Question 1

What is an eSIM deal?

Accepted Answer

An eSIM deal is a mobile plan — data, calls, and texts — that runs on an embedded SIM card built into your phone rather than a physical SIM card you insert. You activate it digitally by scanning a QR code. Everything else works the same as a normal mobile plan.

Question 2

Which phones support eSIM in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Most smartphones released from 2018 onwards support eSIM, including iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, and Google Pixel 3 and later. Check your phone's Settings > About for an EID number to confirm eSIM compatibility.

Question 3

Can I have two eSIMs at the same time?

Accepted Answer

Most modern phones let you store multiple eSIM profiles, but only one can be active at a time (or one eSIM and one physical SIM on dual-SIM phones). This is useful for running a personal and work number, or for adding a travel data plan alongside your regular UK plan.

Question 4

Is it cheaper to use an eSIM?

Accepted Answer

eSIM plans are priced the same as equivalent physical SIM plans in most cases. The saving comes from avoiding roaming charges when travelling — a local travel eSIM plan for your destination is often significantly cheaper than daily roaming charges from a UK network.

Question 5

Do I need to cancel my old contract to switch to an eSIM?

Accepted Answer

You do not need to call your old network. If you port your number using a PAC code, your old contract cancels automatically when the number transfers. If you are not keeping your number, simply let your old contract expire or cancel it directly with your current provider.

Question 6

Can I use an eSIM on a prepayment basis?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Several networks and MVNOs offer rolling monthly eSIM plans with no long-term commitment. giffgaff, SMARTY, and Honest Mobile all offer flexible monthly eSIM options you can cancel at any time.

Question 7

What happens if I change phones — do I lose my eSIM?

Accepted Answer

If you get a new phone, you will need to transfer your eSIM profile across. Most networks allow this — contact your network and they will provide a new QR code for your new device. Some networks charge a small fee for eSIM re-provisioning, so check before you switch devices.

Question 8

Are eSIMs secure?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Because an eSIM is embedded in your device and cannot be physically removed, it is harder for fraudsters to carry out SIM-swap attacks. eSIMs use the same network security standards as traditional SIM cards for calls and data.

Question 9

Can I use an eSIM for data only?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Some plans — particularly travel eSIMs — are data-only. You keep your UK SIM active for calls and texts while the eSIM handles data. Data-only eSIM plans are also available on tablets and some laptops that support eSIM.

Question 10

How do I compare the best esim deals uk providers offer?

Accepted Answer

Switch lets you compare all available eSIM deals from major UK networks and MVNOs in one place. Filter by data allowance, contract length, network, and roaming to find the right deal for your usage. Comparison is free and takes under 2 minutes. Compare eSIM Deals UK — Find Your Best Plan on Switch Whether you want a flexible rolling monthly plan, a high-data 5G eSIM deal, or a travel eSIM for your next trip, Switch makes it simple to compare every option in one place. All major UK networks. All contract lengths. All data allowances. No hidden fees. Switch is free to use, fully independent, and shows you plans ranked by what matters most to you — not by which network pays the highest commission.

Best eSIM Deals UK — Compare & Switch in Minutes

List of deals (223)

Mozillion Pay Monthly Plus 10GB 24 months (£62.50 upfront + £2.50/mo)

Mozillion Pay Monthly Plus 30GB 24 months (£68.75 upfront + £2.75/mo)

Mozillion 1GB SIM Only, 12-month

Mozillion 80GB SIM Only, 24-month

Mozillion Pay Monthly Plus 100GB 24 months (£81.25 upfront + £3.25/mo)

Mozillion 3GB SIM Only, 24-month

Mozillion 210GB SIM Only, 24-month

Mozillion 3GB SIM Only, 12-month

Mozillion 260GB SIM Only, 24-month

Mozillion Pay Monthly Plus 310GB 24 months (£100 upfront + £4/mo)

Mozillion 3GB SIM, £4.50/mo, 1-month rolling

Lebara 5GB SIM, £4.50/mo, 12 months

Lebara 5GB SIM, £5/mo, 1-month rolling

Mozillion 10GB SIM, £5.90/mo, 1-month rolling

giffgaff SIM Only on golden goodybag with Unlimited mins & texts…

giffgaff SIM Only on goodybag 1GB with Unlimited mins & texts…

Mozillion 10GB SIM, £6/mo, 24 months

iD Mobile SIM Only on 5G 25GB (1 Month contract) with Unlimited mins…

Smarty 18GB SIM, £6/mo with affiliate voucher, 1-month rolling

iD Mobile SIM Only on 5G 12GB (12 Month contract) with Unlimited mins…

iD Mobile SIM Only on 5G 15GB (24 Month contract) with Unlimited mins…

iD Mobile SIM Only on 5G 15GB (1 Month contract) with Unlimited mins…

Mozillion 10GB SIM, £6.50/mo, 12 months

SIM Only 15GB

Frequently asked questions