We will discuss all the disadvantages of eSIM in this article. If you already have an eSIM or are planning to get one, this will help you understand all the eSIM disadvantages.
eSIM has multiple benefits but it has its own set of problems. Device compatibility, network compatibility, pricing, and so on.
Along with the problems, this article also lists step-by-step solutions to most eSIM problems.
Sure, it’s digital, doesn’t require KYC, and has no physical problems are good reasons why you should go for an eSIM. But, let’s also discuss what are the disadvantages of eSIM?
Primary disadvantages of eSIM
Here are the main eSIM cons that make it less efficient than a physical SIM:
- Not compatible with all devices
- Not compatible with all networks
- Doesn’t always include a phone number
- Switching devices is slightly harder.
- Sometimes it costs more than a physical SIM.
Of course, it’s not all bad either. You can read our detailed guide on eSIM vs Physical SIM to understand how they compare against each other.
Device Compatibility
eSIM or embedded SIM cards are relatively new. They offer a ton of advanced features and yet the biggest eSIM disadvantage is that not all phones support them.
Yes, the majority of the new phones do as there’s no major tech change required for a phone to support an eSIM. However, you can not blindly assume your phone supports eSIM just because it’s an advanced smartphone.
How to check if your phone supports eSIM:
If your phone is less than 2 years old (as of 202), there’s a strong chance it’s eSIM-supported.
Despite the age, you can use the following steps to get information about your phone’s eSIM support:
- Dial *#06#. (This is used to get the IMEI number of your phone).
Along with the IMEI and some other details, you should get something called the “MEID”. If it’s a 32 digit number, your phone supports eSIM.
The MEID is your phone’s eSIM ID. When you download a new eSIM profile, this MEID is what it gets registered to.
If you see the MEID, your phone is eSIM compatible. If you don’t see it, it’s not.
You can also simply search using:” Make & Model of your phone” + eSIM compatibility on a search engine.
Network compatibility
Even though all major network providers have started offering eSIM compatibility, it’s not at 100% for now, especially in third-world nations.
Hence, where you live, or are going and the exact network you need needs to be researched. There is a slight chance that the network you seek may not be available over an eSIM. In this case, your only option is to either opt for a physical SIM or go with a different network.
How to check if your preferred network is eSIM compatible:
The network compatibility will depend on the exact eSIM provider you’re using. Simply browse through the plans to see if your network is displayed in the country you’re searching for.
It’s best to check multiple eSIM providers before you make your decision. This is because not all eSIM providers may support your network even if that network provider supports eSIM.
No phone numbers
When you get an eSIM, you do not get a number, not always. This is one of the biggest disadvantages of eSIM. Most eSIM cards, especially the pocket-friendly options are for “data” only. This means you can use the eSIM for browsing the internet.
Of course, you can make calls using messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram, or anything else. But, direct number to number calling is not possible.
Now, this isn’t always the case. Some of the best eSIM providers do include a number with their eSIM. But you have to manually browse to the exact plan and purchase it.
In simpler words, just because you’re getting an eSIM, does not mean you’re also getting a new number unless you explicitly choose that plan/feature.
Switching eSIM devices are harder
When talking of the disadvantages of eSIM, the process of switching them from one device to another always counts.
While it’s not exactly “hard”, it’s just harder and slightly more complex than switching a physical SIM.
To switch an eSIM, you need to change the profile on your eSIM. This is done to ensure that you can’t use the same profile on multiple devices.
You can’t even use the same eSIM profile on the eSIM once deleted.
How to switch eSIM from one device to another:
In most cases, you’ll need to generate a new installation link or QR Code to install the eSIM profile on your new phone. In some cases, you may even need to contact the eSIM provider manually and ask for a device change.
More Expensive pricing plans
This is one of the subjective disadvantages of eSIM. Meaning, this will depend on your provider and type of eSIM. There are two primary types. The primary type is the one you get from an official network provider. As in, the same company that gives you your physical sim also gives you your eSIM. This isn’t a problem in this case.
The other type is the third-party providers, which are easier to get (no KYC) and are best for international travel. These offer a much wider gamut of network and country choices.
These third-party providers generally charge a commission or fee that’s more than the official network charges for that network in that country.
Conclusion- What are the disadvantages of eSIM
By now you probably know the problems an eSIM has. Yes, most of them are problems you can easily overcome or simply ignore. However, an eSIM may or may not be for you. At the least, the installation process of an eSIM is definitely harder and more complex than sliding a physical SIM in. On the other hand, eSIM is definitely the future and will probably be made mandatory in the next few years. But then again, by then, most of the eSIM problems that exist today (e.g. network & device compatibility) will probably be resolved.