In today’s fast-paced digital world, WhatsApp Business has become a cornerstone for small businesses, freelancers, and enterprises looking to streamline customer communication. However, to use WhatsApp Business effectively, you often need a dedicated phone number to separate personal and professional interactions. This is where eSIMs and virtual numbers come in, offering a flexible, cost-effective solution for managing multiple numbers on a single device. Unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIMs are digital, embedded in your device, and can be activated remotely, making them ideal for businesses seeking convenience and scalability.
This article explores the best platforms for purchasing eSIMs or virtual numbers tailored for WhatsApp Business. We’ll dive into five top providers—YourBusinessNumber, gosimless, Numero eSIM, EE Business, and eSIM Plus—comparing their features, pricing, ease of use, and suitability for WhatsApp Business. Additionally, we’ll cover other notable providers like AIS Top Up, Holafly, and Yesim, which offer compelling options for specific use cases. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which service best fits your business needs.
Why Use an eSIM for WhatsApp Business?
Before diving into the providers, let’s clarify why eSIMs are a game-changer for WhatsApp Business. WhatsApp Business requires a unique phone number, and carrying a second phone or swapping physical SIMs can be cumbersome. eSIMs solve this by allowing you to:
Maintain Separation: Keep personal and business communications distinct on one device.
Enhance Flexibility: Activate or switch numbers instantly without physical SIMs.
Reduce Costs: Avoid purchasing additional devices or expensive roaming plans.
Scale Easily: Add numbers as your business grows, ideal for teams or international operations.
Go Eco-Friendly: Eliminate plastic waste associated with physical SIMs.
With these benefits in mind, let’s explore the top platforms, focusing on their offerings for WhatsApp Business users.
1. YourBusinessNumber
YourBusinessNumber specializes in providing virtual numbers for WhatsApp Business, making it a top choice for small businesses and professionals like estate agents, freelancers, and personal trainers. Its straightforward process and competitive pricing cater to users seeking simplicity.
How It Works: YourBusinessNumber delivers a virtual number in three steps: generate a number on their website, download WhatsApp Business, and verify the number via SMS. The process takes minutes, and numbers are guaranteed to work with WhatsApp Business.
Pricing: An annual plan costs $95.99 (approximately $8/month), which is cost-effective for long-term use. No monthly subscription option is mentioned, so check for flexibility if needed.
Key Features:
Instant number delivery via SMS in 10 seconds.
Support for UK and US numbers with customizable area codes.
Dedicated WhatsApp support for setup and troubleshooting.
High TrustScore of 4.4 based on 202 reviews, indicating reliability.
Pros:
Simple, WhatsApp-focused service with guaranteed verification.
Competitive pricing for annual plans.
Ideal for small businesses needing quick setup.
Cons:
Limited to WhatsApp Business; no support for other apps.
Annual billing may not suit users needing short-term numbers.
Best For: Small businesses and solo entrepreneurs in the UK or US who want a hassle-free virtual number for WhatsApp Business.
2. gosimless
gosimless offers virtual mobile numbers for WhatsApp Business and other chat apps like Telegram, Signal, and Botim. Its affordability and global reach make it a strong contender for businesses prioritizing cost and privacy.
How It Works: Purchase a virtual number, download WhatsApp Business, and verify using the provided number. gosimless emphasizes a “simless” experience, allowing multiple numbers on one device without physical SIMs.
Pricing: Plans start at £4.99/month (around $6.50), making it one of the cheapest options. Cancel anytime, and SMS forwarding to email is free.
Key Features:
Supports UK and US numbers, with call forwarding to over 100 destinations.
Control panel for managing numbers, SMS logs, and billing.
Unlimited SMS to email and customizable call announcements.
Global accessibility for users outside the UK at no extra cost.
Pros:
Extremely affordable with flexible cancellation.
Supports multiple chat apps, adding versatility.
User-friendly control panel for managing connections.
Cons:
Limited to virtual numbers; no data plans for internet access.
Less focus on enterprise features compared to EE Business.
Best For: Solopreneurs and small businesses needing an affordable, privacy-focused virtual number for WhatsApp Business and other apps.
3. Numero eSIM
Numero eSIM provides a comprehensive solution combining virtual numbers, eSIMs, and calling plans. With over 30 million users worldwide, it’s a trusted platform for businesses needing local or international numbers for WhatsApp Business.
How It Works: Choose a virtual number from supported countries, register it on WhatsApp Business, and verify via SMS. Numero also offers data eSIMs for internet access, ideal for businesses with remote teams.
