Can I have an eSIM and a SIM at the same time?

eSIM technology allows you to instantly install a new SIM card on a compatible device to change your number or get a new plan. But what happens if a physical SIM card is already being used on the same device? Can you switch between two different numbers? Can both SIMs be used at the same time, or do you have to choose one over the other? We answer all your questions.

eSIM vs Physical SIM Card: Two Different Technologies

Before wondering if it's possible to use an eSIM and a physical SIM card at the same time, it's important to understand how these two technologies work. We explain the differences between physical and virtual SIM cards.

How a Physical SIM Card Works

A physical SIM card is a chip card available in various formats (mini, micro, or nano SIM) to ensure compatibility with almost all phones on the market. It must be inserted into a specific slot on the device, either by opening the battery compartment or using a tray accessible from the outer surface.

It allows the device to connect to a mobile network through the information it contains: phone number, operator, identification key, location zone, and more. The term SIM stands for “Subscriber Identity Module”, or in English, "Subscriber Identity Module." Simply put, the SIM card establishes a secure connection to an operator's network towers using the necessary security information.

A physical SIM card can be purchased directly in-store or through an operator's website, which will then send it by mail to the subscriber's address. Activation can be automatic on a specific date or manual at the customer's request (e.g., for opening a new line). Once activated, a physical SIM card can be transferred between devices without issue. It can also be used to transfer contact data when changing phones.

Devices with dual SIM technology can support two physical SIM cards simultaneously, as they provide two SIM slots.

How an eSIM Works

An eSIM is a universal SIM card embedded directly into a compatible device's hardware, such as most smartphones released after 2020 and some tablets and smartwatches. There's no need to replace it to switch operators; simply configure it with the correct network settings. Configuring an eSIM involves downloading the operator's eSIM profile, which automatically applies the necessary settings. A properly configured eSIM contains the same network information as a physical SIM card, except the data is downloaded during installation.

An eSIM can be purchased directly from an operator's website. It can be instantly installed using a QR code received by email or through the operator's mobile app. In most cases, an eSIM activates automatically upon installation . However, it can also be manually activated later via the device's network settings. Once activated, an eSIM cannot be transferred to another device.

Depending on the smartphone model, you can download up to 8 eSIM profiles on the same device. However, like with a traditional SIM card, only two phone lines can be used simultaneously.

Can you install a SIM card and an eSIM on the same phone?

While eSIM technology could one day completely replace physical SIM cards, this hasn't happened yet. The vast majority of smartphones with eSIM also have a slot for a physical SIM card. Technically, it's entirely possible to install an eSIM on a device already containing a physical SIM card. But what about usage?

Does installing an eSIM automatically disable the SIM card?

When you install an eSIM on a device, the eSIM profile download and network settings configuration happen automatically, allowing you to connect to your new mobile network right away. However, this does not automatically disable your physical SIM card! During the eSIM installation process, you'll be prompted to choose a primary network and possibly a secondary network: the configuration you choose at this stage determines whether or not your physical SIM card is disabled.

Can you still use a SIM card after installing an eSIM?

Yes, it is entirely possible to use a SIM card after installing an eSIM, provided you have correctly selected that mobile line in your device's settings. Even after installing an eSIM, you can still designate your physical SIM card as your primary SIM. You can choose to use it as a single line or set your eSIM line as secondary.

Can you use a SIM card and an eSIM at the same time for two numbers?

Devices compatible with eSIM technology all support dual SIM, whether it's using multiple eSIMs or combining an eSIM with a physical SIM card. You can therefore combine these two technologies to have two separate phone lines.