If you work remotely, travel a lot, or just plan to get a new iPhone, you might have heard about eSIMs. They are positioned as a convenient alternative to a physical SIM card that is supposed to give you more freedom when it comes to calls and data.
But what is actually an eSIM, when should you use it, and is it really better than an old-school physical card? Let’s answer these questions today.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM, or an embedded SIM, is an electronic SIM card. Since it’s digital, there is no physical card you have to handle — no need to go to a store, buy one, then open the dedicated tray on your phone to install it. It’s an essential feature included in many newer phones. For example, any iPhone newer than the 14th model no longer has a SIM card tray in the States.
In addition to the usual capabilities, like calling, texting, and using the internet, eSIMs can work in multiple countries at once. So, when you travel, getting a local, regional or global eSIM plan allows you to be connected at all times, without having to buy several physical cards. Thus, eSIMs offer smoother connectivity across different destinations.
But, are there any other differences between a physical and an embedded card?
Get exclusive access to all things tech-savvy, and be the first to receive
the latest updates directly in your inbox.
eSIM VS Physical SIM Card
The main difference between the two is that the physical SIM card has to be inserted into the phone you are using. The digital SIM, or eSIM, is embedded directly into the device: it’s a part of the hardware of your phone, with each plan serving as software for this hardware.
While you had to switch cards to have different numbers and carriers before, eSIMs allow you to have several plans on the same phone. In addition, eSIMs are less prone to physical damage or loss, since there is no actual card you have to handle.
When to Use an eSIM
eSIM cards are extremely convenient in various scenarios, whether you are a student, a businessman, or an office worker.
If you are keen on traveling across the world, the best eSIM for Europe, Asia or other regions will be a great companion for you. During trips, you don’t have to rush to the store and look for a SIM card every time you cross a border of a country — just get a regional eSIM and you’ll only need to change it whenever you’re hopping from one region to another.
The same goes for remote workers who want to feel extra secure and refuse to connect to the free Wi-Fi. Mobile networks are a lot safer to use, and many modern eSIM plans incorporate enough traffic and speed for smooth work. So, you can just turn on a hotspot on your phone and stay online.
In case one phone number is not enough for you, and you want to separate your business and casual connections, opt for a dual-number setup. You can either maintain one physical SIM and an eSIM, or get more than one eSIM on your phone.
How to Activate an eSIM
Using an eSIM is incredibly straightforward. As long as you have a new smartphone that supports the technology, you will be able to set it up in no time.
Your phone should also be unlocked — if it’s locked, you will be tied to only one connection provider, the carrier you originally purchased the phone from. If that’s the case, call the carrier and ask them whether it’s possible to unlock the phone. Note that some providers have certain rules you have to comply with before you can use other carriers: you might have to pay off your phone first.
Once everything is set up and you’re sure you can use an eSIM, you will need to download an eSIM app. Then, you’ll likely get a QR code to scan or in-app instructions to follow in order to activate your eSIM. Whenever you are at the destination of your eSIM plan, your phone should automatically connect to the network and use other services you have paid for.
Ensure your roaming is off and your new SIM card is the primary data plan. Otherwise, you might still be charged by the original provider.
eSIM — Convenience and Reliability in One Digital Card
An embedded SIM card is a convenient alternative to a physical SIM for users with newer smartphones, travelers, and those who need several phone numbers. It’s easy to install and activate, and has a few advantages: it’s less prone to physical damage, you can activate it as soon as needed, it’s cheaper than international plans and roaming, and more — offering more opportunities than the old-school SIM card.
