Despite eSIM's growing adoption, misconceptions persist. These myths can prevent people from enjoying eSIM's benefits or cause unnecessary concern. Let's separate fact from fiction with evidence-based responses to the most common eSIM myths.
Myth 1: "eSIM is Less Secure Than Physical SIM"
The Myth
Because eSIM is digital, it must be easier to hack than a physical card.
The Truth
eSIM is actually more secure than physical SIM:
- Cannot be physically stolen: Embedded in device, cannot be removed
- Prevents SIM swap attacks: No retail store social engineering possible
- Encrypted provisioning: Profile delivery uses strong encryption
- Tamper-resistant: eUICC secure element protects credentials
- Remote deactivation: Can be disabled if device stolen
Verdict: eSIM is more secure, not less.
Myth 2: "eSIM Only Works in a Few Countries"
The Myth
eSIM is only useful in major developed countries.
The Truth
eSIM coverage is extensive and growing:
- Travel eSIM providers like MerrSim cover 190+ countries
- Carrier eSIM support available in 70+ countries
- Coverage includes Africa, South America, Asia, not just US/Europe
- More carriers adding support monthly
Verdict: eSIM has excellent global coverage for travelers.
Myth 3: "You Can't Use eSIM with Your Regular Number"
The Myth
Switching to eSIM means giving up your current phone number.
The Truth
You have multiple options:
- Number transfer: Most carriers can move existing number to eSIM
- Dual SIM: Keep physical SIM with number, add eSIM for data
- Number porting: Move number to eSIM-first carrier
For travelers, the most popular approach is keeping your home carrier on physical SIM and using eSIM for travel data—best of both worlds.
Verdict: eSIM works alongside or replaces your current number—your choice.
Myth 4: "eSIM is Complicated to Set Up"
The Myth
eSIM activation is technical and difficult.
The Truth
Modern eSIM setup is straightforward:
- Most activations take under 5 minutes
- Simply scan QR code with phone camera
- Follow on-screen prompts
- No technical knowledge required
In many ways, eSIM is easier than physical SIM—no tiny cards to handle, no ejector tools, no risk of inserting wrong.
Verdict: eSIM setup is simple, often easier than physical SIM.
Myth 5: "eSIM is More Expensive"
The Myth
eSIM plans cost more than equivalent physical SIM plans.
The Truth
Cost varies by context:
- Domestic plans: Typically same price as physical SIM equivalents
- Travel data: eSIM often significantly cheaper than carrier roaming
- No hidden costs: No shipping fees, no SIM purchase fees
- Competition driving prices down: Market maturing rapidly
Verdict: eSIM is price-competitive and often cheaper for travelers.
Myth 6: "Only Newest Phones Support eSIM"
The Myth
You need the latest flagship to use eSIM.
The Truth
eSIM support goes back several years:
- iPhone support since XS/XR (2018)
- Samsung support since S20 (2020)
- Google Pixel support since Pixel 3 (2018)
- Many mid-range phones now include eSIM
If your phone is from 2019 or later, there's a good chance it supports eSIM.
Verdict: eSIM has been available for years; check your specific device.
Myth 7: "eSIM Can't Be Transferred to a New Phone"
The Myth
When you upgrade phones, you lose your eSIM and have to buy new.
The Truth
eSIM can be transferred, though process differs from physical SIM:
- Many carriers support eSIM Quick Transfer between devices
- Carrier eSIMs can be reprovisioned to new device
- Some travel eSIM providers offer profile transfers
- Worst case: deactivate old, get new QR code
It's different from popping out a card and moving it, but transfer options exist.
Verdict: Transfer is possible with slightly different process than physical SIM.
Myth 8: "eSIM Drains Battery Faster"
The Myth
Having eSIM active uses more battery than physical SIM.
The Truth
No inherent battery difference:
- eSIM and physical SIM perform same function
- Power consumption depends on cellular activity, not SIM type
- eUICC chip uses negligible power
- Multiple active SIMs do use more power—same for physical dual-SIM
Verdict: Battery impact is identical to physical SIM for same usage.
Myth 9: "eSIM is Just a Gimmick"
The Myth
eSIM is marketing hype without real benefits.
The Truth
eSIM offers concrete, practical advantages:
- Instant activation: No waiting for delivery or store visits
- Dual SIM on single-slot phones: Physical + eSIM
- Travel savings: 70-90% reduction vs carrier roaming
- Enhanced security: Cannot be removed or swapped
- Better device design: Enables waterproofing, space savings
- Industry adoption: Apple, Samsung, Google all moving toward eSIM
Verdict: eSIM provides real, measurable benefits—not gimmicky.
Myth 10: "I'll Get Locked to One Carrier with eSIM"
The Myth
Once you set up eSIM with a carrier, you're stuck.
The Truth
eSIM actually increases flexibility:
- Can store multiple carrier profiles
- Switch between profiles easily
- Add travel eSIMs without affecting home carrier
- Delete and add profiles as needed
- No physical card tying you to one carrier
Verdict: eSIM provides more carrier flexibility, not less.
The Bottom Line
Most eSIM myths stem from unfamiliarity with the technology. The reality is that eSIM is:
- More secure than physical SIM
- Widely available globally
- Easy to set up and use
- Cost-effective, especially for travel
- Flexible and user-friendly
Experience the Truth with MerrSim
Don't let myths hold you back. MerrSim offers:
- Simple activation: See how easy eSIM really is
- Global coverage: 190+ countries available
- Transparent pricing: No hidden costs
- Real support: Help when you need it
Try MerrSim for your next trip and discover the reality of eSIM convenience firsthand.