What is eSIM? And Where Can You Buy One?

What is an eSIM? An eSIM is a next-generation SIM card that is embedded in your device. Unlike a physical SIM card, you don’t need to insert an eSIM into your device. Instead, your device will connect to the network using the eSIM.

One of the biggest benefits of an eSIM is that it’s much more flexible than a physical SIM card. For example, you can have multiple eSIMs on one device – which is ideal if you travel frequently. You can also swap between eSIMs without having to go through the hassle of changing SIM cards.

In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about eSIMs – including where you can buy one and the benefits of using an eSIM.

What is eSIM?

An eSIM (also known as an embedded SIM) is a programmable, read-only chip that is embedded in your device, such as a smartphone or tablet. Unlike a physical SIM card, you don’t need to insert an eSIM into your device – it already exists inside the device. An eSIM lets you connect to cellular networks without the need for a physical SIM card. All you have to do is activate your eSIM – and it will be ready to use.

eSIM in comparison with the normal physical SIM

Where Can You Buy One?

If your device is equipped with an eSIM, then you can buy one from your cellular network provider. Most cellular network providers offer eSIM plans for their customers – so you won’t have to purchase a physical SIM card.

Another place to buy eSIMs is from third-party companies, such as Google Fi and Ting. These companies offer eSIMs that are pre-programmed with the necessary codes, allowing you to connect to their preferred networks.

You can also purchase eSIMs that are compatible with multiple networks – which is ideal if you travel frequently. At Gohub, we offer multiple choices of eSIMs for easy travel. Check out what we have to offer here.

Advantages of an eSIM

One of the biggest advantages of an eSIM is that it is much more flexible than a physical SIM card. For example, you can have multiple eSIMs on one device, making switching between networks much easier. You can also switch between eSIMs without having to go through the hassle of changing SIM cards.

Moreover, an eSIM is much smaller than a physical SIM card – which makes it ideal for devices with limited space, such as smartwatches. In addition, many eSIMs offer more features than a physical SIM card – including the ability to remotely manage your data and voice plans.

Disadvantages of an eSIM

One of the major disadvantages of eSIM is the limited range of supported devices. Not all devices are equipped with eSIM capabilities, which can be a significant limitation for consumers who want to take advantage of this technology. You can check if your device is eSIM-capable HERE.

Another disadvantage of eSIM is the generally higher cost associated with it. While eSIM technology has the potential to save consumers money in the long run, the upfront costs can be more expensive than traditional SIM cards. This can be a barrier to entry for some consumers who are looking to switch to eSIM.

How to Activate an eSIM

The process of activating an eSIM depends on the type of eSIM you have. For example, if you purchased an eSIM from your cellular network provider, then you will need to follow their instructions for activating the eSIM. If you purchased an eSIM from a third-party provider, then you will need to follow their instructions for activating the eSIM. This typically requires you to download an app and follow the steps provided in the app. Once the activation process is complete, your eSIM will be ready to use.

Is an eSIM Right for You?

It depends on your needs. An eSIM may be a good choice if you need the flexibility to switch between networks without having to change SIM cards. It’s also a good choice if you travel frequently since it makes it much easier to stay connected in different countries.

However, an eSIM may not be the best choice if you need a large amount of data or if you want to use a phone number with your plan. In this case, you may want to opt for a physical SIM card instead.

Questions to Consider Before You Buy

Before you buy an eSIM, there are a few questions you need to ask yourself. For example, do you need the flexibility to switch between networks without changing SIM cards? Do you travel often and need the ability to connect to different networks in different countries? How much data do you need? Do you need a phone number with your plan?

Answering these questions will help you determine whether an eSIM is the right choice for you.

To Wrap Things Up

An eSIM is a programmable chip that is embedded in your device, such as a smartphone or tablet. You can purchase an eSIM from your cellular network provider or from a third-party provider. An eSIM offers several advantages, including the flexibility to switch between networks without changing SIM cards – which is ideal if you travel often. However, there are also some drawbacks to using an eSIM – such as the limited data plans and the need to have a phone number in order to activate the service.

Before you buy an eSIM, make sure to consider your needs and whether an eSIM is the right choice for you. Once you’ve settled the resolve, explore Gohub’s affordable eSIM plans.

eSIM Available Country

iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
iPhone 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 13 Mini
iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 12 Mini
iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
iPhone XS, XS Max, XR
iPhone SE (2020), iPhone SE (2022)

iPad

iPad Air (3rd, 4th Generation)
iPad Pro (1st to 5th Generation)
iPad Mini (5th, 6th Generation)
iPad (7th, 8th, 9th Generation)
Apple Watch S3, S4, S5, Apple Watch Nike, Apple Watch Nike+, Apple Watch Hermes, Apple Watch Edition

* Note: Apple devices that do not support eSIM

iPhones with 2 physical SIM slots version usually do not support eSIM. Please check your Setting > Cellular (Mobile Data) to make sure there is an option to "Add eSIM".
All iPhones bought from China Mainland, Hong Kong and Macao DO NOT support eSIM.