How To Buy Data On MTN South Africa (2025)

Posted on Author Peter Mokoena

For millions of South Africans, MTN is the go-to mobile network provider for data and internet services – offering reliable coverage and a wide range of data bundles to suit every lifestyle and budget.

But with so many options available, how do you buy data on MTN quickly and efficiently?

Whether you’re a prepaid or postpaid customer, tech-savvy or using a basic phone, MTN has made it incredibly easy to top up your data. This article breaks down all the ways you can buy MTN data in South Africa, including tips, tricks, and hidden gems to help you get the most value.

Why MTN?

Before diving into the how-to, let’s take a moment to appreciate why MTN remains one of South Africa’s most trusted mobile networks:

  • Nationwide Coverage: MTN has one of the widest 4G and 5G footprints in the country.
  • Affordable Bundles: From daily micro-bundles to monthly mega-packs, MTN caters to all budgets.
  • Innovative Services: MTN offers Mobile Money (MoMo), eSIM support, and app-based rewards.
  • Customer-Centric: With multiple platforms for buying data, MTN ensures accessibility for all users.

Now, let’s explore the various ways you can buy data on MTN South Africa.

1. Buying Data via the MTN App

The MTN mobile app is arguably the most user-friendly and feature-rich method for purchasing data. Available on both Android and iOS, the app offers a seamless experience with added perks.

How to Use the MTN App:

  1. Download the App: Get it from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
  2. Register or Log In: Use your MTN number to create an account.
  3. Navigate to “Buy”: Tap on “Buy Airtime and Data.”
  4. Choose Your Bundle: Select from daily, weekly, monthly, or promotional bundles.
  5. Confirm Payment: Pay using airtime, MoMo wallet, or linked bank card.
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Benefits:

  • Access to exclusive bundles like MyMTNOffers and Double Your Bundle.
  • Ability to track usage and set auto-renewals.
  • Receive notifications for promotions and discounts.

2. Buying Data Using USSD Codes

For users who prefer simplicity or don’t have access to smartphones, USSD codes are a fast and reliable way to buy data.

Popular USSD Codes:

  • Dial *136# and follow the prompts.
  • Dial *136*2*44311# for direct access to data bundles.
  • Dial *141# for MyMTNOffers (personalized deals).
  • Dial *130*2# to check your balance after purchase.

How It Works:

  1. Dial the code from your MTN line.
  2. Select “Buy Data.”
  3. Choose your preferred bundle.
  4. Confirm the purchase using your airtime balance.

Benefits:

  • Works on any phone, including feature phones.
  • No need for internet access.
  • Quick and efficient.

3. Buying Data via MTN Chat & WhatsApp

MTN has embraced conversational commerce by allowing users to buy data through WhatsApp and MTN Chat.

How to Use MTN Chat:

  1. Save MTN Chat number: 083 123 0011.
  2. Open WhatsApp and send a message like “Buy Data.”
  3. Follow the prompts to select your bundle.
  4. Confirm payment using airtime or MoMo.

Benefits:

  • Convenient for users who are always on WhatsApp.
  • Easy to use with natural language commands.
  • No need to download another app.

4. Buying Data via Online Banking & Retailers

MTN has partnered with major banks and retailers to make data purchases even more accessible.

Banking Apps That Support MTN Data Purchases:

  • FNB
  • Capitec
  • Standard Bank
  • Absa
  • Nedbank

How to Buy:

  1. Open your banking app.
  2. Navigate to “Buy Airtime/Data.”
  3. Select MTN and enter your number.
  4. Choose your bundle and confirm payment.
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Retail Stores:

  • Pick n Pay
  • Shoprite
  • Spar
  • Checkers
  • Flash vendors

These stores offer physical vouchers or direct top-ups at the till.

5. Buying Data via MTN MoMo (Mobile Money)

MTN’s MoMo service is a mobile wallet that allows users to send money, pay bills, and buy data—all from their phones.

How to Use MoMo:

  1. Download the MoMo app or dial *151#.
  2. Register your MoMo account.
  3. Select “Buy Data.”
  4. Choose your bundle and confirm payment.

Benefits:

  • No need for a bank account.
  • Secure and fast transactions.
  • Access to MoMo-exclusive bundles.

6. MTN Data Bundle Types Explained

MTN offers a wide variety of data bundles to suit different needs. Here’s a breakdown:

Daily Bundles

Perfect for short-term use or emergency top-ups.

Bundle Price Validity
20MB R2 1 day
100MB R5 1 day
500MB R10 1 day

Weekly Bundles

Ideal for users who want consistent access without committing to a full month.

Bundle Price Validity
350MB R15 7 days
1GB R29 7 days

Monthly Bundles

Best for regular users who stream, browse, and work online.

Bundle Price Validity
1GB R85 30 days
2GB R149 30 days
5GB R299 30 days

Social Bundles

Designed for platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Platform Price Data Validity
WhatsApp R10 250MB 7 days
TikTok R15 500MB 7 days

Hidden Gems: MTN Promotions & Rewards

MTN frequently runs promotions that offer extra value for data buyers. Here are a few to watch for:

1. Double Your Bundle

Buy selected bundles and get double the data.

2. MyMTNOffers

Personalized deals based on your usage history. Dial *141# to check.

3. Recharge Rewards

Earn points or free data when you recharge with airtime.

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4. Happy Hour Bundles

Discounted data available during off-peak hours (e.g., midnight to 5 AM).

How to Monitor Your Data Usage

Buying data is only half the battle—managing it wisely ensures you don’t run out unexpectedly.

Tools to Monitor Usage:

  • MTN App: Real-time usage tracking and alerts.
  • USSD Code: Dial *130*2# to check balance.
  • SMS Alerts: MTN sends notifications when you reach 50%, 80%, and 100% of your bundle.

Final Thoughts

MTN South Africa has gone above and beyond to make buying data simple, accessible, and rewarding. Whether you prefer using an app, dialing a code, chatting on WhatsApp, or walking into a store, there’s a method tailored to your lifestyle.

The key is to understand your usage habits and choose bundles that offer the best value. If you’re a heavy user, monthly bundles or MoMo deals might be ideal. If you’re a casual user, daily or social bundles could be more cost-effective.

Quick Recap: All the Ways to Buy MTN Data

Method Platform Best For
MTN App Smartphone Full control & exclusive deals
USSD Codes Any phone Quick access & simplicity
WhatsApp Chat WhatsApp Conversational convenience
Banking Apps Mobile banking Secure payments
Retail Stores In-person Cash payments & vouchers
MoMo Wallet Mobile wallet Unbanked users & MoMo bundles

Ready to Top Up?

If you’re ready to buy data now, here’s what you can do:

  • Download the MTN App and explore bundles.
  • Dial *136# or *141# to see your offers