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 AirHub 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: AirHub
- Best for human help + offline support: Telkomsel by BaliEasy
1) Network & Coverage
AirHub
AirHub’s Indonesia eSIM connects to the Telkomsel network in Bali through a roaming arrangement rather than a direct local line.
One Facebook user reported that the service worked well initially but experienced recurring connection dropouts after a few days on a 30-day plan; even though this comment comes from a New York–based tourist group, it still highlights potential reliability fluctuations over longer usage periods.
“Very bad service when it does not connect anymore (day2 or 3 then from day 7… for a 30d contract). I think this was too cheap to be true… but when it worked, it worked well,” Facebook
This suggests that while coverage can be strong when active, consistency may vary depending on plan handling or network conditions.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy also operates on the Telkomsel network, which is widely considered the strongest coverage option in Bali, serving both popular and more remote areas such as Ubud, Canggu, Uluwatu, Bedugul, Kintamani, and Nusa Penida.
Unlike roaming-based eSIMs, BaliEasy uses a direct local Telkomsel line, which delivers more consistent signal handling and network priority.
As a result, performance is typically more predictable, especially inland and during peak hours, making BaliEasy a more reliable choice for travelers who need stable connectivity across the island.
2) Speed & Stability
AirHub
Some users report inconsistent performance with AirHub, particularly on unlimited plans.
“I use only 5 days unlimited data pack and I don’t know why, but first 3 days the reception and speed of the connection is ok, but the next 2 days is very bad, slow and lose reception constantly…”
See full discussion on: Truspilot
One public review describes acceptable speed and reception during the first few days, followed by significant slowdowns and frequent signal drops later in the same trip.
This suggests that speed and stability may vary over time, especially on short-term or unlimited data packages.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy operates on the Telkomsel network, known for fast and stable coverage across Bali.
Users can typically rely on consistent performance for navigation, calls, social media, and file uploads, even when moving between different areas.
With no Fair Usage Policy (no hidden throttling), speeds remain predictable until the data allowance is fully used, making it well suited for work and everyday connectivity.
3) Hotspot / Tethering
AirHub
AirHub technically allows hotspot/tethering, but user reviews report unexpected limitations during real-world use.
One public review mentions the eSIM stopping for tethered devices due to an unadvertised hotspot data limit.
“The eSIM stopped working for tethered devices due to an unadvertised limit for hotspot data usage…”
See full discussion: Truspilot
Because restrictions may vary by plan or network, hotspot performance can be less predictable for work or multi-device use.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy’s Telkomsel eSIM fully supports hotspot and tethering without a specific daily cap imposed by the service itself.
As a local Telkomsel-based eSIM, hotspot usage follows standard local network rules rather than travel-eSIM restrictions.
This delivers more stable speeds and reliability for remote work, video calls, and multiple connected devices.
4) Pricing & Data Plans
AirHub

AirHub offers Bali eSIM plans with validity ranging from 1 to 30 days, with both fixed-data and unlimited options available.
In comparison, AirHub provides less data at similar price points, for example, USD 18 gives 22 GB for 30 days, while BaliEasy offers 36 GB for the same price and validity.
AirHub plans are mainly data-only, and travelers who need calls or SMS must purchase a separate add-on package (around USD 30) that comes with a +33 (France) number, rather than a local Indonesian (+62) number.
BaliEasy

BaliEasy offers more affordable pricing with a wide range of high-data plans, designed specifically for Bali stays.
All packages include a local Indonesian (+62) number, support easy top-ups, and do not apply FUP (no speed throttling).
This makes BaliEasy a better value option for travelers who want more data, local calling capability, and predictable performance throughout their stay.
5) Activation Process
AirHub
AirHub activation is self-serve and done by scanning a QR code or manually entering the SM-DP+ details via phone settings, without identity verification.
Common issues include QR code errors, unstable Wi-Fi during installation, or devices that are carrier-locked.
Support during setup is handled remotely through email or ticket-based channels, which may slow resolution if problems occur after activation.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy uses a quick passport and IMEI check to make sure the eSIM is fully compatible before activation.
Setup is supported by a real team via WhatsApp and email, with clear, step-by-step guidance during installation.
This assisted approach helps travelers get connected smoothly and minimizes activation issues, especially for first-time eSIM users.
6) Local +62 Number Availability
AirHub
AirHub does not include an Indonesian (+62) local number in its standard Bali eSIM plans.
Instead, voice and SMS are provided through a separate package that uses a +33 (France) number, priced around USD 30 and not included with every plan.
This setup is less convenient for travelers who need a local Indonesian number for everyday use.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy includes a local Indonesian (+62) phone number with its eSIM.
