Micro SIM, Nano SIM, SIM adapter: Which one do I need? – Everything you need to know about SIM cards
Have you recently signed a new contract and are now about to insert the SIM card into your phone? Or do you want to find out in advance what size you need to request from your provider for your smartphone model? No matter why you’re here, we’re here to help. On this concise page, we answer all your questions about SIM cards, the three SIM sizes, the different SIM types, adapters, and other SIM-related facts, as well as how to insert the SIM into your phone. We promise you’ll have all your questions answered!
You insert it once and then usually don’t open the slot again for several years: the SIM card. Every cell phone or 3G/4G-enabled tablet has one. It ensures you’re connected to the right network and , most importantly, provides cellular reception for making calls, sending texts, and browsing the web. But what exactly is a SIM card?
Unfortunately, there isn’t just one type of SIM card. Interestingly, as cell phones get bigger, SIM cards are getting smaller. Some companies are even working on eliminating SIM cards altogether and replacing them with e-SIMs. However, this guide will focus on the different sizes available and, more generally, what you need to know about SIM cards and their use in Switzerland and other countries .
Find out for yourself: What kind of SIM card does my device need?
Not sure what size SIM card you need? We're here to help! Just select your current cell phone or smartphone below , and we 'll show you right away which SIM card format is the right one for you.
Please feel free to add your cell phone number if you can't find it. We'll add it to the list as soon as possible.
SIM Card Sizes: What Formats Are Available?
The simple answer: There are basically four different types of SIM cards, but only two of them will be relevant to you. Currently in use are the mini-SIM, micro-SIM, nano-SIM, and the eSIM. The first three are standard SIM cards that come in different sizes. The eSIM, on the other hand, is an “embedded SIM,” meaning a card that is built directly into the device.
In principle, SIM cards differ only in the size of the border around the gold chip. This is because the chip itself is exactly the same on all SIM cards. While the Mini SIM still has a significant border around it, the Micro SIM has only a few millimeters of white border. The Nano SIM, on the other hand, consists almost entirely of the gold chip.
The largest and oldest is the so-called mini-SIM, also known as the standard SIM. It was used in the first smartphones and took up quite a bit of space even back then. It is 15 millimeters long, 12 millimeters wide, and 0.76 millimeters thick.
The micro-SIM, which was used in nearly all smartphones through 2012 and in some models even later, is a good 50% smaller. Since 2013 and 2014 , most new smartphones have incorporated nano-SIM cards, which are another 40% smaller. Almost all that’s visible on them is the gold-colored chip. Apple, the maker of the iPhone, played the biggest role in popularizing this SIM size. Even the design was developed by Apple and subsequently standardized.
Did you know: Apple was the first manufacturer to mass-produce compatible devices—the iPad for the micro-SIM and the iPhone 5 for the nano-SIM.
By the way: All SIM cards have exactly the same gold-colored chip in the center. The only difference is how much plastic is used around it to keep the chip in the right place inside the smartphone or cell phone.
The three SIM card sizes. At the top is the mini-SIM, in the middle is the micro-SIM, and at the bottom is the nano-SIM
So today, most cell phones only come with two sizes: nano SIM cards and micro SIM cards. If your device is only a few years old, you almost certainly need a nano SIM.
The very latest devices—especially tablets and smartwatches—already come with a built-in SIM card, known as an eSIM. There’s no need to insert a physical SIM card anymore; instead, you simply enter a PIN via the software. The software takes care of the rest.
Did you know: The Apple iPhone 4 (2010) and Samsung Galaxy S3 were the first devices to use so-called micro-SIM cards. The switch to nano-SIM cards came with the Apple iPhone 5 (2012) and the Samsung Galaxy S6.
If your phone isn't listed here or you don't want to look it up, there are a few other ways you can determine the correct SIM card size. We'll describe these in the following paragraphs:
1. Age of the cell phone
If your smartphone is only one or two years old, you can assume it requires a nano-SIM. On the other hand, most phones released before 2014 and 2013 use a micro-SIM. As a general rule, you can use the following list as a guide:
- Very old cell phones: Standard SIM
- Many smartphones released in 2007 or later: Mini SIM
- Many smartphones from 2010/2011 onward: Micro SIM
- Many smartphones released in 2013/2014: Nano SIM
2. Estimate or measure the size
Of course, you can also determine the correct SIM card for your smartphone by measuring the SIM slot . To do this, you’ll need to eject the SIM card tray from your smartphone. It ’s usually located on the right, left, or top of the device and can be ejected by inserting a small object into the tiny hole next to it. A paperclip works well for this. With older cell phones, you’ll need to remove the back cover and often even take out the battery.
