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My Story with Travel SIMs

Hello, I’m Anna – a passionate traveler who has used dozens of SIM and eSIM services while exploring more than 25 countries. When I first got my iPhone X, I thought I could easily switch to an eSIM for my trips. But here’s the truth: iPhone X does not support eSIM.

So if you’re searching “iPhone X eSIM” because you want to know whether your phone can handle digital SIM cards, this article is for you. I’ll explain what your options are, why people confuse iPhone X with iPhone XR, and which travel SIM or eSIM providers are worth considering depending on your device.

👉 Check top eSIM providers here

iPhone X and eSIM: What You Need to Know

• iPhone X (2017): ❌ No eSIM support. Only one physical nano SIM slot.

• iPhone XS / XS Max / XR (2018): ✅ First iPhones to support eSIM.

• Later models (iPhone 11 → iPhone 15): ✅ Full eSIM support, even dual eSIM in some regions.

This small detail creates a lot of confusion. Many people think iPhone X and XR are the same, but they’re not. If you own the iPhone X, you’ll need a physical travel SIM card. If you upgrade to XR or newer, you can start enjoying eSIM flexibility.

Travel Solutions for iPhone X Users

1. Use a Physical Travel SIM (Nano SIM)

If you plan to travel internationally with an iPhone X, the simplest solution is to use a prepaid physical SIM card from global providers.

Pros:

• Works on iPhone X without issue.

• Affordable data packages.

• Easy plug-and-play.

Cons:

• You must physically swap SIMs.

• Risk of losing your local SIM card while traveling.

👉 Options include WorldSIM (check here) and PocketSIM (get yours).

2. Upgrade to an iPhone with eSIM

If you travel often, upgrading from iPhone X to a newer model (XR and above) can save you time and hassle. With eSIM:

• No need to swap cards.

• Buy and activate data instantly.

• Keep multiple profiles (great for digital nomads).

👉 Explore top-rated eSIM providers like:

• Airalo

• Nomad

• Yesim

• Maya eSIM

• Ubigi

My Experience Using Travel SIMs vs eSIMs

As someone who has tested both, here’s my honest opinion:

• With physical SIMs on iPhone X, I always carried a small SIM ejector tool and kept my home SIM in a pouch. It worked fine but was inconvenient.

• With eSIM on my newer iPhone 13, the experience is seamless. I can land in Europe, scan a QR code, and get connected in minutes without hunting for a kiosk.

💡 From my real-world use: speed and reliability matter more than price. In Paris, my cheap SIM was slow, while Nomad and Airalo gave me smooth 4G everywhere.

eSIM vs Physical SIM – Quick Comparison

Recommended Travel SIM & eSIM Providers

Here are some options I personally recommend:

• Airalo eSIM – popular, easy app, wide global coverage.

• Nomad eSIM – reliable data plans, good for long trips.

• Maya eSIM – budget-friendly for Asia.

• Yesim – simple setup, ideal for beginners.

• WorldSIM – physical SIM option for iPhone X.

• Pocket eSIM – flexible travel SIM solution.

• Fonus Mobile – unlimited global plans.

• Roamic – Europe-friendly connectivity.

• Breeze eSIM – smooth app, instant activation.

• Ubigi – premium option with great stability.

• Saily – competitive pricing.

• Global eSIM – multi-destination plans.

• Voye eSIM – for frequent global flyers.

FAQs About iPhone X and eSIM

Q: Can I install eSIM on iPhone X?
A: No. iPhone X only supports one nano SIM.

Q: Which iPhone first supported eSIM?
A: iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max in 2018.

Q: Can I use a travel SIM with iPhone X?
A: Yes, but it must be a physical SIM card.

Q: Is it worth upgrading from iPhone X just for eSIM?
A: If you travel often, yes. The convenience is unmatched.

Conclusion – My Honest Take

At the end of the day, iPhone X does not support eSIM. If you’re traveling, you’ll need a physical travel SIM card. But if you have the chance to upgrade, moving to an iPhone XR or newer unlocks the full power of travel eSIMs.

I’m Anna, and I’ve tested countless SIM and eSIM providers. My advice is simple: if you stay with iPhone X, grab a trusted travel SIM like WorldSIM. But if you upgrade, explore eSIM giants like Airalo or Nomad.

👉 Ready to travel smart? Browse top eSIM deals now.

If you found my review helpful, share it with a friend. It might save them hours of confusion at the airport kiosk.

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