There are two main types of SIM cards – the traditional SIM card, and the newer eSIM card.
While both have their advantages and disadvantages, which one is ultimately better for you depends on your needs and preferences.
In this guide, we’ll compare the two types of SIM cards to help you decide which is best for you.
By the end of this post, you’ll know which one to pick the next time you’re shopping for a new phone or SIM card.
That said, it’s important to note that you can use both an eSIM and a SIM card at the same time.
We’ll get back to this further, so keep reading to learn more.
What Is A SIM Card And What Is An ESIMCard?
SIM cards have been around since the early days of mobile phones. They are small, removable cards that store all of your phone’s data and information.
Your contacts, text messages, and other data are stored on the SIM card.
eSIMs are a newer type of SIM card that is built into your phone. They are not removable like traditional SIM cards, and they store all of the same data.
eSIMs are becoming more common as phones become more advanced, and they offer several advantages over traditional SIM cards.
Let’s take a look at the main differences between the two.
A SIM card is a small, removable card that plugs into your phone. It contains your phone’s network information, including your phone number, contact list, and text messages.
A SIM card is required to use a cellular phone service.
An eSIM is a “virtual” SIM card that is embedded directly into your phone. It doesn’t require a physical card and can be activated without having to go through your carrier.
eSIMs are slowly becoming more common, but they’re still not as widely available as traditional SIM cards.
That said, it’s important to note that most eSIM only allow you to get Internet. You won’t be able to make phone calls unless you use an app like Skype or WhatsApp.
How Do Sim And Esim Cards Work
When you insert a SIM card into your phone, it connects to your carrier’s network. This allows you to make and receive calls, as well as use data services like the Internet.
eSIM cards work similarly, but since they’re embedded directly into your phone, there’s no need to physically insert or remove them.
When you want to activate an eSIM, you can simply scan a QR code or enter a few numbers, and your phone will be connected to the network.
eSIMs are still relatively new, so not all carriers support them. The same applies to mobile devices. Only the newest devices support eSIM. If you wish to learn more, compare the best eSIM stores.
If you’re unsure whether your phone supports eSIM, you can check with your carrier or manufacturer.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Using A SIM or ESIM Card
There are a few key advantages and disadvantages to using each type of SIM card.
Below, you’ll find a comprehensive overview.
Pros And Cons Of Using A SIM Card
Advantages
- More widely available than eSIM cards
- Easier to use – just insert and go
- Can be used on any phone that supports it
Disadvantages:
- Requires a physical card, which can be easy to lose
- The card can become damaged, which can render it unusable
- You need to get a new SIM card every time you enter a new country
Pros And Cons Of Using An ESIM Card
Advantages:
- No physical card required – less likely to be lost or damaged
- Can be activated without going through your carrier
- More convenient – no need to remove and insert a card
- Ideal for travelers and digital nomads
Disadvantages:
- Still relatively new – not as widely available as traditional SIM cards
- Not all devices support eSIM
- Not all carriers support eSIM
- Mostly for Data packages – most eSIMs don’t allow you to make phone calls unless you use an application like Skype or WhatsApp
Which One Should You Choose – SIM Or ESIM?
As we mentioned, the answer to this question depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you’re looking for a data plan while you travel, then an eSIM is probably your best bet.
If you need a SIM card that’s more widely available and easier to use, then a traditional SIM card is probably a better choice.
No matter which type of SIM card you choose, remember that you can always use both an eSIM and a SIM card simultaneously.
Using an eSIM means you won’t need to update your phone number every time you go to a new country.
This can save a lot of time, especially if your phone can support only one SIM card at a time and if you have double verification with your banking application.
How To Use Both SIM Cards
If you have a mobile device that supports eSIM, you can use it alongside a physical SIM card. Simply select the name of the SIM card you wish to use for calls, and/or Internet, whether it’s the physical SIM or the eSIM.
For example, on my Pixel device, I use my physical SIM card for calling and I use my eSIM card to surf the web.
As I travel a lot, it’s more convenient for me to use an eSIM for data than to get a new SIM card for Internet everywhere I travel.
Final Thoughts On ESIM Vs SIM Cards
So, which one should you choose? If you’re looking for a data plan while you travel, then an eSIM is probably your best bet.
If you need a SIM card that’s more widely available and easier to use, then a traditional SIM card is probably a better choice.
No matter which type of SIM card you choose, remember that you can always use both an eSIM and a SIM card simultaneously.
Make sure your mobile device supports eSIM before purchasing one. Learn more by reading our post about the best phones for eSIM.
Looking for eSIM cards for your upcoming adventures? Read one of the following guides:
