Switch from micro SIM to nano SIM - how it works

If you do not want to order a new SIM card, you can simply cut your nano SIM card to size. We'll show you how it's done.

Cut the nano SIM card correctly

Current smartphones such as the iPhone X require the smallest form of SIM card: the nano SIM. A mini or micro SIM is much larger and a bit thicker, but the chip is always the same. You can cut a nano-SIM from any SIM format.

• Left, right and above the chip, the nano-SIM usually has a small edge made of plastic. You don't necessarily have to cut this away. The corner at the top right of the chip must also be reproduced.
• Take a pair of scissors or a cutter knife and cut all four sides to fit. At the bottom of the picture you can see the finished form of a nano SIM. Perfectionists can also download and print out this nano-SIM template.
• If the SIM card does not fit completely into the SIM slot, you can adjust the shape, for example with a nail file or carefully with sandpaper.
• Warning: Do not touch the chip with the sharp edge of the scissors. If the chip is scratched, it becomes unusable.

With SIM adapter from nano-SIM to micro-SIM

If you now have a nano-SIM and would like to use it again later in a smartphone that only supports the larger micro-SIM, this is not a major problem. An adapter helps here.

• Corresponding SIM adapters are available for less than 3 euros. This allows you to produce the larger format from each SIM.
• If you receive a new SIM card from your provider, some adapters are available. Therefore, check your documents to see whether you can still find the adapter supplied.
• The adapter is often thrown away because it is only a piece of plastic, which is usually not identified as an adapter.
• Simply insert the nano SIM into the adapter and then insert it into the SIM card slot on your smartphone.

In the next practical tip, we will show you how to block your SIM card in the event of loss.