Written by: Emily Chen
eSIM Smartphones
- Updated: September 30, 2023 | Published: August 27, 2022
The eSIM replaces the plastic SIM, but setting it up is often complex. We reveal which smartphones are eSIM-capable.
The Best eSIM Smartphones
1
Apple
iPhone 13 Pro
REASONS TO BUY
- Great Camera
- Bright 120hz display
- Long battery life
REASONS TO AVOID
- Slow charging
- No headphone jack
2
Apple
iPhone 13 Pro Max
REASONS TO BUY
- Huge battery life
- Great camera
- 120hz display
- Wireless charging
REASONS TO AVOID
- Slow charging
- Large and bulky
3
Apple
iPhone 13
REASONS TO BUY
- Fast processing power
- Long battery life
- Good camera
REASONS TO AVOID
- No telephoto lens
- No 120hz display
4
Samsung
Galaxy S22 Plus
REASONS TO BUY
- Bright OLED display
- Good battery life
- Good camera
- Fast 45W charging
- WiFi 6E
- Waterproof
REASONS TO AVOID
- No headphone jack
- Power supply not included
5
Samsung
Galaxy S22 Ultra
REASONS TO BUY
- Bright OLED display
- Good battery life
- 180MP camera
- Fast 45W charging
- Waterproof
REASONS TO AVOID
- Power supply not included
- No headphone jack
6
Oppo
Find X5 Pro
REASONS TO BUY
- Fast processing power
- Bright & clear OLED display
- Fast charging
- Waterproof
REASONS TO AVOID
- No headphone jack
7
Google
Pixel 6 Pro
REASONS TO BUY
- Great display
- Great image quality
- Wireless charging
- Waterproof
REASONS TO AVOID
- No headphone jack
- No SD Card slot
8
Honor
Magic4 Pro
REASONS TO BUY
- Fast processing power
- Good image quality
- Fast & wireless charging
- Waterproof
REASONS TO AVOID
- No SD Card slot
- Power supply not included
The eSIM is an alternative to the plastic SIM. The advantage, at least in theory: An eSIM can be activated digitally and directly with little waiting time, without having to wait for the letter with the plastic SIM or buy a starter kit in the store.
In addition, smartphones with only one SIM card slot can be used for dual-SIM operation via eSIM. But there are a few things to consider when setting up and using it.
First of all, an eSIM-enabled smartphone or another eSIM-enabled device such as the Apple Watch or newer Samsung smartwatches is required – in this case, eSIM is usually used as a second or third SIM (MultiSIM).
However, many providers do not offer a MultiSIM at all. In terms of smartphones, all newer devices from Apple (starting with the iPhone XS), Samsung (starting with the S20), and Google Pixel (starting with the Pixel 4), but also the Fairphone 4 are eSIM-capable.
However, not all providers support all smartphones, and many providers do not allow installation on secondary devices such as smartwatches.
iPhone 13 Pro / 13 Pro Max
Currently Best
Apple
iPhone 13 Pro
REASONS TO BUY
- Great Camera
- Bright 120hz display
- Long battery life
REASONS TO AVOID
- Slow charging
- No headphone jack
The iPhone 13 Pro and the iPhone 13 Pro Max top the smartphone best list.
They are powered by the incredibly fast Apple A15 Bionic processor, and the triple camera on the back (including triple telephoto) scores in virtually all situations.
Compared with the predecessor generation, the battery life is impressive, especially in the 13 Pro Max. The eSIM basically has a special advantage for iPhone users: It makes the iPhone dual-SIM capable.
Thus, an eSIM can be combined with an existing plastic SIM (since the iPhone XS). Since the iPhone 13 series, it has even been possible to use two eSIMs in parallel – which is why the rumor circulates that Apple wants to do away with the SIM card slot altogether in the future, possibly already in the iPhone 14.
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G
Most Affordable
Samsung
Galaxy S21 5G
REASONS TO BUY
- not too bulky
- Fast processing power
REASONS TO AVOID
- No SD Card slot
- Weak battery life
The Samsung Galaxy S21 5G is not the latest model, but it offers strong technology at a meanwhile reasonable price, a very good OLED screen, a strong camera, and a high operating speed. The eSIM can be used as the main SIM or as a second SIM for dual-SIM. If you want something bigger, it is better to go for the S21 Plus 5G.
How to activate an eSIM
Basically, the eSIM is already permanently installed in the devices, and the respective provider only has to activate it.
The way it is set up varies depending on the provider: It is often sufficient to scan a QR code sent by the provider with the appropriate app on the cell phone or to enter the activation data manually.
With the Apple Watch, for example, you go to the Watch app on the iPhone and select Mobile Communications / Add new rate / Configure Mobile Communications, which usually takes you to the customer portal.
With the Galaxy Watch, the Galaxy Wearable app is used for scanning. In some cases, such as special business contracts, the provider saves the procedure with the QR code, but requires the EID of the device in advance.
The EID can usually be found on the packaging, and in the case of the Apple Watch also in the Watch app of the paired iPhone under the menu items General and Info.
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About The Author
How To Order an eSIM
Compare eSIMs
Compare and find the most suitable travel eSIM for your needs and purchase it directly with the provider.
Receive eSIM via email/app
You will receive the eSIM profile within a few minutes in a separate e-mail or you can directly access it in the provider’s app.
Install eSIM
Scan the eSIM QR code in the mail with the camera function of your smartphone and follow the instructions on the screen. The profile will be set up automatically.
Free roaming abroad
You can now use the eSIM abroad!
Search over 28000 eSIM data plans in 210+ countries
Why Choose an eSIM?
Sustainable
The eSIM works digitally only, so fewer resources are used than with the classic SIM card.
Digital
The new eSIM can easily be digitally uploaded to your smartphone. It’s quick and saves the environment.
Fast Installation
Your eSIM profile is sent easily and conveniently by email. This means you will receive your digital eSIM much faster than a physical SIM Card by post.
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