The multi-network IoT SIM card: how it works and what it costs
An IoT or M2M (machine to machine) SIM card connects a device to the mobile network: a GPS tracker, a telematics unit, a meter, a payment terminal. It is designed for machines, so it holds up better than a phone SIM in this kind of work.
Networks
680+
Coverage
180+ countries
Formats
eSIM·MFF2
Platform fee
€0
What is an IoT SIM card?
It is a SIM card built for machines. It mostly carries data and technical SMS, in small amounts, for years, with nobody watching it.
A multi-network SIM, also called multi-IMSI, holds several network identities. If the current operator has a weak signal, the card attaches to another available network. The device stays online where a regular SIM would drop.
You manage it remotely from a console: activation, suspension, SMS, data usage and last connection.
IoT SIM or phone SIM?
| Atlas IoT SIM | Phone SIM | |
|---|---|---|
| Networks | Several operators per country, automatic switching | One operator |
| Coverage | 680+ networks in 180+ countries | The operator's country, then roaming |
| Management | Console: activate, suspend, SMS, usage | Consumer account |
| Formats | 2FF, 3FF, 4FF, soldered MFF2, IoT eSIM | Nano, micro, mini |
| Price | From €2 per SIM per month, no commitment | Plans built for phone calls |
IoT SIM card formats
FMT / 01
Removable card
Mini (2FF), micro (3FF) or nano (4FF), for trackers and units with a SIM tray.
FMT / 02
Soldered MFF2
A chip soldered onto the board, built to handle vibration, humidity and temperature swings.
FMT / 03
IoT eSIM
Profiles downloaded remotely (SGP.32 standard): you change profile without touching the device.
What is an IoT SIM card used for?
How to choose an IoT SIM card
CHK / 01
Several networks
Check that the SIM switches operators on its own, especially if the device moves or crosses borders.
CHK / 02
The right technology
With 2G being switched off in several countries, prefer 4G devices (LTE Cat 1 or Cat 4).
CHK / 03
Data volume
A GPS tracker usually uses a few megabytes a month. 50 MB is enough in most cases.
CHK / 04
The real price
Look at the price per SIM per month, the card fee and any platform fee. At Atlas M2M you pay from €2 per SIM per month, plus €2 once per physical card, and no platform fee.
Pricing
One price, from €2 per SIM per month, with no commitment and no platform fee.
IOT_WORLDWIDE
From
€2/ SIM / month
€0 platform fee
- 50 MB of data per month included
- eSIM or physical card (nano, micro, MFF2)
- Physical card: €2 per card, paid once
- Worldwide zone: 680+ networks in 180+ countries
- No commitment, cancel anytime
- Management console included
Need more data? Write to us and we will adjust the volume.
Free trial: 3 SIMs for 30 days, 50 MB in total. A physical card costs €2 (paid once); after that, €2 per SIM per month if you continue.
Frequently asked questions
What people ask before choosing an IoT SIM card.
What is the difference between an M2M SIM and an IoT SIM?
In practice, none: both terms mean a SIM made for connected devices. M2M is more common for trackers and telematics, IoT for sensors.
How much does an IoT SIM card cost?
At Atlas M2M, the subscription starts at €2 per SIM per month with 50 MB of data, with no commitment and no platform fee. A physical card costs €2, paid once.
Can I get an IoT SIM without a contract?
Our SIMs are billed monthly with no commitment: you cancel whenever you like, effective at the end of the paid month. To test, the free trial gives you 3 SIMs for 30 days.
Does an IoT SIM card work in a phone?
It is not meant for that. It carries data and technical SMS for devices and does not handle smartphone voice calls.
What does multi-network mean?
The SIM can connect to several operators in the same country. If the current network has a weak signal, it attaches to another available network on its own.
How do I receive and activate a SIM?
You order online, our team reviews the order and then activates the lines. An eSIM does not need to be shipped.
Read more
Try our IoT SIM cards
3 free SIMs for 30 days, 50 MB in total. Your account is ready in two minutes.