What is a phone number eSIM? Explanation of the differences from data-only eSIMs and how to choose
When looking for an eSIM for overseas travel, temporary return to your home country, or business trips, you may come across two types of plans: "phone number eSIM" and "data-only eSIM."
A phone number eSIM is an eSIM that allows you to use voice calls and SMS in addition to data communication, depending on the plan. On the other hand, a data-only eSIM is primarily for internet communication.
Which one you should choose depends on whether you need to use phone calls or SMS authentication during your trip.
This article will clearly explain the mechanism of phone number eSIMs, the differences from data-only eSIMs, how to choose based on different usage scenarios, and points to check before purchasing.
What is a phone number eSIM?
A phone number eSIM is a type of eSIM that is assigned a phone number in addition to data communication capabilities.
With a typical data-only eSIM, you can use internet communication for Google Maps, social media, web searches, and apps like LINE and WhatsApp.
With a phone number eSIM, in addition to those data communications, you may be able to use the following features depending on the plan:
- Local or designated country phone number
- Making and receiving voice calls
- Sending and receiving SMS
- SMS-based identity verification
- Registration for ride-hailing apps and reservation services
However, even if it is labeled as "phone number included," not all plans allow for voice calls or SMS sending.
There are plans that only provide a phone number, plans that only support SMS reception, and plans that support both voice calls and SMS, so the services vary.
Before purchasing, it is important to check not only the type of phone number but also the status of outgoing and incoming calls and SMS sending and receiving.
Differences between phone number eSIM and data-only eSIM
The main difference between a phone number eSIM and a data-only eSIM is whether you can use phone numbers, voice calls, and SMS.
| Comparison Item | Phone Number eSIM | Data-Only eSIM |
|---|---|---|
| Data Communication | Available | Available |
| Phone Number | Assigned | Generally none |
| Voice Calls | Available depending on the plan | Generally unavailable |
| SMS Reception | Available depending on the plan | Generally unavailable |
| SMS Sending | Available depending on the plan | Generally unavailable |
| SMS Verification | May be available with compatible plans | Generally unavailable |
| Cost | Can be relatively high | Relatively low |
| Recommended for | Those who need calls, SMS, and verification | Those who primarily use the internet |
If you only need to use Google Maps, social media, web searches, and LINE calls during your trip, a data-only eSIM is often sufficient.
On the other hand, if you need to make calls to hotels or restaurants, use SMS verification for local services, or contact work-related matters, a phone number eSIM is convenient.
If you might need to use calls or SMS, be sure to check the compatible plans for phone number eSIM in advance.
Who should consider a phone number eSIM?
A phone number eSIM is especially recommended for the following types of people.
People who want to make calls locally while traveling abroad
While traveling abroad, there may be times when you need to call hotels, restaurants, tour companies, car rental companies, or taxi services.
Internet calls via apps like LINE or WhatsApp require the other party to also use the same app.
If you need to contact a landline or store directly, a phone number eSIM that supports voice calls is convenient.
People who want to use SMS verification
For ride-hailing apps, payment services, reservation sites, and membership registrations, you may be asked to enter a verification code sent via SMS.
Data-only eSIMs typically do not come with a phone number for receiving SMS.
If you plan to use SMS for registration with local services or identity verification, choose a phone number eSIM that supports SMS reception.
However, even if the eSIM supports SMS reception, some services may not allow receiving verification codes due to their specifications.
People who need a Japanese phone number during a temporary return
During a temporary return to Japan, you may need to contact hospitals, accommodations, delivery companies, government agencies, family, or business partners by phone.
If you want to use phone calls or SMS within Japan, check the country code of the assigned phone number and whether it supports domestic calls.
Even with a phone number eSIM, it is not guaranteed that you will be assigned a number starting with "090," "080," or "070" in Japan.
People staying long-term for business trips or studying abroad
During long-term stays such as business trips or studying abroad, you will have more opportunities to receive communications from your workplace, school, residence, bank, or delivery services.
If you need to register a phone number as a contact, a phone number eSIM is suitable.
