eSIM vs physical SIM
Most new UK phones support both eSIM and traditional physical SIMs. Here's how to choose.
The short answer
An eSIM is a digital SIM that lives inside your phone — no plastic card. It activates in minutes over Wi-Fi and can be swapped without waiting for post. Physical SIMs still work everywhere.
eSIM: how it works
Instead of inserting a plastic card, you scan a QR code or activate via an app. The eSIM profile is downloaded to your phone's embedded SIM chip.
Physical SIM: still the default
A traditional nano-SIM works with every phone made in the last decade and is easy to swap between devices by hand.
Which is better?
eSIM is better for instant activation, dual-SIM travel, and switching providers quickly. Physical SIM is better if you swap between multiple devices, or use an older/budget phone that doesn't support eSIM.
OCCTA support
OCCTA SIM plans support both. Order online and choose eSIM at checkout for instant activation, or physical SIM for post delivery.
FAQs
Next step
Find out what's available at your address, or talk to a human about your setup.