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Many users find themselves at a crossroads when choosing between eSIMs and Physical SIMs. eSIMs, a new data solution emerging with the rise of overseas travel, are challenging the traditional Physical SIMs we've used for years. This blog will guide you through the key differences between eSIMs and Physical SIMs, weighing the pros and cons of each. After reading, you'll clearly understand when an eSIM would be better than a physical one, thus making an informed decision when picking eSIMs.
Part 1. What's the Difference Between eSIM and Physical SIM?
Short for embedded SIM, the eSIM is a digital SIM technology that uses a reprogrammable chip without physical chips. It eliminates the need for a physical SIM card in your device, allowing you to switch carriers or data plans without swapping SIM cards. We've compiled everything you should know about what an eSIM card is and how an eSIM works here. Now let's move to a comprehensive comparison between an eSIM and a physical one for their key features.
- Size: An eSIM module is relatively tiny, measuring 6 mm by 5 mm. However, a physical SIM card can be up to 25 mm in height and 15 mm in width.
- Way to Activate: You apply for digital activation, such as scanning a QR code or following guidelines on an app to activate an eSIM. For a physical SIM card, you need to manually insert it into the corresponding slot.
- Quantity Limits: A device that supports eSIMs can store multiple profiles (up to 20 for Android and 8 or more for iPhone) with 2 activated at once. However, you can only insert a maximum of 2 physical SIM cards.
Part 2. Pros and Cons of eSIM
Now we dive deep into the pros and cons of each. Let's first start with the pros and cons of an eSIM.
Pros of eSIM
- Space-Saving of the Device: An eSIM does not require a card slot on the device. Therefore, more space will be left for batteries or other components.
- Convenience & Flexibility: You can easily switch between carriers or data plans with an eSIM. You can also activate two eSIMs at the same time or keep a physical card active when using an eSIM.
- Security: An eSIM employs reprogrammed chips that are part of your device. Unless you've lost the device, it would be more difficult for others to remove or steal it. Your information is well protected.
Tips: MicroEsim ranks top as a trustworthy provider of eSIM for international travel. It offers eSIMs with coverage all over the world. From Europe in the West to Asia in the East, you can always find a perfect plan catering to your destinations on their website.
Cons of eSIM
- Compatibility: It wasn't until 2016 that eSIMs gained traction in the consumer market. They are undergoing great development, so not all devices are compatible with them. Also, not all carriers support eSIM technology.
- Limited Carrier Support: When you purchase an eSIM for travel, instead of getting direct network services from a local carrier, you are buying from eSIM providers that partner with local carriers. It is the eSIM provider, not the network carrier, that offers after-sales service when something goes wrong.
- Potential Technical Issues: Transferring eSIM profiles between devices can be more complex compared to swapping physical SIM cards. Using an eSIM and a physical card together may also impose software-related issues that interfere with each other.
Tips: The eSIMs are a relatively new technology. Understandably, there is room for developers to keep improving it. Please bookmark our solutions for some common issues.
Part 3. Pros and Cons of Physical SIM
Having been on the market for years, physical SIM cards are still a popular way to stay connected with your carrier's network. Let's take a closer look at its pros and cons.
Pros of Physical SIM
- Wide Compatibility: Each mobile device is designed with at least one physical SIM card slot. Also, all carriers provide services for physical SIM cards. (Note that iPhones sold in the U.S. from the iPhone 14 series onward only support eSIM.)
- Easy to Switch Between Devices: Physical separation of the cards and devices allows easy transfer between devices. You just need to take the card from the device and insert it into another one.
- No Need for Special Support: A physical SIM card is ready to use immediately upon inserting it into your device. You can expect to use it without any special support unless the card is damaged or ruined.
Cons of Physical SIM
- Physical Space Requirement: A physical SIM card requires a dedicated slot on the device, which limits not only the card quantity that can be used but also design options.
- Risk of Damage or Loss: A physical SIM is relatively small compared to the size of your device. You should pay particular attention to holding it, or it may be at high risk of damage or loss during any manual change.
- Inconvenient Manual Transfer: A manual switch is a must whenever you want to transfer to a new device or change to another carrier. This can be cumbersome for frequent travelers.
Part 4. Is eSIM Better than Physical SIM?
Both eSIMs and physical SIMs have their pros and cons. However, eSIMs are a better choice for frequent travelers and those who need to change their plans often.
- Ultimate Convenience: The eSIM technology simplifies the activation process. It will be in service immediately upon your purchase. You do not need to wait for a card to arrive. You can also switch carriers and plans with self-service online without visiting a store.
- Greater Flexibility: eSIM providers often partner with several local carriers, delivering a speedy and stable network. You can always stay connected regardless of the device you are using. Whether you are using eSIM card on iPhone or using eSIM on Android device, the connection speed would be the same.
- Enhanced Security: eSIMs are a part of the device, which eliminates the risk of theft or damage associated with physical cards, enhancing security for your personal information stored.
Part 5. When Should I Choose eSIM?
eSIMs are increasingly used in IoT devices such as smart homes and connected cars. You can try them if your appliance/car is supported. Furthermore, many eSIM-supported phones can achieve dual SIM standby with one physical SIM card and one eSIM. In this situation, you can have both work and personal numbers on your phone even if there is one SIM card slot.
For personal users, it is particularly recommended when traveling abroad. This way, you can get flexible local data packages to avoid high roaming fees. For example, when traveling to Asia, there are the best eSIMs for Asia, and you can opt for the best eSIMs for Europe when traveling to several neighboring countries together.
The Bottom Line
Physical SIM cards are still a common way to stay connected to networks. As a digital replacement for them, eSIMs are quickly becoming a popular choice for their flexible data package options. With eSIMs, you can enjoy a fast and stable network when staying abroad without paying too much on roaming fees. They require no manual switch of SIM cards, which is particularly beneficial for frequent international travelers. New to the field? MicroEsim can be your starting point.