eSIM vs. physical SIM: What is the difference, and which is better?

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

The main difference between an eSIM and a physical SIM is the form factor and how they connect your device to a mobile network. A physical SIM (subscriber identity module) card is a tangible chip that you insert into your phone, available in standard, micro, and nano sizes. An eSIM (embedded subscriber identity module) is built directly into your device's hardware as a small chip that cannot be easily removed.

But that's not the only difference:

1. Activation process. Activating a physical SIM card usually requires you to insert the card into your device and request your carrier to activate the line — either in person or through your account on the carrier's website. An eSIM is activated digitally with a QR code or through your carrier's app. It makes the process quicker and doesn't require you to physically change your SIM card. 

2. Flexibility. eSIM-compatible phones allow users to store multiple eSIM profiles (up to eight), which means you can switch between carriers or plans without physically swapping out SIM cards. This is particularly useful for people who travel internationally a lot or want to use personal and work phone numbers on the same device. 

3. Durability and size. When smartphones no longer require a SIM tray, it frees up valuable space for other improvements (like a bigger battery or a better camera lens.) It's also easier to keep eSIMs undamaged and working smoothly — there's less chance they will come into contact with water or dust.  

4. Availability and carrier support. While eSIMs are globally supported by a growing number of carriers, they are not yet universally available. Physical SIMs are still widely used and supported by most mobile devices, making them much more accessible. 

eSIM vs. physical SIM: Pros and cons

Which option aligns better with your lifestyle and mobile needs — an eSIM or a physical SIM? Let's take a detailed look at both. 

Pros of eSIMs

• Convenience. The ability to manage multiple subscriptions from a single device without needing to swap out physical SIM cards makes eSIMs extremely convenient, especially for those who travel frequently or need to use two phone numbers.

• Security. eSIMs are embedded directly into your device, so you are less likely to lose them. 

• Device design. Without SIM tray requirements, phone manufacturers can design slimmer devices or use the extra space for other improvements. 

• Carrier switching. You can change a plan or your carrier online without needing to visit a store and get a new SIM card.

Cons of eSIMs

• Limited support. Not all carriers work with eSIM technology, and availability can vary widely depending on your region. Do your research before getting a smartphone that only supports eSIMs.

• Device compatibility. Many older phones don't support eSIMs, limiting your choices.  

• Problematic transfers. Transferring an eSIM from one device to another is more challenging than simply swapping a physical SIM card, especially if you're switching to a new OS. 

Pros of physical SIMs

• Universal compatibility. SIM cards are universally compatible with all mobile phones that have a SIM slot, making it easier for you to switch brands and models. 

• Easy to transfer. SIM cards can be easily moved from one device to another, allowing you to change phones quickly without informing the carrier or needing its intervention.

• Immediate replacement. If you lose or damage a physical SIM card, it can be immediately blocked and replaced at your carrier's store. 

Cons of physical SIM cards

• Physical vulnerability. Physical SIM cards can be lost, damaged, or stolen.

• Environmental impact. While SIM cards are small, their production, shipping, and disposal still generate more waste compared to digital eSIM profiles.

• Inconvenience. You can't have more than two SIM profiles on a single device, and if you want to change your carrier, you will have to visit the physical store. 

eSIM vs. physical SIM: Phone compatibility

Phone compatibility is the deciding factor when choosing between an eSIM and a physical SIM.

eSIM technology is still quite new and not all new smartphone models support it, not to mention smartwatch compatibility. But don't worry — if you want to use an eSIM, it doesn't mean your phone will have to be expensive. Some eSIM-compatible phones are quite affordable.

However, keep in mind that the extent of eSIM support can also vary between different carriers and regions. Some carriers are fully equipped to support eSIMs and offer easy online activation and management, but others might not yet offer it at all.

Physical SIM cards offer nearly universal compatibility. Virtually every mobile phone made in the last twenty years is equipped with a SIM card slot (or two), making physical SIMs a versatile and widely accepted choice. They are particularly useful for people who frequently change devices — there are no software or carrier limitations.

The immediate functionality of physical SIMs is another strong argument in their favor. They start working as soon as you insert and activate your SIM card, giving you quick access to phone services whenever you need them.

eSIM vs. physical SIM: Signal strength

When considering signal strength, there's virtually no difference between an eSIM and a physical SIM card. Both of them rely on the same network technology and are affected by the same things: your provider's infrastructure, your location, and the device you use. 

So your choice between an eSIM and a physical SIM should be based on other elements, like convenience, flexibility, and device compatibility. Signal strength is a critical aspect, but it doesn't depend on the type of SIM you use.

eSIM vs. physical SIM: Traveling

Whether you opt for an eSIM or a physical SIM card, traveling abroad means the same thing: expensive roaming fees. Unless your phone plan offers international data, you will most likely have to get an eSIM app or buy a local or international SIM card in order to stay connected. The only limitations you might face come from your device — some of the newest smartphones no longer have physical SIM card slots, and some don't support the eSIM technology. 

If your phone supports eSIMs, getting an eSIM app like Saily for a vacation or business trip is well worth it. You save lots of money on roaming, and you get an affordable and flexible data plan you can top up anytime you want. The installation process is easy and only takes minutes to set up — after that you can travel and stay connected wherever you go.

Physical SIMs are generally more compatible and offer a straightforward, reliable solution that might appeal more to you if you plan to travel to remote and less technologically advanced locations. But the plans they offer might also be more expensive, and you don't have access to your phone number while you use a local SIM card (unless your phone supports dual SIMs.) 

So which one is better?

Choosing between an eSIM and a physical SIM depends entirely on your needs and the devices you have now and plan to use in the future. If you think you might be switching your eSim from an iPhone to an Android smartphone, you should consider the complicated eSIM transfer procedure beforehand. But if you're a die-hard Apple fan, chances are, physical SIM cards will soon disappear from our iPhones, just like the headphone jack did. So you might as well adopt the technology early and get used to it before the transition is forced upon you.