Choosing the right eSIM in Bali matters because coverage quality, speed stability, customer support, and access to a local Indonesian number can significantly affect your travel experience.
In this article, we compare ZenSim eSIM vs Telkomsel eSIM by BaliEasy across key factors including network coverage, speed, hotspot use, pricing, activation, local number availability, support, refunds, and offline presence in Bali.
This is a neutral, practical comparison focused on real travel needs in Bali.
Quick Summary
- Best for Bali coverage: Telkomsel by BaliEasy
- Best for multi-country travel: ZenSim
- Best for human help + offline support: Telkomsel by BaliEasy
1) Network & Coverage
ZenSim
ZenSim offers an Indonesia travel eSIM that activates automatically upon arrival and works as a data-only roaming eSIM. Based on its official site, ZenSim states that it connects to “the best available networks in Indonesia,”.
This means performance can vary depending on location, network congestion, and which partner network the device connects to at a given time.
In real-world use, Facebook feedback from Bali travelers is generally positive. One user shared:
“I just got back from 3 weeks in Bali. Both my husband and I purchased a ZenSim eSIM before leaving. It was excellent.”
See full discussion: Facebook
This suggests ZenSim performs well for typical tourist use across Bali, especially for short-term stays and coastal or urban areas.
However, as with most roaming-based eSIMs, speeds and consistency may fluctuate during peak hours or when traveling inland, where network prioritization can differ from local SIM users.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy uses a direct local Telkomsel eSIM, meaning users are connected straight to Telkomsel’s domestic network rather than a roaming layer.
Telkomsel is generally considered the strongest and most reliable network in Bali, with broad coverage across both popular tourist hubs and more remote or inland regions, including Ubud, Canggu, Uluwatu, Seminyak, Kuta, Sanur, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Denpasar, Tanah Lot, Bedugul, Kintamani, Amed, Lovina, Sidemen, Munduk, Nusa Penida, and Tulamben.
Because it’s a direct local Telkomsel line, performance is usually more predictable (especially inland and during peak hours).
2) Speed & Stability
ZenSim
A Bali traveler shared this real-world experience on Facebook:
“I used Zensim. It was like $50 I think for 30 days. The coverage was really good but could be slower when I was in busier spots”
See full discussion: Facebook
This reflects what many travelers experience with roaming-style eSIMs: overall usable speeds, but noticeable slowdowns during peak hours or in crowded areas such as Canggu, Seminyak, or busy tourist zones.
ZenSim can work well for general browsing and messaging, but speed consistency may vary depending on congestion.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy uses the Telkomsel network, known for stable and reliable mobile data across Bali. It is built for consistent everyday use rather than short speed bursts.
Users can expect dependable performance for Google Maps, WhatsApp calls, social media, and file uploads, even while moving around the island. Speeds during peak hours are generally more predictable than many travel eSIMs.
BaliEasy’s Telkomsel eSIM has no Fair Usage Policy, so there are no hidden limits or speed reductions. You use your data at full speed until it runs out, making it ideal for travelers who need reliable and predictable connectivity.
3) Hotspot / Tethering
ZenSim
ZenSim states that hotspot and tethering are allowed on its eSIM plans. According to the company, users can share their mobile data connection with other devices, such as laptops or tablets, as long as the device supports hotspot functionality.
However, there are very limited real-world user reviews on Facebook that specifically confirm hotspot or tethering usage with ZenSim in Bali. Most Facebook discussions focus on general eSIM recommendations rather than firsthand reports of ZenSim hotspot performance.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy’s Telkomsel eSIM allows full use of hotspot and tethering, with no daily usage limit applied by the service itself. Users can easily share their data connection with laptops, tablets, or other devices whenever needed.
Since it functions as a local Telkomsel carrier eSIM, hotspot usage follows normal local network behavior instead of the restrictions often found with travel eSIMs. This leads to more stable and predictable performance, including for video calls, file uploads, and remote work.
