Can You Use a Personal Hotspot with eSIM? A Complete Guide to Using eSIM for Tethering Abroad


In recent years, more smartphones have adopted eSIM technology, making it easier for travelers and business professionals to stay connected while abroad.


One of the biggest advantages of eSIM is the ability to switch mobile plans online without needing to swap a physical SIM card.

But can you use a personal hotspot (tethering) with an eSIM? How do you set it up? What are the pros and cons? This article will answer all your questions in detail.




Table of Contents


1. What is eSIM?

——Key features of eSIM
2. Can you use tethering with an eSIM?
3. How to enable eSIM tethering
——iOS setup
——Android setup
4. Benefits & considerations of using eSIM tethering abroad
5. Warning: Some eSIMs may have tethering restrictions
6. Why AlmondSIM eSIM is the best choice for travelers

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)






1. What is eSIM?


eSIM (Embedded SIM) is a digital SIM built into your device, allowing you to switch carriers and activate plans online without needing a physical SIM card.


Key Features of eSIM


(1)No physical SIM needed – No need to insert or swap SIM cards.


(2) Online activation – Purchase and activate your plan before traveling.


(3) Multi-network support – If your phone supports dual SIM, you can use a domestic SIM and an international eSIM simultaneously.







2. Can you use tethering with an eSIM?



The short answer: Yes!


Most smartphones that support eSIM also allow you to use a personal hotspot (tethering), enabling other devices like laptops and tablets to share your mobile data.


However, some carriers may impose restrictions that slow down or even disable the hotspot function. We’ll cover more on this later.






3. How to enable eSIM tethering



3.1 How to Set Up a Hotspot on iPhone


(1)Open the Settings app.


(2)Go to Personal Hotspot.


(3)Turn on Allow Others to Join.


(If APN settings are required):


Go to Cellular → Cellular Plans → Cellular Data Network.


Under "Personal Hotspot," enter the APN settings provided by your eSIM provider (leave username and password blank).


Apple's Official Guide: How to Set Up a Personal Hotspot on iPhone/iPad




3.2 How to Set Up a Hotspot on Android


(1)Open the Settings app.


(2)Select Network & Internet.


(3)Go to Hotspot & Tethering, then enable Wi-Fi Hotspot.


(If APN settings are required):


Go to Mobile Network Settings and manually enter the APN.


Android's Official Guide: How to Use Tethering on Android






4. Benefits & Considerations of Using eSIM Tethering Abroad



4.1 Benefits of Using eSIM Tethering


(1) Connect multiple devices – Share your mobile data with your laptop or tablet.


(2) No need to rent a pocket Wi-Fi – Your smartphone becomes a portable hotspot.


(3) No extra fees – Tethering is usually included in eSIM data plans (check your provider’s terms).



4.2 Considerations


(1) Battery consumption – Tethering drains your phone’s battery quickly, so carry a power bank.


(2) High data usage – Laptops and tablets may automatically update or sync, consuming more data than expected.


(3) Connection dropouts – Some phones may disable tethering when idle to save power.







5. Warning: Some eSIMs May Have Tethering Restrictions


While most eSIMs support tethering, some users have reported issues with specific providers.


For example, eSIM plans from T-Mobile USA have been known to restrict tethering. Some users reported that after enabling their hotspot, the internet speed slowed down significantly or stopped working altogether.

This issue has been reported for the following eSIM plans:

(1)Mainland USA eSIM


(2)Hawaii eSIM


To avoid issues, always check if your eSIM plan supports tethering before purchasing.







6. Why AlmondSIM eSIM is the Best Choice for Travelers



If you’re traveling abroad and need an eSIM, AlmondSIM is your best option!


Why Choose AlmondSIM?


(1) Supports Tethering – Most AlmondSIM eSIM plans allow hotspot sharing.


(2) Instant Activation – Buy and set up before departure for seamless connectivity.


(3) Flexible Data Plans – Choose from 1GB to high-capacity plans based on your needs.


(4) 24/7 Customer Support – Get assistance in English and Japanese anytime.


Check out AlmondSIM’s plans here: AlmondSIM Official Website






7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)



Q1: Do all eSIMs support tethering?


A: Most eSIMs allow tethering, but some carriers impose restrictions. Check with your provider before purchasing.



Q2: Does using an eSIM increase battery consumption?


A: Yes, especially when using tethering. Carrying a portable charger is recommended.



Q3: Does tethering consume a lot of data?


A: Yes, especially if your laptop or tablet downloads updates in the background. Consider setting a data limit.



Q4: What is the best eSIM for using a personal hotspot abroad?


A: AlmondSIM offers tethering-friendly plans and 24/7 customer support, making it an excellent choice for travelers.



For more questions, visit the AlmondSIM FAQ Page







Conclusion


With eSIM, you can easily use tethering abroad without renting a pocket Wi-Fi. However, be mindful of battery consumption and data usage.


For a hassle-free experience, choose an eSIM that supports tethering, such as AlmondSIM, and enjoy seamless internet access during your travels!