eSIM vs. Physical SIM: Which Is Better for Travellers?

Global citizens who travel frequently for business, remote work, and leisure are looking for ways to make their trips hassle-free. One way they do this is by embracing eSIM technology as an alternative to traditional physical SIM cards. Unlike conventional SIMs that need to be changed at every new destination, eSIMs are a convenient and cost-effective way of managing multiple mobile connections without carrying around several tiny cards and stressing out about losing them.

eSIMs allow users to easily switch carriers, often with better rates and more data options. They can also provide flexibility in terms of validity periods, top-up options, and—in the case of the eSIM app Saily—service across hundreds of countries. In this way, users can have more control over mobile connectivity and go online whenever and wherever.

What Are the Differences Between eSIMs and Physical SIMs?

eSIMs, or embedded SIMs, are a modern twist on traditional SIM cards. Unlike physical SIM cards you insert into your phone, eSIMs are built directly into your device’s hardware. The technology behind eSIMs allows you to switch between mobile carriers without physically changing SIM cards. Instead, you can download carrier profiles digitally, often with just a few taps on your phone.

On the other hand, physical SIM cards have been the standard for decades. They store your mobile number, network authorisation data, and other subscriber information, allowing you to connect to a carrier’s network. While they’re still widely used, conventional SIMs require you to physically replace them if you want to switch carriers or plans, which can be a hassle if you frequently move between countries.

Comparing eSIMs and Physical SIMs for Modern Device Compatibility

Regarding modern device compatibility, eSIMs have a significant advantage over physical SIM cards. Many of today’s leading smartphones — including models from Apple, Samsung, and Google — come with built-in eSIM technology, giving you more options to stay connected without needing to handle a physical card. So, if you’re using a newer model from these brands, you likely can use an eSIM unless the device is manufactured in certain countries with eSIM restrictions.

To see if your device supports an eSIM, all you need to do is check your settings. Go to the ‘Mobile Network’ or ‘SIM Card’ section in your phone’s settings menu, and look for an option to add an eSIM or manage digital SIMs. If you don’t see anything, your phone might not support eSIMs yet, but you can check your manufacturer’s website to be sure. As more and more manufacturers adopt this technology, eSIM compatibility is becoming the standard, making it easier to switch carriers or manage multiple phone numbers from your device.

Which SIM Offers Better Coverage and Connectivity?

eSIMs can offer travellers and digital nomads great advantages over traditional physical SIM cards in terms of coverage and connectivity. One of the major plus points of an eSIM is the ability to access multiple networks. This is especially useful if you’re travelling through remote areas where your primary carrier might not have the best coverage. With an eSIM, you can easily switch to a different network that provides better signal strength in that location without inserting a different SIM card into your smart device.

Another benefit of using an eSIM is storing multiple profiles, allowing you to have separate local and international plans on the same device. This flexibility helps you optimise your connectivity based on where you are. For instance, you can use a local profile for better rates and coverage at home and switch to an international profile for seamless connectivity when travelling abroad. This dual-profile capability ensures you’re always connected to the best available network and get more reliable coverage and better service wherever you go.

Additionally, if you subscribe to an eSIM that works across several countries, you can have more than one international plan when you visit different places or have long layovers en route to your final destination.

Security Concerns: Are eSIMs Safer Than Physical SIM Cards?

Since eSIMs are embedded in your device’s hardware, there’s no physical card for you to lose or have stolen, reducing the risk of someone taking your SIM card and using it without your permission. Physical SIMs, on the other hand, can be removed and used in another device, leaving you open to hackers and thieves gaining access to your data. This gives eSIMs a clear edge over standard SIM cards when it comes to security.

eSIM profiles are managed digitally through secure apps or your phone’s settings, which usually require a password, PIN, or even biometric authentication like a fingerprint or face scan to access and make changes. This adds another layer of protection for your device and data, making it much harder for someone to tamper with your network settings. Additionally, if you have an eSIM, you don’t need to rely on unsecured Wi-Fi networks at public places like cafés and malls, thereby protecting yourself from falling prey to malware, identity theft, and phishing.

For world travellers, eSIMs offer unmatched convenience and flexibility. You can change carriers effortlessly, access better rates, and manage multiple profiles without carrying many SIM cards. In addition, eSIMs are more secure and less prone to loss or theft, making them a smart choice for staying connected on the go.