eSIM vs physical SIM: what’s the difference?
Both give you mobile data — the difference is the plastic. An eSIM is a digital profile you install by QR code; a physical SIM is a card you insert. For travel, the eSIM usually wins on convenience.
Where eSIM wins
You buy and install online in minutes, keep two lines on one phone, and there is nothing to lose or damage. Ideal for arriving connected without a store visit.
Where a physical SIM still helps
It works on any phone, including older or budget models, and moves to another handset in seconds. If your phone has no eSIM support, a local SIM is the fallback.