?

Twise provides eSIMs that let you access mobile networks without needing a physical SIM card. Simply purchase an eSIM plan from Twise’s website, install it on your device, and start using data instantly.

2. How do I activate a USA eSIM from Twise?
   Activation depends on the type of USA eSIM you choose:

•  Local eSIMs (e.g., T-Mobile or AT&T) – These support calls and SMS within the USA. During checkout, provide your EID and IMEI. After successful activation on your selected activation date, your eSIM will be delivered to your device via push notification before 9:00 AM (GMT-7).
• Roaming eSIMs (data-only) – After completing the payment, Twise will immediately send your eSIM QR code to your email. Simply scan the QR code to install your eSIM and turn on data roaming to start using it.

3. Can I recharge or top up my USA eSIM from Twise?
   No, Twise does not support top-ups. However, you can easily purchase a new eSIM if you need more data or your trip is extended.

4. What if my Twise eSIM isn’t working?
   Twise’s customer support is available 24/7 to assist you. You can contact them through the official channels below for immediate help:

• Facebook Fanpage: Twise
• Email: [email protected]
• WhatsApp: (+1) 818-915-0777