SIM and eSIM guide
Physical SIM or eSIM? Here is the difference.
Some of our phones come with a SIM tray and eSIM, and some are eSIM only. Both work on UK networks. This guide explains what each one means, so you can pick the right phone and save money where it makes sense.
The two options, side by side
Option 1
Physical SIM + eSIM
The phone has a SIM tray for a normal nano-SIM card, and an eSIM built in as well. You can use a card, an eSIM, or one of each.
- Put your current SIM card straight in and go
- Move your SIM to another phone in seconds
- Also supports eSIM, so you get the best of both
Option 2
eSIM only
The phone has no SIM tray. Your SIM is digital and is downloaded from your network. These phones are usually cheaper.
- Usually a lower price for the same model and grade
- Your network can switch your number to eSIM, often in minutes
- Cannot take a physical SIM card
Why people love eSIM
Several SIMs, one phone
Store several eSIMs at once (recent iPhones hold eight or more) and keep two numbers active at the same time.
Work and personal together
Run two numbers on one phone and choose which one to call or text from. No second handset needed.
Easier travel
Add a local data eSIM before you fly and keep your UK number switched on for calls and texts.
Switch in minutes
Change network or plan without waiting for a SIM card to arrive in the post.
Harder to steal
There is no card for a thief to pop out, and nothing small to lose or damage.
Often cheaper
eSIM-only phones usually cost less than the same model with a SIM tray.
Quick comparison
| Physical SIM + eSIM | eSIM only | |
|---|---|---|
| SIM tray | Yes | No |
| Use a physical SIM card | Yes | No |
| Use eSIM | Yes | Yes |
| Store several eSIMs | Yes | Yes |
| Two numbers at once | Yes (SIM + eSIM or two eSIMs) | Yes (two eSIMs) |
| Price | Standard | Usually lower |
| 12-month warranty | Yes | Yes |
Which should I choose?
Choose Physical SIM + eSIM if...
- You want to keep using the SIM card you already have
- You often swap your SIM between phones
- Your network or plan does not offer eSIM (for example some pay-as-you-go plans)
Choose eSIM only if...
- You want the lowest price
- Your network offers eSIM (EE, O2, Vodafone, Three, Sky Mobile, iD Mobile and Smarty all do)
- You travel and like adding data eSIMs abroad
Setting up an eSIM takes about five minutes
- 1
Ask your network
Request an eSIM in your network's app or by calling them. You keep your existing number.
- 2
Scan or tap
Scan the QR code they send you, or follow the link in their app. On iPhone it is under Settings, Mobile Service, Add eSIM.
- 3
You are connected
Your eSIM activates in minutes. Any old SIM card stops working once the eSIM is live.
Questions
Can I keep my phone number on an eSIM?
Yes. Your network moves your existing number onto an eSIM. Most UK networks do this in their app within a few minutes.
Will an eSIM-only phone work in the UK?
Yes, as long as your network offers eSIM. EE, O2, Vodafone, Three, Sky Mobile, iD Mobile and Smarty all support eSIM. Some smaller networks and some pay-as-you-go plans still need a physical SIM, so check with yours first.
Can I put a SIM card in an eSIM-only phone?
No. eSIM-only phones have no SIM tray. If you want to use a physical SIM card, choose Physical SIM + eSIM.
How many eSIMs can I have?
You can store several eSIMs on one phone. Recent iPhones can hold eight or more, and you can have two active at the same time.
Is the warranty the same?
Yes. Every phone, whichever SIM option you choose, comes with our 12-month warranty and 30-day free returns.
Found the right one?
Choose your SIM option on any phone page. eSIM-only phones are marked clearly and priced lower.
