Peter MokoenaImagine walking away with a contract that gives you data, airtime, and connectivity without paying a single cent for a new smartphone. That is exactly what Telkom SIM Only deals offer. You bring your own phone, and Telkom provides the network, the data, and the minutes at a fraction of the cost of a full device contract.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about Telkom’s SIM only offerings. It includes; how to choose the right one, who these deals are best for, and how to apply.
Telkom SIM Only Deals: Affordable Contracts Without the Phone
What Are Telkom SIM Only Deals?
A SIM only deal is exactly what it sounds like. You sign a contract with Telkom, and in return, you receive a SIM card loaded with a monthly bundle of data, voice minutes, and SMS. You do not receive a phone. You use your own device, whether it is an iPhone you bought outright, a Samsung you have had for two years, or any other unlocked phone that works on Telkom’s network.
The advantage is straightforward. You are not paying a monthly instalment for a handset, so your monthly fee goes entirely toward the service. This typically makes SIM only contracts significantly cheaper than full phone contracts. You also gain more flexibility because you are not locked into a specific device ecosystem. If you want to switch phones next month, you can. Your contract follows your SIM card, not your handset .
Available Telkom SIM Only Deals
Telkom offers a range of SIM only packages designed for different types of users. These are generally split into two categories: LTE home internet SIMs and mobile voice and data SIMs.
LTE Home Internet SIM Only
For users who want to replace their home Wi-Fi or need a dedicated data connection for a tablet or router, Telkom’s LTE SIM only plans are an excellent choice. These are contract-based packages specifically intended for use in a router or as a primary home internet connection.
The LTE All Hours Basic plan costs from R299 per month and offers speeds of 10Mbps. This package comes SIM only, meaning you provide your own compatible router or device. It runs on the Telkom 4G network and includes 3 months of Prime Video. This plan is ideal for light internet users who primarily browse, email, and stream in standard definition .
The LTE Daytime plan also starts from R299 per month but offers speeds of up to 20Mbps. The key difference is in the name. Daytime plans often provide generous data during the day but may have restrictions or lower speeds during peak evening hours. This option works well for users who need fast internet during working hours only .
The LTE All Hours plan starts from R449 per month and provides speeds between 20Mbps and 30Mbps available 24 hours a day. This is Telkom’s premium LTE SIM only offering, suitable for households that stream video, attend Zoom calls, and game online. Like the other LTE plans, it includes 3 months of Prime Video and runs on the Telkom 4G network only .
For truly heavy users, Telkom offers a 2TB LTE SIM only plan from R699 per month. This enormous data cap is designed for households with multiple people streaming, downloading, and working from home simultaneously .
Mobile Voice and Data SIM Only
For users who need a SIM for their phone rather than home internet, Telkom provides mobile-focused SIM only contracts. These bundles typically include a mix of anytime data, on-network minutes, and all-network minutes.
The Infinite range of plans starts from R499 per month. These packages include anytime data that you can use whenever you need it, on-net minutes for calls to other Telkom numbers, and all-net minutes for calls to any South African network. The exact data and minute allowances vary by specific plan, but all Infinite plans include 3 months of Prime Video.
The Mobile Data Unlimited plan is available from R1,299 per month on a SIM only basis. This premium package includes inclusive anytime all-network data. A unique feature is that the data is valid for two calendar months rather than expiring after 30 days, giving you more flexibility if your usage varies month to month. There is a once-off activation fee to set up this service.
For customers who want 5G speeds, Telkom offers the Telkom 5G Internet Top-up and Telkom 5G Internet plans at R499 per month for 24 months. These provide speeds between 40Mbps and 100Mbps. It is worth noting, however, that these specific 5G plans include both a SIM and a router, so they are not strictly SIM only. They are included here because they operate on the same principle of providing connectivity without a phone.
Why Choose a Telkom SIM Only Deal?
Telkom has built a reputation for offering some of the most competitive data prices in South Africa. Their SIM only deals carry that same value forward. You get access to Telkom’s extensive 4G and, in some areas, 5G network coverage without paying a premium for hardware you do not need.
The monthly savings can be substantial. A typical phone contract that includes a mid-range device might cost R400 to R600 per month. A SIM only deal providing similar or even better data allowances often costs half that amount. Over a 24-month contract, you could save thousands of rands .
There is also the freedom factor. Phone contracts lock you into a specific device for two years. If you break that phone or simply want an upgrade, you cannot easily change your mind. With SIM only, your phone and your contract are separate. You buy or upgrade your phone whenever you want, independently of your network agreement.
How to Choose the Right SIM Only Deal
Choosing the right deal starts with understanding your own usage. Do not just look at the monthly price. Look at what you actually get for that price.
Ask yourself how much data you truly need each month. If you mostly use WhatsApp, check email, and browse news sites, you may only need 5GB to 10GB per month. A basic LTE plan or a lower-tier Infinite plan would work well. If you stream Netflix, attend Zoom meetings, and hotspot your laptop, you will likely need 20GB or more per month. The LTE All Hours plan or a mid-tier Infinite plan would suit you better.
Ask yourself whether you need voice minutes. If you rarely make traditional phone calls and rely on WhatsApp calling or FaceTime, a data-only LTE plan is perfectly fine. If you call clients, family, or businesses regularly, look for a plan that includes on-net or all-net minutes.
Ask yourself how long you want to commit. Most of Telkom’s SIM only deals are 24-month contracts. This locks you in for two years. The benefit is a lower monthly price. The drawback is that you cannot easily leave if you find a better deal elsewhere. Some plans may offer month-to-month flexibility, but these are less common. Always check the contract term before signing.