Pricing: Virtual numbers start at $5–$15/month for local numbers, $10–$30 for toll-free, and $10–$40 for international, depending on the country. A free trial number is available upon request.
Key Features:
Numbers from 80+ countries, including Canada, UK, and US.
Supports WhatsApp, TikTok, Telegram, and other apps.
Multilingual app with 24/7 support via email.
Flexible payment options, including credit cards and cryptocurrency.
Pros:
Wide country coverage for global businesses.
Free trial number for testing.
Combines virtual numbers with data eSIMs for connectivity.
Cons:
Pricing varies significantly by country and number type.
App-based management may not suit all users.
Best For: Businesses with international clients or teams needing versatile virtual numbers and data plans.
4. EE Business
EE Business, part of the UK’s leading network, offers eSIM solutions tailored for businesses of all sizes. Its focus on security, sustainability, and fast onboarding makes it ideal for enterprises integrating WhatsApp Business.
How It Works: Activate an eSIM via QR code, seamless download, or device push, then use the associated number for WhatsApp Business. EE supports dual SIM functionality, allowing personal and business numbers on one device.
Pricing: Specific pricing isn’t listed, but EE emphasizes tailored plans. Contact their team at 0800 079 0888 for quotes. Expect enterprise-level costs, likely higher than smaller providers.
Key Features:
UK’s best network for 11+ years, ensuring reliable connectivity.
Remote activation in minutes, ideal for hybrid teams.
Encrypted eSIMs for enhanced security and sustainability.
Integration with BT’s sustainability and device management tools.
Pros:
Unmatched network reliability and security.
Scalable for large teams with multiple devices.
Eco-friendly with reduced plastic waste.
Cons:
Higher costs likely compared to budget providers.
Less focus on individual or small business users.
Best For: Medium to large businesses in the UK needing secure, scalable eSIMs for WhatsApp Business and other apps.
5. eSIM Plus
eSIM Plus focuses on virtual phone numbers for business communication, offering VoIP-based solutions for WhatsApp Business and other platforms. Its global coverage and transparent pricing appeal to businesses seeking flexibility.
How It Works: Sign up, select a virtual number from 190+ area codes, and configure it for WhatsApp Business. Numbers are cloud-based, usable on any eSIM-compatible device.
Pricing: Local numbers cost $5–$15/month, toll-free $10–$30, and international $10–$40, depending on the country. Payments via credit card or cryptocurrency.
Key Features:
Numbers from countries like Canada, UK, US, and Israel.
Fast setup with user-friendly interface and multilingual support.
24/7 support via email for quick issue resolution.
Integrates with existing communication tools.
Pros:
Extensive global coverage for international businesses.
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
Flexible for personal and business use.
Cons:
No data plans, focusing solely on virtual numbers.
Cryptocurrency payments may not suit all users.
Best For: Businesses needing global virtual numbers for WhatsApp Business with a focus on VoIP flexibility.
Other Notable Providers
While the above five platforms are top choices, three additional providers—AIS Top Up, Holafly, and Yesim—offer unique features for WhatsApp Business users, especially those with specific regional or travel-related needs.
AIS Top Up:
Overview: Offers AIS Sim2Fly eSIMs with Thai numbers for WhatsApp, TikTok, and Telegram. Ideal for users needing a Thai presence.
Pricing: Starts at €9 for a tourist eSIM with 15 GB data; virtual number plans vary.
Key Features: Instant activation via QR code, preloaded credit for app verification, and support for multiple apps.
Pros: Affordable for Thai numbers, seamless app integration.
Cons: Limited to Thai numbers, less global coverage.
Best For: Businesses targeting Thailand or needing a Thai number for WhatsApp Business.
Holafly:
Overview: Specializes in travel eSIMs with unlimited data, allowing WhatsApp Business use with your existing number. Trusted by over 1 million travelers.
Pricing: Plans start at $6.90 for regional/global data eSIMs; no virtual numbers offered.
Key Features: Unlimited data in 50+ destinations, 24/7 support, and dual SIM support to keep your WhatsApp number active.
Pros: Perfect for travel-heavy businesses, no roaming charges.
Cons: No virtual numbers, relies on existing WhatsApp number.
Best For: Businesses traveling frequently who want to use WhatsApp Business without a new number.
Yesim:
Overview: Provides eSIMs with data plans and virtual numbers for WhatsApp Business. Known for seamless coverage and a free VPN for iOS users.
