What Is the Benefit of eSIM?

The biggest benefit of an eSIM is convenience.

You can activate a mobile plan digitally without buying or swapping a physical SIM card.

This can be especially useful when travelling. You can purchase a data plan before your trip and connect when you arrive.

You Don't Need a Physical SIM Card

An eSIM is built directly into a compatible phone or device.

You do not need to visit a store or wait for a SIM card to arrive. You can usually activate the plan digitally through an app or QR code.

There is also no tiny SIM card to lose while switching plans.

eSIMs Can Make Travel Easier

Travel is one of the biggest reasons to use an eSIM.

You can buy an international data plan before leaving Canada. Once you reach your destination, you can connect to the supported local network.

This can save you from searching for a physical SIM card after you arrive.

You Can Keep Your Regular SIM Active

Many newer smartphones support dual SIM.

This means you may be able to keep your regular Canadian SIM active while using an eSIM for travel data. You can choose which line handles cellular data in your phone settings.

You Can Switch Plans More Easily

A physical SIM needs to be removed and replaced when you change SIMs.

An eSIM lets you manage compatible plans digitally. Some devices can also store multiple eSIM profiles. You can switch between them through your settings.

Is an eSIM More Secure?

An eSIM can have a security advantage over a physical SIM.

It cannot simply be removed from your phone if the device is lost or stolen. Apple notes that this makes eSIM more secure than a removable physical SIM in this situation.

Are There Any Downsides to eSIM?

Not every phone supports eSIM.

You also need an eSIM-compatible carrier or provider. Moving an eSIM to another phone can sometimes take more steps than moving a physical SIM card.

Before purchasing an eSIM, check that your phone is compatible and unlocked.

For travellers, the biggest advantage is simple. An eSIM gives you a convenient way to get mobile data abroad without changing physical SIM cards.