What’s an eSIM?
If you’ve ever switched mobile networks and had to wait days for your new SIM card to arrive, you’ll know how frustrating it can be.
Enter the eSIM. Short for ‘embedded SIM’, it’s a digital version of the traditional SIM card. Instead of waiting for a physical card to arrive in the post, you simply activate it by downloading a plan directly to a small chip that’s already in your phone. There’s nothing to insert, swap – or lose under the sofa.
eSIMs are now standard on most modern smartphones, and they’re how we bring you our three flexible phone plans from Monzo Mobile.
In this article, we’ll explain how an eSIM works, how it compares to a physical SIM card, and how to check if your phone’s compatible.
How does an eSIM work?
When you sign up for an eSIM plan, your provider sends a digital profile (a code that tells your phone which network to connect to) directly to a tiny chip that’s already built into your phone. Once it downloads, you can text, call and mindlessly scroll through TikTok straight away.
One of the most useful things about eSIMs is that they can juggle multiple network profiles at once.
If you’re using Monzo Mobile, you can get a plan with roaming data included, or buy a low-cost roaming add-on before you even pack your bags. That way, you can switch networks the second your flight lands. Find out more about our specific plans and the destinations covered.
What’s the difference between an eSIM and a SIM card?
The most obvious difference is physical: a traditional SIM card is a small plastic chip you slot into your phone, whereas an eSIM is built-in. It never comes out, and you can’t transfer it to another phone by hand.
Here’s how the two compare:
Switching networks: with a physical SIM, you swap one card for another. With an eSIM, it’s all digital – no need to visit a shop or wait for a card in the post.
Security: because an eSIM can’t be physically removed, it’s harder for someone to steal your number by taking out the card.
Moving to a new phone: instead of hunting for a paperclip to poke open the SIM tray, moving an eSIM to a new phone is as simple as logging in to your provider’s app.
Both do exactly the same job – connecting you to a mobile network – but eSIMs are faster and more flexible for most people.
How to get and activate an eSIM
Getting an eSIM is straightforward, and activation is often quicker than waiting for a physical SIM card to arrive in the post.
Here’s how it typically works:
Choose a mobile provider that offers eSIM plans
Sign up online or through their app
Activate your eSIM in your phone's settings
Your eSIM profile downloads, and you’re connected
You can even transfer your current number – it moves across to your eSIM profile.
With Monzo Mobile, we handle everything in the Monzo app and walk you through installation step by step. You’ll just need a Monzo current account to get started. Once you’re up and running with your current account, you can sign up for a plan, download your eSIM, and manage everything in the Monzo app.
Is my phone eSIM compatible?
Most phones made after 2020 support eSIM, but it's worth checking before you sign up for an eSIM-only plan.
The fastest way to check is to look in your phone’s settings under ‘Mobile data’ or ‘Connections’ and see if there’s an option to add a plan. You can also search for your phone model and ‘eSIM compatible’ online.
Want to check before you commit? We’ll assess your phone’s compatibility as part of the sign-up process for Monzo Mobile.
The benefits of using an eSIM
Thinking of making the switch? Here’s why an eSIM might suit you:
No physical SIM: nothing to lose, break, or wait for in the post
Easier switching: change your phone network or plan entirely on your phone
Stress-free travel: add a local data plan without removing your existing SIM
Built for the future: more manufacturers are moving away from plastic, making eSIMs the new normal
Monzo current account required. Ts&Cs apply. UK residents and 18+ only.
Questions? Answers.
What’s an eSIM card?
An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone. It connects you to a mobile network for calls, texts, and data. It’s just like a traditional SIM, but with no physical card involved.
Is an eSIM better than a physical SIM?
eSIMs are more convenient for most people. You can switch networks digitally without waiting for a card to arrive in the post, and there’s nothing to lose or damage.
How do I transfer an eSIM to a new phone?
You can't physically move an eSIM the way you'd move a plastic SIM card. Instead, you reinstall your eSIM on your new phone through your provider’s app, or by scanning a new QR code. With Monzo Mobile, you can do this directly in the Monzo app.
Can I use both an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time?
Yes, many phones support dual SIM, so you can run two separate numbers on one phone at the same time.
Do all phones support eSIM?
Most phones made after 2020 do, but older or lower-end models may not. Check your phone’s settings or search your model name online to find out.