Everything you need to know in 2025 before choosing a second number solution
Trying to Separate Work and Personal Calls?
You’re not alone. In the UK, more people are juggling work-from-home setups, side hustles, and freelance gigs — and managing it all with just one phone number isn’t cutting it anymore.
Two popular solutions have emerged:
- Getting a second mobile number via an app
- Using a dual SIM or eSIM setup
So, which is better for your needs in 2025 — especially if you care about convenience, cost, privacy, and control?
Let’s compare both options and explain why a virtual second number (like Another Number) might be the smarter fit for UK users.
Quick Comparison: Second Number App vs eSIM
| Feature | Second Number App (e.g., Another Number) | eSIM / Dual SIM |
| Works without physical SIM |  |
|
| Requires phone plan contract |  |
(Usually) |
| Easy to set up | (Instant) |
 Can be complex |
| UK number available | Yes |
Yes |
| Separate voicemail | |
Not always |
| Works on all phones | (iOS & Android) |
(eSIM not supported on all) |
| Privacy controls | Spam filtering, voicemail |
Depends on carrier |
| Works over Wi-Fi | |
|
| International-friendly | Great for expats & remote teams |
Roaming fees apply |
| Best for | Freelancers, businesses, remote teams | Dual personal/work SIMs |
What Is a Second Number App?
Apps like Another Number give you a fully functional second UK mobile number without needing a new SIM card or device.
It works entirely over Wi-Fi or mobile data, meaning:
- You can receive and make calls from a second number
- Send/receive SMS
- Get voicemail + transcriptions
- Block spam and unknown numbers
- Run everything from one phone
It’s ideal if you:
- Want to separate work and personal life
- Don’t want the hassle of switching SIMs
- Need a professional UK number for clients, job applications, or registrations
What Is an eSIM and How Does It Work?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM built into newer phones. It allows you to activate a mobile plan without a physical SIM card — perfect if your device supports dual SIM functionality.
This setup is common with:
- Travel SIMs
- Businesses that issue a second line
- Users who want two networks for better coverage
The catch?
- Requires eSIM-compatible phones
- You’re still tied to a carrier and plan
- Switching between profiles isn’t always seamless
- Roaming fees may still apply abroad
Who Should Use a Second Number App?
Ideal for:
- Freelancers & consultants needing a work line
- Small business owners without a business mobile
- UK expats needing a UK number while abroad
- Remote teams or recruiters working globally
- Anyone valuing flexibility, privacy, and low cost
Try Another Number with a 7-day free trial →
See how it works
Who Should Use an eSIM?
Ideal for:
- Users with eSIM-compatible phones
- People who frequently travel but want local data plans
- Users needing two UK numbers from different carriers
- Those who want dual SIM without carrying two phones
Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
| If you want… | Go with… |
| Fast setup and ease of use | Second number app |
| A second number without SIM or contract | Another Number |
| Advanced call control and voicemail | App-based solution |
| Dual carrier support | eSIM (if your phone supports it) |
| International use or expat life | App-based virtual number |
In most cases — especially for UK-based freelancers, remote workers, and small businesses — a second number app like Another Number offers better flexibility and value without the technical hassle.
Try Another Number Today
No SIMs, no contracts, no dual-device juggling. Just one phone, two numbers — and total control.
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