Guide · eSIM
eSIM or physical SIM: which should you get in the UK?
An eSIM does the same job as a SIM card, but it is built into your phone and downloaded instead of posted. Here is how the two compare, and how to tell if your phone can use one.
Updated 27 October 2026
What an eSIM is
An eSIM is a small chip inside your phone that can hold a mobile plan. Instead of putting in a plastic card, you scan a QR code (or tap a link) and the plan downloads over Wi-Fi. Your number, data and calls work exactly as they would with a SIM card.
Why people choose eSIM
- It arrives in minutes by email, so there is no post and no shop.
- You can set it up from anywhere, including before you travel.
- Your phone can run it next to a physical SIM, so you can keep two numbers.
- It can't fall out, get lost or be swapped into another phone if your phone is stolen.
When a physical SIM still makes sense
- Your phone doesn't support eSIM (older and some budget phones don't).
- You move your SIM between phones often and don't want to request a new eSIM each time.
- Your phone is locked to a network that doesn't offer eSIM.
Does my phone support eSIM?
Dial *#06#. If the screen shows an EID, your phone supports eSIM. Most iPhones from the XS and XR onwards do, as do recent Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy S phones. Phones bought in some countries have eSIM switched off, so the *#06# check is the quickest test.
Your phone also needs to be unlocked to use a plan from another network.
Changing phone with an eSIM
Instead of moving a card, you ask for a fresh eSIM for the new phone. With GetOnIt you do this in your account: your number and plan stay the same.
Questions
- Is an eSIM as good as a SIM card?
- Yes. Calls, texts, data, 4G and 5G work the same. The only difference is how the plan gets into your phone.
- Can I have an eSIM and a SIM card at the same time?
- On most eSIM phones, yes. You can keep your SIM card in and add an eSIM, and choose which line handles data, calls and texts.
- Does GetOnIt send physical SIM cards?
- No. GetOnIt is eSIM only, which is how you can be up and running in minutes.
A UK number in about 15 minutes.
Prepaid eSIM plans from £9 a month. No contract, no credit check, no UK address needed.