eSIM vs Nano SIM | A Detailed Difference

eSIM vs Nano SIM, which is best for travel? Nano SIM is the smallest physical SIM card designed to be used in modern IoT and smart devices.

An eSIM card is a digital SIM embedded into devices and can’t be removed. Nano SIM is the fourth generation of the SIM card, which is still used in modern devices.

However, the emergence of embedded SIM technology revolutionized the telecommunications industry. Electronic SIM is considered the best travel SIM, with advanced security and affordability.

This article is a comparison guide that provides insight into eSIM and nano-SIM. If you want to shift toward eSIM, I will provide a clear idea of how to decide according to your needs. 

What is eSIM?

Embedded SIM is a tiny chip integrated into devices. It looks different, but it works like a physical SIM card. Electronic SIM is an advanced technology that allows users to connect worldwide.

Unlike a physical SIM, eSIM is more affordable and offers a flexible internet connection. Users can switch to different eSIM profiles without physically swapping.

What is Nano-SIM? 

The nano-SIM is the smallest physical SIM card chip. Compared to the large traditional SIM, most smart devices have nano-SIM slots. These SIMs were designed to be smaller and compatible with all devices.

eSIM vs. Nano-SIM: A Detailed Comparison

Feature: Embedded SIM vs Nano-SIM

Embedded SIM (eSIM):

• Allows the use of multiple eSIM profiles.
• Remote activation is possible.
• It's a tiny embedded chip inside the device.
• No physical harm or damage possible.
• Compatible with the latest devices.
• No additional or data roaming charges while traveling.

Nano-SIM:

• Allows the use of only one carrier at a time.
• Requires manual activation by inserting a SIM card.
• It is a small physical card.
• Vulnerable to physical damage.
• Compatible with older devices.
• Carriers may charge extra for data roaming during travel.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Embedded SIM

Your device should support eSIM technology, which allows you to convert a nano SIM to an eSIM. Before switching, you should know the pros and cons of eSIM.

Advantages of eSIM 

• eSIM is a virtual SIM integrated into the devices. The SIM can’t be detached from the device. It allows users to make connections worldwide without any security issues.
• With a virtual SIM, you can switch to different carriers with a few clicks. There is no need for physical SIM swapping. It helps to connect with a flexible internet connection without any disconnectivity.
• eSIM is more secure than the nano SIM card. During travel, the SIM is not likely to be stolen or damaged, and the chances of hacking an eSIM are lower than those of a physical SIM card.
• Users can activate and install eSIMs without any hassle. They need to buy the eSIM plan from a provider like Phonico eSIM. The carrier provides the eSIM and activation details. The digital SIM can be activated remotely. 

Disadvantages of eSIM

• Not all devices support eSIM technology. The latest devices, including smartphones, iPads, tablets, and smartwatches, support digital SIM. 
• Some carriers don’t allow them to activate eSIM on the device. This carrier restriction limits your device's support for eSIM.
• Users face technical issues while installing and activating eSIM. Sometimes, eSIM doesn’t offer coverage in the specific areas that cause the connectivity issues. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Nano-SIM

Advantages of Nano-SIM

• A nano-SIM is easy to insert and detach from the device.                  
• Almost all the devices support nano-SIM.
• No electronic configuration is required for activation. 

Conclusion 

eSIM is a digitalized version of the physical SIM card. It offers more security and convenience than a traditional SIM card. Embedded SIM is the best travel companion that offers high coverage data and seamless connection.

Nano-SIM is a physical SIM card that helps to make connections with different networks. In this article, I have discussed the comparison and pros and cons of both SIMs know these SIMs. 

Are you switching to eSIM? Check your device's eSIM support, and don’t delay in selecting your provider.

FAQs

Can I use nano-SIM and eSIM at the same time?

You can use eSIM and nano-SIM with the latest dual SIM technology device at the same time. You can set up eSIM for data usage while nano-SIM for making calls and texts.

Can you convert nano-SIM to eSM?

Yes, you can convert your nano-SIM to eSIM. However, your device should support eSIM to do so. Then you can request your carrier to switch your SIM to eSIM.