What is an eSIM and how is it different from a regular SIM?

Need mobile data on a phone, tablet, or laptop but don’t want to fiddle with a tiny plastic card?
That’s where eSIM comes in.

1. eSIM in one sentence

An eSIM (“embedded SIM”) is a small chip that’s built into your device and can be programmed — over the air — with a new mobile plan at any time.

Think of it as a downloadable SIM card.

2. eSIM vs. classic (plastic) SIM

	Regular SIM	eSIM
Where it is located	Removable plastic card you insert into a slot	Soldered inside the device
How you activate	Pop the card in → phone connects	Scan a QR code or tap “Add eSIM” → profile downloads
Switching plans	Physically swap cards	Add / delete profiles in the settings menu
Multi-SIM	Dual-SIM only if device has two slots	Store several profiles at once; switch instantly

3. Key benefits of eSIM

- Instant setup
Buy a plan online, scan a code, and you’re connected in minutes — no shops, no shipping.

- Space & durability
No SIM tray means fewer moving parts, better water resistance, and more room for battery.

- Multiple numbers, one device
Keep your home line active while adding a local data plan for travel.

- Eco-friendly
No plastic card, no packaging, no international shipping.

- Great for short trips
Perfect match for MTX Connect’s travel data packages — download before you fly.

4. Any downsides?

- Device compatibility
Only newer phones, tablets, and laptops support eSIM. (iPhone XS / XR or later, most flagship Android phones, recent iPads, Surface Pro X, etc.)
Devices that support eSIM

- Operator support
While 260+ carriers now offer eSIM, some local operators still provide plastic SIMs only.

- Profile limit
Most phones can store 5–8 eSIM profiles, with up to two active at the same time.

5. How do I install an MTX Connect eSIM?

Check your device supports eSIM.
Purchase the MTX Connect plan you want.
You’ll receive a QR code / activation code (it contains the SM-DP+ address).
On your device, open Settings › Mobile / Cellular › Add eSIM and follow the instructions on screen.
Assign the new profile for data, calls, or both — you can rename it (e.g. “MTX Travel EU”).
Add / switch / delete profiles anytime in the same menu.

A more detailed instructions on the installation process can be found here:
How to install and configure the MTX eSIM on iPhone
How to install and configure the MTX eSIM on Android

Quick FAQ

- Can I keep my physical SIM and add an eSIM?
Yes — most modern phones let you use one physical SIM and one eSIM simultaneously .

- Can I convert my MTX physical SIM to an eSIM?
No. You can convert a physical SIM card to an eSIM

- Is eSIM more secure?
Yes. The chip is soldered in, and all profile downloads are encrypted and verified.

- What if I deleted the eSIM from my phone settings?
You can reinstall the eSIM back to the same device, by simply re-scanning the QR code of your eSIM.

- Can I move my eSIM profile to another phone?
In short, yes, you can. But some conditions apply, please consult this article: Can I transfer my eSIM to a new device?

Updated on: 05/13/2025