Does iPhone / eSim really make that big of a difference in Japan?

Thank you to this sub, making planning my first Japan trip really organized. I'm considering getting an iPhone because I keep reading that it's much better in Japan than android. (My 2019 Galaxy S10+ is on its very last legs)

Is this true? & does using an eSim work faster / better than AT&T international passport in Japan?

In order to go this route I'd have to pay full price for the phone to get it unlocked in time. It probably makes more sense to finance the phone but I'm interesting in gaining experience with eSim for future travels too.