eSIM vs physical SIM: Which one is better?

So you’re setting up a new phone or maybe switching network and the word “eSIM” keeps popping up. Is it actually worth bothering with or just another buzzword?

Here’s the short version – an eSIM and a physical SIM do the exact same job. Both connect you to your mobile network so you can call, text and use data. The real difference comes down to how each one gets set up and managed day to day.

Let’s get into it.

What’s an eSIM, anyway

An eSIM (short for embedded SIM) is basically a digital SIM card that’s already built into your phone. There’s no plastic card to pop in but your plan gets activated straight onto the device.

In practice, that just means setup takes a couple of minutes instead of ten and you’re never digging through a junk drawer looking for a SIM ejector tool.

Want to learn more about how eSIM technology works? Read our guide.

What’s a physical SIM?

A physical SIM card is the small removable chip we’ve all been using for years. You simply insert it into your phone and it connects your device to your mobile network.

It’s a tried-and-tested solution that continues to work perfectly well for millions of users around the world.

eSIM vs physical SIM: What’s the difference?

Although both options provide the same mobile service, there are a few important differences.

Why people are switching to eSIM

It’s just faster to set up: No card, nothing to fumble with. Whether you’re activating a new phone or moving to a new plan, you’re online in minutes.

New phone, less hassle: Getting a new phone should feel exciting, not like a chore. With an eSIM there’s no ejector tool, no tiny card to transfer and on compatible phones, it’s largely a digital handoff.

It genuinely makes travel easier: This is probably the biggest one. A lot of eSIM-compatible phones let you keep your home number active while adding a local or travel data plan alongside it. No more juggling two SIM cards in your wallet or hoping you don’t lose the one from home.

If you travel a lot, read up on how roaming actually works inside versus outside the EU.

You can’t lose it: We’ve all lost a SIM card at some point, usually right when you need it. Since an eSIM lives inside the phone, that’s simply not a problem anymore.

Great if you need two numbers: Work and personal line on one phone? Everyday plan plus a travel plan? A lot of newer phones let you run an eSIM and a physical SIM side by side, so you don’t need to carry two devices.

When a physical SIM still makes more sense

eSIM is gaining ground, but it isn’t automatically the right call for everyone. A physical SIM is probably the better fit if:

• Your phone is older and doesn’t support eSIM at all
• You swap your SIM between different phones fairly often
• You just prefer having a physical card you can handle

There’s no right or wrong choice, it all depends on how you use your phone.

Which phones actually support eSIM?

Most recent phones do, including current models from Apple, Samsung, Google, Motorola and Xiaomi. If you’re not sure about your specific phone, it’s worth checking our list of supported eSIM devices before you commit to switching.

If you’re not sure about your specific device, the quickest way to check is:

• On iPhone: go to Settings > Mobile Data (Cellular) > Add eSIM. If that option appears, you’re eSIM-ready.
• On Samsung: go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager (or Mobile Plans) > Add eSIM. If it shows up, you’re good to go.

Still not sure? Check your device’s official specs page, or pop into a store and someone can check for you in a couple of minutes.

Is an eSIM actually secure?

Since it carries the same network-level security as a physical SIM, it is secure. If anything, it’s arguably a bit more secure in one way since it’s built into the phone, nobody can just pop it out if your device gets lost or stolen. The usual advice still applies, though — keep your software updated and lock your phone with a passcode or biometrics.

How do you actually get a GO eSIM?

Here’s how it works with us. There are three ways to get set up, depending on what suits you best.

Via the GO app (the fastest option)

• Tap the Services icon at the bottom of the app
• Go to the Mobile tab
• Tap Get a new mobile service
• Choose whether you’d like a new number or to keep your existing one
• Select eSIM
• If you’re keeping your existing number, enter it when prompted
• Enter the verification code sent to you to complete registration
• Select your current mobile operator and service
• Tap Confirm, then sign the authorisation form allowing GO to request your number from your current provider (if you’re porting one over)
• You’ll see a confirmation screen letting you know your order is being processed

The app automatically checks whether your device supports eSIM, so there’s no guesswork. If it turns out your phone isn’t compatible, no problem, you can order a physical SIM straight from the app instead and we’ll deliver it to your door.

