What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built permanently into your smartphone. Instead of inserting a physical card, you simply load your mobile or data plan onto your device digitally via QR code. You're online in just a few minutes – with no card swapping and no shipping. On trips in particular, the eSIM is the easiest way to get mobile data abroad without paying expensive roaming fees.
How does an eSIM work?
An eSIM does the same job as a classic SIM card: it identifies your device on the mobile network and establishes the connection to the provider. The difference is in the technology. The eSIM chip is already built permanently into your smartphone, tablet or smartwatch and no longer needs to be swapped physically.
When you buy an eSIM plan, you receive a QR code or an activation link. As soon as you scan it, the matching mobile profile is installed digitally on your device. You can store several profiles at once and switch between them with just a few taps. That way you can use your usual contract for calls and a cheap data plan for your trip at the same time.
eSIM or physical SIM card: the comparison
Both options connect you to the mobile network. In everyday life, and especially when travelling, the digital eSIM offers considerably more flexibility. This overview shows the key differences:
The benefits of an eSIM at a glance
No roaming fees
With a local eSIM data plan you surf abroad at fair prices and avoid the expensive roaming charges of your home provider.
Ready in an instant
You buy your plan online, scan the QR code and you're connected within minutes. With no waiting and no shipping.
Two numbers in parallel
Your usual line stays active for calls and texts while your data plan runs in the background.
No card swapping
No more fiddling with tiny cards or SIM ejector pins. Everything happens digitally, right on your device.
Full cost control
You only book the volume you need. No hidden costs and no automatic renewal.
Eco-friendly
An eSIM comes without a plastic card and without any shipping, making it the more sustainable choice.
Which devices support eSIM?
Most newer smartphones and tablets support eSIM. These include the iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, Google Pixel 3 and later, as well as many other models. The requirements are an up-to-date operating system and a SIM-unlocked device. You can check whether your smartphone can use an eSIM in just a few seconds.
Check compatibility nowSet up your eSIM in three steps
-
1
Choose and buy a plan
Pick your destination and the right data plan. After purchase you receive your QR code directly by email.
-
2
Scan the QR code
Open your smartphone's eSIM settings, scan the code and follow the steps on screen.
-
3
Start surfing
At your destination, enable data roaming for the eSIM and you're connected to the local network.
The eSIM for your trip: BuddySIM
With BuddySIM you get travel eSIMs for over 190 countries. You buy your data plan conveniently before departure, install it in just a few minutes and start surfing right after landing. No roaming fees, no hidden costs and a support team happy to help whenever you have questions.
Frequently asked questions about eSIM
What does eSIM mean?
eSIM stands for embedded SIM, a SIM card built permanently into your device. It replaces the classic, removable SIM card with a digital profile.
Is an eSIM secure?
Yes. An eSIM meets the same security standards as a physical SIM card. Because it's built in, it also can't be lost or stolen.
Can I use an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time?
Most modern smartphones support dual SIM. That way your usual line stays active for calls while the eSIM provides your data plan.
Do I need internet to activate an eSIM?
To install the profile you need a Wi-Fi or data connection once. After that, the eSIM connects automatically to the local network at your destination.
When does my travel eSIM's validity start?
The validity period doesn't start at purchase, but only when you enable data roaming and the eSIM connects to the network in your destination country for the first time.