Should I turn off my primary cellular plan while using my eSIM plan?
Whether or not you should turn off your primary cellular plan while using an eSIM plan depends on your needs and the situation:
Reasons to Keep Both Plans Active:
- Dual SIM Usage: Most phones that support eSIM allow for Dual SIM usage. This means you can keep both your primary physical SIM and your eSIM active at the same time, using one for calls/texts and the other for data, or switching between them as needed.
- Seamless Connectivity: You can receive calls and messages on both plans without interruption. This is especially useful if you are traveling and want to use your eSIM for data while still receiving calls on your primary number.
- Better Coverage: In areas with spotty coverage, keeping both plans active allows your phone to switch between networks based on the signal strength.
Reasons to Turn Off Your Primary Plan:
- Avoiding Roaming Charges: If you’re using the eSIM for travel, disabling your primary SIM can prevent unexpected roaming charges for data, calls, or texts on your home network.
- Battery Conservation: Managing two active lines can drain your phone’s battery faster, so turning off one plan could help save battery life.
- Simplification: If you’re only using the eSIM for data or local calls during travel, turning off your primary SIM reduces confusion about which plan is active for data and calls.
How to Manage Your Plans:
- On iPhone: Go to Settings → Cellular → Tap on your primary SIM and toggle off Turn On This Line.
- On Android: Go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIM Cards and toggle off the primary SIM.
In short, turning off your primary plan can help you avoid roaming fees and save battery, but if you need to stay reachable on your primary number, it’s better to keep both active.