eSIM vs Physical SIM

Physical SIMs still make sense in some places: very cheap local prepaid, phones without eSIM, or travelers who like a disposable line. eSIMs win on logistics — no tiny tray tool at midnight in an airport.

When eSIM is usually better

• You want data the moment you land
• Your phone supports Dual SIM and you need to keep a home number
• You change countries more than once

When a physical SIM can still win

• Your device has no eSIM
• A local prepaid deal is dramatically cheaper for long stays
• You need a local number for calls, not just data

For most short and medium holidays on modern phones, eSIM is the lower-friction default. Cost still deserves a glance — especially for month-plus stays.