Skip to main content
Question

esim or normal sim


Gaznoddy
Active Contributor

Which is best? Esim or normal sim?  Also if using esim, do i need to be connected to wifi

10 replies

MZone
Gold Contributor
Forum|alt.badge.img+21
  • Gold Contributor
  • 906 replies
  • April 19, 2025

Down to personal choice - they both do the same job. Physical is plastic that can be easily taken out of one device and put in another. eSIM is a QR code you can receive instantly that you have to scan to install on the phone - you have to order a replacement if you want to use on another device which is a bit more time consuming.

You don’t need WiFi to use an eSIM. 


Gaznoddy
Active Contributor
  • Author
  • Active Contributor
  • 6 replies
  • April 19, 2025

Cheers


WelshPaul
Platinum 
Contributor
Forum|alt.badge.img+22
  • Platinum 
Contributor
  • 2735 replies
  • April 19, 2025

FYI, you do need a Wi-Fi or data connection to install and activate an eSIM.

 


Gaznoddy
Active Contributor
  • Author
  • Active Contributor
  • 6 replies
  • April 19, 2025

I meant just for general use ie calls etc


WelshPaul
Platinum 
Contributor
Forum|alt.badge.img+22
  • Platinum 
Contributor
  • 2735 replies
  • April 19, 2025

Yea, I was just making you aware that you need a data or Wi-Fi connection to install and activate the eSIM just in case you weren’t aware and ordered one only to end up without service because you had neither. 


Gaznoddy
Active Contributor
  • Author
  • Active Contributor
  • 6 replies
  • April 19, 2025

Thanks for the reply.  I was thinking of maybe doing the download option and not having a physical sim.  It's all new to me, and trying to suss it all out before I swap supplier in June. Thanks again.....I may need your help in June. So stand by for questions 


Forum|alt.badge.img+20
  • iD Mobile Employee
  • 2066 replies
  • April 21, 2025

Hi ​@Gaznoddy 

 

Thanks for getting in touch with us here on the community.

 

It looks like our amazing members have been able to support you with your query.

If you have any further questions or require any assistance in the future, please do not hesitate to get back in touch. 

 

Thank you 

 

Natalie  


Gaznoddy
Active Contributor
  • Author
  • Active Contributor
  • 6 replies
  • April 21, 2025

How long do I have between ordering/receiving the esim before activating it?  My Vodafone contract ends in June so will need pac code off them first. I've not swapped supplier before, been with them over 20 years


MZone
Gold Contributor
Forum|alt.badge.img+21
  • Gold Contributor
  • 906 replies
  • April 21, 2025

The contract starts and is chargeable as soon as they confirm the order. You can install the eSIM whenever you like. 


Gaznoddy
Active Contributor
  • Author
  • Active Contributor
  • 6 replies
  • April 21, 2025

I need to time it for when contract finishes to start the id one.  If I end up with a couple of dates cross over it's not bad