What is the difference between eSIM and a regular SIM card?
How an eSIM works, what you need and where the two differ.
Short answer
An eSIM is a digital SIM built into the phone that you activate with a code from your operator, while a regular SIM is a physical card you insert. Apple says an eSIM cannot be removed if the phone is lost or stolen, and Tele2 says to check first that your phone supports eSIM.
Why
- Apple describes an eSIM as an industry-standard digital SIM that lets you activate a cellular plan from your carrier without a physical SIM.
- Tre says eSIM stands for embedded SIM, meaning the SIM is built into the phone, tablet or smartwatch, and that you can keep a physical SIM next to it.
- Tele2 says an eSIM is activated in the Mitt Tele2 app or with a QR code, and a new eSIM QR code arrives in about 2-3 working days.
Details
Comviq says an eSIM can be ordered through Mitt Konto or the Comviq app, while a physical SIM is sent as a triple-cut card that fits any phone. At Tre, an eSIM for a phone or tablet is free and needs a Tre subscription. For calling in an emergency without a SIM, see calling 112 without a SIM card, and find operators under telecom and internet providers in Stockholm.
Tip
Check that your phone supports eSIM on the manufacturer's website before you order, and keep the QR code until the eSIM is installed.
What may differ
Operators handle eSIM differently: Tele2's page covers subscriptions and does not mention prepaid, Tre ties each eSIM to a Tre subscription or prepaid card with its own number, and Comviq, Hallon and Lyca Mobile offer eSIM with prepaid cards.
Common misconception
Every smartphone can use an eSIM.
What actually happens
Tele2 says to check first that your mobile phone supports eSIM, and suggests looking on the manufacturer's website.
People also ask
- What is the difference between an eSIM and a physical SIM?
- What is an eSIM?
Sources
- Apple Support: About eSIMChecked at:
- Tre: What is eSIM?Checked at:
- Tele2: Order and activate eSIMChecked at:
- Comviq help: Getting started with a prepaid cardChecked at:
- Hallon: Prepaid cardsChecked at:
Information checked on 28 October 2026.
Telecom and internet providers in StockholmRelated questions
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How do you remove your phone number from MrKoll and Hitta?
You can remove your listing on Hitta with its Ta bort function, but MrKoll says it usually does not delete published information.
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Is there free Wi-Fi in Sweden?
Yes, Visit Stockholm lists free Wi-Fi at all public libraries in Stockholm, at Stockholm Central Station and for three hours at Arlanda Airport.
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Can you use your phone in Sweden without extra roaming charges?
Visitors with a plan from an EU or EEA country pay their home prices for calls, texts and data in Sweden under the EU roaming rules.
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Where can you buy an eSIM for Sweden?
You can get an eSIM for Sweden from Swedish operators such as Comviq, Hallon and Lyca Mobile or from travel eSIM sellers such as Airalo.