Written by: Emily Chen
What Is A Dual SIM Smartphone?
- Updated: September 30, 2023 | Published: August 13, 2022
Nowadays, it is worth taking a look at smartphones with two card slots. Why this can be useful and what you have to bear in mind, we will tell you in a nutshell in our blog post.
What is a Dual SIM Smartphone?
Additional transmitting and receiving units have been installed in dual-SIM models. As the name suggests, two SIM cards can be inserted into the device.
Thus, you have two different phone numbers or mobile providers in one phone with only one smartphone and can choose between them. Most dual-SIM smartphones have a slot for an SD card for additional storage.
Advantages and disadvantages of a dual SIM card
Most cell phones and smartphones can only be operated with a SIM card. The SIM card is the link that connects your smartphone with the outside world and makes us accessible to our fellow human beings.
What is there to consider with a SIM card?
SIM cards are available in different sizes from your mobile provider. Depending on the smartphone model, you can choose between the common sizes, a SIM card or mini-SIM (15×25 mm), a micro-SIM (12×15 mm) or the smallest, the nano SIM card (8.8×12.3 mm).
When you sign a new mobile phone contract with a smartphone, you will receive the right SIM card. If you lose your card or the card is damaged, you can apply for a new card with the same number from your provider.
Can I change my SIM card?
If you afford a new cell phone and need a smaller size, contact your cell phone provider. For a few dollars, they will send you a new SIM card that fits your smartphone.
If you have a newer card, such as a nano-SIM, and are switching to an older phone and need a larger SIM card, an adapter may be the solution for you. Your card is inserted into the adapter, which in turn is inserted into the cell phone. It can be as simple as that!
You secure your data on the SIM card?
In the past, almost all people who had a mobile device or newfangled smartphone stored their data and contacts on the SIM card or on the cell phone (terminal). If you change the SIM card or the smartphone, you had to transfer the data manually between the devices and take over.
Nowadays, of course, this is much, much easier, thanks to modern cloud systems. You can easily create an account with the manufacturer, link it and synchronize it at any time. Thus, even in the event of a total loss, you have (almost) all the data, thanks to automatic data update to the cloud. Afterwards, you can restore the data on your device by pressing a button. Of course, as long as you want to use these services.
Should you get a Dual SIM Smartphone?
Do you need a cell phone for work and one for private use and don’t want to carry two cell phones around with you? Then a dual-SIM would be for you: one phone with two numbers.
Advantages:
- You have two phone numbers on one cell phone that can be reached at the same time
- You save a second mobile device
- You can use two different tariffs, for example one that offers cheap telephony and the other cheap data volume
- switch quickly between the two mobile providers
- use cheap local SIM card / eSIMs abroad and still be reachable under your usual number for friends and family
- depending on the model, you can also make individual settings
Disadvantages:
- your cell phone might consume more energy and thus shorter operating times
- technical limits probably, such as low internet speed per SIM slot
- with some apps unfortunately only one user account can be created and used
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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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