eSIM Data Plans

eSIM vs physical SIM: A comprehensive guide

Both eSIMs and physical SIMs let you make calls, send texts, and use mobile data. That said, unlike physical SIM cards, eSIMs are fully digital.

Both eSIMs (embedded SIMs) and physical SIMs are types of SIM cards that serve the same purpose. An eSIM is a modern, fully digital SIM that allows remote activation and doesn’t require physical swapping when changing cards. A physical SIM is a removable card that offers simplicity and better compatibility with older devices.

Not sure which is right for you? Learn all about the key differences between eSIMs and physical SIMs, as well as the main pros and cons of each, below.

In this article

What are the differences between an eSIM and a physical SIM?

eSIMs use a chip that’s embedded into your phone, while with physical SIM cards, the chip is in the card itself. Both eSIMs and physical SIMs are types of SIM cards. They both connect your phone to a mobile network, allowing you to make calls, send messages, and use mobile data.

While it may seem minor, this difference results in quite a few unique features.

Feature	eSIM	Physical SIM
Chip location	Built into the phone; no physical card needed	A small plastic SIM card that must be inserted into a SIM tray
Activation	Can be activated remotely using an app or QR code	Need to pick up the physical SIM from the carrier before activation
Switching carriers	Can switch networks or carriers over the phone’s settings	Requires removing the SIM and inserting a new one
Using multiple carriers	Most eSIM phones support multiple eSIMs, allowing you to switch networks without swapping SIMs	Most phones only support one SIM card, dual phones can support two cards at once.
Dual SIM capability	Many modern phones support dual eSIM or one eSIM + one physical SIM	Few phones offer two SIM card slots nowadays
Travel use	eSIMs are ideal for travel — no need to visit a store, just buy online and activate	You need to visit a physical store to buy a local SIM card
Security	Impossible to steal and can be deactivated remotely	Can be physically removed and used in another device

Pros and cons of eSIM vs physical SIM

Now that you know the difference between eSIMs and physical SIM cards, let’s take a closer look at their pros and cons.

eSIM: Pros and cons

eSIM pros

Instant activation: No need to wait for a SIM card. Just scan a QR code, follow the prompts, and get connected in minutes without leaving your house.
Easy network switching: Store multiple mobile carrier profiles on your phone and switch without swapping cards.
Travel-friendly: Buy online, connect anywhere. No more searching for local SIMs abroad.
More secure: Can’t be stolen, lost, or damaged.
Eco-friendly: No plastic card or packaging waste.
Modern compatibility: Most new Apple, Samsung, and other premium Android phones are eSIM-compatible. Latest iPhones only support eSIM, with no physical SIM compatibility from iPhone 14 onwards in the US.

eSIM cons

Transferring to a new phone: Transferring an eSIM to a different phone takes extra steps and may require support from your carrier.
Compatibility with older phones: Many pre-2020 phones, as well as cheaper new phones, don’t support eSIM technology. Make sure your phone is eSIM-compatible before buying an eSIM plan.
Setup needs internet: Requires WiFi or data for initial activation.

Physical SIM: Pros and cons

Physical SIM pros

Easy device swapping: You can move your SIM card to a new device and keep using it without any extra steps.
Simple troubleshooting: Quickly test network issues by swapping SIMs.
Older device compatibility: Most phones, even eSIM-compatible ones, have a physical SIM slot, which means that you’ll be able to use a physical SIM card on almost any device.

Physical SIM cons

Slower carrier switching: You’ll need to visit a store or wait for a new SIM to arrive to switch to a different cellular network.
Prone to loss or damage: SIM cards are small, fragile, and easy to misplace once taken out.
Less secure: Can be stolen and used for identity theft.
Inconvenient when traveling: Buying a local SIM card abroad means you need to find a physical store that sells the SIMs you need. On top of that, you’ll need to remove your regular SIM in order to insert a travel one.
No longer an option for iPhone users: In the US, all iPhones starting with iPhone 14 no longer support traditional SIM cards. The same is the case for all iPhone Air models worldwide.

eSIM vs physical SIM: Which one should you choose?

Choosing between an eSIM and a physical SIM depends on your device, travel habits, and how you manage your mobile service. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best option:

Choose eSIM if:

You travel frequently and want to switch networks instantly.
You prefer a fully digital setup.
You use dual SIM functionality (e.g. personal + work numbers).
If you need to store multiple SIM profiles at once.
If you want to enjoy a fully digital user experience.

Choose a physical SIM if:

You often switch phones and want to move your SIM easily.
Your device doesn’t support eSIM.
You prefer a plug-and-play option that doesn’t require WiFi for setup.

Use both if:

Your phone supports dual SIM (eSIM + physical SIM).
You want flexibility: use an eSIM for your main line and a physical SIM as backup.
Ideal for remote workers, frequent travelers, and business users needing two numbers.

Wrapping up: Physical SIM or eSIM, which is better?

As long as you have an eSIM-compatible phone, using an eSIM is the way to go. It’s the more modern way of staying connected, and the pros of using an eSIM outweigh the cons for most users. On top of that, phone manufacturers are slowly phasing out SIM trays from their devices, so an eSIM might be your only option soon.

A physical SIM still works well for older devices or for people who like to move the same card between multiple phones, but it can’t match the convenience of a digital SIM.

If you need an eSIM you can trust, look no further than Holafly. Choose from travel eSIMs that offer unlimited data and 24/7 customer support in 200+ destinations or get Holafly Plans, a pay-monthly eSIM subscription with worldwide coverage that will keep you connected for as long as you need.

Frequently asked questions

Does eSIM get better signal than physical SIM?

No, eSIMs and physical SIMs offer the same signal strength and network quality. Both connect to the same mobile network infrastructure. Signal strength depends more on your carrier, location, and device model than on the SIM type.

Is it worth switching to eSIM?

YYes, if your phone supports it and you value convenience, fast activation, and travel flexibility. eSIMs let you switch networks without needing a physical card and are ideal for frequent travelers or when you need to use multiple SIMs.

Can I convert eSIM back to physical SIM?

Yes, most providers let you switch back to a physical SIM after using an eSIM. However, it’s not an automated process, and you’ll likely need to visit a customer service center or contact customer support to make the switch back to a physical SIM.

What happens to my physical SIM after eSIM?

If you activate an eSIM with the same number, your physical SIM is deactivated.

Do I keep the same number with an eSIM?

Yes, you can transfer your existing nYes, you can transfer your existing number to an eSIM during activation. Your carrier will guide you through the process, and your number stays the same.

Can you make calls with eSIM?

Yes, eSIMs support voice calls, text messages, and mobile data like a physical SIM. As long as your plan includes calling, you can make and receive calls normally.

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Rokas Aniulis

Senior SEO copywriter

A senior SEO writer from Lithuania, combining my passion for writing and travel at Holafly. With years of experience in technical fields, I'm here to answer all of your questions about staying connected. I specialize in turning even the most complicated topics into something everyone can understand.

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