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 GigSky 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: GigSky
• Best for human help + offline support: Telkomsel by BaliEasy

 

1) Network & Coverage

GigSky

GigSky is a roaming travel eSIM. It does not publicly name a fixed local network partner in Bali.
According to its official site, the eSIM connects to the “fastest, most reliable network” available, meaning it can automatically switch between different local networks depending on location.

While this works well in many areas, coverage and speed consistency can vary, especially outside main tourist zones.

BaliEasy

BaliEasy uses a direct local Telkomsel network, which is widely considered the strongest and most reliable provider in Bali.

Coverage is generally stable across popular tourist areas and inland regions such as Ubud, Canggu, Uluwatu, Seminyak, Kuta, Sanur, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Denpasar, Bedugul, Kintamani, Amed, Lovina, Sidemen, Munduk, Nusa Penida, and Tulamben.

Because it’s a local Telkomsel line rather than roaming, performance is typically more predictable, particularly in remote areas and during peak hours.

 

2) Speed & Stability

GigSky

A real Facebook user shared the following experience:

“Currently writing this on a gigsky eSIM. No calling, just data. Works well in the city but once you get outside service has been spotty.”

See full discussion: Facebook

This comment refers to use in Cuba, not Bali, but it highlights a common pattern with roaming eSIMs, good performance in urban areas, with less consistent speed and stability once you move outside major cities.

BaliEasy

BaliEasy runs on the Telkomsel network, which is widely recognized for delivering fast and stable mobile data across Bali, with an emphasis on consistent, everyday performance rather than brief speed spikes.

Travelers can generally depend on reliable connectivity for Google Maps, WhatsApp voice and video calls, social media, and file uploads, even while moving between different areas of the island.

During busy periods, speeds tend to remain more consistent compared to many roaming travel eSIMs.

BaliEasy’s Telkomsel eSIM also does not apply a Fair Usage Policy (FUP), meaning there are no hidden speed throttles after reaching a certain usage level, you simply use your data until it is fully consumed.

Because of this, BaliEasy is a better fit for travelers who need predictable speed and stability for work, navigation, or regular online communication, without the risk of sudden slowdowns.

 

3) Hotspot / Tethering

GigSky

GigSky is a roaming travel eSIM, and according to its official Indonesia plan details, hotspot/tethering is allowed. Users can share their connection with laptops or other devices.

However, hotspot performance follows the same rules as the plan itself. On unlimited plans, high-speed data is subject to a daily high-speed threshold (after which speeds are reduced until the next 24-hour cycle).

There are no officially stated device limits, but real-world tethering speed and stability depend on location and the local network the roaming eSIM connects to at that moment.

BaliEasy

Telkomsel by BaliEasy fully allows hotspot/tethering without artificial restrictions. You can share your connection with laptops, tablets, or other devices as needed.

Importantly, BaliEasy’s Telkomsel eSIM does not apply a Fair Usage Policy (FUP), meaning hotspot speeds are not intentionally throttled after a hidden usage cap.

You simply use your data until it runs out, making hotspot usage more predictable for work, video calls, and extended online sessions.

 

4) Pricing & Data Plans

GigSky

GigSky offers both unlimited and fixed data eSIM plans. For fixed data, GigSky includes a free 100 MB trial valid for 7 days, which is a nice touch for testing the eSIM.

Beyond the trial, GigSky’s fixed data plans typically range from 1 GB to 10 GB, with validity periods between 7 and 30 days, making them suitable for short trips or light usage.

However, when comparing value, GigSky is generally more expensive than BaliEasy for the same travel duration.

For example, GigSky charges USD 16.99 for 5 GB valid 30 days, while BaliEasy offers around 21 GB for about USD 15 with the same 30-day validity, a significant difference for travelers who need more data at a lower cost.

BaliEasy

BaliEasy offers local Telkomsel-based data plans with significantly higher data allowances for the same validity period, making it more cost-effective for travelers staying in Bali.

For example, you can get around 21 GB for approximately USD 15 with 30-day validity, which is substantially more data than most roaming eSIM options.

BaliEasy plans can also be topped up anytime without reinstalling the eSIM, and there is no Fair Usage Policy (FUP), your speeds are not intentionally throttled, and you simply use your data until it runs out.

This makes BaliEasy a better choice for travelers who want predictable pricing, flexible top-ups, and heavy or long-term data usage in Bali.

 

5) Activation Process

GigSky

GigSky activation is fully self-serve, users purchase a plan via the GigSky app or website and install the eSIM using the app, QR code, or manual activation code.

The plan usually activates once the phone connects to a supported network at the destination, so installation can be done before travel without starting the validity period.

Common issues mentioned on GigSky’s site include carrier-locked devices, unstable internet during installation, QR scan failures, or incorrect settings such as roaming or APN configuration.

BaliEasy

BaliEasy uses a guided activation process to ensure the eSIM works properly on Indonesia’s local Telkomsel network from the start.

After installing the eSIM via QR code, users submit a passport photo and an IMEI screenshot from the device where the eSIM is installed, helping avoid common issues such as incorrect IMEI assignment or inactive data lines.

If any problems arise, BaliEasy provides direct human support via WhatsApp and email, making it especially reassuring for travelers who want hands-on assistance and quick help upon arrival.

 

6) Local +62 Number Availability

GigSky

GigSky is a data-only roaming eSIM and does not include an Indonesian +62 phone number.

