The cost of IoT SIM cards differs from one provider to another and is often based on the data volume, geo, specific features included. The IoT SIM card itself often has an initial cost, followed by monthly, yearly, or data-related charges. Some providers enable flat pricing, while others imply payments based on data consumption. Learn more about 1NCE SIM card pricing.
In general, wireless IoT SIM cards are not designed for voice communication or regular smartphone use, but rather for machine-to-machine (M2M) connection and data transfer. The data plans are usually tailored for frequent, low-bandwidth data transfers, which are typical of IoT devices. In addition, the voice and SMS capabilities of certain IoT SIMs can be limited.
An IoT connectivity SIM card is a SIM card specifically designed for use in IoT projects. In comparison with standard phone cards, utilized for voice and high-bandwidth data, IoT SIM cards are used for low-power consumption, instant data transmission, multinational connectivity, M2M communication.
Global IoT SIM cards for businesses relate to the SIM card's function for IoT devices products and can be either in the format of eSIM/iSIM or a usual physical card. The focus of IoT SIM cards is usually on IoT-specific data plans and services. On the other hand, eSIM or embedded SIM is just a form factor, a digital SIM card included into the device. It allows for flexible providers’ switching without SIM changes. It can be both a part of the IoT project or just an interchangeable SIM of a mobile device.
"M2M SIM cards" used to refer to SIM cards for machine-to-machine communication. As IoT has more applications than just M2M, the term "IoT SIM cards" is now more often used. I practice, there isn't much of a difference between the two. Both are made to allow devices to transfer data. IoT is a more recent and inclusive term.
