eSIM and traditional physical SIM are two different mobile network connectivity solutions. This guide compares them across installation, carrier switching, compatibility, and price to help you choose.
| 对比项 | eSIM | 随身WiFi | 实体SIM卡 | 国际漫游 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-country | One eSIM, many countries | Hotspot areas only | Buy per country | Global but extremely expensive |
| Refund policy | Full refund if unused | N/A | No refund once opened | Usage-based, no refund |
| Dual SIM | Works alongside physical SIM | Not supported | Requires dual SIM slots | Uses original number, N/A |
| Activation speed | Auto-connect in 10s on arrival | Instant but need hotspot | 30+ min (queue + swap) | Instant but may be throttled |
| Price (per day) | $1-2/day | Free but limited & unstable | $3-7/day | $5-15/day |
| Purchase channel | Online order, instant email QR | Free at public places | Airport/physical store queue | Contact domestic carrier |
| Compatibility | Requires eSIM support | All WiFi-capable devices | Almost all phones | All phones supported |
| Storage capacity | Multiple carrier profiles | N/A | Limited by slots (1-2) | Single carrier only |
| Carrier switching | Software switch, no card swap | Limited to hotspot carrier | Buy new card to switch | Locked to domestic carrier |
| Installation | QR code remote install, 3 min | Find hotspots, unstable | Physical swap, needs pin | No action, but must activate service first |
For international travel, eSIM is highly recommended. Install by scanning a QR code before departure, auto-connect on arrival, 30-50% cheaper than airport purchases, with full refund if unused. Physical SIM is better for phones without eSIM support or for local monthly plans at destination stores.
eSIM Advantages
Physical SIM Advantages
The fundamental difference between eSIM and physical SIM is form factor: eSIM is a built-in chip that downloads carrier profiles via software; physical SIM is a removable card that requires physical insertion. Here is a detailed comparison:
Detailed Dimension Comparison
From the comparison above, eSIM has clear advantages in installation convenience, carrier switching, price, and refund policy, while physical SIM wins in device compatibility. For eSIM-compatible devices, eSIM is the better choice for travel.
From checking phone compatibility to completing installation — just 3 minutes. Follow the tutorial step by step and set up your eSIM with ease.
View Installation TutorialeSIM installation typically takes only 3-5 minutes. After scanning the QR code, your phone automatically downloads the configuration file, and you can use it once complete. The entire process is very simple with no physical operations required.
We recommend connecting to WiFi during installation, as downloading the configuration file requires a network connection. The file is very small (typically a few KB), so downloading is very fast. After installation, the eSIM is in a pending activation state — enable roaming upon arrival for auto-connection.
Yes, and we recommend installing in advance. The eSIM won't activate immediately after installation — it needs to connect to the local network at the destination before billing starts. We recommend installing before departure and enabling roaming upon arrival.
Common causes include: system version too old, unstable network, unclear QR code. We recommend updating your system to the latest version, ensuring stable WiFi, and scanning in good lighting. If it still fails, contact customer service for a free eSIM re-issue.
iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Select the eSIM > Delete eSIM. Android: Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Select the eSIM > Remove. After deletion, you'll need a new QR code to reinstall.
Ensure the QR code image is clear and complete, with no obstructions or reflections. Try zooming in on the QR code image and scanning in a well-lit environment. If received via email, save the QR code to your photo album and scan from there. If scanning still fails, contact customer service for a manual activation code.