This means you cannot receive local SMS or make regular local calls, which can be limiting in Bali when services require phone verification or when you need to contact drivers, guides, or restaurants using a local number.

BaliEasy

BaliEasy includes a local Indonesian +62 number, which is useful for everyday needs in Bali such as signing up for or using apps like Gojek and Grab, receiving local verification messages (where applicable), and making or receiving local calls.

Having a local number makes communication smoother and more practical for travelers who want a setup that works like a true local SIM rather than just mobile data.

 

7) Customer Support

GigSky

Some travelers have raised concerns about GigSky’s customer support, particularly around accessibility and response times. A Facebook user shared:

“I am very hesitant to try GigSky for multiple reasons:
1. No customer service phone number
2. Sent them an email with questions they never responded to.”

See full discussion: Facebook

This highlights a common limitation noted by users: GigSky primarily relies on email-based support, with no public phone line or real-time chat, which can be challenging when issues need quick resolution.

BaliEasy

BaliEasy prioritizes 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 avoiding repetitive troubleshooting steps.

Because BaliEasy operates locally, the team understands Telkomsel network behavior, IMEI registration, and common device issues.

Support is hands-on and continues step by step until the connection is fully working, making it especially reassuring for travelers who want fast, reliable help when it matters most.

 

8) Refund Policy

GigSky

According to GigSky’s official Consumer Terms, eSIM plans and top-ups are generally non-refundable once purchased, including unused data. Refunds are not guaranteed for activation or connection issues, and any requests must be submitted through GigSky’s Help Center or via email.

In practice, refunds are handled case by case and are not clearly defined as an entitlement in the policy.

BaliEasy

Per policy, BaliEasy offers a 100% refund if a device is not compatible or if verified connection issues occur, provided the stated conditions are met. Refund eligibility is checked by a local team that can test compatibility and troubleshoot first.

Requests are handled directly via WhatsApp or email, making the process clearer and faster for travelers.

 

9) Offline Stores in Bali

GigSky

GigSky has no offline presence in Bali. It operates as a fully digital travel eSIM service, purchased and activated online through its app or website, with no physical stores or in-person setup locations listed on its official site.

As a result, any issues are handled remotely through online support rather than walk-in assistance.

BaliEasy

BaliEasy offers offline support in Bali, with physical stores located in Canggu, Pererenan, and Seseh.

This allows travelers to receive in-person help for activation and troubleshooting, which is especially valuable for first-time eSIM users, urgent issues, or anyone who wants peace of mind before exploring the island.

 

10) Comparison Table (Feature-by-Feature)

Feature	Telkomsel by BaliEasy	GigSky
Network/provider	Direct local Telkomsel line	Roaming travel eSIM; local partner network not publicly specified, connects to “fastest, most reliable network” available
Coverage in Bali	Strong coverage across main tourist areas and inland/remote routes (generally more reliable island-wide)	Can work well in many areas, but coverage consistency can vary outside main tourist zones due to roaming partner switching
Speed consistency	Typically more predictable for everyday use, including peak hours	Often fine in cities; can be less consistent outside urban areas (varies by partner network/location)
Hotspot/tethering	Allowed; no artificial restrictions (use data until it runs out)	Allowed; unlimited plans have a daily high-speed threshold then reduced speeds until next cycle
Plan value	Generally better value (more GB for similar validity); easy top-ups	Good for short trips + has 100MB free trial, but typically more expensive per GB
Activation difficulty	Guided (passport + IMEI verification) with human assistance	Self-serve via app/QR/manual code; may require device settings + troubleshooting
Local +62 number	Yes (useful for local calls and some verifications)	No (data-only)
Support quality	Human support via WhatsApp + email; local Telkomsel/device know-how	Primarily email/help-center support; response experiences vary
Refund clarity	Clearer “per policy” (100% refund if eligible: incompatible device / verified connection issues)	Policy states purchases/top-ups are generally non-refundable; handled case-by-case
Offline stores in Bali	Yes, Canggu, Pererenan, Seseh	No, fully digital, no Bali storefront listed

 

11) Who Should Choose Which

Choose Telkomsel by BaliEasy if you:

• Want better value with more data at a lower price.
• Need the strongest and most reliable coverage in Bali, including inland and less touristy areas.
• Prefer human support via WhatsApp/email with the option for in-person help.
• Want a local +62 number for Bali-focused use (local calls, drivers, apps, and verifications where applicable).
• Value a clear refund policy if your device is not compatible or verified connection issues occur.

Choose GigSky if you:

• Need multi-country coverage on a single trip.
• Prefer app-based, self-serve activation without document verification.
• Already use GigSky in other countries and want to keep the same setup.
• Only need a data-only solution for light or short stays.
• Want to try the service first with GigSky’s free 100 MB trial.

 

12) Summary

Both options work in Bali, but they serve different travel styles. BaliEasy is optimized for Bali with a local Telkomsel network, more predictable speeds, hotspot without FUP, a local +62 number, and real human support, making it the safer choice for most travelers who value coverage and help when needed.

GigSky is convenient for short, multi-country trips with self-serve activation, but it’s roaming-based, data-only, and typically offers less value per GB. If Bali is your main destination and reliability matters, Telkomsel by BaliEasy is the more practical option.

Get Started with BaliEasy

Check plans: https://esim.balieasy.com/
Chat on WhatsApp: +6281 365 626 111
Email support: esim@balieasy.com