How to Switch eSIM Carriers

Q: Can an eSIM be switched to a different carrier?

Absolutely! Just as with a physical SIM card, you can switch carriers and plans. However, with an eSIM, it's a much quicker process, as you'll just need to deactivate your old carrier eSIM and activate your new carrier eSIM with a QR code.

Q: Can I have two different carriers with an eSIM?

Yes, you can. Many modern smartphones allow for dual SIM capabilities, meaning you can have one physical SIM and one eSIM or two or more eSIMs from different carriers. This is perfect for frequent travelers or those who want to separate work and personal numbers.

3 min read

Updated September 19, 2024

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Imagine a world where switching carriers is as easy as changing your profile picture on social media.

No more pesky physical SIM cards or frustrating trips to the store. Welcome to the era of eSIMs!

Let's dive into the step-by-step guide on how to switch eSIM carriers and get the best bang for your buck.

1. Check coverage

Before you even think of making the switch, it's good to make sure that your area has good coverage from the eSIM carrier you're considering. As switching carriers won't be worth it if your calls keep dropping or your data speeds are slower than a snail.

MVNOs operate on the major networks: T-Mobile, AT&T, or Verizon. So you can use our coverage map to check coverage in your area and find the best low-cost carriers on that network.

2. Compare eSIM carriers

Now, the fun part – shopping around. We recommend not jumping on the first deal you see to make sure you find an eSIM carrier and plan that fits your needs.

Compare multiple eSIM carriers to find the perfect balance between cost, coverage, and customer service. As well as making sure they've got all the features you need.

The great thing about low-cost carriers is that you don't have to sacrifice coverage or features to save money on their eSIM plans.

3. Choose your eSIM plan

Once you've settled on a low-cost carrier, it's time to pick the perfect prepaid eSIM plan.

Whether you're a chatterbox, a data hog, or someone in between, there's a plan out there with your name on it.

You'll find plenty of plans that include unlimited talk and text, as well as unlimited mobile data plans at half the price of going direct to one of the big guys.

If you want to keep the same phone number, you'll need to select this option when choosing your plan.

One important thing is to make sure your cell phone is unlocked in case you're switching across different networks. It should be compatible with most low-cost carriers as long as it's unlocked.

4. How to activate your eSIM

Setting up your eSIM on your phone requires just a few simple steps, but it'll depend on your device. Whether you have an iPhone or an Android, you'll need to make sure that your phone is updated with the latest software and that you have your eSIM activation QR code.

Activating your eSIM plan on Apple iOS

Go to Settings > Cellular or Mobile Data
Click "Add Cellular Plan"
Scan the QR code or enter the activation code
Follow the instructions to activate your plan

Activating an eSIM plan on your Android phone

Go to Settings > Network & Internet> Mobile network
Choose "Add Carrier" or "Add Data Plan"
Scan the QR code or enter the activation code
Follow the prompts to complete the activation

5. How to deactivate your eSIM

If you've already got an eSIM plan, you may need to deactivate your old eSIM plan from your previous provider. Each carrier is different, so you'll need to check with them.

Deactivating your eSIM plan on Apple iOS

Go to Settings > Cellular or Mobile Data
Select the eSIM plan you wish to deactivate
Then click "Remove Cellular Plan"

Deactivating an eSIM plan on your Android phone

Go to Settings > Network & Internet> Mobile network
Select the eSIM plan you wish to remove

Switching eSIM carriers FAQs

Can an eSIM be switched to a different carrier?

Can I have two different carriers with an eSIM?

Recap

Switching eSIM carriers doesn't have to be daunting; in fact, eSIMs make switching carriers easier.

The whole process is pretty much the same as when you have a physical SIM card, except you don't have to wait for it to arrive in the mail to get your plan live.

You can easily save money without sacrificing quality with MVNOs; just make sure to check coverage and compare the cheapest cell phone plans to find the best carrier for your needs.