Standard SIM cards come in the following sizes and dimensions:
- Standard SIM: 85 x 54 x 0.76 mm
- Mini SIM: 25 x 15 x 0.76 mm
- Micro SIM: 15 x 12 x 0.76 mm
- Nano SIM: 12.3 x 8.8 x 0.67 mm
3. Give it a try
If you already have different SIM cards (in the form of a combo SIM), you can simply try them out to see which one fits. Normally, the provider sends you all three sizes in one package, which many people don’t know. You can easily get the right size by removing the plastic card. But be careful: Always remove the outer part at the perforation first and test right away to see if it fits. This is because, in most cases, the SIM card cannot be enlarged afterward if the nano- or micro-SIM is too small.
One challenge, however, is existing micro- or nano-SIM cards, which cannot be cut any further. Cutting off the edges yourself used to be a common practice, but residential customers should avoid doing this, as they risk damaging the chip. If you have a nano-SIM but need a micro-SIM,a SIM card adapter can help. But you’ll learn more about adapters in a moment.
Insert SIM card into iPhone
Here's how: How to properly replace your SIM card
Replacing or simply inserting a SIM card isn't rocket science. Still, there are a few things you should keep in mind to avoid unnecessary risks. We'll now walk you through the process with a brief guide.
- Turn off the device: First, you should turn off your smartphone or tablet. This is advisable for technical reasons that we won’t go into here.
- Removing the SIM card tray or back cover: Now you need to access the SIM card slot. Depending on how old your device is, you can do this by removing the back cover or by inserting a small object into the tiny hole on one of the four sides of the phone. By the way, you can also use a paperclip for this if you’ve lost the tool that came with the phone. The back cover, on the other hand, can be easily removed with your fingernail.
- Insert the SIM card: Now carefully insert the SIM card. Please make sure that you Never touch the gold chip with your bare hands. This could damage it. It’s best to hold the SIM card by the edges, just like a CD, and wash your hands first.
- With a SIM card slot on the side: On most new cell phones, you’ll find a slot on the right side or at the top, with a small hole next to it. Insert a needle into this hole, and the slot will pop open. All you have to do now is insert the card. The correct orientation is already indicated. Important: The SIM card goes into the slot that slides out, not directly into the device.
-
Smartphone with the SIM tray open
From the back: If you can’t find a slot on the side, you’ll need to remove the back cover and, on some phones, take out the battery as well. Be especially careful about the orientation when inserting the card, as it often won’t come out again if inserted incorrectly. The gold-colored chip must always face down! Also , be sure not to confuse the SIM card slot with the SD card slot (memory card). Check the user manual or look it up online if you’re unsure.
- Close the device: You can now reinsert the slot or replace the back cover, and insert the battery if necessary.
- Restarting the device: You can now turn on the phone. To do so, press the power button.
- Enter your SIM PIN: Immediately afterward, a window will pop up asking for your SIM PIN. This is the code used to lock the SIM card. You can find it on the letter from your service provider. If necessary, you can enter the PUK if you have forgotten your PIN or entered it incorrectly.
How to Activate or Block a SIM Card
A SIM card is usually ready to use as soon as you’ve signed a contract and inserted it. However , if this isn’t the case, you should first ask your provider to activate it. To do this, simply call the customer service hotline and have a representative activate the SIM card. Read them your customer number or mobile number so they know which SIM card you’re referring to.
You can also do the opposite—that is, block a SIM card. To do this, call your provider or log in to the “My Account” section of your mobile carrier’s website . You’ll often find a “Block phone number” option in the customer portal . This is especially useful if your phone has been stolen. You can usually do this even on weekends.
The Comprehensive FAQ: Questions and Answers
We’d now like to answer a few more complex or unusual questions. This is the only way we can keep our promise that “no questions will be left unanswered”!
What exactly is a SIM card?
3-in-1 SIM from SimplyMobile
SIM stands for “subscriber identity module.” The SIM card therefore identifies who is communicating via which network and with which number. Put simply for the layperson , the SIM card is technically nothing more than a small processor with integrated memory. But this memory is minuscule: In the past, phone numbers and settings were sometimes still stored on it, so that they could be imported directly to another cell phone.
Nowadays, SIM cards typically store only specific information about the network provider, which is encrypted with a code —the so-called SIM PIN. This makes it more difficult for unauthorized individuals to gain access to the SIM card and use it to make calls at the owner’s expense. The provider always includes one or two PINs that must be entered initially. By the way, the PIN can also be changed or even deactivated if desired. More on this in another section below. This can be done in the smartphone’s device settings.
The processor in the SIM card handles all the functions the card needs to connect to the correct network and identify the mobile network. Other than that, the SIM card does nothing. It is one of the oldest components of the smartphone, and one that has remained largely unchanged. Only its size has gotten smaller and smaller over the years. Its appearance and function have undergone only minor changes. But recently, things have started to change. The first devices with built-in SIMs are now on the market. These are the so-called eSIMs. But you can read more about that in other sections.
SIM Card Adapters: How Do They Work?
It’s one of the most common questions about SIM cards. How does the adapter work? Well, it’s not that complicated. An adapter is always used when the SIM card you need is larger than the one you have in front of you. So you’ll need an adapter in the following cases.
