SIM vs. eSIM: Is Shifting to a New Technology Even Worth It? (2024)

SIM vs. eSIM: Which Is Better?

We know that you’ve been searching for ways to get better connectivity on the go, and if you travel often, then chances are that you change your providers a lot. Who wouldn’t want to find an alternative to purchasing an inefficient track phone plan or finding a Wi-Fi hotspot each time to get an internet connection?

We are always trying to weigh the difference between new technology to find out whether they’re worth investing in, and that’s likely why you’re here. You’ve heard of eSIM and how it’s improving the signal quality for people around the world, so should you make the switch?

Here, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of both SIM and eSIM cards.

Which Is Better? SIM vs. eSIM

Many travelers struggle to find a reliable mobile provider while they’re abroad, and even if they find one, they might not need the service for longer than a month.

Some mobile service providers don’t yet offer a consistent connection for eSIM-compatible phones. Likewise, the data amount and expiration date of their prepaid plans don’t seem to coincide with the requirements of a traveler.

The Similarities Between SIM and eSIM

There’s a stigma surrounding SIM vs. eSIM that they’re entirely different technologies altogether and can’t be compared accurately. However, most people would be surprised to know that they have quite a few similarities, such as:

They both connect your phone to your mobile provider’s network
They both may be used in many different devices (not just phones)
They both identify your phone and the type of plan is used
They both can be used simultaneously in a dual-SIM phone
They’re both technically “SIMs.”

Yes, that’s right, both are SIMs. However, a SIM card is a chip that is physically installed or removed inside your phone with your carrier’s plan. An eSIM (embedded sim) is built-in to your phone and downloads your carrier’s plan indirectly.

The Pros of SIM Cards

Though more travelers may be swayed to use eSIM, there are still some advantages to choosing SIM carriers while visiting a different country.

The Cons of SIM Cards

Here are the negative aspects of SIM cards:

SIMs are easy to damage or lose: It's easy to damage or lose a SIM card when handling it outside of your device.
SIMs are tied to a carrier's plan: You mustpurchase and insert a new SIM card from another carrier to change your plan.
SIMs can only store one plan at a time:You can't store multiple plans onone card.
SIMs are easier to hack: If your phone is lost or stolen, it's easy for a hacker to access your SIM and use it fraudulently.

The Pros of eSIMs

Here are some of the notable advantages of eSIMs:

eSIMs are convenient: You can download them anywhereyou have a network connection.
eSIMs are market competitive: They are priced the same as any traditional SIM card.
eSIMs are easy to install and operate: It takes just a couple of minutes to download and install an eSIM, and you're good to go.
eSIMs can’t be physically damaged or lost: Since eSIMs are embedded, they're much harder to damage or lose.
You can store multiple eSIM plans: Some phones allow you to download and store as many eSIM plans as you like, giving you total flexibility when you travel.
eSIMs are harder to hack: Hackers must pivot through a billing-process security feature and the cloud to intrude into your phone details while roaming with an eSIM.

The Cons of eSIMs

Although eSIMs may seem flawless at a glance, there are still a few disadvantages to using them.

Here are the negative aspects of eSIM cards:

eSIMs aren't available for older phones: Since they're relatively new, eSIMs aren'tcompatible with older phone models.
It's harder to transfer data: Instead of popping the card out of a damaged phone, you have to download your data from the cloud to get your contacts, messages, and other media back.

Should You Switch to eSIM Technology?

If you’re a traveler who enjoys taking vacations to remote locations or different countries, you’ve likely spent years trying to find a provider that offers reliable coverage. What exactly can you expect to change with eSIM?

Visit over 200+ countries and regions: Wouldn’t it be nice to visit any location without wondering whether you’ll be able to have access to coverage in any country? If you choose Airalo, you can get an eSIM data plan that works in a vast expanse of locations.
Flexible data plans: Don’t want to pay for data you can’t possibly use up before your trip ends? eSIM prepaid plans are flexible and offer an affordable amount of data for any vacation.
Spend less on coverage: Based on how much you usually spend to get limited and inconsistent coverage; you save a considerable sum of money when switching to an eSIM plan.
Connection consistency: Want to take your phone anywhere without a nearby Wi-Fi hotspot? Airalo partners with local telcos around the world to bring you the best coverage at local-based rates.
Text, call, or browse: You can still use your main SIM line to make personal calls, while you can switch to an eSIM to browse the web.

Which Devices Support eSIM?

If you're looking to see if your device supports eSIM, please consult our list of eSIM-compatible devices.

SIM vs. eSIM – Which Will You Choose For Your Next Trip Abroad?

Not sure if you're ready to switch to an eSIM?

Here’s something you should consider if you’re having doubts. Cell phone technology is expanding out of our capacity to build cell phone towers and meet the rising demand for global connectivity. Mobile phone customers are tired of paying for data that they can’t get in remote locations or outside their coverage areas. Worse still, people pay for expensive roaming abroad to get connected.

Now imagine that you’re abroad, sifting through a sea of overcrowded hotspots or Wi-Fi locations to get your connectivity. What if you could carry your mobile phone with you anywhere in the world without switching your provider? eSIM aims to revolutionize the way we connect on a global level.

