eSIM vs SIM: What Is the Difference?

With the advancing technology, we've witnessed how the communication network has evolved. SIMs have now evolved into smaller, built-in versions of the traditional SIM card called eSIMs. 

Most mobile brands now integrate eSIMs into smartphones. But what's the difference between both types of SIMs? Let's find out. 

Why Use an eSIM? 

An eSIM or embedded SIM is a replacement/alternative to the physical SIM. It serves the same purpose, i.e., establishing a connection between your phone to a mobile network. The only difference is that an eSIM is embedded into a smartphone's motherboard and is much smaller. 

So, you don't need to insert or remove the eSIM. That doesn't mean you can't change carriers or phone numbers. An eSIM is rewritable, making it very easy to switch carriers. 

In most cases, using an eSIM is easier compared to physical SIMs. You won't have to wait for deliveries or mess around with a SIM ejector tool or paper clip. You can make the changes instantly through a phone call. 

eSIM vs SIM: Does My Smartphone Have an eSIM? 

Smartphones nowadays come with an eSIM. Currently, most smartphone manufacturers offer dual-SIM support. So, they come with both an embedded SIM and a slot for the physical SIM. 

How Can I Set Up an eSIM? 

Most smartphones come with a physical SIM that only needs to be inserted into the tray. You use a SIM ejector tool for popping out the tray and insert it. But what if you want to use an eSIM? How do you connect it to your carrier? 

That depends on what software version you use and what your mobile device is. It also depends on your cellular plan and any other add-on plans. If you buy the plan separately, you'll need an eSIM activation card with a QR code to scan on your phone. 

If you have iOS, go to the settings and tap on the cellular or mobile data tab. Click on "Add Cellular Plan" and then scan the QR code. 

If you have an Android, go to the eSIM settings in your phone and then click on the network and internet option. Click on "Add" and follow the instructions. The settings can differ based on the Android version and mobile model you use. 

Benefits of Using an eSIM 

So, why should you use an eSIM instead of a physical SIM? The main benefit is that it's tiny. eSIMs are even smaller than nano SIMs and embedded in your device. 

Another benefit is that you won't need to pop out the SIM card tray with this embedded technology. An eSIM helps manufacturers use the additional space for a larger battery and waterproof the device further. 

You also won't have to worry about fidgeting with the SIM ejector tool to extract the SIM card tray on the user end. 

eSIM vs SIM: Downsides of Using an eSIM

The primary downside is the lack of ability to change SIM cards when you change phones. You can't just pop the SIM card and replace it with another. 

An eSIM also makes it more challenging to test your carrier's signals. With a physical SIM, you can just pop out the SIM card and insert it into another to check if the signals are coming. That makes it easier to troubleshoot the problem. But you cannot do that with an eSIM.

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