eSIMs are starting to be popular and more and more cell phone brands are implementing this technology into their products. However, how can we know that eSIMs are worth it? Because compatible smartphones are not cheap, smartphones that work with regular SIM cards are still out in the market.

In this article, we want to compare physical SIM cards and eSIMs (embedded SIMs). You will notice that both of them have advantages and disadvantages. However, the idea is to give you all the information you need to understand what is better for you, your lifestyle, and your pocket. 

 

The similarities between the SIM cards and eSIMs

First, let's start by saying that SIM cards and eSIMs both have the same purpose, which is connecting your cell phone to a mobile network. They allow your cell phone to get the signal that is needed to navigate through the internet, make and receive calls, and send and receive text messages. In terms of performance, there are not too many differences. It means that once you activate your eSIM, you can use your cellphone as usual.

Nowadays, the most popular and recognized mobile networks around the world give you the chance of getting both services, SIM cards, and eSIMs plans. It means that you can continue using the mobile provider of your preference if you change into eSIMs.

Another similarity is that you can use SIM cards and eSIMs on different devices. None is exclusive to phones, as we often think. Satellite phones, smartwatches, computers, and cameras can also work using SIM cards and eSIMs.

Internally, both store information such as your phone number, the mobile plan you are using, and some other information that identifies your phone.

Finally, SIM cards and eSIMs can be used simultaneously in all dual-SIM phones. You may know that some smartphones come with more than one SIM card slot, so you can have different phone numbers from different carriers. The same happens with eSIMs. This is particularly useful when you want to enjoy the benefits of two different providers. You could use one SIM for data and another one for calls and messages.  

 

The pros of SIM cards

SIM cards continue to be used and are useful. Not everybody can afford a smartphone that is compatible with eSIMs, and that is one of the reasons for SIM cards not disappearing soon. Let's detail other benefits that a physical SIM can offer:

·      Since SIM cards have been on the market longer, there are many more options to choose from. If the eSIM technology has not yet arrived in your country, you can still connect with a SIM card without problems.

·      The fact that SIM cards are removable can be an advantage in some situations. For example, if you are running out of battery and without the chance of charging your phone, you can remove the card and insert it into another phone. Then you will be able to access your contacts and make calls or send a message if necessary.

 

·      SIM cards are upgradable. Remember that SIM cards come in three different sizes, which are Standard, Micro, and Nano. They have shrunk in size over time because manufacturers found a way of making them smaller and equally efficient. However, the newest smartphones come only with Nano slots. If you buy a new cell phone that works with Nano SIMs, it is easy to replace your card (Standard or Micro) in one of the agencies of your provider.

·      If you travel a lot, you will find a prepaid SIM card in any airport around the world. You just need to check that the price is right, because some vendors may take advantage of tourists.

 

The pros of eSIMs

Below we list all the advantages of eSIMs, which stands for embedded Subscriber Identity Module.

·      Since the eSIM is built into your phone and you cannot remove it, you cannot damage it either. There is no need to manipulate a SIM card slot or to remove the back cover of your phone because the eSIM cannot be seen.

·      The eSIM is smaller than a Nano SIM card. The advantage of this is that the space taken by a regular SIM card slot can now be used to improve other features on the device. It is perfect for wearable devices such as smartwatches since it allows a more simple and minimalist design. In the case of smartphones, more space available can be used to increase the battery size or improve other features of the phone.

·      The security features that come with eSIMs are much better, which means that they are not easy to hack.

eSIMs provided by UPeSIM

UPeSIM provides eSIMs for many countries around the world. Here we detail some of them, so you can have an idea about the services included and the prices. Another advantage of using UPeSIM eSIMS compared to physical cards is that you can simply purchase your eSIM prior to your trip and instantly receive it by email or on the apps.

Asia eSIM 14 countries – €15.49

·      Data: 6 GB

·      Validity: 12 days

·      Countries: Thailand, Myanmar, Hong Kong, Malaysia, South Korea, Philippines. Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, and Macau.

Europe eSIM – €14.99

·      Data: 5 GB

·      Validity: 30 days

·      Countries: 27 countries (Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Ireland, Greece, Spain, France, and more)

United States eSIM – €12.99

·      Data: 6 GB

·      Validity: 10 days

South Africa eSIM – €29.99

·      Data: 1 GB

·      Validity: 7 days

 

FAQs

What are the cons of SIM cards and eSIMs?

SIM cards are still hackable. If you enter some malicious links, there is a high possibility that hackers can enter your phone and find personal information. That is why is it always advisable that you do not go to websites that are not trustworthy. On the other hand, eSIMs are only compatible with the newest devices, which means you will have to change your smartphone for a new one.

 

It is your turn to decide if it is worth it to change to the new technology of eSIMs or to stick to SIM cards. However, keep in mind that soon the majority of cell phones and electronic devices will be using only eSIMs!