eSIM vs Physical SIM: Is eSIM Better in China?

Did you know that as of 2025, the world will have 7.4 billion active SIM users?

Physical SIM has long been the backbone of connectivity. It has been providing reliability and familiarity for so many years.

However,  with the rise of eSIM-enabled devices like the iPhone, smartwatches, and many more, people are opting for eSIM.  In fact, from 2022 to 2024,  there has been a three-fold increase in the number of eSIM users.                         

Especially in China, there have been over 1.78 billion mobile subscriptions as of October 2024.  It is evident that people are opting for eSIM prepaid in China.

So, if you are new to the eSIM and want to know how it differs from a physical SIM card, keep reading!

What is a Physical SIM?

A physical SIM is a small card that stores your mobile carrier’s information. It allows your device to connect to the network. 

Physical SIMs have been in the market for a long time in various sizes, such as standard, micro, and nano SIMs.

Features of Physical SIM cards:

• Removable and transferable between devices.

• You have to insert and activate it manually.

• They are carrier-specific.

• May need to replace them when switching providers.

What is eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital version of the physical SIM card embedded directly into the device. 

Features of eSIM cards:

• Rewritable and programmable.

• Easy to switch between carriers

• Provide over-the-air (OTA) activation, which means carrier profiles and plans can be downloaded and activated remotely.

Convenience and Flexibility

eSIM

The switching between carriers or plans is seamless. It can be done digitally without going to a store or waiting for a new SIM card.

It is ideal for frequent travelers as it allows you to activate local plans instantly. 

You can consider eSIM prepaid in China if you are going to China. 

It also supports multiple profiles, that helps in managing work and personal numbers on the same device easy.

Physical SIM

In SIM,  you have to physically obtain, insert, and activate a new SIM card while switching carriers, . Also, it is limited to one active profile per card. Itrequires you to use dual SIM slots to manage multiple numbers. It can be less convenient for travelers as obtaining a local SIM can be time-consuming. 

Compatible for Device

eSIM

eSIM is supported by many numbers of modern devices, including flagship smartphones, wearables, and IoT gadgets. However, this is not possible with older devices.

Physical SIM

Physical SIMs are compatible with almost all mobile devices, including older models. However, it needs an appropriate SIM card size for specific devices.

Security

eSIM

It has top-notch security which prevent from theft. eSIM also reduces the risk of SIM swapping fraud since changes need carrier verification. Plus, it supports remote locking if, by any chance, the device is lost or stolen.

Physical SIM

It is more vulnerable to loss or theft, as it can be easily removed and misused. Also, physical SIMs are susceptible to SIM swapping attacks where fraudsters convince carriers to activate a new SIM linked to your number.

Impact on Environment

eSIM

It automatically eliminates the need for plastic SIM cards and packaging. It also reduces waste associated with physical SIM replacements and upgrades.

Physical SIM

Physical SIM leads to plastic waste and environmental concerns due to its disposability. Also, shipping physical SIMs adds to the carbon footprint. 

Network

eSIM

The performance and connectivity depend on the device and carriers. Some carriers may have limited support for eSIM in certain regions.

Physical SIM

Physical SIM offers consistent network reliability. It is also universally supported by all carriers worldwide. You don’t have to depend on advanced carrier infrastructure for activation.

The Bottom Line

Both physical SIM and eSIM cards in China have their pros and cons. However, eSIM is convenient, flexible, and environmentally friendly. If you are going to China or switching plans frequently, then eSIM prepaid will work. Finally, choose an option that suits your needs.

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