eSIM vs Physical SIM for Students: What Should You Choose?

Imagine going to a completely new city with two suitcases and one phone as a student in a UNI where you probably don’t know anyone. You have lectures, new friendships, travel, navigation, and so much more to take care of as soon as you land. And this phone is tied to a little piece of plastic in your SIM tray, how your time in the UK will be is somehow dependent on how well and reliably your phone and network are. It is a big decision to choose to wait for a physical SIM or to scan a QR code and get instant access.  

This choice is not only based on price and the brand you associate with, but it also depends on the compatibility of your phone, your data needs, and your travel habits. Your need for high-speed UK Unlimited data, international calling, and texts can be fulfilled with a friendly rate with Lyca Mobile’s range of bundles and plans.  

International Student PAYG SIM Deals – 5G, eSIM & Global Calls

Key Factors Students Should Consider

Before you start looking at providers, it helps you list down your needs and things that are non-negotiable.  

Coverage: While choosing a brand, look for which network provider the brand is using, and if that network performs in places where you work, live, or travel often. No plan is worth it if you are constantly running around to find a signal.  

Data speed: Make sure to read the fine print while getting a plan, especially if your needs are heavily data-driven. What you can look at is: data caps and what happens after you reach the threshold of that data allowance. 

Price and discounts: Look at the prices that are available for you if you are a new customer, what are the auto-renewal rules, or if the brand is shackling you with multi-month commitments. The best way to choose is by looking at the effective monthly cost you are eventually going to pay, and not the buying price.   

International calling: If you are an international student who lives away from home or calls abroad daily, look for plans that have built-in international minutes and texts. This can help you save a lot compared to using separate calling services or buying add-ons.  

Length of Travel: Choosing the plan you need to choose for your eSIM completely depends on the length of your stay, travel habits, and lifestyle needs.

Short-Term: Students coming to the UK for summer school, one semester, or as exchange students for a shorter period of time should choose prepaid bundles or plans with fixed validity to make the best out of the perks Lyca Mobile provides. You also need to look for countries in which roaming and calling are allowed so that you can make the most out of your short yet adventurous stay.  

Long-Term: Students who are coming to the UK for multi-year degrees or planning to study and do an internship both in the UK, need a high data and higher international calling and texting plan. As well as plans with higher roaming options, like the bundles and plans with Lyca Mobiles.

Best Use Case of eSIM VS Physical SIM for Students

Both eSIM and physical SIM cards have their pros and cons, different use cases, and feasibility. Let’s sort them out for easier decision-making:  

Which Option is Cheaper for Students?

Lyca Mobile’s physical as well as eSIMs are of the same cost; buying a SIM after choosing a plan reduces the cost of the SIM to 0. And with Lyca Mobile’s multiple bundles and plans, there is a whole basket of options to choose from:  

Please Note: Please read the fine print before selecting a plan. 

Final Verdict

At the end, the real winner is the student, be it with physical SIM or eSIM, the student gets the best plan with an affordable price and reliable data and coverage.  

FAQs

Is eSIM better than SIM for students?

Depending on your needs and the factors that matter to you. Both have their own pros and cons.  

Can international students use eSIM?

Yes, international students can use eSIM

Does eSIM affect battery life?

eSIM and physical SIM behave similarly with the battery. The battery drainage depends on the frequency of signal searching, data usage, and other activities.