Getting a Dutch mobile number is often one of the first priorities for new internationals in the Netherlands, but is it better to opt for an eSIM or a physical SIM card?
Let’s break down the differences and help you choose the best option for your needs. 👇
What’s the difference between an eSIM and a regular SIM?
While eSIMs and physical SIM cards have many similarities, the way they function is quite different.
A regular SIM card is a small, physical chip that you can insert into your mobile device.
READ MORE | eSIMs in the Netherlands: The ultimate 2026 guide + the best options
An eSIM, on the other hand, works electronically. Short for “embedded SIM”, an eSIM is a digital SIM profile that you need to purchase, download, and then install.
Pros and cons of getting a Dutch eSIM
eSIMs are rapidly gaining popularity in the Netherlands, thanks to their sheer convenience. You can activate most eSIMs in a matter of minutes, sometimes before your flight has even touched down at Schiphol.
This is ideal for new arrivals or tourists, especially those who want a connection ASAP and don’t want the hassle of trekking to a physical store to buy one.
Buying a SIM card online also bypasses a whole lot of headache-inducing Dutch bureaucracy. With an eSIM, you don’t need to wait for your BSN (citizen service number), open a Dutch bank account, or supply proof of your local address.
However, eSIMs aren’t without their flaws, either.
Not all mobile phones support eSIM technology, and individual eSIMs may be blocked on devices from certain regions. So, before purchasing an eSIM, it’s always a good idea to check if it’s compatible with your device.
In addition to this, eSIMs aren’t offered by all data providers. If you adore the speed and coverage of a certain provider, there’s no guarantee that they’ll offer eSIM versions of their prepaid or SIM-only plans.
Pros and cons of getting a regular Dutch SIM card
Despite not being the modern, high-tech choice, physical SIM cards still offer a whole host of benefits.
READ MORE | Mobile phones and SIM cards in the Netherlands: Ultimate 2026 guide
Not only can you actually transfer physical SIMs between devices, but they also work on virtually any mobile device — yes, even your nan’s old Nokia. So if your mobile runs out of battery or breaks, you can simply move your SIM to another device and carry on.
On the downside, physical SIM cards take much longer to activate than their digital counterparts. You’ll need to either hop into a brick-and-mortar store or have your SIM card shipped to you by post. (And hope PostNL doesn’t lose your package. 👀)
Speaking of things getting lost, physical SIMs are much easier to misplace, being relatively small and delicate.
If you’re someone who travels frequently and needs to switch SIM cards, this might be an all-too-familiar annoyance.
Whether you’re Team eSIM or Team regular SIM card, Simyo has a generous range of budget-friendly plans available. Plus, with discounted access to KPN’s ultra-reliable network and a whopping 35 consumer awards to their name, you know you’re getting a good deal. 💪🏆
Do you prefer eSIMs or physical SIM cards? Share your experiences in the comments below!