If you’re travelling for business, or just heading abroad for a break, you’re probably wondering how you can still use your phone data on the go.
Enter the eSIM, an easy way to switch data plans over the internet. But what exactly are eSIMs? How do they work? And why are so many companies investing in them?
What Is an eSIM?
An eSIM stands for embedded Subscriber Identity Module. Unlike a regular SIM card (a small plastic chip that holds your phone number, data plan and usage), an eSIM is downloaded directly onto your device.
Because they are fully digital, rather than inserting a physical SIM card when you sign up for a new mobile plan, you download your profile over the internet. This makes switching networks, adding data plans and managing usage when abroad much easier.
How Does An eSIM Work?
An eSIM works in the same way as a physical SIM card.
After being downloaded onto your phone, it connects you to a mobile network that allows you to use a pre-agreed amount of mobile data. But instead of slotting in a card, you activate your network by scanning a QR code or downloading an app. The eSIM then connects to the chosen carrier and allows you to connect to the internet within seconds.
One of the most useful parts of the eSIM is its ability to work alongside your physical SIM. With this, you can switch between both options, depending on where you are and what you need.
And the best part? You can get connected anywhere without scrambling to open up your phone to keep track of multiple SIM cards at the same time. Ideal.
How Much Does an eSIM Cost?
When it comes to cost, eSIMs are a great way to get affordable data on the go. Usually, the actual SIM card is free to download, but the user pays for the data package that they wish to buy.
When it comes to buying an eSIM, users will usually pay for the amount of data they want to unlock and the amount of time they want to unlock it for. Like with many things, prices do change from country-to-country, but are generally affordable throughout.
Some examples:
- AloSIM charges $8 for 2GB over 15 days in the USA.
- Airalo charges $11 for 2GB over 15 days in Canada
- Nomad charges $9 for 3GB over 30 days in Spain.
- Holafly charges $36.90 for unlimited data over 10 days in France.
Why Are eSIMs Becoming So Popular?
As travel becomes more important for businesses, and people take more regular trips, having a way to easily unlock data abroad is a huge benefit.
Here are some reasons why eSIMs are becoming so popular:
Travel
Gone are the days of finding local SIM vendors and scrambling to unlock new deals at airports. Now, travellers can just install a local eSIM before they arrive to a destination and access local data the second they land.
Data-only eSIMs are especially useful for using apps like WhatsApp, Google Maps, or Translate while abroad, without having to pay massive roaming fees.
Affordable and Flexible
Phone contracts, particularly in the UK, do come with some free roaming capabilities, but this rarely covers the whole world.
Instead of paying for roaming charges (which can be £5 per day), eSIMs allow users to pay a small fee (usually less than £5) and unlock a certain amount of data. That way, you can never risk overpaying because the data simply switches off when you run out!
In addition to this, the flexible nature of eSIMs means you can buy data as you go, so you never need to worry about wasting money on gigabytes of data that you don’t need.
Fast
eSIMs can usually be installed within minutes. Because of this they are quick to organise and incredibly convenient for those that travel often, but can have unpredictable schedules.
You Can Keep Your Original Number
With multiple SIMs (one physical, one eSIM) you can have them both live at the same time, meaning you still get texts and calls to your original number. This is handy for those who may need to retain access to their original phone number, whilst also getting cheaper data abroad.
Convenient
Unlike physical SIMs, eSIMs are totally digital. This means users don’t need to collect different SIM cards and constantly switch them out. eSIMs can be activated and deactivated at a moment’s notice, so they are perfect for those constantly on the move.
What Are The Disadvantages of eSIMs?
Whilst eSIMs are full of advantages, there are some areas that they fall short.
Compatibility
Not all devices currently support eSIMs. For example, older iPhones, Samsung devices or Google phones may not be compatible.
To know if your device is eSIM compatible, a quick search online should give you an answer. Whilst most new phone models will be, older ones are unlikely to support it.
Data Tracking
Using up data whilst abroad is all well and good, but one fatal flaw of eSIMs is that once the data runs out, the usage stops.
This could be an issue if users run out on the go, as they usually need data to top them up. However, a quick WiFi connection can help sort it out.
Data-Only
Most eSIM plans are data only, which means calls and texts may still come at a charge. Because of this, having a physical SIM and eSIM turned ‘on’ at the same time is likely the best combination.
What Can You Use eSIMs For?
eSIMs have a lot of use, particularly for:
- People travelling abroad for a long period of time or across multiple countries.
- Business trips, where staying connected is important.
- Those living in rural areas where mainstream networks can be patchy, having an eSIM can provide an extra layer of data coverage.
- Digital nomads, who may want to access data or hotspot devices whilst travelling.
- Devices like tablets or wearables that don’t need a phone number.
So, Should You Use An eSIM?
If your device is eSIM compatible and you travel regularly, then using an eSIM can be a great idea.
Not only is it convenient, it also saves time and money on the go, helping you stay connected when abroad.
If you aren’t quite ready to commit 100% to an eSIM then don’t worry, you can use one alongside your physical SIM. Either way, eSIMs are a great way to stay connected, whether you’re at home or halfway across the world.
