How to Set Up an eSIM on iPad or Tablet

eSIM on Tablets: What You Need to Know

iPads and some Android tablets support eSIM, which means you can install a travel data plan directly on your tablet — no phone required. Since Only eSIM plans are data-only, they are a natural fit for tablets. You get mobile internet for browsing, maps, email, and apps, which is exactly what a tablet needs.

Before you start, there is one critical requirement: your tablet must be a WiFi + Cellular model. WiFi-only tablets do not have cellular hardware and cannot use eSIMs at all.

Compatible iPads

The following iPad models support eSIM (WiFi + Cellular versions only):

• iPad Pro — 3rd generation (2018) and later
• iPad Air — 3rd generation (2019) and later
• iPad mini — 5th generation (2019) and later
• iPad — 7th generation (2019) and later

How to check your iPad: If you are not sure which model you have or whether it supports eSIM, go to Settings > Cellular Data. If you see an option that says "Set Up Cellular" or "Add eSIM," your iPad supports it. If that option is missing, you either have a WiFi-only model or an older generation that predates eSIM support.

Compatible Android Tablets

eSIM support on Android tablets is less standardized than on iPads. Some models that support eSIM include:

• Samsung Galaxy Tab S series (select models, S8 and newer)
• Select Lenovo tablets with cellular connectivity
• Microsoft Surface Pro models with LTE/5G

How to check your Android tablet: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs (the exact path varies by manufacturer). If you see an "Add SIM" or "Add eSIM" option, your tablet supports it. If no such option exists, your tablet likely does not have eSIM capability.

Installation Steps: iPad

Make sure you are connected to WiFi before starting.

1. Open Settings
2. Tap Cellular Data
3. Tap Set Up Cellular or Add eSIM
4. Choose "Use QR Code"
5. Point your iPad's camera at the QR code from your Only eSIM purchase email (display the QR code on another screen — a laptop, phone, or printed copy)
6. Wait for the plan to be detected, then tap Continue
7. Confirm the plan details and tap Activate
8. Wait for the eSIM profile to download (usually 10-30 seconds)
9. Once installed, go to Settings > Cellular Data > Cellular Data Options
10. Turn on Data Roaming

Your eSIM is now installed and ready. You should see it listed under your cellular data plans.

Label your plan: Tap the new plan in Settings > Cellular Data and give it a recognizable name like "Japan Travel" or "Europe Trip." This makes it easy to identify if you install multiple eSIMs over time.

Installation Steps: Android Tablet

The process is similar to installing an eSIM on an Android phone.

1. Open Settings
2. Go to Network & Internet > SIMs
3. Tap "Add SIM" or "Add eSIM"
4. Choose "Scan QR Code"
5. Point your camera at the QR code from your purchase email
6. Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm and activate the plan
7. Once installed, make sure Data Roaming is enabled in your mobile network settings

The exact menu names and steps may vary slightly depending on your tablet manufacturer and Android version.

WiFi-Only iPads: Your Options

If you have a WiFi-only iPad, eSIM is not an option — the hardware is not there. Your best alternative is using your phone as a hotspot. Install an eSIM on your phone (see our iPhone guide or Android guide), enable the hotspot, and connect your iPad to it like any WiFi network. Just choose a plan with enough data for both devices.

One eSIM or Two? Phone and Tablet Together

If you are traveling with both a phone and a tablet, you have two options:

Option A: One eSIM on your phone, share via hotspot. Buy one plan with enough data for both devices, install it on your phone, and tether your tablet when needed. This is the most common and cost-effective approach.

Option B: Separate eSIMs for each device. This makes sense if you need your tablet independently connected for extended periods, like working remotely all day. It costs more but gives full independence.

For most travelers, Option A is the way to go.

The Bottom Line

Tablets with cellular capability work great with data-only travel eSIMs. iPads are the most straightforward — check that you have the WiFi + Cellular model, and installation takes under a minute. For most people, buying one eSIM for your phone and sharing via hotspot is the simplest and cheapest way to keep your tablet connected on the road.

Browse eSIM plans at onlyesim.com.