eSIMs (or embedded SIMs) are a handy alternative to a physical SIM card because they’re simply downloaded and never have to leave your device, and are the newest way to get a SIM.
There are many reasons why people prefer them to normal SIM cards that will be explained in this article.
Let’s explore in detail what these are, whether they may be right for you and which telcos are offering them.
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Who offers eSIM plans?
More telcos are starting to offer eSIM plans as the number of devices being made eSIM-compatible increases. Tangerine and More just joined the list and, as time goes on, you’ll only be more spoilt for choice. This is great news as it will keep the market competitive and drive prices even lower. Here are the cheapest postpaid eSIM plans currently available in our database:
And as for prepaid plans, there’s even more choice! Take a look below for our cheapest prepaid eSIM plans with an expiry of between 28 and 365 days:
Benefits of switching to eSIM
There are many advantages to considering switching to an eSIM. Below you’ll find just some of the more popular reasons:
Greater convenience
If you swap between SIMs frequently, juggling physical SIM cards (not to mention keeping them safe) can be a nightmare. But with an eSIM, you simply sign up online, scan a QR code or download an app and your new eSIM will be applied to your device automatically.
Could work out cheaper
As we know, there are more mobile telcos than just Telstra, Optus and Vodafone these days. And while the little guys like Tangerine, More and felix mobile, for example, don’t have physical storefronts, they do offer eSIMs.
By eliminating the need for customers to go somewhere and physically purchase a SIM card, these telcos can compete with the Big Three and win over more customers, often with much cheaper deals.
Use multiple SIMs at once
It used to be that if you wanted to use two SIM cards at once, you needed to own a dual-SIM phone.
Unfortunately, these devices aren’t as easy to come by anymore. But with the increased popularity of eSIMs, you’ll now be able to have dual SIMs since the eSIM will free up physical space in your phone!
This is very handy for people who want to use just one device for their work and personal phone or may want to keep their Australian phone number handy and use a travel SIM (or eSIM) while on the go.
Travel with ease
There are quite a few companies that specialise in travel eSIMs, such as Airalo, GigSky and KnowRoaming. And their deals are quite competitive, making them well worth considering for your next overseas adventure.
As mentioned above, swapping between multiple physical SIMs can be quite inconvenient, not to mention the process of making sure you order one in time before you leave. By choosing an eSIM you can skip the worry of waiting for a physical SIM to arrive, worrying it may arrive damaged or even not being able to secure one once you reach your destination. Just a few clicks and it’s a part of your phone!
Christie Graham is Digital Content Editor at WhistleOut, Australia’s mobile and internet comparison site.