Pricing: Data plans from €0.90/GB; virtual number pricing not specified but competitive.
Key Features: Automatic switching to 5G networks, 1-click installation, and 100% refund guarantee.
Pros: Flexible data and number options, high user satisfaction (1M+ users).
Cons: Virtual number details less clear, data-focused plans.
Best For: Businesses needing both data and virtual numbers with global coverage.
Comparing the Providers
To make your decision easier, here’s a side-by-side comparison of key factors for WhatsApp Business users:
Pricing: gosimless is the most affordable at £4.99/month, followed by YourBusinessNumber ($8/month annually). Numero eSIM and eSIM Plus offer similar ranges ($5–$40), while EE Business is likely pricier for enterprise plans. AIS Top Up is budget-friendly for Thai numbers (€9), Holafly suits data-focused users ($6.90+), and Yesim balances cost and flexibility (€0.90/GB+).
Ease of Use: YourBusinessNumber and gosimless excel with 3-step setups. Numero eSIM and eSIM Plus offer user-friendly apps, while EE Business provides enterprise-grade remote activation. AIS Top Up and Yesim use QR codes for quick setup, and Holafly simplifies data eSIM installation.
Global Coverage: Numero eSIM and eSIM Plus lead with 80+ and 190+ countries, respectively. gosimless and EE Business focus on UK/US, while AIS Top Up is Thailand-specific. Holafly and Yesim cover 50+ destinations for data, ideal for travelers.
WhatsApp Business Focus: YourBusinessNumber is exclusively tailored for WhatsApp Business, followed by gosimless and Numero eSIM for multi-app support. EE Business and eSIM Plus are versatile but less WhatsApp-specific. AIS Top Up integrates well with WhatsApp, while Holafly supports existing numbers. Yesim offers both numbers and data for WhatsApp use.
Additional Features: EE Business emphasizes security and sustainability, Numero eSIM and eSIM Plus offer VoIP and app integration, and gosimless includes SMS-to-email. Holafly provides unlimited data, Yesim offers a free VPN, and AIS Top Up includes preloaded credit.
Tips for Choosing the Right Provider
Selecting the best eSIM provider for WhatsApp Business depends on your specific needs. Consider these factors:
Business Size: Small businesses and freelancers should opt for YourBusinessNumber or gosimless for affordability and simplicity. Medium to large businesses may prefer EE Business for scalability and security.
Geographic Needs: International businesses benefit from Numero eSIM or eSIM Plus for global coverage. Thailand-focused users should choose AIS Top Up, while travelers can rely on Holafly or Yesim.
Budget: Stick to gosimless or YourBusinessNumber for low-cost options. Numero eSIM and eSIM Plus offer flexible pricing, while EE Business suits higher budgets.
Device Compatibility: Ensure your device supports eSIMs (e.g., iPhone 15, Samsung Galaxy S23). All providers list compatible devices on their sites.
Additional Needs: If you need data alongside a number, consider Numero eSIM, Yesim, or Holafly. For VoIP or multi-app support, eSIM Plus and gosimless are strong choices.
Transitioning to eSIM for WhatsApp Business
To ensure a smooth setup, follow these steps:
Verify Device Compatibility: Check if your phone supports eSIMs via the provider’s website or device settings.
Choose a Plan: Select a provider based on your budget, location, and app needs. Start with a trial if available (e.g., Numero eSIM).
Activate the eSIM/Number: Use a QR code, app, or email instructions to activate. Most providers offer instant setup.
Register on WhatsApp Business: Download the app, enter the new number, and verify via SMS or call.
Test and Secure: Send test messages and set up strong passwords to protect your account.
For teams, roll out eSIMs gradually, starting with a few devices to iron out any issues. Regularly update devices and apps for security.
Conclusion
Using an eSIM or virtual number for WhatsApp Business is a smart way to streamline communication, enhance privacy, and scale your operations. YourBusinessNumber stands out for its WhatsApp-specific simplicity, while gosimless offers unbeatable affordability and multi-app support. Numero eSIM and eSIM Plus cater to global businesses with extensive coverage, and EE Business is ideal for enterprises prioritizing security and reliability. For niche needs, AIS Top Up excels in Thailand, Holafly supports travelers with unlimited data, and Yesim balances data and number flexibility.
Evaluate your business size, budget, and geographic requirements to choose the best provider. With any of these platforms, you’ll be equipped to leverage WhatsApp Business’s powerful tools—business profiles, automated messaging, and more—while keeping your communications professional and efficient. Get started today and take your business communication to the next level.