SIM cards may be small, yet they are definitely mighty. So what exactly are they, how do they work, what are the different types, and how much do they cost?

What is a SIM card?

A SIM card is a small piece of plastic which contains a computer chip. It slots into a mobile phone or device. SIM stands for Subscriber Identity Module.

SIMs hold key information which allows the phone to connect to a mobile network, enabling you to make calls, send text messages, and connect to internet services such as 4G or 5G. SIM cards have their own unique PIN number and typically also have an assigned telephone number.

SIM cards can store information including contact details, SMS messages, data usage, and even billing information.

SIM Identifiers

Each SIM has an individual International Mobile Subscriber Identity number which tells the network which device it is being used in. Every SIM also has a Mobile Subscriber Integrated Services Digital Network Number.

SIM Card Sizes

There are four sizes of SIM cards: Standard, Micro, Nano, and eSIM. However, Standard and Micro SIM cards are now relatively rare.

eSIMs are the newest type and are already embedded in many phones, meaning they only need to be activated by a carrier/network in order to be used. The benefits of eSIMS are that they leave more space on the phone for the battery, and there is no need to fiddle about with small cards and slots etc.

The exact SIM you need will depend on your specific make and model of phone but, if the phone is new, it is likely to be a Nano SIM.

SIM Experts

Opting for a multi network SIM offers a reliable way of staying connected/online no matter where you are. Specialists such as https://www.lister-communications.co.uk/business-mobiles/multi-network-data-sim-cards offer a range of options, including multi network SIM packages and more.

SIM Card Cost

The cost of a SIM will vary depending on what is included in terms of calls, texts, and data. There are also pay-as-you-go or pay monthly options.