Traditional SIM cards are gradually becoming outdated as more devices are equipped with eSIM modules. But what exactly is it , and is it worth switching to? In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of this technology and understand why many users prefer buy eSIM сards instead of a physical SIM card.
What is an eSIM?
A SIM card is essentially a tiny computer with a processor, several types of memory, and an operating system. Today, there are two types of SIM cards:
- Classic format: You can get it from a mobile carrier and insert it into your phone. The module is a chip (functional component) with a plastic casing, the size of which depends on the device’s form factor. Most modern smartphones support nano SIM cards, which are 12.3 × 8.8 × 0.67 mm in size.
- Virtual or digital, also known as eSIM (Embedded Subscriber Identification Module): These modules are built into smartphones during manufacturing and cannot be removed. Carrier and plan information is uploaded directly onto the module. To change carriers, you simply load new data into the device’s settings.
Thus, a digital SIM card serves the same purpose as a physical one – connecting to mobile networks. They work similarly, but there are differences that offer both advantages and disadvantages, which we’ll explore later.
Advantages of Virtual SIM Cards (eSIM)
One eSIM can host multiple numbers, even from different carriers.
- You can purchase and set up a virtual SIM remotely without visiting a carrier store. Generally, all you need to do is scan a QR code in the app.
- It can only be lost along with the smartphone, as it’s not removable. It’s also harder to damage the module, though, like a physical SIM, it could still suffer from moisture or heavy impacts. However, physical SIM cards are more prone to wear and tear over time.
- A stolen smartphone with an it is harder to discard because the thief can’t physically remove it. This gives you more time to track the device. To deactivate it, the thief would need to unlock the phone first.
- It can be used as an additional number in a smartphone that only has one physical SIM slot. This way, you get a dual SIM phone. The features (standby mode, automatic switching for calls and data, etc.) depend on the device’s functionality.
Disadvantages of eSIM Compared to Physical SIM Cards
- It isn’t available in all countries. For example, it’s not supported in China. Some Middle Eastern and Asian countries also restrict or regulate eSIM usage.
- Not all phones support eSIM. Currently, it’s a feature found in higher-end devices. We’ve written about which devices support eSIM here.
- If your smartphone breaks or is sold, it can be inconvenient, as you’ll need to unlink the eSIM from the old device before transferring it to a new one.
- Not all mobile carriers support eSIM, so when traveling, you might still need to use a traditional SIM card.
How to Buy an eSIM Online with ESIM-Man?
Ensure your device supports virtual SIM cards or eSIM. To verify this, check the technical specifications of your smartphone on the manufacturer’s official website. To buy an eSIM, follow these steps:
- Open and register in the “ESIM-Man” web app – official website: https://esim-man.com/.
- Log in to the app. You’ll need any internet-enabled device, and you can do this from anywhere in the world.
- Enter your destination in the search bar on the homepage. This will display a list of available data plans. Choose the one that suits you and click “Buy Now.”
That’s it! All that’s left is to download and install the eSIM by scanning the QR code.