What We Like
Free US/Canada phone number for unlimited talk/text over WiFi
Very affordable eSIM data add-ons for North America
Easy activation and management in the TextNow app
What Could Be Better
Primary service is WiFi-based; cellular is an add-on
Coverage is almost exclusively North America
Introduction to TextNow SIM
TextNow's model is unique: it provides a free ad-supported US or Canadian phone number for unlimited calling and texting over WiFi. Their eSIM offering is a data pass that allows you to use that same free service over cellular networks in the US and Canada. For 2026, this is a brilliant and cost-effective solution for travelers visiting North America who need a reliable local number for reservations, ride-sharing, and 2FA, paired with affordable data. It's not a global travel eSIM; it's a hyper-focused North American connectivity tool.Activation and Ease of Use
You start by downloading the TextNow app and claiming your free number. Then, within the app, you can purchase a cellular data plan (eSIM). The app guides you through the eSIM installation seamlessly. Everything—managing your number, contacts, messages, and data—is contained within the TextNow app. This tight integration is very user-friendly. The activation of the eSIM data is instant, and you can be making cellular calls within minutes of setting up the app.Coverage and Reliability Analysis
Coverage is on T-Mobile's network in the US and a major partner in Canada, providing strong 4G LTE coverage across both countries. Reliability for voice calls is excellent because they are routed as data (VoIP) over this cellular connection. The data speeds are perfectly adequate for the app's calling/texting functions and general browsing. It's important to understand that this is primarily a voice/text service with a data add-on, not a traditional data-centric eSIM. For travel within the US and Canada, the network performance is solid and widespread.App Experience and Final Verdict
The TextNow app is the entire experience. It's your dialer, messaging app, and account manager. The app is polished, reliable, and easy to use. The eSIM data plan simply enables the app to work anywhere. The value is unbeatable: a free, permanent US/Canada number, and data at reasonable rates. For a trip to North America, this eliminates the need for a local SIM card or an expensive international plan from your home carrier. While not suitable for global travel, for its specific use case in 2026, TextNow's eSIM offering is an ingenious and highly recommended solution.