Ever wanted to keep multiple active numbers on one phone?
Or use a travel eSIM without disabling your regular UK number?
Guess what?
It is possible, provided you have the right smartphone.
Many modern smartphones allow you to use a physical SIM and an eSIM at the same time. This way, you can manage two mobile numbers on one device.
That said, you have to check a few things before setting up both SIMs.
In this guide, you'll learn how dual SIM smartphones work, how you can use a physical SIM and eSIM together, and some SIM-only plan recommendations from Lyca Mobile. Continue reading!
Can an eSIM and a Physical SIM Work Together?
Yes, you can use an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time if your smartphone supports dual SIM functionality.
This setup allows you to use two mobile numbers on one smartphone without the need to carry multiple devices.
For instance, you could use your physical SIM for personal purposes and an eSIM for work. This works the other way as well.
The usual work/personal life scenario aside, you could also use a physical SIM card while you’re in the UK and a travel eSIM for your trips.
But dual SIM support varies by phone model. Check your phone manufacturer's specifications for more information.
Another thing to keep in mind is the lock status. If your phone was purchased from a network provider, it might be locked to the provider for a specific period of time. You’ll be unable to use a second line during this period, even if your smartphone supports dual SIM technology.
What Is Dual SIM?
With dual SIM technology, your phone can hold two active mobile plans with two numbers at the same time.
Depending on device compatibility, you can use them in a number of ways:
One physical SIM card and one eSIM
Two eSIMs, on compatible phones
Two physical SIMs, on phones with two SIM card slots
Smartphones with dual SIM technology could be used in a variety of ways. You could
- Use one SIM for personal calls and the other for work.
- Choose one number for UK calls and texts and the other for international calling.
- Set one of the two lines as your preferred mobile data connection.
- Keep your local UK number active while using an eSIM during your travels.
What Is an eSIM and How Is It Different from a Physical SIM?
Physical SIM
A physical SIM is a small plastic card with golden contacts that holds information from your network provider. They go into the SIM tray in your smartphone. They can be swapped by simply inserting them into another compatible device.
eSIM
An eSIM, on the other hand, is built into your phone. There is no plastic, no gold contact, and no inserting or swapping. Instead, you download a mobile plan by scanning a QR code or using the network provider’s app.
They are similar in terms of signal and service. The major difference is the form factor.
Which Phones Support eSIM and Physical SIM Together?
Most smartphones support dual SIM technology. But the list becomes a bit short when you consider one eSIM and one physical SIM card.
Here are some devices from the top brands that support eSIM technology.
Apple
iPhone
iPhone XS and newer models support dual SIM technology with one eSIM and one physical SIM. The eSIM-only variants of the latest iPhones support two active eSIMs.
Samsung
Samsung Galaxy
Many S-series and Z-series models with eSIM support are compatible with dual SIM technology.
Google Pixel
Pixel 3 and newer models offer eSIM support.
Unsure about eSIM device compatibility? Dial *#06# to check for an EID number. If you see one, your phone has eSIM.
What Are the Benefits of Using an eSIM and Physical SIM Together?
Having two lines, especially one of them being an eSIM, can make your life easy. Here are some major benefits of using an eSIM and physical SIM together.
Keep Your Personal and Work Numbers Separate
Assign a separate number to each SIM and choose which one you prefer for calls, SMS and data. This helps you manage work calls without sharing your personal number.
Stay Connected While Travelling Abroad
A travel eSIM helps you use mobile data in a foreign country without removing/disabling your UK SIM. For example, if you're travelling from the UK to Japan, you could have your UK SIM active for incoming messages and a Japan travel eSIM for mobile data.
Choose Different Plans for Different Needs
Forget about relying on one mobile plan for everything. With dual SIM technology, you can use one SIM for calls and texts and another for data. This is useful when one provider offers a suitable calling plan while another offers better data value. Remember that having two active lines means paying two separate bills.
Avoid Carrying Two Phones
If you have separate numbers for work and personal life, then dual SIM functionality can eliminate the need to carry two devices. You can use both numbers on the same device and switch between them without swapping SIM cards.
How to Set Up an eSIM Alongside Your Physical SIM
Setting up your smartphone to use an eSIM and a physical SIM card at the same time is super easy. Here are the steps to follow:
Open Settings and tap Mobile Data or SIM. (The name of the option varies based on device manufacturer)
Choose Add eSIM.
Scan the QR code from your network provider.
Label your new line.
Pick which line to use for calls, texts and data.
Make sure your physical SIM card is in the smartphone while you do this.
What Should You Check Before Using Two SIMs?
Consider the points below before you start using two lines on your smartphone.
Phone Compatibility
Not every smartphone supports eSIM and dual SIM technology. Check your device documentation for eSIM information.
Network Restrictions
Your phone must be unlocked and compatible with both providers.
Battery Usage
Having two active mobile connections may increase battery consumption.
Plan Costs
Two SIMs can mean two separate plans, which is double the monthly costs.
Default Settings
Confirm the purpose of each line before you start using them.
The Best Lyca Mobile SIM-Only Deals for Your Smartphone
If you want a simple, flexible SIM-only plan, Lyca Mobile offers several 30-day options. These plans can work well as a secondary eSIM or a physical SIM, depending on your phone and your needs.
These plans are also available on physical SIM cards and eSIMs. You can get one based on your device compatibility and budget.
| Plan Name | UK Plan Unlimited | UK Plan Mega Plus | National Plus | UK Plan Smart |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Original Price | £25.00 | £20.00 | £10.00 | £5.00 |
| Promotional Price | £12.50 | £10.00 | £5.00 | £3.50 |
| Data Allowance | Unlimited | 120 GB | 30 GB | 5 GB |
| Local Calls & Texts | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1000 Minutes & SMS |
| International Minutes | 100 minutes to 48 countries | 100 minutes to 48 countries | 100 minutes to 48 countries | 100 minutes to 48 countries |
| EU Roaming Data | 35 GB | 12 GB | 12 GB | 5 GB |
| China Roaming Data | 5 GB | 3 GB | 500 MB | N/A |
| Credit Check | Not Required | Not Required | Not Required | Not Required |
| Wi-Fi Calling | Enabled | Enabled | Enabled | Enabled |
Please read the terms and conditions for more information about promotional prices.
Is Using an eSIM and Physical SIM Together Worth It?
Absolutely!
Using an eSIM and a physical SIM card together is an excellent choice if you want to separate work from personal calls or stay connected while travelling.
The key is to double-check whether you have a compatible phone. You should also decide how you’re going to use each line. It helps to compare the plan costs as well.
With the right combination of SIMs and plans, you can stay connected in a way that fits your everyday needs.