Buzz
Vietnamese people often prefer dual SIM phones to cater to various usage needs. Understanding this preference, Apple introduced dual SIM functionality starting with the 2018 iPhone models. In 2020, the iPhone 12 Pro continues to support dual SIM. Specifically, Apple officially distributes the iPhone 12 Pro with two options:
- iPhone 12 Pro with dual SIM and dual standby, where the second SIM is an eSIM.
- iPhone 12 Pro with physical dual SIM support.
The difference between iPhone 12 Pro with physical dual SIM and eSIM
Sim tray structure
For the iPhone 12 Pro with physical dual SIM support, Apple has designed a dual SIM tray where users can insert two physical SIMs on both sides of the tray, similar to many other smartphones. On the other hand, for the iPhone 12 Pro with eSIM, you can only install one physical SIM.
Activation Process
When using the iPhone 12 Pro with physical dual SIMs, you can activate them by sending a text message to the provided shortcode right from your home. In contrast, for the iPhone 12 Pro with eSIM, users need to visit the network carrier's branch to activate and start using the device.
Usage Limitations
The eSIM version of the iPhone 12 Pro is at risk of being carrier-locked and location-restricted. Most locked iPhone 12 Pro models may not use eSIM in Vietnam without unlocking, and the unlocking service is relatively expensive and inconvenient for users throughout the experience.
Contrarily, the iPhone 12 Pro with physical dual SIMs does not face this issue. It means you can use it in any geographical location, country, or territory without any restrictions.
Considerations when choosing between iPhone 12 Pro with physical dual SIM or eSIM
- Only international or unlocked iPhone 12 Pro models can use eSIM from Vietnamese carriers.
- For iPhone 12 Pro models originating from the Hong Kong market, they are highly regarded for having features similar to international iPhone 12 Pro models. Hence, they won't come with bloatware and service restrictions.
- Whether it's the iPhone 12 Pro with physical dual SIMs or eSIM, prioritize the main SIM as the physical SIM for ease of handling in various situations.
- The fee for switching from physical SIM to eSIM is around 25,000 VND, and from eSIM to physical dual SIM is between 5,000-20,000 VND.
- If buying a grey market iPhone 12 Pro, consider avoiding locked versions, as they may come with complex issues.
Should you buy the iPhone 12 Pro with physical dual SIM or eSIM?
Whether it's the iPhone 12 Pro with physical dual SIMs or eSIM, both are authentic versions manufactured by Apple. Therefore, in terms of quality, you won't need to worry about any aspects.
However, due to some complexities in activation and limitations of the iPhone 12 Pro eSIM, using the iPhone 12 Pro with physical dual SIMs is still a suitable choice for users in Vietnam. Especially for individuals who frequently change SIMs, choosing the iPhone 12 Pro with physical dual SIMs will provide you with a more convenient, user-friendly experience, and save you time.
In general, the choice between the iPhone 12 Pro with physical dual SIMs or eSIM depends on the needs and preferences of each customer. Hopefully, the information provided in this article will be helpful to you.
