Device Guide
eSIM on Other Devices: Laptops, Tablets, Smartwatches & More
eSIM isn't just for phones. Discover how to install eSIM on iPads, Windows laptops, Chromebooks, smartwatches, and even cameras — plus which devices support travel eSIMs.
Updated April 2026 · About 9 min read
📱 eSIM goes beyond smartphones
While iPhones and Android phones dominate eSIM discussions, dozens of other device categories now support embedded SIM technology. From cellular iPads to LTE smartwatches and even Windows laptops, eSIM is becoming the standard for connected devices — especially for travelers who want connectivity without tethering to a phone.
Device compatibility at a glance
| Device Type | eSIM Support | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| iPad (Cellular models) | ✅ Yes | Travel tablet, remote work |
| Apple Watch (Cellular) | ✅ Yes | Running, hiking, short trips |
| Windows 11 laptops | ⚠️ Limited | Business travelers (select models) |
| Chromebooks | ⚠️ Limited | Education, field work |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch | ✅ Yes | Fitness, calls without phone |
| Garmin LTE watches | ✅ Yes | Safety, tracking, messaging |
| Cameras (DSLR/mirrorless) | ✅ Emerging | Photo backup, remote control |
📟 iPad & Cellular Tablets
Cellular iPads have supported eSIM since 2018. This is one of the most popular non-phone use cases — especially for travelers who want a larger screen for maps, movies, and remote work without burning phone battery or data.
iPad models with eSIM:
- iPad Pro 11" (3rd gen+) and 12.9" (5th gen+)
- iPad Air (4th gen and newer)
- iPad (10th gen and newer)
- iPad mini (6th gen and newer)
How to set up eSIM on iPad:
- Settings → Cellular Data
- Tap "Add eSIM" or "Add Cellular Plan"
- Scan QR code from eSimTrip
- Label your plan (e.g., "Travel Data")
- Set as default for cellular data
💡Pro tip for travelers: Install a travel eSIM on your iPad and use it as a mobile hotspot for your phone and laptop. Many iPads have larger batteries and better antennas than phones.
⌚ Smartwatches with eSIM
Cellular smartwatches let you leave your phone behind while staying connected — perfect for running, hiking, or quick errands abroad. However, most travel eSIMs are designed for phones and may not work directly on watches. Here's what you need to know:
Apple Watch (Series 3+ Cellular)
Uses Number Share — your watch shares your iPhone's phone number. Does NOT work with independent travel eSIMs. Requires carrier plan that supports Apple Watch companion service.
Samsung Galaxy Watch (4/5/6/7/Ultra LTE)
Samsung watches can use eSIM profiles, but most travel eSIMs aren't compatible. Best for local carrier plans that offer wearable support.
Google Pixel Watch (1/2/3 LTE)
Similar to Apple Watch — requires carrier plan with wearable support. Independent eSIM installation is generally not supported.
Garmin LTE watches (Venu 2 Plus, Forerunner 945 LTE, etc.)
Different approach — Garmin uses built-in LTE for safety features (incident detection, live tracking) and messaging. Not for general data or travel eSIMs. Requires Garmin's own subscription.
⚠️Important: Most consumer travel eSIMs (including eSimTrip) are designed for phones and tablets. Smartwatches typically require carrier-specific wearable plans. Always check compatibility before purchasing.
💻 Windows 11 Laptops
Microsoft introduced native eSIM support in Windows 10 and expanded it in Windows 11. However, most consumer laptops don't include cellular modems — you need specific "Always Connected" PC models.
Laptops with eSIM support:
- Microsoft Surface Pro (X, 9, 10, 11 — 5G models)
- Microsoft Surface Go (3, 4 — LTE models)
- Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (select 5G models)
- Dell Latitude (select 5G models)
- HP EliteBook (select 5G models)
- ASUS ExpertBook (select models)
How to install eSIM on Windows 11:
- Go to Settings → Network & internet → Cellular
- Click "Manage eSIM profiles"
- Click "Add new profile"
- Scan QR code or enter manual details (SM-DP+ and activation code)
- Click "Download" and follow prompts
🌍Most travel eSIMs work on Windows laptops if the laptop has a cellular modem. eSimTrip's data-only plans are compatible with Windows eSIM implementation.
