eSIM vs Physical SIM: Is eSIM better?

TLDR: Physical SIM cards are the only option for phones which are not eSIM compatible and work as they always do. But in most cases, eSIM is the easier and more flexible option. An eSIM plan can be purchased & activated instantly on your smartphone, while a physical SIM card requires you having to shop in store or wait for post delivery. For switching plans while travelling, eSIM is simply the faster, smarter option.

Ever fumbled with those tiny SIM cards while setting up a smartphone plan? 

We've all been there. 

But guess what? There's a new player in town - eSIMs. 

Wait, what’s an eSIM? 

These digital wonders are shaking up the world of smartphone connectivity and are set to make traditional SIM cards seem like relics of a bygone time.

A SIM card (short for Subscriber Identity Module) is a small, removable chip used in mobile phones and other devices. It stores important data that identifies and authenticates a user on a mobile network, allowing you to make calls, send texts, and use data.

Embedded SIM technology comes built into smartphones. Your device probably features embedded SIM technology; you just haven't used it yet.  

Let’s dive into three key differences between eSIMs and physical SIMs to help you understand which option is right for you. 

eSIM: eSIMs are becoming more and more common in newer devices. Brands like Apple, Samsung, Google, Huawei, and Motorola all support eSIM technology today, but some older models do not. Here’s a quick look at when eSIM technology became standard:

• iPhone: iPhone XS and later
• Samsung: Galaxy S20 and later
• Google: Pixel 3 and later
• Huawei: P40 and later
• Motorola: Razr (2019) and later

or view our eSIM compatibility checker.

Physical SIM: Physical SIMs work with almost any device (as long as the device is unlocked from a network). This universal compatibility makes them a solid choice, especially if you use older phones. There are some newer models of smartphones such as the iPhone 17 Air which is eSIM only which means they are not compatible with physical SIM cards - we expect more and more new smartphones to be eSIM only in the coming years.

eSIM: With an eSIM there’s no more waiting in line in store to purchase a physical SIM card. Simply purchase your eSIM online and you just have to follow the instructions given to guide you through the setup and eSIM activation process.

Physical SIM: You’ve probably gone through the process of installing a traditional SIM card before. It needs to be physically inserted using a tray eject pin. And if you want to switch SIM cards for any reason, you have to wait to buy it in store or have it delivered to your home. Not ideal if you’re in a hurry.

eSIM: eSIMs win big on security. They’re embedded in your device, making them hard to clone. This means your data is safer. If your smartphone gets stolen or lost, eSIMs are easier to trace and manage remotely including an ability to disable an eSIM remotely, adding another layer of protection.

Physical SIM: Traditional SIM cards can be a security risk. As it is a physical product, someone can steal your phone or remove your SIM Card and use your data or access all of your info. It’s not as secure as an eSIM, which is built into your device.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on your personal needs and priorities as well as your smartphone capability.

If you don't have an eSIM compatible phone then you can only opt for a physical SIM card. Meanwhile if you have an eSIM only smartphone such as an iPhone 17 Air then you can only opt for an eSIM plan.

If you have an eSIM compatible phone that is not locked into any network then you you can use either. Here's some things to consider before you buy:

1. Do you have the time to go in store to buy a SIM card or do you want to be able to purchase a plan instantly?
2. What are your eSIM options for your preferred network or destination?
3. If you are looking for a plan for travel purposes then how long do you need your plan for? Most eSIM providers such as Sim Local offer eSIM plans to suit both short and long term needs (between 7-90 days)
4. Are you comfortable with the eSIM activation process? Don't forget Sim Local has a free trial to let you take our eSIM for a test run.
5. Do you need data only or do you also need calls and texts? Most eSIM providers only provide data only plans but local networks or eSIM providers like Sim Local also offer local eSIM plans with calls, texts and a local number.

Not yet. But many top networks around the world now offer eSIM as an option. Below is a table outlining some of the top networks around the world which do offer eSIM currently.

This is just a selection of the networks which offer eSIM currently, there are many more that do offer eSIM that are not mentioned below - check your preferred or local network's website directly to find out if they are eSIM

If you’re travelling, security and flexibility will be paramount making eSIM truly a godsend for you. 

Travelling with a physical SIM means you need to swap it with a local SIM card when you arrive at your destination to keep connected. This usually involves finding a store, which can be a challenge when you’re in a strange place. While also keeping your SIM cards safe at all times.

With a travel eSIM, you can instantly access local data plans without hunting for a store. Just download your preferred eSIM plan and enjoy instant access to the internet and your favourite apps. Plus, you can store multiple eSIM profiles and switch mobile networks with a tap of your finger. Find out how easy it is to buy an eSIM online with this 5-step eSIM shopping guide .

If you plan to spend months in one location or you're moving to a new country, a physical local SIM card will work out cheaper in some cases but also you won't need to be swapping SIM cards very often either. Indeed, physical SIM cards are well-suited for users who have long-term plans with a single provider. And if you're hopeless with tech, the straightforward familiarity of a physical SIM card offers a traditional, dependable solution at home and abroad. 

But it’s worth noting that we’re in a transitional phase. 

As smartphone technology evolves, more devices are being designed with both a physical SIM slot and an eSIM chip so users can experience the benefits of both technologies. But physical SIM card trays are slowly being phased out to provide more space for other hardware components. It means that eSIMs might soon be the best (and only) solution for staying connected at home and abroad.

Experience the difference yourself with our free eSIM trial

Q: Will an eSIM work on any phone?
A: No. Your phone must support eSIM and it needs to be unlocked from a network. If it does not, a physical SIM may be your only option.

Q: Is it easy to switch from a physical SIM to eSIM?
A: Yes, if your device and your network support it. You can do the switch in digitally which avoids the need to visit a store.

Q: Is an eSIM more secure?
A: Yes. There is no tiny card to lose or steal. The profile lives on the device itself and if you lose your phone you can disable the eSIM plan remotely.

Q: Is an eSIM better for when I travel internationally?
A: Yes. Travel is where eSIM really shines because you can activate a local plan instantly from your phone as well as purchase multiple

Q: Do all eSIMs include calls and texts?
A: Not always. Many are data only. If you want calls, texts and a local number you need to choose a provider (such as Sim Local) that offers local eSIM plans.