For travelers who depend on multiple devices during the day, BaliEasy offers a more reliable and work-friendly hotspot experience.
4) Pricing & Data Plans
ZenSim

ZenSim offers both 10-day and 30-day plans, which can be appealing for travelers on very short trips who only need data for a limited time. The shorter validity makes ZenSim a reasonable option for quick visits to Bali.
However, when comparing price and data value, ZenSim is more expensive. For example, ZenSim charges around USD 14 for 5 GB, while BaliEasy provides 12 GB for the same price. This means BaliEasy offers more than double the data at a similar cost.
In summary, ZenSim can work well for short trips thanks to its 10-day option. But if you are looking for the best overall value with more data at a lower cost, BaliEasy is the better choice, offering larger data packages at more competitive prices.
BaliEasy
With a similar budget, BaliEasy provides 12 GB for USD 14, valid for 30 days with no daily data limit. BaliEasy is priced with a strong focus on cost per GB, which can fall below USD 1 per GB depending on the plan.
Because it operates as a local Telkomsel eSIM, there is no Fair Usage Policy and no daily reset. Users can consume their data freely throughout the 30-day period and add top-ups easily if more data is needed.

5) Activation Process
ZenSim
ZenSim activation is fully digital. After purchasing a plan, users receive a QR code and can install the eSIM on their phone before traveling.
The eSIM activates automatically once the phone connects to a supported local network in Bali. Users just need to enable data roaming for the ZenSim line to begin using mobile data.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy follows a guided activation process to make sure the eSIM connects properly to the local Telkomsel network from the beginning.
After installing the eSIM using a QR code, users are required to upload a passport photo and an IMEI screenshot from the device where the eSIM is installed.
This verification step helps avoid common problems such as incorrect IMEI registration, device mismatches, or inactive data lines. If any issues arise, the BaliEasy team offers direct, human support through WhatsApp and email, assisting users step by step until the connection is fully active.
With 24/7 assistance from a local support team, BaliEasy is particularly suitable for travelers who are new to eSIMs or want peace of mind knowing help is immediately available if something goes wrong after arrival.
6) Local +62 Number Availability
ZenSim
ZenSim does not provide an Indonesian +62 phone number, as it clearly states on its website that its eSIM plans are data-only.
Having a local +62 number can be important in Bali for services like Gojek and Grab verification, opening local bank or e-wallet accounts, and contacting drivers, tour guides, or restaurants directly.
Without a local number, travelers must rely entirely on internet-based apps such as WhatsApp for communication.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy provides a local Indonesian (+62) phone number, which is helpful for everyday needs while staying in Bali. Having a local number makes it easier to use ride-hailing services like Gojek and Grab and can assist with certain local verification processes.
A +62 number also allows you to make and receive regular calls with drivers, tour guides, villas, restaurants, and other local businesses, which is useful when WhatsApp is not ideal or a quick call is needed.
For travelers who want a more local-like experience, a local number offers added convenience and flexibility.
7) Customer Support
ZenSim
When it comes to customer support, there are very few clear, first-hand Facebook reviews that specifically discuss ZenSim’s customer service experience (such as response speed or problem resolution)
Based on ZenSim’s official statements, the company says it provides human customer support through WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and email, rather than an app-only ticket system.
ZenSim also claims that messages are typically answered within 24 hours, often sooner, and emphasizes that users can chat with a real person instead of automated bots. This setup is designed mainly for pre-trip assistance, installation help, and general usage questions.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy focuses on direct human support via WhatsApp and email, rather than a ticket-only system. Customers can communicate with a real support team in real time, reducing delays and minimizing repetitive troubleshooting steps.
Because BaliEasy operates locally, the team understands Telkomsel network behavior, IMEI registration, and common device issues. Support is hands-on and step-by-step, continuing until the connection is fully working, an advantage for travelers who want reassurance and fast help when it matters most.
8) Refund Policy
ZenSim
According to ZenSim’s official policy, a refund is only guaranteed if the eSIM has not been installed and the device is confirmed to be incompatible.