Sure, you could rent a pocket Wi-Fi device or buy a temporary SIM from a local market to avoid roaming fees, but that also takes up a lot of valuable time and resources to do. Why continue to inconvenience yourself when you can get complete global coverage with only your phone?

Airalo understands that you want to strongly consider the benefits of mobile technology before you spend hundreds of dollars on a new phone. Visit Airalo today to learn more about compatible eSIM phones and available data plans for your global connectivity needs.

SIM vs. eSIM: Is Shifting to a New Technology Even Worth It? (2024)

FAQs

Is it better to have a SIM or eSIM? ›

Enhanced Security: Since an eSIM is embedded inside the device, it's less susceptible to theft or loss compared to physical SIM cards. This built-in nature also reduces the risk of SIM swap fraud, offering a more secure telecommunications experience.

Read On ›

Is it worth changing to eSIM? ›

1. eSIMs are Quick & Easy. From getting an eSIM to switching providers, one of the main benefits of eSIM is that the whole process is very convenient. You don't have to order a SIM, then wait for it to arrive, and especially not always look around for a SIM ejector!

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Is it better to switch to eSIM? ›

FAQ eSIM Pros and Cons. Is eSIM better than physical SIM card? eSIM is better than a physical SIM card because it has so many more benefits: – eSIM is small: This not only allows extra room for other components, or perhaps a larger battery, it also enables manufacturers to rejig the internal layout of their devices.

Is physical SIM useless after converting to eSIM? ›

Yes, you can still use your SIM card after installing the eSIM, in fact you can even use both cards simultaneously, your primary card for calls and message, and the eSIM for Internet.

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Is there a downside to an eSIM? ›

Changing devices might not be straightforward

If you are using an eSIM and you need to change phones, chances are that you will need to contact your local provider to enquire how to transfer your eSIM. While Android and iOS have eSIM transfer tools, not all carriers allow an eSIM transfer.

Find Out More ›

Why is eSIM not popular? ›

Device manufacturers are also hesitant to adopt eSIM technology due to concerns about its potential impact on their business models. Integrating eSIM technology into devices requires significant research, development, and testing investment, with no guarantee of widespread adoption or acceptance from consumers.

Tell Me More ›

Does eSIM drain battery? ›

The short answer is no, not really. An eSIM itself doesn't use more battery than a physical SIM. However, if you're using your phone with two lines (one eSIM and one physical SIM), your phone must maintain a connection to two networks. This can use more battery because your phone is doing extra work.

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Will physical SIM cards be phased out? ›

Now, the traditional plastic SIM cards are being phased out in favor of embedded versions called eSIMs. The change could make switching . It's not obsolete, it still functions as intended. It won't work forever, and 2G is going to go away eventually, so you can say it's deprecated..

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Can eSIMs be hacked? ›

However, you should remember that no connected device is 100% immune to hacking. And since eSIMs are used on connected devices, like any other technology, they are vulnerable to malware, social engineering, and phishing attacks.

Can I convert eSIM back to physical SIM? ›

Once you present your proof of identity, the representative will start the process. The representative will deactivate your eSIM permanently from your phone. Post that, they will provide you a new physical SIM card. This physical sim card will be configured with the same number as the eSIM.

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Is eSIM safe for banking? ›

Is eSIM Safe for Banking? The short answer is yes, but with a caveat. eSIMs can't be physically removed, which means a thief can't just pop out your SIM and access your bank account.

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Does eSIM change your phone number? ›

Now, let's address the burning question: does installing an eSIM change your phone number? The answer is generally no. When you install an eSIM, it doesn't directly alter your phone number. Your phone number remains the same, and you can continue to use it as you normally would.

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What happens to an old SIM after converting to eSIM? ›

Tap Convert Cellular Plan. Tap Convert to eSIM. Wait for your eSIM to activate. Your previous SIM card is deactivated when the cellular plan on your iPhone activates.

Get More Info Here ›

Is it better to have a physical SIM or eSIM? ›

An eSIM makes it much easier to switch mobile networks. Instead of needing to order a new SIM, waiting for it to arrive, then inserting it into your phone, you can switch to a different network with a phone call or online. You also won't need to go hunting for a SIM 'ejector tool' to remove the old SIM from your phone.

Can you keep both eSIM and physical SIM? ›

You can use Dual SIM by using a physical SIM and an eSIM. iPhone 13 models and later also support two active eSIMs. iPhone models without a physical SIM tray support two active eSIMs. Learn how to activate a cellular plan on an eSIM.

What is the advantage of eSIM over SIM? ›

The eSIM eliminates the logistical hassle of getting a physical SIM card. You won't have to look for a store or wait for your SIM to be delivered by mail. No more looking for an ejector tool, or a paperclip to change SIMs! eSIM is also ideal if you are a frequent traveler.

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Can I switch back from eSIM to physical SIM? ›

FAQ How to switch from eSIM to physical SIM. Can I switch from eSIM to physical SIM? Yes, you can switch back from eSIM to physical SIM in seconds, in fact you can even use both of SIMs at the same time, your primary card for calls and message, and the eSIM for internet.

Which is safer SIM or eSIM? ›

eSIMs can be trusted due to their enhanced security features. eSIMs are less likely to be stolen or tampered with than regular SIM cards because they use advanced encryption to protect data, and network operators tightly control their setup, reducing the risk of cloning.

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