When resetting a smartphone, users often see the options such as ''Keep eSIM” and “Erase Data.” While these may seem like simple technical choices, they directly affect your mobile connectivity. This guide explains what each option means and when you should use them. If you're switching phones or troubleshooting a software issue, it's important to understand how these settings impact your mobile plan. With a global eSIM, managing these changes becomes more flexible and convenient.

What Does It Mean to Keep eSIM and Erase Data?

Choosing the option to keep your eSIM while erasing data means you can reset your phone without removing your mobile plan. This process deletes all content on your device, including apps, photos, messages, and personal settings, but keeps the eSIM profile intact. As a result, your mobile plan stays active, and you don’t need to reinstall or reactivate the eSIM. This is especially useful if you want to reset your phone but continue using the same data plan immediately afterward.

How to Reset Your Phone Without Deleting the eSIM

It’s possible to erase all content from your phone while keeping your eSIM profile active. To do this, you need to follow the correct reset steps based on your device. The process differs slightly between iPhone and Android:

On iPhone

1. Open Settings.

2. Tap General and then Transfer or Reset iPhone.

3. Choose Erase All Content and Settings.

4. When the prompt appears, select Keep eSIM.

5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

On Android

1. Open Settings.

2. Tap System and then Reset Options.

3. Select Erase all data (factory reset).

4. If shown, uncheck the box labeled Erase eSIMs.

5. Confirm and complete the reset process.

Disclaimer: Menu names and reset options may vary by device model and operating system version. For the most accurate and current information, always refer to your device manufacturer’s official support resources.

Should I Keep eSIM and Erase Data?

In most cases, yes. Keeping the eSIM during a device reset is the better option, especially if you plan to continue using the same phone number and data plan. You should only delete the eSIM if you're giving away the phone or no longer using the plan. Depending on your provider, reinstalling a deleted eSIM may require manual activation, and the process can sometimes seem complex or take additional time [1]. 

For detailed information, you can read our post on How Long Does It Take to Activate eSIM.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Resetting an eSIM Phone

Resetting a phone with an eSIM is usually straightforward, but a few common mistakes can lead to data loss or mobile connectivity issues. Paying attention to these points can help you avoid unnecessary problems:

• Accidentally selecting the option to erase the eSIM may result in losing access to your mobile plan.

• It’s important to check in advance whether your eSIM can be transferred to another device before switching phones.

• Before starting the reset, make sure to back up your personal data and confirm that you have a stable internet connection.

• eSIMs do not always follow the same reset procedures as physical SIM cards. The process may differ depending on the device and software version.

For more information, you can also check out our posts on How to Transfer eSIM from iPhone to Android, How to Transfer eSIM from Android to iPhone, and eSIM vs Physical SIM.

“Keep eSIM” with Roamless: What Makes It Convenient

Roamless eSIM helps you maintain your mobile data access even after resetting your phone or changing devices. It’s especially useful when traveling internationally and needing continued access to mobile networks without service disruptions. Here are a few key benefits:

• Easy plan management: You can manage, top up, or change plans directly from the Roamless app.

• International calling: In-app calling features start from $0.01 per minute, offering additional value beyond data.

• Wide coverage: Roamless eSIM offers global coverage in over 200 countries and regions with support for up to 5G speeds.

• Device transfer support: You can manually transfer your Roamless eSIM to a new phone through the app without needing customer service.

Roamless is designed as a travel eSIM solution that provides global mobile connectivity across different countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I delete my eSIM by mistake?
- You may need to reinstall it using a QR code or manual setup. The exact steps depend on your eSIM provider’s process.

Will changing eSIM erase data?
- No, switching or reactivating an eSIM does not delete apps, files, or other content from your device.

Is it safer to keep or delete the eSIM during a reset?
- In most cases, keeping the eSIM is the better choice, especially if you plan to continue using your current plan or number.

Can I recover an eSIM if I accidentally erase it?
- Sometimes yes, depending on your provider. You may need to log in to the app or contact support to receive a new QR code.

Do all phones show the “Keep eSIM” option?
- No, not all devices display this option. Availability depends on your phone model and software version.

Can a factory reset delete your eSIM?

- Yes, but only if you choose to erase it during the reset. On iPhone, the system shows a prompt where you can decide whether to keep or remove the eSIM. If you delete it, reactivation may be required through your carrier [2]. On Android, the outcome depends on the device and software version. Some phones may erase the eSIM automatically unless you deselect the option during the process [3].

Sources

[1] Apple Support Community. ‘’Difference between keep esim and delete esim’’, January 2024 - https://discussions.apple.com/thread/255426260?sortBy=rank

[2] Apple Support. ‘’How to factory reset your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch’’, October 2024. - https://support.apple.com/en-us/108931

[3] Android Help. ''Reset your Android device to factory settings'', Accessed July 2025. - https://support.google.com/android/answer/6088915?hl=en