What is eSIM?

eSIM stands for embedded SIM and is a digital SIM card that is integrated into a device, such as a mobile or smartwatch. Just like a physical, traditional SIM card, an eSIM only contains information that connects you and your number to your provider and informs the provider about your plan and its features.

Info! There is no cost to choose an eSIM instead of a SIM card, and it is also completely free to switch from a SIM card to an eSIM with your current provider.

But unlike a physical SIM card, you don’t have to wait for an eSIM to arrive, as the eSIM is already integrated into your device. You only need a QR code from the provider to activate the eSIM on your device. Currently, most providers offer eSIM as an alternative to a SIM card, but it is not guaranteed that they offer it for every single service.

Pros of eSIM

  • You don’t have to wait to receive a physical SIM card
  • Easier for those who want two numbers on the same mobile
  • Better for the environment

Cons of eSIM

  • Rarely transferable between different devices
  • Does not work with all services and devices

Is eSIM available for both SIM only and pay as you go SIMs?

Yes, there are eSIMs available for both SIM only and pay as you go SIMs, but it is a significantly more common option for SIM only. If your provider offers eSIM and has both SIM only and pay as you go SIM in their range, it is not certain that it is an option for both of these services. If you are uncertain about the various options, you should check with support to be on the safe side.

On our page Pay as you go eSIM deals you can read more about how eSIM for pay as you go SIM works and what you might need to consider.

How to get an eSIM

  1. Ensure your device supports eSIM. An increasing number of mobiles, smartwatches, and other smart devices support eSIM, but this is not always the case. Enter your device’s details in the search box at the top of the page to quickly check if your device supports eSIM or not.
  2. Choose a suitable provider that offers eSIM. To obtain an eSIM, you must of course have a provider that offers it, but remember that the provider should also meet your other requirements – for example network coverage and the range of contracts or pay as you go SIMs.
  3. Find the best contract or pay as you go SIM. In our comparison tables, you can filter according to your needs and get an overview of all prices. This will help you find the best and lowest cost plan for your specific device.
  4. Choose eSIM instead of a SIM card. When you order a new subscription, you usually have the option to pick between an eSIM or a SIM card, so it is easy to choose. In some cases (very few), you must first set up a subscription with a regular SIM card and then switch to an eSIM. If you already have a subscription with a standard SIM card, you can either change it yourself via your account on your provider’s website, or by contacting the provider’s support.
  5. Install and activate via QR code. When your order is complete (or when you have indicated that you wish to switch from a SIM card to an eSIM), you will usually receive a QR code digitally from your provider, which you need to use to activate the eSIM on your device.

Which is the cheapest eSIM?

is the cheapest eSIM plan right now (checked on 08/03/2026). The cost is £/month for months, then £/month/month when you sign a -month contract.

Get the deal at

How do you activate eSIM on your mobile?

You activate the eSIM on your mobile by scanning the QR code, but the exact steps you need to take vary between different mobile brands and models. The process may also vary slightly depending on which provider you have, but below you can get an idea of the various steps. Ensure you are connected to stable WiFi before you start.

Activate eSIM on iPhone

  1. Open the phone’s settings.
  2. Choose Network > Add mobile service (or Add eSIM if you already have a SIM card or eSIM in your phone).
  3. Click on Use QR code and scan the code.
  4. Click on Continue (this may take a moment) and then Done.
  5. Restart your mobile.

Activate eSIM on Samsung Galaxy

  1. Open your phone’s settings.
  2. Go to Connection > SIM card manager.
  3. Select Add subscription > Add with QR code.
  4. Scan the code and follow the instructions.
  5. Restart the mobile.

How eSIM works for smartwatches

Today, there are also many smartwatches that support eSIM. But to use the technology with your watch, you need a watch that supports eSIM, and a specific add-on plan or service (it might be called Number Share or OneNumber, for example) that is added to your regular SIM only. The service links your mobile number with your watch, using the SIM only’s data, minutes, texts, and MMS. Thanks to the additional subscription, the watch becomes more of a standalone device (compared to pairing with the phone via Bluetooth), allowing you to use virtually all functions without having the mobile nearby.

However, not all providers offer eSIM for smartwatches, at least not as a specific add-on subscription or extra service. The information about eSIM for smartwatches is not always entirely clear on the providers’ websites. If you feel uncertain, you can always contact the provider in question.

To be able to use eSIM on a smartwatch, you need

  • An eSIM-compatible smartwatch
  • To be or become a customer with a provider that offers eSIM for your smartwatch
  • A specific add-on subscription or service that links your mobile number with the watch

The process to activate the eSIM on your smartwatch can vary slightly depending on the provider. But in most cases, you open settings directly on the watch or in the accompanying mobile app, scan the QR code you received from the provider, or use the provider’s app to download the eSIM profile. Then you should be able to connect the watch with your SIM only.

Frequently asked questions about eSIM

Does it cost anything to choose an eSIM or switch from a SIM card to an eSIM?

No, just like a “regular” SIM card, an eSIM is free, at least as long as you order online. There should be no extra costs when switching from a SIM card to an eSIM.
Can the same QR code be used multiple times?

No, the QR code you receive from the provider can only be used once. If you need to reactivate the eSIM, for instance if you get a new mobile, in most cases you will need to ask the provider for a new QR code.
How does dual SIM work with eSIM?

If your mobile supports dual SIM and eSIM, you can use both a SIM card and an eSIM on the same phone. This means that you can have two different numbers without needing two separate phones.
How long does it take for the eSIM to activate?

If you are already a customer with the provider and switch from a physical SIM card to an eSIM, it usually takes less than an hour for the eSIM to activate, but it can also take up to 24 hours depending on the provider and the time of activation. If you are a new customer, activation should occur as soon as you have installed the eSIM on your mobile. If it doesn’t seem to work, you can try restarting your mobile or toggling airplane mode on and off for a soft reboot.