FlexiRoam eSIM Bali vs Telkomsel by BaliEasy
Choosing the right eSIM in Bali matters because coverage quality, speed stability, customer support, and access to a local Indonesian
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 Indosat 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
Indosat eSIM
On Facebook, some users complain about Indosat’s network quality despite rising prices.
“HARGA NYA NAIKI TRUS TAPI JARINGAN NYA NGELAGGGG” (the price keeps going up but the network lags badly)
See full discussion: Facebook
This suggests that network quality can feel unreliable in certain areas or during busy times. For travelers in Bali, where navigation, ride-hailing, and daily communication depend heavily on mobile data, weak or unstable coverage can quickly become a real inconvenience.
BaliEasy
Telkomsel is generally considered the strongest coverage option in Bali, offering reliable service across both popular and more remote areas such as Ubud, Canggu, Uluwatu, Seminyak, Kuta, Sanur, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Denpasar, Tanah Lot, Bedugul, Kintamani, Amed, Lovina, Sidemen, Munduk, Nusa Penida, and Tulamben.
This level of coverage is important for travelers who want their connection to work consistently, wherever their Bali trip takes them.
Indosat eSIM
On Facebook, some users openly complain about Indosat’s speed and stability. Comments like:
“Sinyal full tapi lemot” (Full signal but slow internet)
“Harga makin mahal, kenapa sinyal nya ilang² mulu ya , ngeselin bngt Indosat skrng 👹😡😤🤬” (prices are higher, but the signal keeps dropping)
See full discussion: Facebook
These reflect frustration with slow speeds and unstable connections. These posts suggest that, depending on location and congestion, Indosat’s performance can feel inconsistent, especially during busy periods.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy runs on the Telkomsel network, which is widely known for fast and stable mobile data across Bali. It is designed for consistent everyday use, not just short bursts of speed. Users can generally rely on stable performance for Google Maps, WhatsApp voice and video calls, social media, and file uploads, even while moving between different areas of the island.
During peak hours, speeds tend to remain more predictable compared to many other options. Importantly, BaliEasy’s Telkomsel eSIM does not apply a Fair Usage Policy (FUP), so speeds are not intentionally reduced after hitting a hidden limit, you simply use your data until it runs out. This makes BaliEasy better suited for travelers who need reliable speed and stability without worrying about sudden slowdowns.
Indosat eSIM
Hotspot is generally allowed, but usage can feel more limited in practice because of the small data package options. For light use, hotspot is usually fine, but for longer sessions or work-related use, the experience can be less reliable compared to Telkomsel-based options which are bigger.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy’s Telkomsel eSIM fully supports hotspot and tethering without a specific daily cap imposed by the service itself. Users can freely share their mobile data connection with laptops, tablets, or other devices whenever needed.
Because it works as a local Telkomsel carrier eSIM, hotspot usage follows normal local network behavior rather than typical travel-eSIM restrictions. Combined with larger data packages, this results in more stable and predictable performance, even for video calls, file uploads, or remote work.
For travelers who use multiple devices throughout the day, BaliEasy offers a more consistent and work-friendly hotspot experience.
Indosat eSIM
Indosat eSIM is very cheap upfront, especially compared to travel eSIMs. From the official pricing shown, examples include 3GB for Rp 35,000 (≈ USD 2.10) and 12GB for Rp 68,000 (≈ USD 4.08), both valid for 30 days. On paper, this looks like excellent value.
Indosat eSIM is a good choice if you want something very cheap and only need light data.
However, the trade-off is that the data options are small and limited. The plans don’t scale well for travelers who use Google Maps, social media, video calls, hotspot, or remote work.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy offers many data plan options, so travelers can easily choose based on how long they stay and how much data they actually use.
Because BaliEasy uses Telkomsel, it benefits from a network that is widely known for the best connectivity and coverage in Bali, including popular tourist areas and more remote locations.
This makes the plans more reliable for everyday use such as maps, ride-hailing apps, social media, video calls, and hotspot. Combined with easy top-ups, BaliEasy is designed for travelers who want strong coverage and flexible data without constantly worrying about running out.
Indosat eSIM
Indosat uses a standard self-activation flow. Customers purchase the eSIM, receive a QR code, and install it directly on their phone by scanning the code. For short-term tourists, IMEI submission is not part of Indosat’s activation steps, so setup can feel quicker at the start. However, if problems happen (QR not received, scan fails, app errors), travelers usually need to contact customer support and wait for assistance.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy uses a guided activation process to reduce problems later. Before activation, customers are asked to upload a passport photo and an IMEI screenshot. This helps confirm device compatibility and avoid common issues that can stop local eSIMs from working in Indonesia.
Because activation is supported by a real local team with 24/7 human assistance, BaliEasy is especially helpful for travelers who are new to eSIMs or want reassurance that someone is available to help immediately if something goes wrong upon arrival.
Indosat eSIM
Local number included? Yes (IM3 eSIM is a local operator eSIM, not data-only).
Indosat/IM3 itself promotes eSIM as a way to have a new number without replacing your existing SIM, and IM3’s shop flow also lets users choose SIM vs eSIM for purchases, both of which are standard “phone number” products rather than data-only travel profiles.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy also gives you a local Indonesian (+62) number, which is very useful during your stay in Bali. Having a local number makes it easier to use ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab, and can help with certain local verifications, depending on the service.
