SIM card sizes explained: Standard, Micro & Nano

Depending on the make and model of your mobile handset, tablet or mobile broadband modem, you’ll want to ensure you select the right size SIM card. Currently, SIM cards come in three different sizes: Standard, Micro and Nano. Below, we’ll explain the three different types of physical SIM cards and which popular Optus supplied devices support them.

What types of SIM cards sizes are there?

There are three different types of physical SIM cards: Nano, Micro, and Standard.

eSIM is also available in compatible devices.

Nano SIM

The Nano SIM is the most commonly used SIM in smartphones today. It’s the smallest, both in height and thickness. It’s used in handsets such as the iPhone 5 to iPhone XS and the Samsung Galaxy S6 through to the Samsung Galaxy S10. Nano SIM card dimensions: 15 x 25mm

Micro SIM

A Micro SIM is the second latest version of SIM. A Micro SIM can still be found in a number of commonly used smartphones. Handsets such as the Samsung Galaxy S3, Samsung Galaxy S6, iPhone 4 and iPhone 4s take a Micro SIM. It’s also the most commonly used SIM in our USB and Wireless Broadband modems. Micro SIM card dimensions: 12 x 15mm

Standard SIM

A standard SIM is the oldest of the three SIM card sizes and a slot for this size is typically found in older, non-smartphones. Standard SIM cards are also commonly used in 3G and 4G USB modems. Standard SIM card dimensions: 15 x 25mm

eSIM

Embedded directly into the device, eSIM eliminates the need for a physical SIM card - making it faster, easier, and more sustainable to get connected. eSIM is supported across a wide range of mobile devices and Smart Watches. You can read more about eSIM technology and which Optus devices support eSIM here.

Do smart watches use SIM cards?

This depends on the what model of smart watch you have. Some older smart watch models come equipped with a nano SIM slot, or use Bluetooth to make and receive calls and text messages and use data from a paired mobile phone that is within range. Most new Smart Watches have eSIM capability. If your Smart Watch has eSIM capability, you can set up number share which allows you to use the voice, text and data inclusions from your mobile phone plan on your supported smart watch. The Apple Watch GPS + Cellular and Samsung Galaxy Watch (Cellular) are currently the only devices that have eSIM capability and support the Number Share feature.

Choosing the right size SIM card for your device

If you’ve recently joined Optus, you’ll have received our handy 3-in-1 SIM card. The 3-in-one SIM card includes a Nano SIM, with an easy to remove Standard and Micro SIM adapter. Simply pop out the required SIM from the plastic housing and insert the SIM into your device.

If you’re unsure what type of SIM your device supports, head to our device guides. Search for the make and model of your device → select your device → click the, "specs" tab.

eSIM is available on compatible mobile devices.

Can I switch SIM cards between phones, tablets or modems?

You cannot switch your SIM card between different types of devices. Your SIM card is configured for use with either a mobile, tablet or mobile broadband device.

Where can I get a new or replacement SIM card?

To get a new or replacement SIM card for your mobile device, tablet or modem, bring 100 points of ID to your local 'yes' Optus store. We can replace your SIM in-store. If you don’t have an Optus store close by, you can contact us. Important: If you have an Optus Prepaid Mobile or Prepaid Mobile Broadband SIM card, you’ll need to ensure that you pick up an Optus Prepaid SIM card. You cannot replace your Prepaid SIM with an Optus Postpaid SIM card (vice versa). An Optus Prepaid SIM can be purchased from us in-store, and as well as through a number of authorised retail partners.