Dual SIM smartphones appeared on the Asian market and have conquered the European market for a few years and are very successful for several reasons. They differ from each other according to the management of the two SIMs, the format of the chips, the quality of the battery, their dimensions and their other features. Follow our guide to choose the best dual SIM smartphone.
Here is our commitment, to make sure that we provide the best user experience and content quality:
You can support us by using our links to make your purchases (at no extra cost to you)! This sometimes earns us a commission which allows us to remain independent. More about us
Our selection
"The Mi Note 10 Lite can detect two SIM cards that are both 4 FF format nano-SIM. Among other things, it includes a 5,260 mAh…"
"Huawei has designed the P30 Lite, a 4G unlocked dual-SIM Shift smartphone, to meet your needs. This device is equipped with a 3,340 mAh battery,…"
"The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra is a very complete smartphone with dual SIM. Compatible with the 5G network, it is a model with a great…"
"The Oneplus brand has designed a Dual-Sim Stand-by 5G unlocked smartphone for everyone to enjoy: with two 4FF size SIM cards, a powerful battery, a…"
The Mi Note 10 Lite can detect two SIM cards that are both 4 FF format nano-SIM. Among other things, it includes a 5,260 mAh battery and a 6.47" curved AMOLED 3D display.
286 £ on AmazonThe Mi Note 10 Lite is one of the recent creations of the Xiaomi brand. It can detect two SIM cards simultaneously in Dual SIM stand-by mode, which means that when one of the SIMs receives a call, the other one automatically deactivates. However, the activation or deactivation of the chips can be done manually in the settings of your smartphone. The format of the chips is 4FF or Nano-SIM.
A 5,260 mAh Lithium-ion battery powers the device for optimal battery life. The smartphone also has a voltage of 30V allowing the Mi Note 10 Lite to charge quickly and gain hours of use. An Android 10.0 MIUI 11 operating system combined with a Snapdragon 730 G 2 x 2.2 GHz / 6 x 1.8 GHz processor offers unparalleled smoothness to this smartphone.
Huawei has designed the P30 Lite, a 4G unlocked dual-SIM Shift smartphone, to meet your needs. This device is equipped with a 3,340 mAh battery, a 6.15" screen with FHD+ resolution and 4 cameras.
206 £ on AmazonThe P30 Lite can detect both nano-SIMs simultaneously and both have access to the 4G network. Dual-SIM Shift category, the smartphone of the Huawei brand has an active card by default and the activation of both SIMs is done manually in the phone settings. However, both chips can receive calls and messages even without activation.
The P30 Lite is powered by a non-removable Li-ion battery with a capacity of 3,340 mAh. This means you'll have longer battery life. With its 9 V 2 A, you will be able to make a fast charge in all peace. For more security, in case of theft, the device has a fingerprint sensor so that it can not be unlocked.
The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra is a very complete smartphone with dual SIM. Compatible with the 5G network, it is a model with a great autonomy: a Lithium-ion battery of 5,000 mAh.
876 £ on AmazonBoth SIM cards are 4FF format and have access to 5G network connectivity. However, both SIMs can be detected simultaneously. It is considered to be the best dual SIM smartphone in its class. Moreover, this smartphone packs a powerful Samsung Exynos 2102 processor. Moreover, it offers good image quality with its 4 rear sensors of 108 x 12 x 10 x 10 MP and its 40 MP front sensor.
We have to admit that Samsung has outdone itself with this device that can store up to 128 GB of data. Its 6.8" screen offers HD+ resolution and 8k video for a more immersive experience. This smartphone can also withstand a fresh water pressure of 1.5 m deep for about 30 minutes.
The Oneplus brand has designed a Dual-Sim Stand-by 5G unlocked smartphone for everyone to enjoy: with two 4FF size SIM cards, a powerful battery, a 6.78" Fluid AMOLED QHD+ display and four photo sensors that make all the difference.
623 £ on AmazonThe OnePlus 8 pro smartphone can work with any network operator since it is 5G unlocked. It can detect two SIM cards of 4FF or nano-SIM format. The activation of the latter can be done manually, but when one of the SIM cards receives a call the other one deactivates automatically.
The 8 Pro smartphone runs on a 4,510 mAh battery. This large capacity is ideal for powering its 6.78" screen. In addition, it is very powerful, via its Snapdragon 865 processor, 128 GB of internal storage and 8 GB of RAM.
Any specific needs?