Check eSIMs that support calls and SMS
Who should consider a data-only eSIM?
Not all travelers need a phone number eSIM.
If you plan to use your eSIM in the following ways, a data-only eSIM can help you save on costs:
- I want to search for routes on Google Maps
- I want to look up tourist information on websites
- I want to use social media like Instagram or X
- I want to send messages on LINE or WhatsApp
- I want to use LINE calls or WhatsApp calls
- I want to watch YouTube or streaming services
- I do not plan to use SMS verification
- I just need internet access for a short trip
LINE calls and WhatsApp calls use mobile data, so you can use them even with a data-only eSIM that does not have voice call functionality.
If you are only communicating with family or friends through messaging apps, it is often not necessary to choose a phone number eSIM.
Advantages of a phone number eSIM
Can contact directly using a phone number
You can contact stores, hotels, hospitals, and transportation services directly by phone, even if they do not support messaging apps.
Can receive SMS in some cases
If you have a plan that supports SMS reception, you may be able to receive verification codes needed for logging into services or registering as a member.
Can use data communication and phone functions with one eSIM
If you have a compatible plan, you can use internet communication, voice calls, and SMS all with one eSIM.
This also reduces the hassle of preparing separate SIM cards or phone services.
Disadvantages and precautions of a phone number eSIM
Can be more expensive than data-only eSIMs
Since it includes features like phone numbers, voice calls, and SMS, the cost may be higher compared to data-only eSIMs.
If you do not plan to use phone calls or SMS, it is better to choose a data-only eSIM to keep costs down.
Not all plans allow for voice calls
Even if a phone number is assigned, it may be for SMS reception only and not support outgoing or incoming voice calls.
Do not judge solely by the label "phone number included" on the product page; check the details of the calling features.
May not be usable for SMS verification
Even if the eSIM supports SMS reception, some services like banks, payment services, and social media may restrict SMS sending to overseas or virtual numbers.
If you plan to use it for important service verification, check whether the service accepts the assigned phone number.
The assigned phone number's country may differ from the travel destination
The country code of the phone number assigned to the eSIM may not match the country you are using it in.
For example, even if the eSIM can be used in Japan, it may be assigned a foreign country code.
If you need a local number, check the country and type of the number before purchasing.
Points to check when choosing a phone number eSIM
When choosing a phone number eSIM, it is important to check not only the price and data capacity but also the following items.
1. Does it support outgoing and incoming voice calls?
For voice calls, some plans support both outgoing and incoming calls, while others may only support incoming calls or have no calling features at all.
If you want to call hotels or stores, check whether it supports outgoing calls.
2. Does it support sending and receiving SMS?
SMS support varies by plan, with some only supporting reception, some supporting both sending and receiving, and some not supporting SMS at all.
If you intend to use SMS for verification, it must at least support SMS reception.
3. Check the country of the assigned phone number
You may be assigned a Japanese number, a local number from your travel destination, or a number from a third country like the United States.
If you want to register for services in Japan or receive calls from within Japan, check whether a Japanese phone number will be assigned.
4. Check call and SMS rates
The cost of the eSIM itself may not include voice call or SMS charges.
Check the call rates for outgoing calls, SMS sending fees, free call time, and how to add charges.
5. Check the countries and regions where it can be used
eSIMs have specific countries and communication areas where they can be used, depending on the plan.
If you are traveling to multiple countries, check whether all your destinations are included.
6. Check the usage period and activation timing
The counting of the usage period may start from the time the eSIM is installed or from the time it connects to the local communication network, depending on the plan.
If you plan to install it before your trip, it is also reassuring to check the conditions for starting use.
7. Check the required data capacity
Even if it supports calls and SMS, insufficient data capacity can make it difficult to use maps, social media, and messaging apps.
Choose a data capacity that allows for some leeway based on the number of travel days and whether you will be watching videos or tethering.
8. Check if your device supports eSIM
To use an eSIM, your smartphone must support eSIM functionality.
Even with the same model name, the eSIM function may be restricted depending on the country of sale or the carrier, so be careful.