📚 Chromebooks
Chromebooks with cellular connectivity are rare but growing. Google added eSIM support to ChromeOS in 2020.
- Google Pixelbook Go (LTE model)
- ASUS Chromebook Flip (select LTE models)
- Acer Chromebook Spin (select LTE models)
- Lenovo Chromebook Duet (5G models)
Setup: Settings → Network → Mobile data → Add eSIM → Scan QR code.
Note: Consumer travel eSIMs generally work on Chromebooks, but availability depends on your Chromebook's cellular modem compatibility.
📸 Cameras (DSLR & Mirrorless)
This is an emerging category. High-end cameras are starting to include eSIM or physical SIM slots for direct cloud backup, remote control, and geotagging.
Canon
EOS R5 (with optional communication adapter), select PowerShot models with built-in cellular
Nikon
Z9 (via WT-7 transmitter), select Coolpix models
GoPro
HERO5 Black and newer (with GoPro subscription — uses automatic cloud upload, not user-installed eSIM)
DJI Drones
Select enterprise models have 4G/5G modules (physical SIM or eSIM for live streaming)
📷For photographers traveling abroad: The most practical solution is still using your phone as a hotspot for your camera, rather than installing a separate eSIM on the camera itself.
🚗 Cars with eSIM
Modern connected cars use eSIM for over-the-air updates, navigation, Wi-Fi hotspots, and emergency services (eCall). However, you generally cannot install your own travel eSIM in a rental car — the eSIM is locked to the manufacturer's telematics system.
🚙For rental cars: Most rental cars with Wi-Fi hotspots use their own data plans. You cannot install eSimTrip on a rental car. Instead, use your phone's hotspot or a portable Wi-Fi device.
📶 Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots (MiFi)
Dedicated portable hotspots are making the shift from physical SIM to eSIM. These are excellent for travelers who want to keep their phone's battery alive or connect multiple devices.
Devices with eSIM:
- GlocalMe Numen Air
- Roamwise Connect
- uCloudLink SIMBOX
- Some Netgear Nighthawk models (select M-series)
Setup (typical):
- Connect to hotspot's admin panel (web or app)
- Navigate to eSIM / SIM management
- Scan QR code or enter SM-DP+ details
- Select eSIM as active data source
✓Traveler tip: A portable eSIM hotspot lets you buy one eSimTrip plan and share it across your phone, laptop, tablet, and even your travel companion's devices simultaneously.
How other devices compare to phones
| Feature | Phone (iPhone/Android) | iPad/Tablet | Laptop | Watch |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| QR code installation | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ⚠️ |
| Manual entry (SM-DP+) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ⚠️ |
| Works with travel eSIMs | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Multiple eSIM storage | ✓ (8-10+) | ✓ (8+) | ✓ (limited) | 1-2 only |
Frequently asked questions
❓ Can I use my eSimTrip eSIM on my iPad AND phone at the same time?
No. An eSIM profile can only be active on one device at a time. If you want to use data on multiple devices, you need either separate eSIMs or a portable hotspot.
❓ Will my Apple Watch work with eSimTrip?
Generally no. Apple Watch requires Number Share with your iPhone's carrier. eSimTrip travel eSIMs are data-only and not designed for watch companion services.
❓ Can I install eSIM on my Windows laptop for international travel?
Yes — if your laptop has a built-in cellular modem (not all do). Check Device Manager for "cellular" or "mobile broadband" adapters. eSimTrip data plans are compatible with Windows eSIM.
❓ Do rental cars with eSIM accept travel eSIMs?
No. Car eSIMs are locked to the manufacturer's telematics system. You cannot install your own eSIM profile on a rental car.
❓ What's the best non-phone device for travel eSIMs?
iPad with cellular (any recent model) or a dedicated eSIM portable hotspot. Both offer excellent battery life, easy eSIM installation, and can share connectivity with other devices.