While the 2010s saw the invention and development of eSIM technology, it’s taken until the 2020s to truly catch on. Now they’re here, it seems that eSIMs are here to stay. Lightweight, affordable, and highly convenient, they save you from data-roaming charges and bring you all the connectivity of a physical SIM card without the fuss.
But just because something’s new doesn’t necessarily mean it’s better. While eSIMs are “in,” some users express concern about this new connectivity software. Today, we’ll compare the old with the new and see if SIM cards or eSIMs come out on top.
eSIMs:
Because they are software-based, eSIMs don’t require manual activation. You can say goodbye to the stress of SIM card sizing and long-winded registration processes! Many eSIM companies (Voyafly included) quick and easy QR Code Activation which, on average, takes about five minutes to complete.
Some users express concern about eSIM data security. Remote provisioning, data transmission and storage, and configuring are all aspects that might make eSIMs more vulnerable to malware and hacking than SIM cards. While these concerns are reasonable, Voyafly’s eSIMs feature strong encryption and secure authentication to keep your data safe as you travel the world.
SIM Cards:
For decades, physical SIM cards were the only connectivity option available on the market. Globetrotters had to purchase a new SIM card once they reached their destination country to avoid data roaming charges and stay in touch with folks back home while abroad. Even though eSIMs now exist as an alternative, some world travelers prefer the manual insertion and activation required for SIM card usage. For those less confident with technology, eSIMs seem too “immaterial” for comfort.
Unfortunately, SIM Cards don’t come without setbacks. E-waste is a serious problem, and SIM cards alone produce 20,000 tons of plastic waste. That’s to say nothing of the energy required for their production, shipping, and supply. eSIMs require significantly less energy, with no waste.
When you’re buying a physical SIM card, you need to make sure you purchase the right size for your phone. To further complicate things, they often result in a temporary change of phone number and you may still have to rely on local wifi networks after your SIM is installed.
Conclusion:
SIM cards are the “old reliable” of the telecommunication industry, and they remain effective in 2024. But if you’re up for an adventure, consider the eSIM as their successor. They save time, money, and waste- so what’s not to love? Browse Voyafly’s wide range of data eSIMs now, and save up to 50% with our May Flash Sale.
