The Different Types of SIM Cards

If you are planning to get a new phone in the new future, it is vital to learn about the available SIM card sizes. Also, if you are changing mobile networks say, to a SIM only deal or a Pay As You Go SIM, you will need to check the compatibility of your SIM card.

There are 3 different models of SIM cards on the market today, the Standard SIM, the Micro SIM, and the Nano SIM.

Standard SIM

The Standard SIM was the earliest SIM card to hit the market when mobile phones were first introduced. They were common in handsets before 2010 such as the Nokia 3310 an iPhone 3Gs. The SIM cards measured 25X15mm and are now rare in the market.

Micro SIM

The Micro SIM replaced the standard SIM cards in the market earlier in the decade around 2010. The SIM card was created to make way for smaller and lighter smartphones that were becoming common in the market. The Micro SIM is slender and lighter than the standard SIM and measures 15X12mm.

Nano SIM

The Nano SIM is the newest in the market and was introduced in 2012. The SIM card was seen as an improvement to the Micro SIM in terms of the space utilised in the handset. Relatively smaller than the Micro SIM, the Nano SIM measures 12.3X8.8mm.

Combi SIM

The Combi SIM combines the Micro and Nano SIM in a standard SIM sized unit. The Combi sim allows you to have the three sizes at a go. If you want the Micro SIM or the Nano, all you have to do is break the plastic surrounding your preferred size.

In the recent past, the Combi SIM has gained popularity as it allows telecoms to cater for more subscribers with a single card. Today, most of the pay as you go SIM cards use the Combi format.

Knowing which SIM card to purchase

Today, smartphone companies are releasing new phones almost every 3 months. Each released phone has its SIM specifications that you will need to meet so as to operate the handset. While purchasing a new phone read the manual in the box, which details the kind of SIM card, you will require.

Google can also help you determine the right size of SIM card for your handset. You can start by looking up the manufacturer's website.

Modifying your SIM size

Sometimes you may wish to modify the size of your SIM card say from a Nano SIM to a Micro SIM. Here, you can buy a SIM adapter, which you can fit in your Nano SIM and fit it into the Micro SIM slot on your phone.

If your SIM card big for your phone, you can chop it down using standard SIM choppers. However, you should be careful not to interfere with the chip as this will render the SIM card useless.

SIM cards have evolved greatly since they were first used earlier in the century. However, their functionality has remained the same over the years. The vital aspect, however, is knowing the right type of SIM card for your handset.