The best dual SIM smartphone in 2021
The best entry-level dual SIM smartphone
The best high-end dual SIM smartphone
Your guide :
Rate this buying guide :By rating this buying guide, you are helping us to reward our best writers. Thank you!
| TOP OF THE TOP | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | EXCELLENT | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
8/10 |
8/10 |
9/10 |
9/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
Xiaomi Mi Note 10 Lite
|
Huawei P30 Lite
|
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra
|
OnePlus 8 Pro
|
|
The Mi Note 10 Lite can detect two SIM cards that are both 4 FF format nano-SIM. Among other things, it includes a 5,260 mAh battery and a 6.47" curved AMOLED 3D display.
|
Huawei has designed the P30 Lite, a 4G unlocked dual-SIM Shift smartphone, to meet your needs. This device is equipped with a 3,340 mAh battery, a 6.15" screen with FHD+ resolution and 4 cameras.
|
The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra is a very complete smartphone with dual SIM. Compatible with the 5G network, it is a model with a great autonomy: a Lithium-ion battery of 5,000 mAh.
|
The Oneplus brand has designed a Dual-Sim Stand-by 5G unlocked smartphone for everyone to enjoy: with two 4FF size SIM cards, a powerful battery, a 6.78" Fluid AMOLED QHD+ display and four photo sensors that make all the difference.
|
|
|
Performance
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating system
|
Android 10.0
|
Android 9
|
Android 11
|
Android 10.0
|
|
Screen size
|
6.47"
|
6.15"
|
6,8"
|
6.78"
|
|
Processor
|
Snapdragon 730G 2 x 2.2 GHz / 6 x 1.8 GHz
|
Kirin 710 Octa-Core
|
Exynos 2102 Samsung
|
Snapdragon 865
|
|
Battery
|
5,260 mAh/30 W
|
3,340 mAh
|
5,000 mAh
|
4,510 mAh
|
Help us improve this table:
Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!
We spend thousands of hours each year studying the major specialized websites, analyzing products of hundreds of brands and reading user feedback to advise you on the best products.
We are a product review company with a single mission: to simplify your buying decisions. Our research and testing helps millions of people every year find the best products for their personal needs and budget.
To support us you can: use our links to make your purchases (which often earns us a small commission), share our articles on social networks, or recommend our site on your blog. Thanks in advance for your support!
The SIM cards have a total of seven operating modes that differ in the way the chips are activated and deactivated. Those that require manual activation are: Pseudo-Dual and Dual-Sim Shift. Smartphones with Dual-Sim stand-by and Dual-Sim Active features detect both chips simultaneously. Thus, when one of the chips receives a call, the other one deactivates automatically.
SIM cards currently come in 3 formats. The oldest are the mini-SIM or 2FF. They were used on most phones before 2010. Called Micro-SIM, this type of 3FF format cards were for a long time the prerogative of the Apple brand. Later, other brands will adopt it, given their technical specifications. Currently, the most common are the 4FF or Nano-SIM cards. The most recent ones are the M2M or eSIM that are directly integrated into the smartphone.
Taking into account the quality of the battery means examining whether it is removable, its power and its charging time. This is because smartphones with removable batteries have specific slots to insert SIM cards. A powerful battery guarantees you longer autonomy. The charging time of the smartphone is also an essential purchase criterion. Indeed, it proves to be very useful depending on how often you handle the device.
The dimensions of the smartphone are measured in diagonal and in inches of which 1 inch is equal to about 2.56 cm. For an easier grip, you can opt for a 6.5" screen. However, a larger screen is much better for watching videos or playing games. Currently, smartphones are thinner. Also, the average height of a phone is about 1 cm.
The choice of processor is very important when buying a smartphone. Among the best of them are the SOC Snapdragon, Exynos, kirin. They are the fastest and allow greater responsiveness. The screen resolution is also a major criterion in your choice. If you are looking for visual comfort, you can prefer QHD+ and FHD+ resolutions. A good camera can also make a smartphone interesting. If you want to take nice pictures, go for a smartphone with at least 16MP.
Triple SIM smartphones are starting to flood the market with brands like Realmi, Xiaomi and many others. For some products, the third SIM is an e-SIM. However, they have not yet dethroned dual SIM smartphones which are more ergonomic and easier to maintain.
Currently, dual SIM smartphones are outperforming single SIM models. This is due to the fact that they offer many advantages and are not bulky, given their exceptional size. However, they require minimal maintenance to perform their functions properly.
Most dual SIM smartphones sold in stores have basic applications already pre-installed. Some of them are required for the device to work properly, while others are just fancy. Therefore, if you are going to install applications that are necessary for your daily life, it is clear that you will be in trouble, as this could reduce the execution speed of the already congested processor. So, for more fluidity and responsiveness on the part of the smartphone, make sure to disable the automatic execution or uninstall some unnecessary applications altogether.
A screen lit to its maximum capacity can lead to premature deterioration of your battery. Therefore, reduce the contrast, brightness and saturation to optimize your visibility. This manipulation can be done via the settings of the device and will ensure the longevity of your battery.
