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Physical SIM cards have been an essential part of any mobile device for many years. They allowed us to receive calls, messages, and connect to the internet. However, as technology has evolved, physical SIM cards have been replaced by eSIMs.
Currently, more and more devices are compatible with virtual SIM cards. In this article, we'll explain the differences of physical sim vs esim and the best use for each one.
What is a physical SIM?
A physical SIM card is a tiny chip that is inserted into the slot provided on our smartphone. This chip contains all the data needed for us to receive calls, messages, and connect to the internet.
From the moment we insert it into our smartphone, it's operational. However, to change carriers or request a new one, we'll have to go to a physical store to receive it.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a virtual SIM card that is integrated directly into the hardware of our device. Unlike physical SIM cards, we don't need to physically insert or remove it, as everything is managed remotely and is activated in a matter of seconds.
With it, we can download multiple carrier profiles without changing SIMs, ensuring we always have the best connectivity when we travel. Plus, we can use it at the same time as our main number, so we'll continue to receive our messages, calls, and WhatsApp messages on our smartphone.
eSIM vs. Physical SIM: Pros and Cons
What does esim do? With eSIMs, we have the opportunity to have a fully functional number installed on our device. We can't lose or damage it, and it remains operational at any time. Additionally, we can activate our mobile line without going to a physical store, and we can have our personal and work numbers activated at the same time when we travel. In fact, travelers are one of the main customers of this type of technology.
Among its disadvantages is that changing the eSIM from one device to another isn't as quick as physical SIMs, and it isn't compatible with all devices on the market. Although it is compatible with the most modern ones.
In the case of physical SIMs, their main advantage is that they are compatible with all smartphones on the market, and changing them from one device to another is very simple. However, they can be lost or damaged, the activation process is much slower, and for travelers, it can be somewhat inconvenient, as they lose access to their primary number.
Physical SIM:
eSIM vs. Physical SIM: Main Differences
The first thing you should keep in mind is that eSIM and physical SIM are not incompatible; in fact, they are perfectly complementary. Despite this, we're going to show you some of the advantages and disadvantages of each option based on some of the most important indicators:
- Installation: eSIM installation is digital, so you don't have to wait for a SIM card to arrive at your home, as was the case in the past. All you have to do is scan a QR code, and it will automatically install itself on your smartphone. It couldn't be easier.
- Changing Networks: If you need to change networks to find one with a better signal, you'll have to change the physical SIM. The same won't happen with eSIMs, as they connect to the best local operator in each country. You'll always have the highest speed guaranteed.
- Installation: SIM cards are compatible with the vast majority of devices on the market. For eSIMs, you need a relatively new smartphone, from the last two or three years. In this article, we'll tell you which phones are compatible, so keep reading!
- Security: SIM cards can be stolen or lost, so they're not a good option when traveling. With eSIMs, the entire activation process is done remotely, making it a much safer and more convenient option.
- During your trip: With your eSIM, you won't have to do anything. Once activated, it will connect to the carrier with the best local coverage. You won't have to access complex configuration menus. With an eSIM, you'll have to change your primary number to a local SIM.
- Space: eSIMs don't take up any space on your device, since everything is installed digitally. For physical SIM cards, they must be inserted into the slot on the device.
- Activation: Finally, we come to activation. SIM cards can take several days to install and may even require a trip to a physical store. eSIM cards don't; activation is immediate.
Which is the best option for international travel?
If you're considering a physical SIM vs eSIM and have a trip planned soon, don't hesitate: an eSIM is the best option you'll find on the market for internet access almost anywhere in the world.
Remember that you can have an eSIM while your main number is still active, so you don't have to tell anyone about your new number change. You can continue using it normally during your trip. All your WhatsApp messages, for example, will arrive the same.
Remember that eSIMs are activated instantly, which will allow you to have internet access from the moment you land at your destination. It's also a much cheaper option than roaming, since most carriers include limited roaming or don't include it in our rates at all. This creates a significant additional cost on our bill.
In addition, you can use the eSIM on multiple trips, as it's reusable. So you don't have to buy a new eSIM for each trip. With Blink eSIM, for example, you have connectivity in more than 190 countries worldwide without having to change cards at any time. Could anything be simpler?
eSIM-compatible devices
In recent years, the leading manufacturers have embraced eSIM technology as the future of connectivity. This is why the vast majority of smartphones on the market currently offer eSIM compatibility, especially if they have been recently launched.
At Blink eSIM, we've already compiled a list of all the compatible models on the market. But here's a rundown of some of the most recent ones:
Apple
- iPhone 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 16 Pro
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 16e
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15
Samsung
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
- Samsung Galaxy S25+
- Samsung Galaxy S25
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
- Samsung Galaxy S24+
- Samsung Galaxy S24
Google Pixel
- Pixel 9 Pro
- Pixel 9
- Pixel 8 Pro
- Pixel 8
Xiaomi
- Xiaomi 15, 15 Pro, 15 Ultra
- Xiaomi 14, 14 Pro, 14T, 14T Pro
- Xiaomi 13, 13 Lite, 13 Pro, 13T, 13T Pro
As we've seen, there are many Reasons to trust eSIMs over physical SIMs. In addition to the flexibility offered by most card providers, the security they offer and the versatility of being able to have two cards at the same time stand out. For travelers, eSIMs have become one of the most important tools for their travels, allowing them to have connectivity anywhere in the world to stay in touch with friends and family and also to use all the necessary applications for their trips.
If you're planning an international trip, check out the Blink eSIM flat-rate plan, which allow you to connect in more than 190 countries worldwide with a flat rate of €3 + VAT with unlimited data and 5G speed.
FAQs
Can I use an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time?
Yes, you can use an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time. In fact, it's one of the main advantages we find in eSIMs, and one of the reasons why most travelers choose this option.
Is an eSIM more secure than a physical SIM?
Yes, an eSIM is much more secure than a physical SIM, as it's harder to clone as it's installed directly in our smartphone. Plus, we run less risk of losing it when we swap it between devices.
Are all phones compatible with an eSIM?
No, not all smartphones are compatible with an eSIM. However, if you have a modern smartphone, you won't have any problems getting this compatibility. Brands like Samsung, Apple, and Xiaomi have been investing in this technology in recent years.
