The physical SIM card is a very important reason for using mobile phones. But besides calling, they are also the gateway to mobile data, SMS, and other services we get from its telecom operator. However, we tend to take it for granted and ignore how long it can serve. In this post, we explore just how long a SIM card lasts and offer our best tip on what you can do in option.
Keeping in mind the lifespan of a physical SIM is important. It keeps us alert of keeping backup of our contact ahead. The physical SIM card is made of plastic while the golden chip is silicon. With time, they suffer wear and tear and can go defunct. My own mother uses a 6-year-old SIM card and it’s clinging to its dear life as if every second counts. Thankfully, we can just exchange the old SIM card easily at the telco’s office.
But not everyone may realize that their SIM card may be breathing its last. So, in general terms, if you have already used a SIM card for 7-8 years, you may be best advised to exchange it with a new one. You should at least ensure that it’s in working condition.
Table of contents
How long does a Physical SIM card work?
A physical SIM card generally works for 10 to 15 years though some also prefer to use one for 10 years only. It’s quite a good number.
SIM cards are built to last many years. Also, they mostly live inside a phone so, they are not subject to scratches and exposure to heat, dust, water, etc.
SIMs are made of PVC plastic and they last long. They only feature small golden integrated chip contact pads if you notice. So, if you are not directly exposing it, the SIM will live and last for many years. Not indefinitely, but for a long time.
Also, SIMs tend to last years because most of us use the same SIM on a phone and even while switching to a new phone.
This may also interest you: Qualcomm’s iSIM Breakthrough, Future of SIM?
When do we change our SIM?
We mostly change our SIM in the following situations:
- Switching to a new phone
- Changing our operator
- Moving abroad
- For unique services that the current SIM won’t offer
But it also depends on user habits. If you are one to swap SIM cards or open the SIM slots quite often, that may take a toll on the SIM. If you also get your phone wet quite a lot or keep opening SIM card slots for SD card-related activities, the SIM may also incur damage and affect its longevity.
FACT: With the arrival of eSIM, many of us are in fact switching to eSIM. It’s not due to the defect on the physical SIM card, but due to the change in technology. And if you are going from a traditional-size SIM to micro or nano, read this post to learn about how to cut a SIM to nano size
Signs that your SIM is not going to last long
There are signs that your SIM may not last long and you need to be aware of it before it ceases to work. Here are those signs to look for to know that your SIM needs replacement:
- Physical Damage: If the part of your SIM is cracked, or you poured some liquid on it, better replace it before it stops working. Most importantly, if the golden part of your SIM has scratches, then you must get another physical SIM.
- If it’s too Old: Your SIM may look shiny and healthy but it’s a chip. So, it may feel like the test of time and may go down someday. If it’s 8 to 10 years old, its best advised that you replace your SIM.
- Inactive Status: If you get messages such as SIM not recognized, No SIM, Insert SIM, or the phone doesn’t show a cellular signal, then it means that the SIM has problems. If it requires time to come up or some cleaning, then that also means that its normal working time is up.
- Poor Data Performance: If you notice significantly lower data speed and it’s no fault of your carrier, it’s the SIM. Or it may also be because you are using a 2G or 3G SIM. It won’t support the current commercial network 4G.
Also: How to prevent a SIM card from damage?
Is your SIM too old or not working? Here are our tips:
If your SIM is old and not working properly, you should change your SIM to a new one. For this, you can visit your telco’s office and fill out a form to get a new SIM for the same number. And if you have a phone that supports eSIM, then you can simply upgrade your current physical SIM to an eSIM.
Choosing to use eSIM removes all worries about damaging your physical SIM card. It works virtually, so you don’t need to worry about hurting the physical SIM even while taking out the SIM card slot or accidentally getting your phone wet.
Conclusion: How long can you use your physical SIM?
You can use your physical SIM for about a decade in its perfect condition. But you need to check the condition of your SIM from time to time. Also, you may need to clean it gently between months. Also, look for signs for e.g., SIM loading time, data performance, etc. to know if your SIM needs replacing.
Thankfully, changing a physical SIM doesn’t mean changing number. So, you can get a replacement at your telecom office with the same number and your contact.
Also: Primary and Secondary SIM | Why to use and its benefits
I hope this article is helpful to you to understand how long a physical SIM last and work. If you liked it, then do like, share, and comment for this post and share it to others to spread awareness.
