Honest overview
eSIM Advantages & disadvantages
What are the advantages of a eSIM - and where are the limits?
A eSIM offers many advantages - but it is not the perfect solution in every case. Here you get an honest, balanced overview: What works really well, where there are limitations and for whom a eSIM is particularly worthwhile.
Why the decision is not always easy
eSIM is being touted everywhere as the future - but as with any technology, there are strengths and weaknesses. If you want to make an informed decision, you need an honest overview rather than just advertising promises.
Some travelers swear by eSIM and would never use a physical SIM again. Others have had bad experiences - often because the device was not compatible or the setup seemed confusing.
The truth lies in the middle: For most modern smartphone users, eSIM is the better choice. But there are situations in which a classic SIM still makes sense.
The most important advantages of a eSIM
These advantages make eSIM the preferred choice for most travelers over physical SIM cards and expensive roaming.
Can be activated immediately
Set up via QR-Code or app in under 5 minutes. No waiting, no queuing at the airport.
No card change
Your normal SIM remains in the device. The eSIM runs in parallel - your number remains reachable.
Significantly cheaper
Local eSIM tariffs cost a fraction of the roaming charges. Save up to 90 % compared to your home provider.
Flexible & worldwide
eSIM tariffs for 200+ countries. Regional tariffs even cover several countries with one profile.
Best eSIM providers
Our top recommendations at a glance.
Airalo
Worldwide eSIM with over 200 countries, fast activation and flexible data packages.
- 200+ countries covered
- Top-rated app
- Fast activation
Nomad
Inexpensive eSIM with stable performance for budget travelers.
- Low rates from € 5
- 100+ countries
- Simple setup
Holafly
eSIM with unlimited data volume for stress-free travel.
- Real unlimited data
- Ideal for longer trips
- No data limit
Direct comparison
| Airalo | Nomad | Holafly | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price starting at | €4 | 5 € | 19 € |
| Countries | 200+ | 100+ | 60+ |
| Unlimited | No | No | Yes |
| Hotspot | Partially | Partially | Restricted |
| App quality | Very good | Good | Good |
| Rating | 4.8 / 5 | 4.5 / 5 | 4.6 / 5 |
Important details
Advantage: No physical SIM card change
With a eSIM, you no longer have to fiddle with tiny nano SIM cards and SIM tools. No risk of losing your home SIM. Everything is loaded digitally - via QR-Code or app.
Advantage: Fast activation
A eSIM is ready for use in under 5 minutes. You can even install it days before your trip and only activate it at your destination. No queuing at the airport store.
Advantage: Dual SIM - two tariffs at the same time
Your main SIM remains active for calls and text messages. The eSIM takes over the data connection. This means you can be reached at your usual number and still benefit from low local rates.
Advantage: Save multiple profiles
Modern smartphones store 5-10 eSIM profiles. Ideal for frequent travelers: You don't have to buy new profiles for countries you visit regularly.
Disadvantage: Not every device is compatible
eSIM only works from iPhone XS (2018), Samsung Galaxy S20, Google Pixel 3 and comparable models. Older smartphones or inexpensive entry-level devices often do not support eSIM.
Disadvantage: WLAN required for installation
The initial installation requires an Internet connection (WLAN). This can be a problem at airports without WLAN. Solution: Always set up at home in advance.
Disadvantage: Hotspot not always possible
Some eSIM tariffs do not allow tethering/hotspot. Especially Holafly restricts hotspot in some countries. Ubigi is the most reliable provider here.
Disadvantage: Setup can be confusing at first
Anyone using a eSIM for the first time may need 10 minutes instead of 5. The menu navigation differs slightly depending on the smartphone manufacturer. After the first time, however, it is routine.
Which trip needs what?
Vacationers (1-2 weeks)
For a classic vacation, eSIM is perfect: quick to set up, inexpensive and no stress with changing SIM cards. 3-5 GB are easily enough.
Recommendation: Airalo or Nomad with a small package from 4 €.
Frequent traveler
Anyone who travels several times a year benefits particularly from eSIM. Save profiles, reuse them and switch between tariffs - maximum flexibility.
Recommendation: Airalo with regional eSIMs for recurring destinations.
Business travelers
Reliable Internet from the moment you land. No time wasted searching for a SIM card. Unlimited tariffs for stress-free working.
Recommendation: Holafly Unlimited for maximum planning security.
When eSIM is NOT the best choice
For very old smartphones without eSIM support, extremely long stays (6+ months) or in countries with hardly any eSIM coverage, a local SIM may be better.
Tip: Check the compatibility of your device and the provider's country coverage in advance.
Frequently asked questions
What are the biggest advantages of a eSIM?
Fast activation (less than 5 minutes), no card change, significantly cheaper than roaming, dual SIM-capable and available for 200+ countries.
What are the disadvantages of a eSIM?
Not all smartphones are compatible, WLAN is required for installation, hotspot is not possible with all tariffs and the initial setup can be unfamiliar for beginners.
Is eSIM better than a normal SIM?
For most travelers, yes. eSIM is more convenient, faster and often cheaper. Only with very old devices or long-term stays can a physical SIM be better.
Does Hotspot work with eSIM?
Yes with some providers and tariffs. Ubigi supports Hotspot most reliably. With Holafly, hotspot is restricted in some countries.
Is eSIM also worthwhile for short trips?
Yes, even for a weekend, eSIM is ideal. Small packages are available from 3-4 € and set-up only takes minutes.
Can I use eSIM and physical SIM at the same time?
Yes, that's the big advantage: your normal SIM remains active for calls, the eSIM takes over the data. Both run in parallel.
Will eSIM replace the physical SIM?
In the long term, yes. Apple has already removed the SIM tray from the iPhone 14 (US). Other manufacturers will follow. eSIM will become the new standard.
Is eSIM safe?
Yes. eSIMs use the same encryption technology as physical SIM cards. They can even be more secure as they cannot be stolen or copied.
eSIM - more advantages than disadvantages
For most travelers, the advantages clearly outweigh the disadvantages: fast activation, no card changes, low rates and worldwide availability. The few disadvantages (device compatibility, WLAN for installation) are easy to avoid. Compare the best providers now.
Compare the best eSIM providers