Buying Epic Malta SIM cards & eSIMs: Detailed Guide

Epic Malta SIM cards & eSIMs offer convenient connectivity solutions for Mediterranean island travelers.

Epic Malta SIM cards & eSIMs offer essential mobile services for tourists exploring Malta. This post thoroughly overviews Epic’s coverage, network speeds, and the different SIM card options available to visitors. You’ll find info on pricing, where to buy, and how to top up, helping you stay connected during your Maltese adventure.

I. Overview of Epic Malta – What you need to know

Epic is the largest mobile network operator in Malta by customer number. It offers a full range of voice, SMS, and mobile data services over 2G, 3G, 4G, 4G+, and 5G networks. Here are some key points about it:

• Foundation: Founded in 1989 as Telecell, Malta’s first mobile network provider.
• Popularity: Operates exclusively in Malta.
• Rank: Largest mobile network by customers in Malta.
• Coverage: Nationwide coverage with fiber speeds up to 2000 Mbps, the fastest on the island.
• Speed: Awarded Malta’s Fastest Mobile Network by Ookla for the second half of 2023, with 5G speeds up to 1.5 Gbps.

Highlights:

• Rebranded from Vodafone Malta to Epic in November 2020
• Invested over €40 million in network infrastructure upgrades
• First in Malta to offer contract-free mobile plans
• Fastest to answer customer queries within 2 minutes, according to Malta Communications Authority (MCA)

II. Epic Coverage in Malta

Source: nperf.com

Epic’s coverage in Malta is impressive. With widespread 5G and 4G connectivity across the island, Epic provides users with fast and reliable mobile internet.

Based on the latest data from nPerf.com and Epic’s official website, here’s an analysis of the carrier’s coverage:

Strengths:

• Epic’s 5G network covers most of Malta, including major tourist areas like Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s.
• Epic’s 4G network provides reliable coverage across the island, with few weak signal areas.

Weaknesses:

• While Epic’s coverage is widespread, some rural areas, such as parts of Gozo and Comino, have limited or no coverage.
• Epic’s indoor coverage can be weak in some areas, particularly in older buildings or areas with thick walls.

Compared to Melita and GO carriers, Epic’s coverage area is competitive, with a strong presence in urban areas and a growing rural footprint. While some areas have limited coverage, Epic’s network is reliable and fast, making it a strong competitor in the Maltese mobile market.

III. Epic Speed in Malta

Source: speedtest.net

Epic demonstrates impressive mobile network speeds in Malta, securing the top position in Speedtest Awards for Q3-Q4 2023.

According to the Speedtest data:

• Epic achieved a Speed Score of 116.39, significantly outperforming competitors GO (93.04) and Melita (27.93).
• Epic’s median download speed reached 97.53 Mbps, while its median upload speed was 20.38 Mbps.
• The carrier recorded the highest number of test counts at 8,749, indicating strong user engagement.
• In Sliema, Epic showed exceptional performance with download speeds of 130.28 Mbps and upload speeds of 27.35 Mbps.

Interestingly, the Speed Score calculation factors in both download (80% weight) and upload (20% weight) speeds, using a tweaked average of the 10th, 50th, and 90th percentiles. This method aims to reflect the typical user experience on the network. 

With extensive testing, spanning 17,463 user-initiated tests across Malta, it offers a thorough view of the mobile network scene in the country.

IV. Types of Epic Malta SIM Card Options for Tourists

There are two main types of Epic Malta SIM cards available for tourists:

• Physical SIM: Traditional SIM inserted into your phone.
• eSIM: Digital SIM activated electronically.

Comparison Table

Feature	Physical SIM Card	eSIM
Availability	Widely available at airports, convenience stores, and online	Available online through Epic’s website or authorized retailers
Activation	Requires physical insertion and activation	Activated remotely through a QR code or online portal
Cost	Typically cheaper upfront	May have a slightly higher initial cost
Convenience	Requires carrying a physical card	No need to carry a physical card, convenient for multiple devices
Flexibility	Can be easily swapped between devices	Can be activated on multiple devices simultaneously
Data Usage	Data plans are typically tied to the physical SIM card	Data plans can be managed independently from the physical SIM card
Environmental Impact	Contributes to electronic waste	More environmentally friendly

While physical SIM cards are the traditional and possibly cheaper choice, eSIMs offer a more convenient and flexible option. You can activate eSIMs remotely, manage data plans independently, and use them across multiple devices, making them a better pick. So we highly recommend you get an eSIM whenever you are going abroad.

V. Top Epic Malta SIM cards for Tourists & Prices

Epic offers two types of prepaid plans for tourists: Value Packs- good for basic calls, texts, and data, and Youth Plans – for younger travelers with more data needs. Below are detailed information about these types.

