Dual-SIM phones are a simple concept; they are smartphones that allow users to use two SIM cards in a single phone.
They can be extremely helpful for people who struggle to switch off from work, as it enables you to have two separate numbers and prevents you from having to carry two separate phones.
In 2024, it is also not even always necessary to carry two separate physical SIMs. Some phones allow for an eSIM, a digital replacement for a SIM card, alongside physical dual SIMs. This means that you can use a traditional SIM installed in the phone and use the other as an eSIM.
We have compiled a list of the best options for smartphones with dual SIM capability currently available in the market.
There are options for Apple fans, Android lovers, and every budget. We have listed specifications to make it easier to compare the phones and choose the best option for you.
Samsung Galaxy S23
The Samsung Galaxy S23, released in February 2023, comes with dual SIM capability and supports 4G LTE connectivity, making it compatible with most major carriers.
It features a 6.1-inch HD+ display, which aim to provide clear visuals. The phone is powered by an octa-core processor and 8GB of RAM, which aim to provide fast and responsive performance. It has a 3900mAh battery, stated to provide up to 22 hours of battery life.
The Samsung Galaxy S23 also includes a range of other features, including triple lenses, with the main camera being 5MP and a 12MP front camera, as well as face recognition technology, designed to provide enhanced security and convenience.
Battery Capacity: 3900 mAh
Screen: 6.1”, 120Hz, 2340 x 1080 pixels
Camera: Triple Lens (50MP, 10MP, 12MP)
RAM: 8GB
Network Connectivity: 5G Ready
iPhone 14 Pro
For Apple lovers, the iPhone 14 series is also available with dual SIM addition. This smartphone boasts a range of features, including 128GB of storage, a powerful A16 Bionic chip, and a dual-camera system.
It has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, which is said to offer a crisp and clear display. It also features a triple-lens dual-camera system, designed to provide high-quality pictures from different zoom percentages.
The iPhone 14 Pro also includes features like Night mode and Deep Fusion, claiming to ensure that photos remain high quality even in low light conditions.
Other features of the iPhone 14 include Face ID for enhanced security, 5G connectivity for fast data speeds, and access to the latest version of iOS 16.
Battery Capacity: 4,323 mAh
Screen: 6.1”, 120Hz, 2556 x 1179 pixels
Camera: Triple Lens, (48MP, 12MP, 12MP)
RAM: 6GB
Network Connectivity: 5G ready
OnePlus 11
Fitted with dual SIM capability, the OnePlus 11 uses a 6.7-inch Fluid AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, made possible by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip.
The OnePlus 11 also features a 50MP triple-camera system, with a primary sensor, an ultra-wide lens, and a monochrome lens.
A feature that may be particularly helpful for those on the go is OnePlus' fast charging. The manufacturers claim that the OnePlus 11's 5,000mAh battery can reach a complete charge in 27 minutes.
Battery Capacity: 5,000mAh
Screen: 6.7”, 120Hz, 3216 x 1440 pixels
Camera: Triple Lens, (50MP, 32 MP, 48MP)
RAM: 8GB
Network Connectivity: 5G ready
Google Pixel 6a
The Google Pixel 6a is a budget phone that features a 6.1-inch OLED display, Google's Tensor processor, and 6GB of RAM.
The Google Pixel 6a features a 12.2-megapixel dual-pixel rear camera and an 8MP front camera. Buyers also get access to Pixel's Night Sight and Portrait Mode.
Other features of the Google Pixel 6a include 5G connectivity for fast data speeds, a 4410mAh battery with 18W fast charging, and the latest version of Android 12.
It is also available with dual SIM capability, making it a worthy budget addition to this list.
Battery Capacity: 4410mAh
Screen: 6.1”, 60Hz, 2400 x 1080 pixels
Camera: Dual Lens, (12MP x2)
RAM: 6GB
Network Connectivity: 5G ready
Samsung z Fold4
- Buy now from Samsung (£1,649)
The Samsung Z Fold4 released last year, renewing interest in foldable phones and reigniting an industry that hasn't been cool since the days of RAZR, Sidekick, and Blackberry flip-phones.
The phone features a 6.2-inch outer screen for smaller tasks like taking calls and replying to messages, and a 7.6-inch main screen for bigger tasks like browsing, streaming, or social media.
It uses a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chip, which is said to be powerful enough to keep everything running smoothly.
There's also a 10MP dual front camera and a triple lens on the back, which also uses Samsung's Nightography, designed to help take pictures in low light.
- Read our Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 review in full.
Battery Capacity: 4400 mAh
Screen: 7.6”, 120Hz, 2176 x 1812 pixels
Camera: Triple Lens (50MP, 12MP, 10MP)
RAM: 12GB
Network Connectivity: 5G Ready
Xiaomi 13 Pro
The latest high-end offering from Xiaomi boasts specs comparable to those of its biggest competitors on the market. It features a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 system chip and a 6.73-inch display.
Compared to its predecessor, the 12 Pro, Xiaomi has upgraded the camera thanks to a partnership with camera specialists Leica. The 13 Pro utilizes a 50MP triple lens, with a 3.2x zoom.
There's also a larger battery than the previous model, with 120W charging and 50W wireless charging capabilities.
It's said to feature a durable ceramic back and a slight curve to the screen at the edges.
Battery Capacity: 4820 mAh
Screen: 6.7”, 120Hz, 3200 x 1440 pixels
Camera: Triple Lens (50MP x3)
RAM: 8GB
Network Connectivity: 5G ready
What are the advantages of a dual sim phone?
- Keeping work separate: With a dual SIM phone, you can use two different phone numbers without having to carry two separate devices. This can be useful if you have both a personal and a work phone number, allowing you to keep your work life separate and organised.
- Cost savings: By using two SIM cards from different carriers, you can take advantage of different plans and deals to save money on calls, texts, and data. You could have one plan aimed towards calls and texts, and another aimed at data.
- Flexibility: Having dual SIM capability gives you more flexibility to switch between carriers or plans as your needs change, without having to undergo the costs of purchasing a new phone.
- Travel: If you travel frequently, a dual SIM phone can be very useful. You can use one SIM card for your home country and another for the country you are traveling to. This can save you money on roaming charges and give you better access to local networks. For example, in some countries, 3G networks are still in use, while others have already switched to 4G or 5G.
Top image credit: Brett Jordan / Unsplash