Samsung eSIM Guide 2026: Every Compatible Galaxy Phone, Setup & Tips

Samsung eSIM: Which Galaxy Phones Support eSIM?

Samsung has fully embraced eSIM technology across its Galaxy lineup. Whether you own a flagship Galaxy S26 Ultra or a budget-friendly Galaxy A series phone, there’s a good chance your Samsung device supports eSIM. This guide covers every Samsung phone with eSIM support, step-by-step setup instructions, and tips for using eSIM when traveling — with a special focus on the popular Galaxy S23 Ultra.

Complete List of Samsung Phones with eSIM Support

Samsung began integrating eSIM into its devices starting with the Galaxy S20 series in 2020. Since then, eSIM support has expanded across the Galaxy S, Galaxy Z, and Galaxy A lineups. Here’s the full compatibility list as of 2026:

Galaxy S Series (Flagship)

*Galaxy S20 eSIM availability varies by region and carrier. Some carrier-locked variants may not support eSIM.

Galaxy Z Series (Foldable)

Galaxy A Series (Mid-Range)

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra eSIM: Everything You Need to Know

The Galaxy S23 Ultra remains one of Samsung’s most popular phones, and it fully supports eSIM. Here’s what S23 Ultra owners need to know:

• Dual SIM capability: The S23 Ultra supports one nano-SIM card and one eSIM simultaneously. You can use your physical SIM for your home number and an eSIM for a travel data plan.
• Storage: You can store up to 5 eSIM profiles, though only 1 eSIM can be active at a time alongside the physical SIM.
• Network support: The S23 Ultra supports 5G on both SIM and eSIM, so you’ll get fast data speeds with a compatible eSIM plan.
• Regional note (Hong Kong): Samsung phones purchased in Hong Kong (model number ending in /DS or specific Hong Kong SKUs) support eSIM. If you bought your S23 Ultra in Hong Kong, it should work with eSIM. However, carrier-locked models from certain regions may have eSIM disabled — always check Settings → Connections → SIM Manager to confirm.

How to Set Up eSIM on Samsung Galaxy Phones

Setting up an eSIM on a Samsung phone is straightforward. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Purchase Your eSIM Plan

Visit eSIM-X and choose a data plan for your destination. After purchase, you’ll receive a QR code via email or in the eSIM-X app.

Step 2: Open SIM Manager

On your Samsung phone, go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager. Tap “Add eSIM” or “Add mobile plan.”

Step 3: Scan the QR Code

Select “Scan carrier QR code” and point your camera at the QR code you received. Your phone will download the eSIM profile automatically.

Step 4: Activate and Configure

Once downloaded, toggle the eSIM on in SIM Manager. You can set it as your default for mobile data while keeping your physical SIM for calls and texts.

Step 5: Test Your Connection

Turn on mobile data and make sure you’re connected. If traveling, you can install the eSIM before departure and activate it when you land.

Pro tip: Install your travel eSIM before you leave home while you’re still connected to Wi-Fi. This way, you’ll have data ready the moment you arrive at your destination.

Samsung eSIM vs iPhone eSIM: Key Differences

Both Samsung and Apple support eSIM, but there are some differences worth knowing:

The bottom line: both platforms work great with travel eSIMs. Samsung phones always retain a physical SIM slot, which gives you more flexibility if you want to keep a local SIM alongside your eSIM.

Common Samsung eSIM Questions

Can I use eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time on Samsung?

Yes. All Samsung phones with eSIM support dual SIM functionality — one physical nano-SIM and one eSIM running simultaneously.

Does Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra support eSIM in Hong Kong?

Yes. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra models sold in Hong Kong support eSIM. Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager to add your eSIM profile.

Can I store multiple eSIM profiles on my Samsung?

Yes. Samsung phones from the S21 series onward can store up to 5 eSIM profiles. You can switch between them without re-scanning QR codes, making it convenient for frequent travelers visiting different countries.

Is eSIM available on all Samsung phones?

No. eSIM is available on the Galaxy S series (S20 and later), Galaxy Z series (Z Fold/Flip 3 and later), and select Galaxy A series phones. Budget models like the Galaxy A15 or older A series phones do not support eSIM.

Do I need to contact my carrier to use eSIM on Samsung?

For a travel eSIM like eSIM-X, no — you simply scan the QR code and activate. However, if you want to transfer your primary phone number to eSIM, you’ll need to contact your home carrier.

Best Travel eSIM for Samsung Phones

When choosing a travel eSIM for your Samsung phone, look for these features:

• Wide coverage: Plans that cover your entire trip, especially if visiting multiple countries.
• Instant activation: QR code delivery so you can install before departure.
• No physical swap: Keep your home SIM in the tray while using eSIM for travel data.
• Affordable data: Competitive pricing with enough data for maps, messaging, and social media.

eSIM-X offers travel eSIM plans for 200+ countries with instant QR code delivery. It works perfectly with all eSIM-compatible Samsung Galaxy phones — just scan, activate, and connect.