With a +62 number, you can easily call or receive calls from drivers, tour guides, villas, restaurants, and other local businesses. This is especially helpful when WhatsApp isn’t practical or when a quick voice call is needed. For travelers who want a smoother, more local-style experience in Bali, a local number adds real convenience and flexibility.
Indosat eSIM
On Facebook, some users complain about slow response times from Indosat’s support channels. One common comment is:
“Live chat agentnya kelamaan” (the live chat agent takes too long)
See full discussion: Facebook
This reflects frustration with waiting times and delayed human responses, especially when issues are urgent or time-sensitive. This suggests that while multiple support channels exist, getting quick, real-time help is not always guaranteed.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy provides 24/7 human-based support via WhatsApp and email, allowing customers to communicate directly with a real support team at any time. This helps reduce delays and avoids repetitive back-and-forth when troubleshooting eSIM or data issues.
The team has strong hands-on experience with Telkomsel connections, IMEI situations, and common device problems. Support is given step by step and continues until the connection is fully working, which is especially reassuring for travelers who need fast and reliable help.
Indosat eSIM
Indosat does not publish a simple, tourist-focused refund policy for eSIM plans. Refunds are handled case by case through Indosat customer support rather than automatic eligibility. Most accepted cases are related to payment errors, such as data not being received or double charges. Once a plan is active or used, refunds are usually difficult.
To request a refund, customers must contact Indosat via call center, WhatsApp, or email. The process can take time and may depend on the payment provider used.
BaliEasy
BaliEasy offers a clear and traveler-friendly refund policy. Per policy, customers are eligible for a 100% refund if the device is not compatible or if connection issues occur that cannot be resolved after troubleshooting.
Refund requests are handled directly with the BaliEasy team via WhatsApp or email, with clear guidance on what information is needed. This human-assisted approach makes the refund process more transparent and less stressful.
Indosat eSIM
Offline presence: Yes
In Bali specifically, Indosat/IOH has highlighted Gerai IM3 and 3Store locations in Kuta and Denpasar, and these outlets typically handle services like SIM replacement, upgrades, and eSIM activation.
BaliEasy
Offline presence: Yes
BaliEasy has actual offline stores in the main Canggu area (Canggu, Pererenan, and Seseh) so travelers can get hands-on help with activation, troubleshooting, and basic setup without going into Denpasar/Kuta. This is a big difference vs most eSIM brands that only offer app/chat support.
| Feature | Telkomsel by BaliEasy | Indosat eSIM (IM3) |
| Network / provider | Telkomsel (local Indonesian carrier) | Indosat / IM3 (local Indonesian carrier) |
| Coverage in Bali | Very strong and wide coverage across tourist areas and remote/inland locations (Ubud, Canggu, Uluwatu, Bedugul, Amed, Munduk, etc.) | Coverage varies by area; Facebook users report lag and instability in some locations, especially during busy times |
| Speed consistency | Generally fast and stable for everyday use; more predictable during peak hours | Mixed feedback; complaints about slow speeds and signal drops even when signal shows full |
| Hotspot / tethering | Fully supported; works well due to larger data plans and stable network | Allowed, but limited by small data packages; less reliable for long hotspot use |
| Plan value | Many plan options from medium to large data; good for short trips, long stays, and heavy usage | Very cheap upfront, but data options are small and limited; best for light usage only |
| Activation difficulty | Guided activation with passport + IMEI check; assisted step by step | Self-activation via QR code; easy when it works, but issues can cause delays |
| Local +62 number | Yes, includes local Indonesian number | Yes, includes local Indonesian number |
| Support quality | 24/7 human support via WhatsApp and email; step-by-step help until working | Multiple channels, but Facebook users complain about slow response times |
| Refund clarity | Clear policy; 100% refund for incompatibility or unresolved connection issues (per policy) | No simple published policy; handled case by case, usually only for payment errors |
| Offline stores in Bali | Yes, stores in Canggu, Pererenan, and Seseh | Yes, Gerai IM3 / 3Store mainly in Kuta and Denpasar |
Choose Telkomsel by BaliEasy if you:
Choose Indosat eSIM if you:
Both Indosat eSIM and Telkomsel by BaliEasy offer local Indonesian connectivity, but they are built for different types of travelers. Indosat eSIM is attractive for its low price, but data options are small and performance can feel inconsistent based on Facebook user feedback. Telkomsel by BaliEasy focuses on strong coverage, stable speed, larger data plans, and human support, making it more reliable for real travel needs in Bali.
For most travelers, especially those who care about coverage, hotspot use, and quick support, Telkomsel by BaliEasy is the safer, Bali-optimized choice.
Get Started with BaliEasy
Check plans: https://esim.balieasy.com/
Chat on WhatsApp: +6281 365 626 111
Email support: esim@balieasy.com
Choosing the right eSIM in Bali matters because coverage quality, speed stability, customer support, and access to a local Indonesian
Choosing the right eSIM in Bali matters because coverage quality, speed stability, customer support, and access to a local Indonesian
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