A standby time of more than 30 seconds could actually increase the energy consumption. It is therefore essential to make a setting in this sense to optimize the battery life. Moreover, some smartphones tend to launch certain applications if they are not locked when you put it in your pocket.
Blocked dual SIM smartphones are often devices purchased from network operators. They will block the detection of the SIM card other than their own. This marketing strategy poses several constraints to users. Using only one network is not really practical in case the operator has bad network reception in some places. Having two SIMs from the same operator would also mean having only one SIM card. Therefore, it will be better to unlock your smartphone to use different networks at the same time. This will be done for free if you request an unlock before the third month after purchase.
Desimlocked or decoded dual SIM smartphones are devices compatible with any other network operator. If you want to use SFR and Orange in the same phone, it's possible; or if you need to separate your personal life from your work. The best way to find out if your smartphone is unlocked or not is to insert a second SIM card from another network operator. If a network unlock code is required, it means that your smartphone is still blocked.
A dual SIM smartphone has many advantages, including the ability to connect to two different networks simultaneously. This feature will allow you to use only one cell phone to receive calls and messages from the office and from relatives. For those who are often on the move, you can have a SIM card with an international plan. Juggling from one operator to another will allow you to enjoy the benefits of both operators at the same time.
Single SIM smartphones save energy and allow users to know in advance if they are receiving business calls or if it is a phone call from relatives. In addition, a single SIM smartphone can hold a Micro SD card to make even more space in the phonebook. On the other hand, you will have to deal with the lack of network depending on where you are. Therefore, the purchase of another device to dissociate calls will be necessary.
If you're looking for convenience, go for dual SIM smartphones. They are more economical because you only need one phone instead of two. Your smartphone won't run down too quickly if you activate both SIMs, given the large battery capacity. You'll only notice a slight drop in battery power during the first hour of use. Then, the power consumption will stabilize as you use it, like a single SIM smartphone.
Buying a dual-SIM smartphone can only have advantages. There are many reasons why you should buy one. The ones listed below are only the most obvious ones.
Using 2 phone lines means that you have to combine your subscriptions, which means that you will benefit. Indeed, if you choose to buy packages from an operator that offers a better rate for data use and another package for calls is preferred with another operator. You will be able to use both packages even if they are offered by two different operators.
In terms of phone coverage, two SIMs from different operators will prevent you from perching on the roof to get a network bar. This network interception is due to the competition between operators. Some cover an area better than others. So you could take advantage of the phone canopy of two operators.
If you are an entrepreneur, this is the best way to manage your customers and receive calls from the family on the same device. As a result, you won't have to carry two smartphones in your pocket. Just one dual SIM smartphone and you're done! The two SIM cards are completely independent. Receiving and making calls on one of the two lines does not present any risk of disconnection if the other chip receives a call. So your life will only be easier with a phone that can hold all your contacts.
If your dual SIM smartphone has a <a title=" href="https://assurance.carrefour.fr/assurance-des-appareils-nomades/mobile/innovation/la-nouvelle-puce-virtuelle-esim-pour-votre-smartphone" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none;">eSIM</span></a><span style="float: none;">,</span> this will allow you to have 2 user profiles. So it will be possible for you to take out 2 separate subscriptions according to your preferences.</span></p>
Choose a smartphone that is compatible with your real needs
Indeed, the best smartphone is the one that meets all your expectations. You need to know your real needs to better enjoy the device's features.
Prefer a dual SIM smartphone with two different SIM formats
This is a better way to make your smartphone more convenient. If it can hold two separate SIM formats, you won't have to cut your chips at the risk of damaging them.
Respect the charging time of the smartphone
Exceeding or ignoring the smartphone charging time will deteriorate the battery and make your device overheat. Don't hesitate to read the user manual thoroughly.
Protect your smartphone
To provide more protection for your smartphone, you can opt for screen covers and silicone covers. Some smartphones already have scratch-resistant screens and waterproof casing.
Don't leave your SIM cards lying around
A SIM card is just as personal as your ID card itself. It contains both sensitive private information. It is therefore preferable to block it immediately in case of loss by calling the concerned network operator.
With the Multi-SIM option, this is possible, but with a specific subscription that will transfer calls to one of the two SIMs and messages to the other.
If the smartphone is unlocked, it will be able to work with two SIMs from two different network operators.
Even if you have only inserted one card, the smartphone will work properly in the same way as it would with two SIM cards.
It is possible to have an internet plan on one of the SIMs and an international calling plan on the other and all on the same smartphone.
The SIM card to be used for calls is the one whose operator offers the best rates, the one for data usage and messages too should be chosen the same way.
Every month we help more than 1 000 000 people buy better and smarter.
Copyright © 2022 - Made with ♥ by buyingbetter.co.uk
Your reviews and buying guides 0% advertising, 100% independent!
