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Yes. The Samsung Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra support eSIM, but activation also depends on your carrier, country, and the handset’s regional version. The Galaxy S21 FE is a separate case: Samsung Germany says it does not support eSIM.
Which Galaxy S21 models support eSIM?
Samsung’s current supported-device list includes the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, and Galaxy S21 Ultra. Samsung UK also confirms eSIM support for the S21 family, provided the mobile network supports it.
| Model | eSIM support | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S21 | Yes | Carrier and regional-device support still apply. |
| Galaxy S21+ | Yes | Carrier and regional-device support still apply. |
| Galaxy S21 Ultra | Yes | Carrier and regional-device support still apply. |
| Galaxy S21 FE | No, according to Samsung Germany | Do not assume the FE shares the eSIM capability of the other S21 models. |
Samsung Canada’s support page, updated September 29, 2026, cautions that eSIM service may vary by country and carrier. Samsung also warns that eSIM use may be disabled on devices purchased in some countries. If you have an imported or second-hand phone, confirm its exact model and sales market with Samsung and ask your carrier to verify activation eligibility.
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How to check for eSIM and add a mobile plan
On a supported S21, open Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM. Samsung lists three possible setup methods, depending on carrier support:
#1 Best Overall
- Display: 6.2" AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and 1300 nits brightness for vivid visuals and smooth scrolling.
- Camera: Rear dual camera system with 64MP main and 12MP ultrawide lenses for stunning photos and videos.
- Memory: 128GB internal storage and 8GB RAM for plenty of apps and files.
- Connectivity: 5G capable with support for GSM, CDMA, and Wi-Fi networks.
- Battery: 4000mAh battery provides all-day power for your daily needs.
- eSIM Simple Setup: the phone downloads the plan through the carrier’s supported setup flow.
- Scan a QR code: scan the code provided by your carrier.
- Enter an activation code: manually enter the details supplied by your carrier.
The carrier provides the eSIM profile or activation details; a QR code is not something you need to purchase separately. Converting an existing physical SIM to eSIM is also carrier-dependent.
What to do if “Add eSIM” is missing or activation fails
- Confirm the exact model. Check whether the phone is an S21, S21+, or S21 Ultra rather than the S21 FE.
- Check where the phone was sold. Samsung notes that eSIM availability can depend on country, and some regional devices may have eSIM disabled.
- Ask your current carrier. Confirm that it supports eSIM for your plan and this phone’s model and regional version. The carrier can also provide the correct setup method and activation details.
- Try the menu again after confirmation. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM. If the option remains unavailable, contact Samsung support for the market where the device was sold.
Can the S21 use eSIM and a physical SIM together?
Samsung UK documents these SIM configurations for the S21 family: two nano-SIM cards, or one nano-SIM plus one eSIM. The available combination does not remove the need for carrier and regional support.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Android 11 | One UI 3.1 | Octa-core | 128GB | 8GB | Adreno 660
- Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, HDR10+ display | Gorilla Glass | 6.7 inches | 1080 x 2400
- Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band| GPS | Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot | Bluetooth 5.0 | USB Type-C 3.2
- 12 MP Camera | LED Flash | 1080p | Speaker
- 6.36 x 2.98 x 0.31 | 7.05oz | Single SIM | GSM, HSPA, LTE, CDMA
Rank #4
- This Phone Is Unlocked And Compatible With Any Carrier Of Choice On Gsm And Cdma Networks (E.G. At&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, Us Cellular, Cricket, Metro, Tracfone, Mint Mobile, Etc.).
- When You Receive The Phone, Insert A Sim Card From A Compatible Carrier. Then, Turn It On, Connect To Wi-Fi, And Follow The On Screen Prompts To Activate Service.
- The Device Does Not Come With Headphones Or A Sim Card. It Does Include A Charger And Charging Cable That May Be Generic.
- Tested For Battery Health And Assured To Have A Minimum Battery Capacity Of 80%.
Rank #3
- This pre-owned product has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon qualified vendors.
- This product is in "Excellent condition". The screen and body show no signs of cosmetic damage visible from 12 inches away.
- This product will have a battery that exceeds 80% capacity relative to new.
Rank #2
- The Galaxy S21 FE sports a sleek polycarbonate back with a premium matte finish that resists fingerprints and feels smooth in hand, giving it a stylish yet practical design.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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