- You have a nano-SIM card and need a micro-SIM to nano-SIM adapter
- You have a nano-SIM card and need a mini-SIM adapter (nano to mini-SIM)
- You have a micro-SIM card and need a mini-SIM to micro-SIM adapter
So you insert your smaller SIM card into the adapter, which gives you a larger SIM card that you can insert into your phone. This works because every SIM card essentially has the same gold chip built in. The only difference between the formats is the amount of plastic surrounding the chip. And, of course, this can be replaced with a plastic adapter.
Did you know: Sometimes you can use parts of an old SIM card to make your own adapter. To do this, simply take an old SIM card you have on hand and remove the parts you need from around the chip.
You can buy a SIM card adapter from your service provider or simply online at any number of stores. It doesn't matter which one you choose.
SimplyMobile 3-in-1 SIM Front
What is a multi-, triple-, combo-, or 3-in-1 SIM card?
This question is easily answered. These four terms all mean exactly the same thing. The only difference is that not all mobile carriers or companies use the same terminology. But now you know: it’s exactly the same thing.
So what is it? Basically , it’s a very large SIM card from which all three standard sizes can be detached along pre-cut lines. The more plastic you peel away, the closer you get to the nano-SIM, the smallest SIM card. Most carriers now send you these combo SIMs, so you don’t have to decide in advance which SIM card you need.
So when ordering a new subscription or contract, be sure to check whether the provider includes a so-called multi-, triple-, combo-, or 3-in-1 SIM card (which are essentially the same thing) or whether you need to specify the correct size during the ordering process .
When and how often should you switch SIM cards?
Unlike many websites that don’t really know what they’re talking about, we recommend that you don’t replace your SIM card at all as long as it’s working. Dust and dirt rarely get inside anyway , and generally speaking, this saves you both money and hassle. Only if you want to play it safe should you switch to a new SIM card if yours is dirty or significantly worn, to avoid unexpected outages.
Even if a SIM card comes into contact with water , it may continue to work for years—or stop working after just three days. So it all comes down to whether you prefer peace of mind or convenience . However, many new smartphones are already water- and dust-resistant, so regularly replacing your SIM card seems pointless.
Buying a SIM card: Where can you order one?
The best way to buy a new SIM card is through your service provider. You can order it online or simply give them a call. When you call , provide your customer ID or phone number. Online, you can often log in to the customer portal using your account information. However, it may take a few days for your new SIM card to arrive. If your SIM card is broken, this can be quite frustrating, of course.
How much does a new SIM card cost?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this, as it depends on the mobile carrier. However, SIM cards usually cost between 39 and 49 francs. So you should budget around 50 francs to avoid any surprises. Some providers, however, offer the first SIM card for free as part of the activation fee. In most cases, though, you’ll already pay the one-time cost of the SIM when you order your plan in the form of the activation fee. This is also where you’ll see how much the provider charges for a SIM. The cost of replacing a SIM if you have the wrong size, however, may be lower.
iPhone X and UPC Nano SIM
Cutting a SIM card to size: Is it a good idea?
No. In a word. You really shouldn't try to do this on your own. Because things often go wrong. There are countless guides and templates online that promise everything will go smoothly. But in the end , you risk compromising the functionality of your SIM card—or even ending up with a SIM that works at first but suddenly fails or develops a loose connection. So don’t look for a template online either.
The only place where you can have a SIM card cut to size is at an electronics store. They will cut the card professionally using a machine. However, we generally advise against this. Instead, you should bear the cost and order a new SIM card or one in the correct size.
Incorrect SIM PIN entered: What should I do?
This usually happens after you’ve entered the wrong SIM PIN three times. But it’s not as bad as it sounds. You have several options for bypassing the PIN: First, you can look for the large plastic card—about the size of a credit card—that your provider sent you when you first signed up. The so-called PUK is printed on it . You can enter this even after failed login attempts to unlock the SIM. You can also call the hotline to have the SIM card unlocked. So don’t let it get you down.
Can I change or disable my SIM card PIN?
Yes, that’s actually possible. But you’ll need to do this in your device settings, not through your mobile carrier. To do so, open the Settings app on your iPhone or Android phone and look for the “SIM PIN” or “SIM Password” option in the phone settings . Here, you can also disable the PIN so that you don’t have to enter it after turning off the device. But be careful: the PIN does serve a purpose. For example, if criminals or strangers find your device, they won’t be able to easily make expensive calls or even access the internet. So, especially when traveling, it’s advisable to keep the PIN enabled and, if necessary, write it down in your phone.
How do I unlock a SIM card?
There are usually two ways to unlock a locked SIM card: using the SIM PIN 1 or 2, or using the SIM PUK 1 or 2. You can find all these codes on the plastic card provided by your mobile carrier.
The situation is different when unlocking a phone that’s carrier-locked. In this case, the problem isn’t the SIM card, but the phone itself. SIM cards from other mobile carriers simply won’t work. In most cases, you can have your device unlocked by the respective carrier, though this usually comes at a high cost.