This makes it easier to use ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab, communicate with drivers or villas, and handle local calls where WhatsApp isn’t practical.
For travelers who want to function more like a local in Bali, having a +62 number adds real convenience and flexibility.
7) Customer Support
AirHub
AirHub provides customer support through online channels only, primarily via email and in-app/web ticket-based support, with no public WhatsApp number or walk-in assistance listed on its official site.
“…There is no one working at the company and the ESIM has not worked at all, no direct contact lines to contact as well, they promise 100% money back but ignore this when you request.”
See full discussion: Facebook
Some travelers report slow responses and difficulty resolving issues after purchase, particularly when the eSIM fails to work as expected.
Because support is fully remote and asynchronous, urgent troubleshooting can feel limited once the plan is activated.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy focuses on direct human support via WhatsApp and email rather than a ticket-only system.
Customers can communicate in real time with a local team that understands Telkomsel network behavior, IMEI registration, and common device issues in Bali.
Support is hands-on and continues step by step until the connection is fully working, offering faster resolution and reassurance when it matters most.
8) Refund Policy
AirHub
AirHub classifies eSIMs as non-returnable digital products once the QR code is delivered.
According to its official policy, any eSIM that has been activated or used is not eligible for a refund, and deleted eSIM profiles cannot be reactivated.
Refunds are only considered in limited exceptions and are handled remotely through AirHub’s support team.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy offers a clear refund policy with a 100% refund if the device is not compatible or if connection issues cannot be resolved after troubleshooting, per policy.
Refund requests are handled directly via WhatsApp or email with guided checks to confirm eligibility.
This human-assisted approach gives travelers clearer expectations and lower risk when choosing a Bali-focused eSIM.
9) Offline Stores in Bali
AirHub
Offline presence: No
AirHub operates as a fully digital travel eSIM provider, with purchase and activation handled entirely online.
There are no physical stores or walk-in support locations in Bali listed on its official site.
As a result, any issues are resolved through remote online support rather than in-person assistance.
BaliEasy
Offline presence: Yes
BaliEasy provides on-the-ground support in Bali through physical stores in Canggu, Pererenan, and Seseh.
Travelers can get direct, face-to-face help for activation, setup, or troubleshooting.
This is especially helpful for first-time eSIM users or anyone who wants reassurance before starting their trip.
10) Comparison Table (Feature-by-Feature)
| Feature | Telkomsel by BaliEasy | AirHub |
| Network / Provider | Local Telkomsel line (non-roaming) | Telkomsel via roaming arrangement |
| Coverage in Bali | Very strong, including inland & remote areas | Can be strong when active, but reported dropouts over longer stays |
| Speed Consistency | Stable and predictable, no FUP throttling | Inconsistent reported on unlimited plans |
| Hotspot / Tethering | Fully supported, no service-imposed daily cap | Allowed, but reported unadvertised hotspot limits |
| Plan Value | More data at lower prices, easy top-ups | Less data at similar prices |
| Activation Difficulty | Assisted activation with compatibility checks | Fully self-serve, QR/manual install |
| Local +62 Number | Included in all packages | Not included (uses +33 number) |
| Support Quality | Real-time WhatsApp & email, local team | Email / ticket-based only |
| Refund Clarity | Clear 100% refund per policy (conditions apply) | Limited exceptions, strict digital-product policy |
| Offline Stores in Bali | Yes (Canggu, Pererenan, Seseh) | No |
11) Who Should Choose Which
Choose Telkomsel by BaliEasy if you:
- Want better value with more data and no hidden throttling.
- Need strong, reliable coverage across Bali, including inland areas.
- Regularly use hotspot/tethering for work or multiple devices.
- Prefer human support, with WhatsApp help and optional in-person assistance.
- Want a local +62 number for drivers, apps, and local communication.
Choose AirHub if you:
- Need multi-country coverage in a single trip.
- Prefer app-based, self-serve activation with no document checks.
- Already use AirHub in other destinations and want to keep the same setup.
- Are comfortable relying on remote, ticket-based support only.
12) Summary
AirHub and Telkomsel by BaliEasy both work in Bali, but they are built for different travel needs.
AirHub is better suited for short, multi-country trips where app-based convenience matters more than local optimization.
Telkomsel by BaliEasy stands out as the safer, Bali-focused choice, offering stronger coverage consistency, better value, hotspot reliability, local numbers, and real human support.
Get Started with BaliEasy
Check plans: https://esim.balieasy.com/
Chat on WhatsApp: +6281 365 626 111
Email support: esim@balieasy.com

