Comparing eSIM and Physical SIM: Which is the Best Choice for You?

Comparing eSIM and physical SIM is a topic of interest to many people, especially in the context of eSIM being used more and more popularly around the world. Understanding the difference between eSIM and physical SIM will help you make the right choice for your needs. This article will fully analyze the similarities and differences, advantages and disadvantages of each type, as well as suggest the optimal SIM type for each usage need.

General Definition

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What is a physical SIM?

A physical SIM (short for Subscriber Identity Module) is a small, removable plastic chip that is usually inserted into the SIM tray on a phone. This is the type of SIM we commonly know, used to store subscriber information such as phone number, carrier data, and connect the device to the mobile network. You can easily remove it to replace it with another SIM when switching networks or traveling.

What is eSIM?

eSIM (embedded SIM) is a type of electronic SIM that is built into the device's motherboard. Unlike a physical SIM, eSIM cannot be removed and operates entirely through software. Users only need to download a service package via QR code or carrier application to quickly activate eSIM.

eSIM is increasingly popular on modern devices such as iPhone, Google Pixel, new Samsung Galaxy and is an attractive choice for international travelers thanks to its flexibility and ease of remote setup.

Detailed comparison of eSIM and physical SIM

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Similarities

Despite the differences in appearance, both types of SIM cards perform basic functions such as:

Connect the device to the mobile network.
Store subscriber information and phone numbers.
Allows use of services such as calling, texting, internet access.

Difference

Criteria	Physical SIM	eSIM
Form	SIM card to be inserted into the device	Built-in machine
Setting	Time wasted waiting for SIM to be delivered and installed in the device	Activate instantly after scanning the QR code.
Flexible	Difficult to quickly switch between carriers	Easy to change or add multiple network profiles
Popularity	Very popular, most phones support it	Only supported on some new devices (iPhone XS or later, Pixel 3+, Galaxy S20+,...)
Number of packages	Use only 1 packet at a time	Can save multiple packages, easy to switch
Possibility of damage/loss	Easily broken, dropped, lost	Cannot be lost because it is in the device
Security	Stolen can be removed and used for other devices	Attached to the device, difficult to interfere with if the device is lost
Device compatibility	Works on almost any mobile device	Only works on eSIM enabled devices
Switch devices	Just remove the SIM and install it in the new phone.	Need to cancel eSIM on old device and re-register on new device
Parallel Capability	1 physical SIM + 1 eSIM (depending on device)	Can save multiple eSIMs and switch flexibly
Environmental Impact	Causes plastic waste and packaging	Environmentally friendly
Newbie experience	Easy to understand and use for non-tech savvy people	Need to get used to the process of scanning the code, selecting the package – can be confusing at first
Price	Heavily dependent on local carriers, difficult to compare	Easily compare and choose the best price plan from many international eSIM providers (Aviro, Airalo, Gohub, etc.)

Should I use eSIM or physical SIM?

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When to choose eSIM?

You travel internationally frequently and need fast connectivity, and don't want to rely on buying a SIM card at the airport
You use a modern device that supports eSIM such as iPhone XS or later, Google Pixel 3+, Samsung Galaxy S20+
You love new technology, value security and convenience
You need to use multiple phone numbers on the same device, for example one for personal, one for work

Check out Aviro's international travel eSIM packages here !

When to choose physical SIM?

You are using a phone that does not support eSIM
You like traditional simplicity and don't want to do online installation
You only need to use a fixed domestic SIM
You want to easily switch SIMs between devices, for example when borrowing a phone or using multiple phones at the same time

Can eSIM and physical SIM be used at the same time?

The answer is yes. Many modern phones support Dual SIM mode, which allows you to use an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time. This is convenient if you want to keep your main phone number but still need an eSIM travel data plan when traveling abroad.

If you are wondering whether to use eSIM or physical SIM, consider your device, your usage needs and the desired flexibility. With eSIM-enabled devices, this is a smart, economical and efficient choice in the digital age!