An eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card that comes integrated into newer smart devices. This allows for the activation of a cellular plan without the need for a physical SIM card. A physical SIM card is unique to each mobile carrier and is a removable chip inserted into the device for network connectivity.

The primary difference and advantage of an eSIM is the elimination of the physical SIM card. You can activate a cellular plan without the hassle of swapping out SIMs. This removes the need to handle small cards when changing carriers or plans.