A data-only SIM card is designed for use in tablets, desktop computers, laptop computers, and mobile Wi-Fi devices. They generally can’t make or receive phone calls and texts. They come only with data bundles, but they don’t include calling minutes and texts as mobile SIM cards do. These SIM cards are an alternative to Wi-Fi, so the user can enjoy the same services that Wi-Fi coverage offers them. Only a few data-only SIMs have additional features because they are mainly used for data.
Data-only SIM plans are generally cheaper than mobile SIM plans because of no service provided for calling and texting. However, you still get a phone number like you do in mobile SIM in order to recharge/reload your data pack and to check the remaining data balance.
Benefits of Data Only SIM Cards
Data SIM cards may be seen as unnecessary due to the widespread Wi-Fi coverage. Though, these data SIM cards solve some problems related to Wi-Fi connections. For example, in most cases the Wi-Fi is free and that’s why several people prefer them over data-only SIM cards. Because of this, the Wi-Fi connection becomes slow as it is overloaded by many users. Contrary to that, a data-only SIM is generally used by a single individual, hence the connection is fast and reliable.
Moreover, Wi-Fi networks may have restrictions on their users, making them unable to access all that they desire from the internet. But this is not the case with data-only SIM cards, as they can be used freely.
Data-only SIM cards provide privacy to the users, even if they surf in public areas that have Wi-Fi.
Devices Compatible with Data Only SIM Cards
Data-only SIM cards fit into devices having SIM card slots other than mobile phones. These devices include tablets, broadband dongles, gaming consoles, laptops, etc. Though, not all laptops have these slots.
Many telecom companies offer data-only SIM plans. Only a few companies sell internet dongles and Wi-Fi hotspots that could work with data-only SIM cards. In some cases, these dongles and Wi-Fi hotspots are network-locked and in others, you may need to commit to a long-term repayment. Because of this, people prefer to use a data-only SIM in a spare smartphone and then use that smartphone as a portable hotspot.
Size of Data Only SIM Cards
Data only SIM cards come in different sizes and it depends on the available slot of your device. Gadgets manufactured in the last five years tend to hold a smaller card like the nano-SIM card. However, older devices have their slots larger, that’s why they require larger micro-SIM cards.
You can check the user manual of your device to find out what size SIM card can fit in it. You can also find this information by searching online about the make and model of your device.
However, these days, most of the service providers send a trio or multi-SIM which includes all the possible sizes, so you don’t need to be concerned about SIM size before placing an order.
Smartphone and Data Only SIM Card
Unlike the traditional environment, the latest smartphone can work well with a data-only SIM card. This is made possible to use a smartphone as a portable Wi-Fi hotspot.
Portable Wi-Fi enables a gadget to be used as a modem-like structure to connect other devices to the internet. These types of Wi-Fi are flexible as they can be used in different areas that have no connections. Whether you are traveling or have moved to a new location that lacks an internet connection, this form of connection deals with your worries.
Using Data Only SIM Instead of Mobile SIM Plan
People now rely more on social media communication, which uses data. If you don’t need to make a lot of calls, you can go for a data-only SIM plan, as you will still be in touch with your friends and family.
You should go for cheap and affordable plans which will help you in saving the money that would be otherwise channeled to calls.
If you need to make calls using your data-only SIM card, you have two options. Either consider the advanced data-only SIMs which allow the users to make and receive calls and texts, or use social media apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Skype, Facebook, etc. which have video and audio calling features.
Why have a Data Only SIM Plan?
The traditional broadband plans are not as flexible as those of the data-only SIM plans. These SIM cards come with shorter and more flexible contract lengths, ranging from one to twelve months. These SIM cards are also very economical as they do not require you to pay for new devices to use them.
Data-only SIM cards have a wide range of plans. You only need to compare the available plans of different competitors in your area and pick the one that suits you the best.
All plans come with 4G and some even with 5G, so you can enjoy fast internet browsing and downloads.
Conclusion
The Data-Only SIM card is an advanced way of internet access. They can be faster than Wi-Fi that is shared by multiple users. They are more convenient and portable, hence they can also be used while traveling. You can choose to have the most economic and reliable plan in either short-term or long-term duration as per your budget. Depending on the device you intend to use for the Data-Only SIM Card, you should get the guidelines of the device manufacturer regarding the size and compatibility of the device with the SIM card.