If you’d rather get a brand new number instantly without any of the above, you can also do it straight from the app’s login screen. Simply tap on ‘Get an eSIM’, log in or create a MyGO account, then tap ‘Download’ and your eSIM lands on your device in moments. The only catch is that this instant route is for new numbers only. If you want to keep your current number, use the app flow above or visit an outlet instead.

Online, via an agent: Request to speak with an agent and we’ll send you an eSIM QR code by email. Just scan it with your phone’s camera, your eSIM downloads, and you’re set up.

In store: Pop into any GO outlet and our team will check your device and get you connected in person. A handy option if you’d rather not do it yourself or you’re not sure your phone qualifies.

One thing worth knowing is that an eSIM can only be active on one device at a time and it can’t be reused if you lose or replace your phone. In this case, you’d need a new one issued instead. If your device is ever lost or stolen, get in touch with us straight away so that we can suspend your service immediately.

Once it’s active, your eSIM works exactly as you’d expect with same coverage, same speeds, same plans, just without the plastic card. And because it can run alongside a physical SIM, your phone effectively becomes dual-SIM, which is handy if you want a personal number and a second line without carrying two devices.

Travelling or moving to Malta? GO’s eSIM travel plans

If you’re visiting or relocating to Malta, GO also offers prepaid top-up plans built specifically around the eSIM, so you can get connected the minute you land. You download the eSIM through the GO app, follow the setup steps and activate it the moment you arrive, no contract and no queueing at the airport for a physical SIM.

Current plans include:

• Smart Unlimited – unlimited local data, plus 28GB of data when roaming across Zone 1
• Smart Unlimited Plus – unlimited local data, plus 33GB of data when roaming across Zone 1, along with 60 minutes and SMS included

Both plans let your GO eSIM run alongside your existing physical SIM, so your home number stays active while you use a local Malta number for calls, texts and data. Check out our prepaid eSIM mobile plans.

Which should you pick?

Go with an eSIM if your phone supports it, you want setup to be painless, you travel a fair amount or you need two numbers running on one device.

Stick with a physical SIM if you’ve got an older phone, move your SIM between devices regularly or just prefer the physical card.

Either way, the actual service, in other words the calls, texts and data, is identical. You’re just choosing how you’d rather manage it.

Also, eSIMs cut down on the plastic waste that comes with physical cards, so if you’re weighing up the environmental angle too, that’s a small point in their favour. In fact, take a look at why eSIMs are a game changer for the environment and you.

FAQs

1. Is an eSIM better than a physical SIM?

It depends on your phone and habits, honestly. If your device supports it and you like the convenience, eSIM wins. If you’re on an older phone or swap SIMs a lot, stick with physical.

2. Does an eSIM cost more than a physical SIM?

No. You pay for the plan, not the format so an eSIM typically costs the same as a physical SIM and in many cases switching to one is free.

3. Can I use both at once?

Yes several modern phones support running an eSIM and a physical SIM together.

4. Can I move my eSIM to a new phone?

On supported devices, yes. The exact steps vary by phone and provider, but it’s usually a quick process. Keep in mind an eSIM can only be active on one device at a time, so you’ll need a new one issued if you switch phones or replace a lost one.

5. Does eSIM actually work well abroad?

That’s where it shines, really. You can keep your home number live and add a local data plan for wherever you’re travelling, without touching your physical SIM at all.

6. Does every phone support eSIM?

No, mostly newer smartphones from Apple, Samsung, Google, Xiaomi and OnePlus, plus some smartwatches and tablets. Older or budget devices are usually physical-SIM only, so it’s worth checking before you switch.

7. How do I get a GO eSIM?

The quickest way is through the GO app since it checks your phone’s compatibility and activates your eSIM in a few minutes. You can also request one online via an emailed QR code or set it up in person at a GO outlet. Full details are on GO’s eSIM page.