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What is an eSIM adapter? Get an eSIM on a non-eSIM phone
Learn what an eSIM adapter is, when you need one, how it works, and how to install one on an iPhone and Android device.
An eSIM adapter is a physical SIM-sized card that allows non-eSIM phones to install and use eSIM profiles. While most modern smartphones support eSIMs, older iPhones and Android phones don’t.
At the same time, eSIM plans are becoming increasingly popular, offering many affordable and flexible options, especially for travel. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from what an eSIM adapter is and how it works, to installation, pros and cons, and how to use it with a travel eSIM from Holafly.
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What is an eSIM adapter?
An eSIM adapter is a nano-SIM-sized physical card that contains an embedded eUICC (embedded universal integrated circuit card) chip. This lets you access a digital eSIM service on a phone that only has a slot for physical SIM cards.
It connects your physical SIM slot to eSIM services, allowing you to download and use eSIM data plans. Some popular eSIM adapter brands include eSIM.me, 5ber, EIOTCLUB, JMP, and Switch.
Important: An eSIM adapter is not the same as a traditional SIM card or a built-in eSIM chip. It’s an external tool that gives your Android phone/iPhone access to eSIM capabilities.
How does an eSIM adapter work?
An eSIM adapter uses its programmable eUICC chip (basically, a physical eSIM) to download eSIM profiles, which you can then activate on your phone. Here’s how it works:
- Insert the adapter into your phone’s SIM card slot.
- Download the adapter’s companion app on your Android or iPhone.
- You’ll find the eSIM profile in the adapter’s app.
- Switch between profiles within the app.
An eSIM adapter works on most Android phones and non-eSIM iPhones. However, you’ll need the companion app, and performance may vary depending on device compatibility.
How to install an eSIM adapter on Android
Setting up an eSIM adapter for an Android phone is pretty straightforward. Follow the steps below:
- Check compatibility and ensure your Android device runs Android 9 or later. Confirm that your phone supports the Open Mobile API and is unlocked.
- Buy your eSIM adapter from Amazon or the brand’s official website. Expect to pay around $20-60 USD.
- Insert the eSIM adapter into your phone’s SIM slot. Turn your phone off, and remove any existing SIM cards. Insert the eSIM adapter into the SIM slot, and power on your device.
- Download the eSIM adapter’s companion app from the Google Play Store and create an account if required.
- Add the eSIM profile via QR code or manually enter activation details from the eSIM provider. The adapter will store the eSIM profile.
- Select your active eSIM profile. Enable data roaming in settings, and text your connection.
Troubleshooting tips: Restart your phone if your eSIM isn’t working or doesn’t connect, and ensure the correct profile is selected. Double-check that data roaming is enabled for your eSIM profile.
How to install an eSIM adapter on iPhone
Most eSIM adapters are actually designed for Android devices, as iPhones (since iPhone XS) have had eSIM compatibility for several years now.
Many eSIM adapter companion apps aren’t available on Apple’s App Store, and there’s limited support for adapters on iOS.
If you still want to try using an eSIM adapter on an iPhone, you can follow these steps:
- Verify compatibility by checking the manufacturer’s list and confirming your iOS version is supported.
- Purchase a compatible adapter; choose carefully, as very few are officially compatible with iOS.
- After powering your device off and removing any existing physical SIM cards, insert the eSIM adapter into the SIM tray.
- Download the companion app and follow brand-specific instructions.
If you have an iPhone XS or newer, you have an eSIM-compatible phone, so you can skip the eSIM adapter entirely.
Pros and cons of eSIM adapters
eSIM adapters are undoubtedly handy, especially if you have a non-eSIM phone. However, the requirements for setting it up may be a nuisance for some.
Here are some pros and cons of an eSIM adapter to help you make a well-informed decision:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Turns any phone into an eSIM-compatible device ✅ Access cheaper and flexible eSIM plans without buying a new phone ✅ Store multiple eSIM profiles ✅ Switch between carriers, depending on your plan ✅ Ideal for older smartphones | ❌ Requires a companion app ❌ Occupies the physical SIM slot ❌ May not work with locked phones ❌ Setup may be more complex than a native eSIM ❌ Limited, compatible brands for iPhones |
eSIM adapter vs eSIM phones: Which is better?
It’s time for the final verdict. Your choice may depend on a few main factors.
Choose an eSIM phone if you’d enjoy:
- Seamless integration
- Maximum security
- A variety of top-rated carriers
- The ease of managing and switching profiles
An eSIM adapter may be an ideal choice if you:
- have a non-eSIM phone
- are looking for an affordable option and don’t want to upgrade your phone
- are okay with using your physical SIM slot
In conclusion, if your phone supports eSIM, you can choose between a physical SIM card and an eSIM. If not, an eSIM adapter is a practical loophole.
Using Holafly eSIM with your adapter
Whether you choose to upgrade to an eSIM phone or settle for an adapter, you’ll still need an eSIM provider to access mobile data, especially when traveling abroad.
Holafly’s unlimited data travel eSIMs work perfectly with eSIM adapters and offer a multitude of benefits for travellers including:
- Unlimited data plans in over 200+ destinations
- Easy QR code activation
- Flexible plan durations (between 1 and 90 days)
- 24/7 multilingual customer support
- A dedicated Holafly app where you can manage your plan and contact customer support
If you’re looking for more long-term plans, Holafly Plans also offers monthly eSIM subscriptions for digital nomads, remote workers, and frequent travelers. Choose a flexible internet plan, and get high-speed data in over 170 destinations with no roaming charges, contracts, or cancellation fees.
Whether you have an eSIM adapter or an eSIM phone, Holafly is one of the best eSIM providers to use with it.
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Frequently asked questions about eSIM adapters
Yes. An eSIM adapter allows non-eSIM phones to use eSIM profiles.
There’s limited compatibility with iPhones. Most are designed for Android, as iPhone XS and newer already support eSIM.
The most reliable places to purchase from are Amazon or directly from brands like JMP, 5ber, and EIOTCLUB.
No, most cost between $20 and $60; some come with plans.
A JMP eSIM adapter offers the best flexibility, while 5ber is known for affordability, and EIOTCLUB for ease of use.
Yes, most adapters support multiple profiles and allow switching via an app.
Carrier-locked phones may block eSIM profiles, so ensure your phone is unlocked before getting started.
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Born and raised in Queens, New York, I'm a Psychology graduate with a passion for writing that I've been nurturing since 2019. Over the years, I've enjoyed creating meaningful content across various niches, including sports, hospitality, and career development. At Holafly, I focus on crafting useful and inspiring pieces to make your adventures more effortless. One of the best perks of this role? Creating travel content always seems to inspire my next vacation destination!