Once the eSIM is installed or activated, refunds are generally not available, except in cases of technical failure verified by ZenSim and handled case by case.
Refund requests must be submitted via WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or email, with responses typically claimed within 24 hours.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy applies a transparent and traveler-friendly refund policy. Under its policy, customers may receive a 100% refund if their device is not compatible or if connection issues cannot be resolved after proper troubleshooting.
Refund requests are handled directly through WhatsApp or email with clear instructions, making the process straightforward and stress-free.
9) Offline Stores in Bali
ZenSim
Offline presence: No
ZenSim operates as a fully digital travel eSIM provider. Based on its official site, purchases and activation are handled entirely online, and there are no physical stores or in-person setup locations in Bali.
If any issues occur, assistance is provided remotely through online support channels rather than walk-in help.
BaliEasy
Offline presence: Yes
BaliEasy provides on-the-ground support in Bali, with physical locations in Canggu, Pererenan, and Seseh.
This allows travelers to receive in-person assistance for activation or troubleshooting, which can be especially reassuring for first-time eSIM users or anyone who wants everything checked before continuing their trip.
10) Comparison Table (Feature-by-Feature)
| Feature | Telkomsel by BaliEasy | ZenSim |
| Network / provider | Direct local Telkomsel domestic network | Roaming travel eSIM connecting to “best available networks” in Indonesia (carrier not clearly disclosed) |
| Coverage in Bali | Very strong and consistent across tourist areas and inland/remote regions (Ubud, Kintamani, Amed, Munduk, etc.) | Generally good in urban and coastal areas; coverage can vary by location and partner network |
| Speed consistency | Stable, predictable everyday speeds, including during peak hours | Usable speeds overall, but can slow down in busy areas or peak times |
| Hotspot / tethering | Fully supported with normal local-network behavior; reliable for work and multiple devices | Allowed per policy, but limited real-world FB confirmations of hotspot performance in Bali |
| Plan value | High value per GB; larger data at similar or lower prices; no daily caps | More expensive per GB; better suited to short trips |
| Activation difficulty | Guided setup with verification (passport + IMEI) and real-time human help | Simple QR install; auto-activates on arrival |
| Local +62 number | Yes (useful for Gojek/Grab, calls, local services) | No (data-only) |
| Support quality | Direct human support via WhatsApp/email; local expertise and step-by-step help | WhatsApp/Messenger/email support claimed |
| Refund clarity | Clear policy; 100% refund for incompatibility or unresolved connection issues (per policy) | Limited; refund mainly if not installed and device incompatible, post-activation reviewed case by case |
| Offline stores in Bali | Yes (Canggu, Pererenan, Seseh) | No (fully online only) |
11) Who Should Choose Which
Choose Telkomsel by BaliEasy if you:
- Want better value with strong speed and coverage across Bali
- Need reliable signal inland, not just in tourist areas
- Prefer human support via WhatsApp or email, with optional in-person help in Bali
- Want a local +62 number for Gojek, Grab, and local calls
- Want a Bali-focused setup on the Telkomsel network
Choose ZenSim if you:
- Need multi-country coverage in a single trip
- Prefer self-serve, app/QR-based activation with minimal interaction
- Already use ZenSim in other countries
- Are staying short-term and mainly in urban/coastal areas
12) Summary
ZenSim can be convenient for short trips and multi-country travel, but its roaming setup means performance and consistency can vary, especially in busy or inland areas.
Telkomsel by BaliEasy connects directly to the local network, delivering more predictable speed, stronger island-wide coverage, hotspot reliability, and clear policies.
With human support, optional in-person assistance, and a local +62 number, BaliEasy is the safer, Bali-optimized choice for most travelers, particularly if coverage and support matter.
Get Started with BaliEasy
Check plans: https://esim.balieasy.com/
Chat on WhatsApp: +6281 365 626 111
Email support: esim@balieasy.com

