In short. An eSIM is a SIM built into your phone. Instead of a plastic card, you add a mobile data plan by scanning a QR code. You pick a plan, pay online, get your QR code, install it and connect.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a SIM that is already inside your phone. You do not insert a card. You download a plan to the phone using a QR code or a short code, and the phone uses it to connect to a mobile network.
ChoEsim sells prepaid travel eSIM data plans issued by a third-party provider.
From choosing a plan to connecting
Choose a plan
Browse destinations and compare plans. The price, data allowance, validity and coverage on the plan page apply when you order.
Check your phone
Make sure it supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked.
Order and pay
Enter your details, pay on the secure payment page, and your order is confirmed once the payment is confirmed.
Get your eSIM
Your QR code and activation details appear in My eSIMs and arrive by email. Then follow the installation guide and connect.
What you need
- A phone that supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked.
- A stable Wi-Fi connection to install.
- An email address you can open, and a ChoEsim account (Google or email sign-in).
- A bank card or another payment method offered at checkout.
eSIM and physical SIM, side by side
| Feature | eSIM | Physical SIM |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A SIM built into the phone, plan added digitally | A small card you put in the phone |
| How you get it | By email and online, nothing is posted | Handed over or posted |
| How you add it | Scan a QR code or type a code | Insert it in the SIM tray |
| Phone requirement | The phone must support eSIM and be unlocked | A phone with a matching SIM slot |
| Your main SIM | It can stay in the phone alongside the eSIM | Often has to come out to make room |
| Before the trip | Install in advance. Check your plan details for when validity starts. | Collect or wait for the card first |
| Risk of loss | Nothing small to lose or damage | A small card that can be lost or damaged |