5 Affordable Smartphones with eSIM Support You Can Buy in 2025

Highlights

• eSIM lets you activate mobile service without a physical SIM card
• Great for travellers, dual‑SIM users, and easy operator switching
• Once only in premium devices, now available in budget & mid‑range phones
• Sharp Aquos Sense 8 – from ~₹16K INR)
• Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G – from ~₹20K INR)

The days of swapping tiny SIM cards with a pin are fading fast. eSIM technology is taking over — offering a digital way to connect your smartphone to a mobile network. You simply scan a QR code or use your operator’s app to activate your number, with no need for a plastic SIM card.

Manufacturers love eSIM because it frees up space inside the phone for other components, improves water‑resistance, and even helps reduce environmental waste.

Why eSIM Matters

For frequent travellers, eSIM makes life easier. Land in another country, scan a local provider’s QR code, and you’re online — no hunting for a SIM shop. It’s also perfect for using two numbers on one phone without giving up your physical SIM slot.

Switching mobile operators becomes simpler too; you can do it right in your phone settings. The only hassle? If you change to a new device, some carriers require you to visit a service centre to move your eSIM.

From Flagship to Budget Phones

When eSIM first appeared, it was a luxury feature found only on devices like the iPhone or Samsung Galaxy S‑series. But now, it’s moving into more affordable segments, so you can try it without buying a premium phone.

1️⃣ Sharp Aquos Sense 8

One of the most affordable eSIM smartphones today, the Sharp Aquos Sense 8 comes with:

• 6.1‑inch IGZO OLED, 90Hz display
• Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor
• 8GB RAM + 256GB storage
• 5,000mAh battery with 18W charging
• 50MP OIS main camera + 8MP ultrawide + 8MP selfie
• Dust/water resistant (IP68) & MIL‑STD‑810H/G durability
• Dual SIM (nano + eSIM), NFC, Wi‑Fi 6, USB‑C 3.2

Rs- 16,133.25

2️⃣ Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G

A strong mid‑ranger with flagship‑style features:

• 6.67‑inch AMOLED, 1.5K, 120Hz, Gorilla Glass Victus 2
• Dimensity 7300‑Ultra processor
• Up to 12GB RAM + 512GB storage
• 200MP OIS main + 8MP ultrawide + 2MP macro + 20MP selfie
• 5,110mAh battery, 45W charging
• Dual SIM (nano + eSIM), NFC, 5G
• IP68 water/dust resistance, in‑display fingerprint, Dolby Atmos dual speakers

Price: ~Rp 3,799,000

• xynos 1480 chip with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage
• 50MP OIS main camera, 32MP selfie with 4K Super HDR video
• Metal body, Gorilla Glass Victus+, IP67 water & dust resistance
• 5,000mAh battery with 25W fast charging
• 4 OS updates + 5 years security patches

Samsung’s Galaxy A55 5G is proof that you don’t need to buy a flagship to enjoy premium features — including eSIM support. Sitting in the upper mid‑range segment, this phone combines durable design, strong performance, and long‑term software support at a price point that’s still friendly to your wallet.

Elegant, Durable Design

The Galaxy A55 5G stands out with its metal body and Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection on the front, giving it a premium feel and higher durability. With an IP67 rating, it’s protected against dust and can survive being submerged in water for up to 30 minutes at a depth of 1 meter — ideal for daily accidents or outdoor adventures.

Smooth Display for Everyday Use

Up front, you’ll find a 6.6‑inch Super AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant colours and silky‑smooth scrolling whether you’re browsing, gaming, or streaming content.

Strong Performance & Storage

Under the hood, Samsung has packed the Exynos 1480 processor, paired with 8GB RAM and 256GB of internal storage. This combination handles multitasking with ease, and the generous storage ensures you can keep thousands of photos, apps, and videos without quickly running out of space.

Capable Cameras

Photography fans will appreciate the 50MP main camera with OIS, a 5MP ultra‑wide lens, and a 2MP macro camera for close‑up shots. On the front, the 32MP selfie camera supports Portrait Mode and Super HDR video recording up to 4K — perfect for high‑quality vlogs or social media content.

Battery & Connectivity

A 5,000mAh battery powers the device, easily lasting a full day of heavy use. When you do need to top up, 25W fast charging gets you back up quickly. Connectivity is future‑proof, with 5G support, NFC for contactless payments, and stereo speakers enhanced with rich sound.

Security & Updates

Samsung’s Knox Vault security platform adds protection for sensitive data, while the in‑display fingerprint sensor offers quick unlocking. Perhaps the most impressive feature for a mid‑range phone is Samsung’s promise of 4 generations of Android OS updates and 5 years of security patches, ensuring the Galaxy A55 5G stays relevant for years.

Tip: The eSIM feature is expected to expand rapidly in 2025, especially as carriers in India, Southeast Asia, and Europe push for wider adoption.

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