1. Value Packs

Price (EUR)	Plan	Data	Local/EU Minutes	Local/EU SMS	Validity (Days)	Activation Code	Deactivation Code
4.99	Talk Pack	100 MB	100	100	28	TALKSTOP TALK	TALKSTOP
5.99	Data Pack	4 GB	N/A	N/A	28	DATASTOP DATA	DATASTOP
9.99	Value Pack	8 GB	200	200	28	VALUESTOP VALUE	VALUESTOP

2. Youth Plans

Price (EUR)	Plan	Data (GB)	Local/EU Minutes	Local/EU SMS	Validity (Days)	Notes
8.99/ 10	Youth Basic	10	400	400	28	Auto-renewal disabled: top-up 10 EUR to activate. Auto-renewal enabled: charged 8.99 EUR. No 5G NR access.
12.99/ 15	Youth Standard	40	400	400	28	Auto-renewal disabled: top-up 15 EUR to activate. Auto-renewal enabled: charged 12.99 EUR. No 5G NR access.
19.99/ 36.99	Youth Special	35	Unlimited	Unlimited	28	5G NR access.

VI. Where to buy Epic Malta SIM cards for Tourists?

Tourists visiting Malta have several options for purchasing Epic SIM cards: directly at the airport upon arrival, in city centers after reaching your destination, or online before departure. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each option:

1. Buy Epic SIM at Malta International Airport

You can easily grab Epic SIM cards at Malta International Airport, the main gateway to Malta. It’s a popular option for many tourists.

• Epic has an outlet located in the airport’s check-in hall.
• Operating hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:00 – 19:00.
• To purchase, you’ll typically need to present your passport.
• While prices may be slightly higher than in the city, the convenience often outweighs the cost.
• Risks include potential queues during peak travel times or arriving when the store is closed.

2. Buy Epic SIM in Malta city centers

After arriving in Malta, tourists can purchase Epic SIM cards in major cities like Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian’s.

You should use Google Maps to find Epic stores or authorized resellers. Some options include:

• Epic Store Valletta: 289, Republic Street, Valletta.
• Epic Store Sliema: Bisazza Street, Sliema.
• Epic Store Birkirkara: Psaila Street, Birkirkara.

Buying in city centers might need more detailed personal info registration. It can be cheaper than airport options, but the process takes longer, which might not be great for short-stay tourists.

3. Buy an Epic Malta SIM card online before departure

This proactive approach is often the most convenient for tourist planning.

• Purchasing process:
  • Simply provide basic information (name, delivery address)
  • No need for extensive personal documentation
  • SIM card will be shipped to your home address before your trip
• Benefits:
  • Avoid the difficulty of finding a store upon arrival
  • Often more cost-effective than airport purchases
  • Ensures you have connectivity as soon as you land in Malta

This method is increasingly popular among tourists for its convenience and value. Having your SIM card ready before you travel can make your arrival in Malta smoother and stress-free!

VII. Where to Buy Epic Malta eSIM for Tourists?

If you’re heading to Malta, getting an eSIM is the easiest way to enjoy wireless data. But buying one when you get there can be a hassle.

We suggest grabbing your Malta eSIM online before your trip. It makes things easier and gets you connected right when you land!

One great option is Gigago’s Malta eSIM package. Getting an eSIM with Gigago benefits you in:

• Wide coverage on Melita’s fast 4G/LTE network all over Malta. No dead zones!
• Hassle-free instant delivery – just download the eSIM profile via email. No waiting in line.
• 24/7 support if you have any questions. We’re always here to help you.

Specifically, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 500MB/day for 3 days with $3.00 . What is great about Gigago’s Malta eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $3.00 – $95.90 .

Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Malta; there is always an option for you with Gigago.

VIII. How to top up Epic Malta SIM Cards?

There are several ways to top up your Epic Malta SIM card.

• Top-Up Voucher: Purchase a top-up voucher from any Epic store, grocery store, or electronics shop. Redeem it online or through the Epic Malta app.
• Point of Sale (POS): Visit a shop with a POS system, tell the salesperson your phone number and the amount of credit you want, and they will process the top-up.
• Online Recharge: Use your international or EU debit/credit card to top up directly on the Epic Malta website or app.

These methods ensure you can stay connected easily and conveniently while in Malta​.

IX. FAQs about Epic Malta SIM Cards

X. Conclusion

In general, grabbing Epic Malta SIM cards & eSIMs is a smart move for you wanting reliable coverage and budget-friendly plans in Malta. Epic has awesome packages with plenty of data, minutes, and SMS, making it a top carrier choice. For extra convenience and security, think about using an eSIM. It’s simple to set up and offers peace of mind. Check out Gigago’s Epic eSIM today for an easy experience!