What is an eSIM Card and Why We Need it?
Learn what an eSIM is, how it works, and its benefits. Activate esimNB eSIM with a QR code for secure, easy setup, travel data, and multiple plans.
In this article:
- eSIM Card: what is it and how to use it?
- What is an eSIM?
- Why We Need an eSIM?
- Is eSIM Safe to Use?
- How does an eSIM work?
- What are the benefits of an eSIM?
- What is the Difference between eSIM and physical SIM?
- FAQs about eSIM
- Stay Connected With an eSIM From esimNB
eSIM Card: what is it and how to use it?
An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card that is built into your phone, so you don’t need to put in a small plastic card. It lets your phone connect to mobile networks when you travel or when you need data.
To use an eSIM, you simply buy a plan online, then scan a QR code or enter a code on your phone. The plan will be added right away, and you can start using the internet without needing to visit a store or change SIM cards.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a small electronic chip that works just like a traditional SIM card but is built directly into a device. Instead of inserting or removing a physical card, the eSIM is programmed with your mobile plan through software. This makes it flexible and easy to switch between carriers or data plans without needing a new SIM card.
Besides smartphones, eSIMs are also used in many other devices. For example,
- smartwatches use eSIMs so they can connect to the internet and make calls without needing to be near a phone.
- Tablets and laptops with eSIM support can get online anywhere, even without Wi-Fi.
- Some cars also use eSIMs to connect to navigation, music, or emergency services.
In short, eSIM technology helps many different devices stay connected anytime and anywhere.
Why We Need an eSIM?
We need an eSIM because it makes life easier. You don’t have to carry or change tiny SIM cards anymore. You can buy a plan online and start using it right away. When you travel, you can get local data without going to a store.
If you need two numbers, eSIM lets you keep both in one phone. It also works in watches, tablets, and even cars, so these devices can stay online anywhere.
Is eSIM Safe to Use?
Yes, eSIM is safe to use. It works with the same security rules as a normal SIM card. Your mobile plan is locked to your device, so it cannot be taken out or lost like a plastic SIM. Mobile companies also use encryption to protect your data.
This means your calls, messages, and internet are kept private. In many ways, eSIM is even safer because no one can steal or swap the card from your phone.
Even though an eSIM is electronic, it is still very safe. Mobile networks use strong encryption to protect your plan and data. Hackers cannot simply “enter” your eSIM because it is tied to both your device and your carrier. In fact, it is harder to attack than a plastic SIM, since no one can remove or replace it.
Like all online services, no system is 100% risk-free, but eSIM uses the same high security standards that banks and mobile companies trust every day.
How does an eSIM work?
An eSIM works like a digital version of a SIM card that is already built into your device. Instead of inserting a plastic SIM, you get a QR code or activation code from your carrier. Once you scan it, the plan is saved on your eSIM chip, and your phone connects to the network right away.
You can also add or switch plans directly in your settings without changing cards. Before using an eSIM, always check if your phone or device supports it.
Here’s how to download and activate an esimNB eSIM
- Ensure your phone is unlocked and eSIM-compatible.
- Go to the esimNB website- Select an eSIM plan(you can choose from local, regional, and global plans).
- Get the QR code to download and install your eSIM(this only takes a few minutes).
- Connect to local network when you arrive at your destination. Have fun！
What are the benefits of an eSIM?
1. Quick Setup and Easy Changes
You can set up an eSIM within minutes by scanning a QR code. If you want to switch to another plan or network, you can do it right from your phone settings—no waiting for a card to arrive or visiting a shop.
2. Multiple Numbers in One Device
An eSIM can hold more than one profile. This means you can use one number for work and another for personal calls, or keep your home plan active while adding a local plan when you travel.
3. Enhanced Security
Since there’s no plastic SIM to remove, eSIMs are harder to lose, steal, or tamper with. This lowers the risk of SIM-swapping attacks and keeps your mobile identity safer.
4. Perfect for Travelers
With eSIM, you can buy and activate local data plans as soon as you land in another country. This helps you avoid high roaming fees and saves time compared to hunting for a physical SIM card.
5. More Space in Devices
Without a SIM card slot, device makers can design slimmer phones, add larger batteries, or use the space for new features.
6. Eco-Friendly Choice
eSIMs cut down on plastic production and shipping waste, making them a greener option compared to traditional SIM cards.
7.No Expensive Roaming Fees
An eSIM (embedded SIM) eliminates traditional roaming fees by allowing you to connect to local networks in a foreign country through prepaid data plans, rather than relying on your home carrier.
With esimNB eSIM, you get precisely the amount of data you pay for and can top up if you run out.
What is the Difference between eSIM and physical SIM?
| Feature | eSIM (Embedded SIM) | Physical SIM (Plastic SIM Card) |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Built into the device, no card needed | Small removable plastic card |
| Activation | Digital setup by scanning a QR code or code input | Insert card manually, often need store visit |
| Switching Plans | Done in device settings, instant | Requires swapping cards or buying a new one |
| Number of Profiles | Can store multiple profiles (work, travel, personal) | Usually only one profile per card |
| Security | Harder to lose or steal; protects against SIM swap | Can be lost, stolen, or swapped |
| Travel Use | Add local plans online without changing cards | Must buy and insert a local SIM card |
| Device Design | Saves space inside device for slimmer build/battery | Needs SIM tray, takes up physical space |
| Environment | No plastic waste, more eco-friendly | Creates plastic and packaging waste |
| Device Compatibility | Only works on eSIM-supported devices | Works on almost all phones and devices |
FAQs about eSIM
1. Do eSIMs keep your phone number?
Yes. Adding an eSIM means you’re adding an additional data line, not replacing your existing one. Your primary phone number will remain unchanged.
2. Can you use WhatsApp with eSIM?
Absolutely. WhatsApp works seamlessly with data-only eSIMs, just like with a physical SIM card.
3. Do I need to turn off data roaming when using eSIM?
No. To use your eSIM for data while traveling, you need to keep Data Roaming enabled for that specific eSIM plan in your phone’s settings.
4. Is eSIM safe for banking?
Yes. eSIMs follow the same security standards as physical SIM cards. Since they cannot be physically removed or stolen, they offer an added layer of protection for banking and other sensitive activities.
5. Does using an eSIM drain more battery?
No. eSIM technology is lightweight and energy-efficient. Battery consumption mainly comes from apps, screen usage, and network activity—not from whether you use an eSIM or a physical SIM.
6. Why isn’t eSIM more popular yet?
The main reason is compatibility. Not all phones or carriers currently support eSIM, and many users are still accustomed to traditional SIM cards. As more devices and providers adopt the technology, eSIM usage is expected to grow rapidly.
Stay Connected With an eSIM From esimNB
No matter where your travels take you, stay connected with an esimNB eSIM. With esimNB, you can enjoy affordable eSIM plans in 140+ countries and regions — including some of the best destinations to visit this month.
Why choose esimNB when you travel?
- Get connected to a mobile network within minutes of arrival.
- Pick from flexible local, regional, and global data plans.
- Skip the hassle of searching for a local SIM vendor.
- Avoid costly international roaming fees.
- Store and manage multiple eSIM profiles directly on your device.
- Running low on data? Instantly top up anytime through the esimNB app.
How esimNB Works
IMPORTANT: Make sure your phone is carrier-unlocked and eSIM compatible
Choose your destination and package
Activate your eSIM data plan
Manage and Top-up your package
