How eSIM-Only Phones Change Buying Used
· TR Vertriebs GmbH
No SIM tray, a digital carrier switch and regional differences — what eSIM-only phones mean for used buyers.
More and more smartphones come without a slot for a physical SIM card and rely solely on eSIM — with some iPhone models this is already the case depending on the sales region. For buying used, this changes several familiar steps: there is no SIM tray left to read, and switching the mobile connection is purely digital. Knowing this in advance avoids nasty surprises during inspection and setup.
Without a SIM tray, one source for cross-checking the IMEI falls away — the engraving on the card sled simply no longer exists. That makes the remaining sources all the more important: you still read the IMEI via *#06# and in the settings, and an eSIM-only device shows its IMEI there too (and several, on models with multiple eSIM profiles). This number displayed on the device is the one you use for a status check.
Plan the handover of the connection in advance. The seller has to delete their eSIM profile from the device — this happens during a reset or manually in the settings. As the buyer you need a carrier that supports eSIM and a way to set up your profile, for example by QR code or eSIM transfer. Clarify this with your carrier before you buy, so that the device actually gets onto the network after the purchase.
Note regional differences. Whether a model ships as eSIM-only depends on the country and variant. A device bought abroad may be eSIM-only while you expect a physical SIM locally — in which case you strictly need an eSIM plan. Conversely, not all carriers and plans offer eSIM smoothly. Before buying, check specifically whether your carrier supports eSIM for your plan and how the switch works.
When inspecting, you cannot simply insert your SIM to test network function. Alternatives: if possible, set up an eSIM profile via a QR code from your carrier, or at least test Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and the other functions. Verify network and blacklist status independently via an IMEI check — that works with the number alone and needs no inserted card.
Important: eSIM changes nothing about the activation lock. Find My on the iPhone and Factory Reset Protection on Android apply regardless of the SIM technology. So, as with any used purchase, confirm that the device is fully signed out of the seller's accounts and reset, and that no unfamiliar account prompt appears during setup. A cleanly handed-over device asks for neither an old Apple ID nor an old Google account.
As a practical rule of thumb for eSIM-only devices: confirm your carrier's eSIM support in advance, check the IMEI via *#06# and a status check, make sure the seller removes their profile, and expect to have to actively move your phone number to the new device with your carrier. Keep receipts and the verified IMEI. Then an eSIM-only device offers no disadvantages on the used market, just a slightly different process.