Before purchasing, check the list of eSIM compatible devices.
How to choose between phone number eSIM and data-only eSIM based on usage purpose
| Usage Purpose | Recommended eSIM | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Using Google Maps or web searches | Data-only eSIM | Can be used for internet communication only |
| Contacting via LINE or WhatsApp | Data-only eSIM | Messages and app calls use data communication |
| Calling hotels or restaurants | Phone number eSIM | Can directly make calls to landlines or stores |
| Using SMS verification | Phone number eSIM | A phone number that supports SMS reception is needed |
| Using a Japanese number during a temporary return | Phone number eSIM with Japanese number | Easy to register as a domestic contact |
| Want to keep travel costs down | Data-only eSIM | Many plans are relatively cheaper without calling features |
| Using for business trips or long-term stays | Phone number eSIM | Can be used as a contact for work or local services |
If internet communication is all you need, choosing a data-only eSIM can help you save on costs.
If there is a possibility that you will need calls or SMS, choosing a phone number eSIM will give you peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions about Phone Number eSIMs
Q1. Can I definitely make calls with a phone number eSIM?
No. Not all plans with an assigned phone number support voice calls.
Some may be SMS-only numbers or only support incoming calls. Check the status of outgoing and incoming calls before purchasing.
Q2. Can I use SMS verification with a phone number eSIM?
If you have a plan that supports SMS reception, you may be able to use it for SMS verification.
However, if the service you are using does not accept overseas numbers or virtual numbers, you may not be able to receive the verification code.
Q3. Will I get a Japanese phone number if I use it in Japan?
It is not guaranteed that you will be assigned a Japanese phone number.
Even if the eSIM can be used in Japan, it may be assigned a phone number from the United States or Europe. If you need a Japanese number, check the product details.
Q4. Do I need a phone number eSIM for LINE calls?
Generally, it is not necessary.
LINE calls use internet communication, so you can use a data-only eSIM. However, be careful if SMS is required for new registrations or account verification on LINE.
Q5. Can I receive regular phone calls with a data-only eSIM?
A data-only eSIM does not have regular voice call functionality, so you cannot make or receive calls with that eSIM's phone number.
However, if you keep your original SIM card active, you may be able to receive calls on your original phone number. Be aware that international roaming charges may apply, so check the usage conditions.
Q6. Is a phone number eSIM more expensive than a data-only eSIM?
Generally, yes, because it includes features like phone numbers, calls, and SMS, which can make it more expensive than a data-only eSIM.
However, prices vary depending on the country of use, duration, data capacity, and call time.
Q7. Is a phone number eSIM necessary for short trips?
If you only need to use Google Maps, social media, and LINE during a short trip, a data-only eSIM is often sufficient.
If you need to make calls to hotels or stores or use SMS verification, consider a phone number eSIM.
Conclusion: Choose a phone number eSIM if you need calls or SMS
A phone number eSIM is an eSIM that provides a phone number in addition to data communication.
Depending on the plan, you can use voice calls, SMS sending and receiving, and SMS verification.
| Usage during travel | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Primarily using Google Maps, social media, web searches, and LINE calls | Data-only eSIM |
| Want to call hotels or stores | Phone number eSIM with voice call support |
| Want to use SMS verification | Phone number eSIM that supports SMS reception |
| Need a number during a temporary return or long stay | Phone number eSIM that fits your usage purpose |
If you do not use calls or SMS, a data-only eSIM is usually sufficient and relatively inexpensive.
If you choose a phone number eSIM, be sure to check the following items before purchasing:
- Does it support outgoing and incoming voice calls?
- Does it support sending and receiving SMS?
- What country is the assigned phone number from?
- Can it be used for SMS verification?
- What are the call and SMS rates?
- What countries and regions can it be used in?
- What is the usage period and data capacity?
- Is the device you will use compatible with eSIM?
For those who need calls or SMS during overseas travel, temporary returns, business trips, or studying abroad, choose a phone number eSIM that fits your usage purpose.
