SIM Card sizes

The SIM (= Subscriber Identity Module) card identifies the user in the network. All GSM-based phones use the same size of chip, but the plastic frame around it, comes in 3 different sizes: While the “standard” = mini size is always available, it can be harder to get micro or even nano SIMs. Some providers now offer combined double or triple-size cards (= hybrid cards, see picture) with perforations in the appropriate sizes. Not having these available, SIM cards are often cut to size by scissors or blades. The sellers are normally experienced with it, but you should better check, if it works right away. While too large cards can only be cut, too small cards need to be adjusted to the bigger size using an “adaptor” which is just a plastic frame around the chip. So if you have devices which require different SIM sizes, get a SIM in the smallest size you need and add an adaptor frame when using it in other devices.
 * Mini SIM (= 2FF): 25 x 15 mm. This used to be the standard for many years from 1996 and still is the most common size around.
 * Micro SIM (= 3FF): 15 x 12 mm. Beginning with iPad and the iPhone 4 in 2010, this smaller size was introduced and more and more new devices are using it now.
 * Nano SIM (= 4FF): 12.3 x 8.8 mm. Starting with the iPhone 5 in 2013 an even smaller and 10 % thinner card was introduced. This size is now used in iPhones and iPads, some Nokia, Motorola and Sony phones among others.