Using an eSIM can be incredibly convenient, but there are situations where it might not be the best choice.

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide:

When to Use an eSIM
Traveling Internationally: eSIMs are a fantastic option for avoiding the hassle of buying local SIM cards when you travel. They allow you to easily switch between different carriers and plans, making your travel experience smoother.

Multiple Phone Numbers: If you need to manage both personal and work numbers on the same device, eSIMs enable you to have multiple numbers without requiring a dual-SIM phone.

Ease of Activation: Activating an eSIM is typically straightforward—just scan a QR code, and you’re good to go. It’s often quicker and simpler than inserting a physical SIM.

Space-Saving: eSIMs save physical space in your device, which can be utilized for other components or to make the device slimmer and more streamlined.

When Not to Use an eSIM
Compatibility Issues: Not all devices support eSIMs yet. If you have an older phone that doesn’t support eSIM, sticking with a physical SIM is wiser. With a physical SIM, you can easily switch to a backup phone if your primary phone breaks—something that isn’t as straightforward with an eSIM. This could be a significant drawback if you rely on having a quick backup option.

Switching Devices: If you frequently switch phones, a physical SIM might be more convenient since you can easily transfer it between devices. With an eSIM, you need to deactivate it on the original phone and go through the activation process again, which can be a hassle.

Switching Cost: Many carriers charge a fee when you transfer your eSIM to another phone because they need to generate a new QR activation code. This process becomes even more expensive if your phone suddenly stops working or if you lose it, as your carrier will need to deactivate the old eSIM on their server and then create a new activation code. This added cost can be a significant deterrent.

Conclusion
For temporary uses like traveling, I would opt for an eSIM.

For my permanent number, I’d stick to a physical SIM, as it’s more convenient for switching phones without incurring any additional costs.