Help & FAQs

Physical SIM vs eSIM

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The main difference between an eSIM and a physical SIM card is that an eSIM is “embedded” digitally into a compatible mobile device and cannot be physically removed, whereas a physical SIM card can be removed from one device and placed in another.

Some of the other differences between eSIM and physical SIM include:

Feature

eSIM

Physical SIM

Activation

Activate your service quickly in the Customer Portal.

Needs to be shipped to you via post before you can activate it.

Set up

You will set up an eSIM on your mobile device.

You will insert a physical SIM card into your mobile device.

Connection

Allows for multiple SIMs on one device, and two numbers running simultaneously.

Does not allow for multiple SIMs (unless the device has additional SIM slots).


Another difference is that eSIM offers environmental benefits by reducing plastic waste and CO² emissions from shipping.

An eSIM is available for all mobile and mobile broadband services, including new Tangerine customers who are transferring their existing mobile number(s) to us and existing customers who want the added convenience of an eSIM.

"Excellent customer service! Super fast and easy connection"

Mel, March 2026

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