eSIM vs Physical SIM: Differences, Benefits & More

There are two primary technologies powering most smartphones today: physical SIM cards and eSIM cards. You are most likely very familiar with physical SIM cards – they have been used by millions of people here in Australia since 2003. The main function of a SIM card is to connect your account information (such as your phone number) to your wireless provider’s network, enabling you to make calls and stay connected.

eSIM is now available on all plans for new and existing customers!

There are now various versions of physical SIM cards, including Mini-SIM, Micro-SIM, and finally, the smallest, the micro-SIM. Physical SIM cards slide into a tray in your phone and are generally locked into a single network. The function of SIM cards is fairly straightforward. The card possesses an International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI) that connects the hardware in your phone to the network and proves that you are indeed a subscriber (or customer) of the network. Without a correctly activated SIM card or eSIM, you won’t be able to make calls.

You may not be as familiar with eSIM technology. eSIM cards are pre-embedded (e = embedded) into your phone. This adds the convenience of not having to deal with inserting a physical card into your phone, which could be lost, stolen, or damaged. One of the single biggest advantages of the eSIM is that it can support multiple profiles, allowing you to easily change plans and switch operators depending on your unique situation.

Find out more, read What is an eSIM?

Which is better for you?

Determining which is the better option depends, in large part, on your particular needs. Generally, eSIM cards are prized for their flexibility, small scale, and high level of security. On the other hand, physical SIM cards are older, and consumers consequently feel more comfortable using them. Furthermore, a wider number of alternative phones and smartphones support physical SIM cards over eSIMs. Some users may not feel that shifting to new technology is even worth it. Switching out SIM cards is already highly convenient and straightforward to do. For some users, such as frequent international travellers, an eSIM is far more convenient because there are different network providers in different countries. This means that you would need to bring SIM cards with you as you travelled and manually switch them out as you enter each new country in order to get coverage. With an eSIM card, you can make these changes electronically, quickly, and easily.

SIM card vs eSIM

Generally, an eSIM beats a SIM card when it comes to a direct comparison of features. In addition to having all the functionality of a regular SIM, eSIMs have the advantage of being incredibly small within the phone, permitting manufacturers to design phones with additional features or a smaller form factor. An eSIM also allows you to change plans easier. For example, if you are looking to get one of the unbelievably affordable plans from Circles.Life, you could set up your connection and get your device activated in minutes without having to wait for a physical SIM card to be shipped to you. On the other hand, if you would prefer to use a physical SIM card or your device does not have an eSIM, it is still easy to get your account set up with Circles.Life. In a few minutes, you can get everything set up, and your card will be shipped to you in a matter of days. Then, you will be connected and ready to go!

Learn more about our eSIM plans and compatible devices.

The similarities between SIM Cards and eSIM

Both SIM cards and eSIM cards serve the same purpose – connecting you with the network you’re subscribed to as a customer. Furthermore, both embedded SIM cards and physical SIMs can be found in a variety of devices beyond just phones. Additionally, both SIM cards and eSIM cards are SIMs. SIM stands for Subscriber Identity Module. These modules are tiny microchips that store large amounts of data relating to your account with your network provider. As you can see, there are several similarities between SIM cards and eSIMs.

Pros and cons of Physical SIM Cards

Physical SIM cards provide a more flexible alternative to purchasing smartphones that are locked into a specific network or provider. Another advantage to physical SIM cards is that they are more versatile. Many older phones and alternative mobile phones are compatible with physical SIM cards. This gives you, as the consumer, more options when going to purchase a new phone. Another advantage of physical SIM cards is that you can always take your SIM card out of your phone in the event that its battery dies and use your card in a friend’s phone. Furthermore, with physical SIM cards, you can always remove them and exchange them with other SIMs if you are experiencing issues. This can help you to determine if your connectivity issues are due to your phone’s hardware or your network provider.

There are some cons to physical SIM cards, however. Physical SIM cards can be hacked by technologically savvy cybercriminals. If compromised, this could be a serious problem as SIM cards often store a great deal of private information, including your name, email address, phone number, bank account information, and contacts. Their physical nature can also present issues as they can be lost or stolen.

Pros and cons of eSIM Cards

An eSIM makes it easier than ever before to switch from one mobile network to another. This allows you to change plans in minutes and can even be done with a simple phone call. Some physical SIM cards can only be extracted with a SIM ‘ejector tool’ that can be hard to find. You also don’t have to worry about going to your network provider in order to have a change made to your SIM card. This is just one of the many benefits of eSim vs. physical SIM cards.

Also, did you know that you can store up to five virtual SIM cards on your single eSIM? This means that you can quickly bounce between different networks without having to change your physical SIM card. The other key advantage to embedded SIM cards is that they negate the requirement for a physical SIM card and its tray. This permits manufacturers to design phones with either additional features, a smaller size, or an increased battery. Many smartwatch devices currently rely on eSIM cards for this reason.

There are some disadvantages to SIM cards. As we have mentioned, it is not as easy to switch phones when you can’t remove your SIM. Also, if you are concerned about being tracked by a repressive government, you won’t be able to simply get rid of your SIM in order to hide your location.

Dual SIM and 5G

Wrapped up in this whole discussion of eSIMs and SIM cards is the new dual SIM 5G technology. Many new phones are coming out with this development. Simply put, Dual-SIM 5G is the ability to use two 5G SIMs in one phone, allowing you to connect to multiple 5G networks without physically changing your SIM card. Very few phones currently support this technology, but it is definitely a feature to watch for.

Do all smartphones have an eSIM?

While all major smartphone manufacturers have released devices with eSIM technology, not every smartphone comes with an eSIM. Most new smartphones come with an embedded SIM card, including the latest iPhones, Samsung phones, and Huawei devices.

Find out more about eSIM compatible devices

Which is better for travel?

An eSIM card has many benefits over traditional SIM cards when it comes to travel. As we have already discussed, eSIM technology allows you to change phone plans without having to deal with physical cards. Also, if you lose your phone or it is stolen, criminals won’t be able to steal your card and access the sensitive information it contains because they won’t be able to remove it. An eSIM card also cannot be physically damaged as it is embedded within your phone. For these reasons, eSIM is the best choice for travel.

Read more: Travel eSIM vs Roaming vs Local SIM Card

eSIM vs. Physical SIM

As you can see, there are both pros and cons to using eSIMs vs. physical SIM cards. At the end of the day, the best option is going to be the technology that best suits your needs. If your phone is not compatible with eSIM cards and you are not interested in purchasing a new phone, you may decide not to upgrade. However, eSIM cards do provide a number of advantages and benefits. The other key consideration is the amount of travel you do. If you do not travel frequently, you may also feel that the hassle of buying a new phone is not worth the convenience of being able to switch phone plans.

Regardless of whether you want to use eSIM cards or physical SIM cards, switching to a phone plan from Circles.Life may be one of the easiest things you can do today. Start saving money, and get connected with our most affordable offers yet.

Make the switch to a Circles.Life’s eSIM plan.