Many phones now offer eSIM support. However, just because this technology is available doesn’t mean you should overlook the benefits of a phone with a physical SIM slot. There are many valid reasons, and here are some of the most important ones.
1 Broader Device Compatibility Across Carriers
When it comes to device compatibility, physical SIM cards have a clear advantage over eSIMs. Not all carriers support eSIM technology, so you might be limited in your choice of devices if you opt for an eSIM-only phone.
On the other hand, phones with a physical SIM slot, like the Galaxy S24 Ultra we reviewed, are compatible with a wider range of carriers, giving you more freedom to choose the device that best suits your needs.
Besides that, if you’re someone like me who keeps old devices as backups or passes them on to family members, having a physical SIM slot ensures that those devices can still be used with any carrier.
2 Easily Switch Carriers With Physical SIM
If you switch carriers often, whether it’s to take advantage of better deals or to get better coverage, then a phone with a physical SIM slot is definitely the way to go. With a physical SIM slot, you can easily swap out your old SIM for a new one from a different carrier, and you’ll be up and running in no time.
However, with eSIM-only phones, the process of switching carriers can be a bit more involved. First, you’ll need to make sure that your new carrier supports eSIM and that your phone is compatible with their network. Then, you’ll need to go through the process of downloading and activating the new eSIM, which can take some time and requires a stable internet connection.
And if you travel frequently or live in an area with spotty internet coverage, this can be a real problem. With a physical SIM, you don’t need to worry about any of that—just pop in your new SIM, and you’re good to go—no matter where you are.
Lastly, if you like to keep a backup phone handy for emergencies, a phone with a physical SIM slot makes it easy to switch your service over to that device quickly and easily. With an eSIM, you’d need to go through the whole activation process again, which could be a real hassle in an emergency.
3 Network Providers Can’t Track You Easily
Using a phone with a physical SIM slot gives you more control over when and how your device connects to the network. If you’re worried about your location being tracked, you can simply remove the SIM card. Your phone will no longer be connected to the network, making it much harder for your provider to monitor your whereabouts.
Unfortunately, eSIMs are embedded directly into your device, which means your phone is always connected to the network as long as it’s turned on. This constant connection makes it easier for network providers to monitor your movements and activity, which can be a major concern at times if you value your privacy.
4 Limited eSIM Support in Some Countries
If you travel often, you may want to think twice before ditching a phone with a physical SIM slot. While eSIM is supposed to make international travel more convenient, the reality is that many countries and carriers still don’t fully support it.
You can easily purchase a local SIM card and insert it into your device to stay connected, no matter where your adventures take you. Plus, you won’t have to worry about compatibility issues or limited eSIM support ruining your travel plans.
So, whether you’re a frequent traveler, a privacy-conscious user, or someone who simply values the freedom to choose a carrier and device, a phone with a physical SIM slot is still the way to go. But at the same time, it’s important to be aware of potential security risks, as SIM cards can be hacked.
