eSIM or physical SIM when going to Japan, which one to choose?

Both eSIM and physical SIM give you data in Japan, different in how they are received and used. Choosing the right type from the start will save you trouble the whole trip. This article compares the two types according to the criteria you really care about, then suggests choosing based on the situation.

What is eSIM, pros and cons

eSIM is an electronic SIM, installed into the device with a QR code, without a physical card.

• Advantage: receive immediately after paying with QR code, no need to wait for shipping. Runs in parallel with Vietnam SIM so you can keep the number to receive calls and OTP. You don't have to remove and install the SIM tray, so you don't have to worry about losing your home SIM.
• Disadvantage: requires device that supports eSIM. Some wholesale eSIM packages in the early stages do not yet support hotspot broadcasting, so if you need to split the network for multiple devices, you must look carefully.

What is a physical SIM, pros and cons

Physical SIM is a real SIM card, you insert it into the device like a regular SIM.

• Advantage: can be used for devices that do not support eSIM. Many packages allow sharing network hotspots for laptops and other devices, convenient when traveling in groups.
• Disadvantage: must receive SIM card before flying by mail, so need to order early. You have to remove the Vietnamese SIM to install the Japanese SIM. It's easy to lose your home SIM if you don't keep it carefully.

Quick comparison by criteria

• How to receive: eSIM received immediately by QR; Physical SIM waiting for postal delivery.
• Keeping a Vietnamese number: eSIM is easy to keep because it runs in parallel; The physical SIM must be removed from the home SIM if the device only has one tray.
• Play hotspot: physical SIM is usually available; Some eSIM packages are not available yet.
• Supported devices: eSIM requires a newer device; Physical SIM can be used on almost any device.
• Risk of losing home SIM: eSIM is almost zero; Physical SIM is available if removed and misplaced.

Which type should you choose according to the situation?

• Newer phone, want to immediately receive and keep a Vietnamese number: choose eSIM.
• Old device or not supporting eSIM: select physical SIM.
• Need to broadcast hotspot for laptop or network sharing group: lean towards physical SIM, or check if eSIM package supports hotspot.
• Afraid of inserting and removing the SIM: choose eSIM to ease your mind.

Tip: If your device supports eSIM and you don't need to broadcast a hotspot to multiple devices, eSIM is often a neat choice because it instantly receives and retains the Vietnamese number.

Closing

There is no type that suits everyone, there is only the type that suits your machine and your riding style. shibaSIM has both for the Japanese route, prices are clearly listed in VND, you just choose according to your needs on the Japanese eSIM package page. If you want to install eSIM quickly, see how to install on iPhone or on Android.