In a hyperconnected world where traveling from one country to another is as easy as booking a flight, staying online is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a frequent traveler, or simply someone who doesn’t want to miss a single WhatsApp message while exploring new destinations, choosing the best connectivity option is essential.
And this brings us to the big question: eSIM or physical SIM? Which one is more convenient? Which one best suits your lifestyle and travel needs?
In this article, we’ll clear up all your doubts. We’ll break down the differences between the two, their pros and cons, how to activate them, and where to buy them, so you can make an informed decision and, most importantly, stay connected without hassle.
And if you need assistance, we offer 24/7 customer support.
What is a physical SIM card?
A physical SIM, or SIM card, is that small chip you insert into your phone or tablet to connect to a mobile network and use calls, messages, and data. It acts as your “digital ID” within the carrier, allowing your device to register on the network and access its services.
Inside the card, there’s a microchip that stores your information and is protected by a PIN code to prevent unauthorized access. While it has been the standard for years, swapping SIM cards when traveling can be a hassle, finding a store, activating it, and sometimes dealing with tedious configurations.
Fortunately, technology keeps evolving, and today, the eSIM is here to simplify everything.
✅ Advantages of a physical SIM:
- ✔️ Compatible with most devices.
- ✔️ Easy to find in stores and airports.
- ✔️ Available for both prepaid and contract plans.
❌ Disadvantages of a physical SIM:
- ❌ If you travel, switching SIMs can be a headache.
- ❌ It can be lost, damaged, or stolen.
- ❌ Activation can sometimes be slow or require paperwork.
What is an eSIM?
The eSIM is the digital evolution of the classic SIM card. You no longer need a physical chip to connect to a mobile network because all authentication information is built directly into the device.
With an eSIM, you can download and activate data plans in minutes without swapping cards or visiting a store. Plus, it allows you to switch carriers easily, perfect for travelers who need seamless connectivity across different countries.
In short: more convenience, less plastic, and zero stress.
✅ Advantages of eSIM:
- ✔️ Activate your plan in minutes without changing cards.
- ✔️ Easily switch between carriers.
- ✔️ Can’t be lost or damaged since it’s virtual.
- ✔️ Perfect for travelers, you can buy a plan before arriving at your destination.
❌ Disadvantages of eSIM:
- ❌ Not all devices are compatible (though more are adopting it).
- ❌ Some carriers still don’t support it.
Are you interested in an eSIM?
An excellent option is the Free Roaming store, no more roaming charges or physical SIM cards. Staying connected while traveling has never been easier.
What are the benefits of eSIM over physical SIM?
Whenever technology advances, it does so to simplify our lives, and eSIMs are no exception. These virtual SIM cards bring a new level of convenience, eliminating the need for physical chips and making connectivity faster, safer, and more flexible. Let’s take a quick look at how they outperform traditional SIM cards.
While eSIMs offer great advantages, there are a few things to consider before switching. In some cases, data and voice plans may be more expensive than those for physical SIMs. Plus, to use an international eSIM, your phone must be unlocked.
eSIM capable phone VS SIM phone
More and more devices are becoming eSIM compatible, including the latest iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel models, as well as smartwatches like the Apple Watch and Samsung Galaxy Watch. However, most phones still come with a physical SIM slot.
The list of eSIM-compatible devices keeps growing, and before long, many carriers and manufacturers will adopt this technology as the standard.
Want to check if your device is compatible? We recommend visiting the manufacturer’s or cellular network operator’s website. You can also find an up-to-date list of eSIM-compatible devices here.
How to activate an eSIM?
Activating an eSIM is easier than you think. Just follow these steps:
- 1️⃣ Check that your device is eSIM compatible.
- 2️⃣ Choose a provider that offers eSIM and purchase your plan.
- 3️⃣ Receive a QR code via email or the carrier’s app.
- 4️⃣ Scan it from your phone’s settings and follow the instructions.
Usually, you can do the activation yourself with a QR code. However, some operators require you to go to a physical store because they do the installation. In any case, when you have the QR code, you just need to go to your phone’s configuration and follow the steps that it indicates.
On iPhone, you must
- 1️⃣ Go to Settings > Mobile Data (or Cellular).
- 2️⃣ Tap “Add eSIM.”
- 3️⃣ Scan your carrier’s QR code with the camera.
- 4️⃣ When the Cellular Plan Detection notification appears, tap Continue.
- 5️⃣ Choose the primary line for calls and messages.
- 6️⃣ Select the line for mobile data.
- 7️⃣ That’s it! Your eSIM will be activated and ready to use in the settings.
On an Android phone, you must
- 1️⃣ Go to Settings > Connections.
- 2️⃣ Open SIM Card Manager.
- 3️⃣ Tap “Add Mobile Plan” to see the SIMs available on your device.
- 4️⃣ Select “Add Plan with QR Code.”
- 5️⃣ Scan your carrier’s QR code with the camera.
- 6️⃣ Confirm and add the plan to your phone.
- 7️⃣ Check the SIM Card Manager to verify that your new eSIM is active.
Where to buy an eSIM online
Buying an eSIM online is a quick and easy process. While some local carriers sell them in physical stores, the most convenient way is to purchase one online. Free Roaming is one of the best options, offering eSIMs for multiple destinations and allowing you to activate them in minutes without swapping physical cards.
You can buy your Free Roaming eSIM directly from their website and easily activate it on your device. If you’re using iOS 17.4 on iPhone, the process is even simpler, as activation is automatic with just one click.
Advantages of Free Roaming:
- ✅ Unlimited data in multiple destinations.
- ✅ Coverage in over 190 destinations.
- ✅ Quick setup with a QR code or manual installation.
- ✅ Affordable plans with no surprise charges.
- ✅ 24/7 customer support in Spanish.
Forget about roaming and local SIM cards. Buy your eSIM in minutes and stay connected as soon as you land.
FAQ about eSIM vs. SIM Card
Can you switch between eSIM and physical SIM?
Yes, you can transfer your physical SIM to an eSIM, but this depends on your carrier. Some offer the option for free, while others may charge a transfer fee.
How can I find out if my device supports eSIM?
More and more modern smartphones are eSIM compatible, especially mid-range and high-end models. To check if yours supports eSIM, visit the manufacturer’s website or contact customer support. If your phone has dual SIM capability, the second slot may be an eSIM instead of a physical SIM.
Can I have multiple operator profiles on one eSIM?
A major advantage of eSIM is that it allows you to have multiple carrier profiles on a single device. This is perfect for frequent travelers, as you can switch networks based on the country or the best rate without swapping physical cards.
How do you change providers with an eSIM?
One of the biggest advantages of eSIM is that you can switch carriers without replacing a physical card. If your phone is unlocked, all you need to do is purchase a new plan, scan the activation QR code, and you’re all set. Plus, you can add a new eSIM without deleting the previous one, making it easy to switch between carriers.
Is the eSIM more secure than the physical SIM?
When it comes to security, both physical SIM and eSIM are reliable options, but eSIM has a key advantage—it cannot be removed in case of theft or loss, reducing the risk of misuse. Additionally, many carriers offer extra protection measures, such as two-factor authentication, for an even more secure connection.
Can I use an eSIM in any country?
Yes, once activated, an eSIM will work in any country where your carrier has coverage. However, not all destinations support this technology. Before you travel, check compatibility to avoid any surprises. If the country does not support eSIM, you can opt for a local physical SIM as an alternative.
