Singapore ESim vs. Sim Card Plan: Discover Your Best Option Today!

When traveling to Singapore, staying connected is essential to maximize our experience and enjoy everything this beautiful city-state offers.

With so many options available, it’s no wonder that we might feel overwhelmed when choosing between a traditional physical SIM and a Singapore eSIM plan.

But worry not, fellow travelers! We’re here to guide you through the benefits and drawbacks of each option, ensuring you stay connected throughout your Singapore adventure.

Singapore’s mobile service providers offer various SIM card options, with flexible plans and data packages to suit any traveler’s needs.

Singapore ESim Vs. Sim Card Plan

Understanding Sim Cards And Esims

In our exciting journeys to Singapore, we’ve had the chance to experience different connectivity options regarding mobile service.

While traditional physical SIM cards remain popular among travelers, the rise of eSIM technology offers a new way to stay connected without the hassle of swapping out tiny cards in our phones.

Let’s dive deeper into the differences between these two options!

SIM cards are small chips that store our mobile service provider’s information, allowing our devices to connect to their network for calls, SMS, and data services.

On the other hand, eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card that can be easily activated without needing a physical card. eSIMs are compatible with newer devices like the iPhone 14 and Google Pixel series.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Sim Cards Vs. Esims

Physical SIM cards:

Pros:

• Widely available from various providers like Singtel, Starhub, and M1, as well as smaller MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) like GIGA
• Often more affordable with temporary prepaid plans
• Can be easily replaced if lost or damaged

Cons:

• Require physical swapping of the SIM card in your device
• It may require an unlocked phone to use different provider SIM cards.
• Limited availability of plans for short-term visitors

eSIMs:

Pros:

• No need for a physical SIM card slot in your device
• It can be activated instantly with a QR code.
• Offers some eSim plans for different durations
• Allows for dual-SIM functionality on compatible devices

Cons:

• Requires a device compatible with eSIM technology
• It may have a higher cost compared to physical SIM cards
• Not all service providers offer eSIM plans

Feature	SIM	eSIM
Definition	A small, removable card that contains all of your phone’s network information, including your phone number, contact list, and text messages.	A “virtual” SIM card that is embedded directly into your phone or other device’s motherboard.
Size	It can be easily lost or stolen, allowing someone else to access your personal information.	Not applicable since it is embedded into the device.
Insertion	It can be easily removed and replaced with another SIM card from a different carrier.	No need for physical insertion.
Switching numbers or carriers	Information on the eSIM is rewritable, allowing for easy switching of numbers or carriers without needing to replace the SIM card physically.	Standard SIM is about the size of an SD card, Micro SIM is slightly smaller (15mm x 12mm), and Nano SIM is the smallest (12.3mm x 8.8mm).
Compatibility	Compatible with most phones and devices.	Currently only available on select devices, but becoming more widely available.
Security	Can be easily lost or stolen, allowing someone else to access your personal information.	More secure since it is embedded into the device and cannot be physically removed.
Signal Strength	Signal strength may be affected by the quality of the SIM card and the device’s SIM card slot.	Signal strength may be more consistent since the eSIM is embedded directly into the device’s motherboard.
Future outlook	Likely to be phased out in favor of eSIMs.	Expected to become more widely available and eventually replace physical SIM cards.

To make the most informed decision, we’ll consider factors such as our device’s compatibility, the activation process, and the available mobile plans.

So let’s dive in and explore the exciting world of Singapore eSIM, Sim Card, and other alternative connectivity options!

Other Alternatives besides Sim and Esim?

Portable Wifi Router

Consider using a portable Wifi router if you’re wondering about alternatives to SIM cards and eSIMs.

These pocket-sized devices allow us to connect multiple gadgets, like smartphones, tablets, and laptops, to the internet simultaneously.

We can easily rent or purchase one of these routers in Singapore for our trip, with affordable data plans available for various durations.

Roaming Activation from the origin country provider

Another option for staying connected while traveling in Singapore is to activate roaming services with our existing mobile service providers from our home country.

We can use our existing phone numbers and mobile plans while traveling.

However, remember that roaming charges can vary depending on the provider and destination.

