SIM vs. MicroSIM vs. NanoSIM Connectors: What's the Difference?

SIM vs. MicroSIM vs. NanoSIM Connectors: What's the Difference?

Summary

SIM vs. MicroSIM vs. NanoSIM Connectors: What's the Difference?

SIM vs. MicroSIM vs. NanoSIM Connectors: What's the Difference?

🔧 Introduction: Why SIM Card Connector Size Matters


As devices become smaller and more compact, SIM card sizes and their compatible connectors have evolved significantly. From traditional SIMs to nano SIMs, each format demands a specific SIM card connector design. Choosing the correct connector is critical for ensuring performance, device compatibility, and long-term reliability.

At MOARCONN, we specialize in a wide range of SIM card connectors tailored for various SIM sizes and industry use cases—from consumer electronics to automotive and IoT.

📏 SIM Card Size Comparison Table

SIM Type
Standard (Mini) 
Micro SIM 
Nano SIM
Dimensions (mm)
25 x 15 x 0.76
15 x 12 x 0.76
12.3 x 8.8 x 0.67

Year Introduced
~1996
~1996
~2012
Usage Today
Rare (older devices)
Moderate (some mid-era phones)
Widely used (most smartphones today)
SIM card connector

🔌 Matching SIM Cards with the Right Connector


Every SIM size requires a dedicated SIM card connector to ensure electrical contact, secure mechanical fit, and reliable insertion/extraction.

✅ Standard SIM Connectors
Larger footprint on PCB

Mostly phased out in modern devices

Still used in industrial applications

✅ MicroSIM Connectors
Smaller than Standard but still has a thicker edge frame

Push-pull and hinged types are most common

Often seen in mid-generation smartphones

✅ NanoSIM Connectors
Thinnest and most compact

Requires precise mechanical alignment

Popular in compact mobile, wearables, IoT devices

At MOARCONN, we manufacture high-quality SIM connectors across all sizes, including nano SIM push-push, hinged micro SIM, and custom combo SIM + SD solutions.

🔗 Explore our SIM connector series: www.moarconn.com

🧠 Why Connector Size Affects Product Design


Board space optimization: Smaller SIM connectors like Nano allow more components per unit.

Mechanical considerations: Nano SIM connectors require tighter tolerances and high insertion cycles.

Thermal & environmental needs: MOARCONN connectors are designed with LCP housing, gold-plated contacts, and card-detect switches for rugged use.

📦 Compatibility Tips & Adapters


Adapters can convert nano SIMs to fit micro/standard slots, but they are prone to damage and misalignment.

Always select a connector that matches the SIM card size without relying on adapters for long-term use.

MOARCONN connectors are designed with anti-damage shielding and card locking mechanisms to minimize wear.

🛠️ Use Cases by SIM Type

Industry
Smartphones
IoT Devices 
Automotive 
Industrial 
Preferred SIM Type
Nano SIM
Nano/Micro 
Nano/Micro
Standard SIM
Type Recommended Connector Type
Push-push or Tray Type
Hinged with card-detect
 Vibration-resistant SMT
 High-retention DIP Mount

🏭 About MOARCONN: Trusted SIM Card Connector Supplier


MOARCONN is a China-based factory-direct manufacturer of SIM, SD, and combo card connectors with:

Over 15 years of experience

Full support for OEM/ODM

ISO-certified quality control

Global export capabilities

✅ We support Nano SIM, Micro SIM, and hybrid connector projects. Contact us for samples or datasheets.

📥 Call to Action


Looking for reliable, compact, and customizable SIM card connectors?


Or contact our team at yezhu@kiny.com.cn for custom requests.