eSIM vs physical SIM?

I have a phone with both physical SIM slot and eSIM (iPhone 12 mini).

My regular domestic cellular service uses the nano SIM slot.

For international travel, I purchase short term cellular data plans with my eSIM using Truphone (there are other companies like Ubigi). This is more convenient than hunting down and fumbling with a SIM card in a foreign land. I can typically activate the cellular data plan in about three minutes -- often while I wait at the baggage carrousel.

Multiple services can be assigned to the same eSIM. You just choose which service you want active with the eSIM. At least for travelers, this can be a boon.

If you only use one carrier and you don't travel internationally, I don't see how an eSIM would be of any benefit.

I usually just pull up a quick plan right on my phone, no fuss, and I’m connected in minutes. You can even have multiple plans saved and flip between them if you’re bouncing around countries or need different options.
But, I get why some folks still like physical SIMs. They’re pretty reliable, and if your main number’s tied to it for stuff like two-factor authentication, you might not want to mess with that. I’ve had both setups but found eSIM a lot easier, especially when I’m trying to keep my options open across a bunch of countries. If you're curious about options for Aussies, https://www.europesimcard.com.au/ gives a solid rundown on what’s out there.