Comparison Pro & Cons between all options

When exploring Singapore, staying connected is essential for most travelers. As travel bloggers, we often get asked about the best options for internet connectivity in Singapore.

So, we’ve gathered our experience to share the pros and cons of the different options: SIM Card, eSIM, WiFi Router Rental, and Roaming.

WiFi Router Rental

Pros:

• Great for groups as multiple devices can share the connection.
• No need to change your phone’s settings or SIM card.
• Portable and usually provides reliable, high-speed connection.

Cons:

• Different devices to carry around and charge.
• Daily rental fees can add up for more extended stays.
• Reliant on the device’s battery life.

Check for router rental services at the airport or shopping malls to rent a WiFi router in Singapore.

Comparing Singapore ESIM Prices And Data Plans Between Different Providers

These providers are the largest telecommunications companies in Singapore and offer eSIM plans for locals and foreigners visiting Singapore.

Here is a comparison table of the Singapore eSIM plans offered by these local providers based on information from the search results:

Provider	Plan	Cost	Data allowance
Singtel	ReadyRoam eSIM	Starts at USD 12	1GB to 10GB
StarHub	Travel eSIM	Starts at USD 15	1GB to 10GB
M1	Prepaid eSIM	Starts at USD 18	2GB to 100GB
Circles.Life	Flexi Plan eSIM	Starts at USD 35	20GB to 100GB
MyRepublic	No-contract mobile data plan with eSIM	USD 10	50GB to 80GB
Simba	100GB eSIM	Starts at USD 10	100GB
Giga	5G eSIM	Starts at $10 USD	25GB to 100GB

It’s worth noting that these plans are subject to change and may not reflect the most up-to-date information. Customers should check with the providers for the latest Singapore eSIM plan information.

Comparing different mobile providers in Singapore can be overwhelming, but fret not, we recommend you to book the eSim through our local partners below.

📞 BOOK your Singapore eSIM here 📶

In conclusion, whether you choose a prepaid SIM card or an eSIM plan, compare the costs and data plans beforehand. Both options have pros and cons, but the important thing is to find a plan that suits your budget and connectivity needs while exploring the beautiful city of Singapore.

Compatibility And Activation Process

Device Compatibility With Sim Cards And Esims

In our experience, using SIM cards and eSIMs in Singapore has been a breeze! We’ve tried devices like iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, and Android phones.

Most modern smartphones, including the iPhone 14 and Google Pixel, support physical SIM cards (usually a nano-SIM) and eSIMs.

However, ensuring your mobile device is unlocked and supports the specific mobile carrier you want is essential.

It’s also worth noting that some mobile hotspots may only support physical SIM cards, so it’s essential to double-check the device specifications.

Activation Process For Sim Cards And Esims

When activating SIM cards and eSIMs, the process can vary slightly depending on the mobile carrier.

Physical SIM cards usually involve purchasing a card, inserting it into your phone, and following the carrier’s instructions to activate your plan.

Some carriers require calling or visiting a local retail store, while others offer a convenient app-based activation process.

On the other hand, eSIMs are becoming increasingly popular in Singapore, especially among travelers.

With an eSIM, you don’t need a physical SIM card to activate mobile service. Instead, you’ll receive a QR code from your mobile carrier, which you can quickly scan with your phone to enable your service¹.

One benefit of using an eSIM is that you can often activate your mobile service in less than five minutes², making it incredibly convenient for travelers arriving in Singapore. Additionally, many new devices support dual-SIM capability, allowing you to activate an eSIM and a physical SIM card simultaneously.

This feature is handy for travelers who want to keep their home phone number while enjoying a local Singapore unlimited data plan.

In conclusion, whether using a traditional SIM card or an eSIM, getting connected in Singapore is relatively easy and hassle-free.

As long as you have a compatible and unlocked device, you can choose the best plan to suit your needs and enjoy your time exploring our beautiful city!

Footnotes

1. Using Dual SIM with an eSIM – Apple Support (SG) ↩
2. eSIM Singapore for Mobile Data Plans | MyRepublic SG ↩

Frequently Asked Questions