Who Are Telkom SIM Only Deals Best For?
SIM only deals are not for everyone, but for specific types of users, they are a perfect match.
The user with a perfectly good phone is the ideal candidate. Your current phone works fine. It is maybe a year or two old. The battery still lasts. The screen is not cracked. You do not need a new phone, but you do need affordable data. A SIM only deal gives you exactly that without forcing an unnecessary device upgrade on you.
The budget-conscious consumer also benefits greatly. You want to lower your monthly expenses. A full phone contract might be eating up R500 or R600 of your budget every month. Switching to a SIM only deal could cut that by half or more. The savings add up quickly.
The person who hates long commitments should consider SIM only, but with caution. While many SIM only deals still require 24-month contracts, some offer shorter terms or month-to-month flexibility. You are not tied to a specific device, so if you want to switch networks, you only need to settle your contract, not also pay off a phone.
The household looking for home internet without fibre installation is another excellent fit. You live in an area where fibre is not available, or your landlord refuses to allow drilling. A Telkom LTE SIM only plan inserted into a router gives you home internet immediately, with no installation fees and no permanent changes to the property.
Advantages of Telkom SIM Only Deals
The lower monthly cost is the most obvious advantage. Because you are not financing a handset, your monthly payment goes entirely toward service. This can cut your bill by 30% to 50% compared to a full phone contract.
You gain device freedom. Your phone and your contract are separate. You can buy a new phone whenever you want, from wherever you want, and simply insert your existing SIM card. You are not forced to wait for an upgrade cycle.
You get the same network quality as full contract customers. Telkom does not deprioritise SIM only users. You access the same 4G and 5G networks, the same coverage, and the same customer service as someone paying for a flagship phone.
You often receive added benefits like Prime Video subscriptions. Many Telkom SIM only plans include 3 months of Prime Video at no extra cost . This is free entertainment on top of your data bundle.
Disadvantages of Telkom SIM Only Deals
You must supply your own device. If your phone is old, damaged, or has a weak battery, a SIM only deal does not help you. You would need to buy a new phone separately, which could cost more upfront than spreading the cost over a contract.
Most Telkom SIM only deals require a 24-month contract. You are locked in for two years. If you find a better deal elsewhere or decide you no longer need the service, you may face penalties for early cancellation.
The data allowances on some plans may be lower than what you would get with a phone contract. Telkom sometimes offers promotional data bonuses to customers who sign up for full device contracts. SIM only customers do not always qualify for these same bonuses.
You need an unlocked phone. If you are coming from another network, your phone may be locked to that carrier. You would need to request an unlock code before you can use a Telkom SIM card in your device.
How to Apply for a Telkom SIM Only Deal
Applying for a Telkom SIM only deal is straightforward. You can apply online through the Telkom website or visit a Telkom store in person.
To apply online, go to the Telkom personal mobile section of their website. Filter for SIM only deals or look for the “SIM Only” badge on specific products. Select the plan you want and click to apply. You will need to provide your South African ID or passport number, proof of address, and proof of income or bank statements for credit checks. Once approved, Telkom will deliver your SIM card to your provided address or notify you to collect it from a store .
To apply in person, visit any Telkom store with your ID and proof of address. A sales consultant will walk you through the available SIM only options and help you select the right one. You will sign the contract in store and walk out with an activated SIM card immediately.
Be aware that Telkom performs credit checks on all contract applications. If you have a poor credit history or no credit record, you may be asked to pay a deposit or be declined for certain plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Telkom SIM only deals cheaper than phone contracts?
They often are, because you are not also financing a handset. The right choice still depends on how much value you need each month and whether your current device is still good enough to keep. If your phone is less than three years old and works well, SIM only is almost always cheaper .
Should I compare SIM only and data deals separately?
Yes. Some users mainly want general phone use with a practical monthly bundle that includes voice minutes and SMS. Others are more focused on internet-heavy usage for home or entertainment. Separating the two makes the decision easier .
What should I check first before applying?
Check the monthly cost, the amount of included data and voice value, the contract length, and whether the package still makes sense if your usage rises slightly over time. Also check whether the plan includes a router or is truly SIM only .
Can I keep my existing phone number?
Yes. When you apply for a Telkom SIM only contract, you can request to port your existing number from another network. The process takes a few days, and your old SIM will stop working once the port is complete.
Do Telkom SIM only plans include roaming?
The standard LTE SIM only plans explicitly state no roaming on Telkom network partners . If you need roaming outside South Africa, check the specific plan details or consider a mobile-focused plan rather than a home LTE plan.
What happens at the end of the 24-month contract?
Your contract will typically continue on a month-to-month basis at the same rate. You can also choose to renew with a new SIM only deal, upgrade to a different plan, or cancel your service without penalty once the minimum term is complete.
Conclusion
Telkom SIM only deals represent one of the smartest ways to get affordable connectivity in South Africa. You skip the expensive handset, pay only for the service, and keep the freedom to use whatever phone you already own or choose to buy.
For the budget-conscious user, the person with a perfectly good phone, or the household needing home internet without fibre, these deals offer real value. The monthly savings add up quickly. The flexibility of being separate from device contracts gives you control over your technology choices.
The disadvantages exist, certainly. You need your own device. You commit to a 24-month contract in most cases. You may face credit checks and deposit requirements. But for millions of South Africans, these are small trade-offs for substantial monthly savings.
Before you apply, assess your actual usage. How much data do you need? Do you need voice minutes? Can you commit to two years? Answer these questions honestly, compare the available plans, and choose the one that fits your life. Then enjoy lower bills, reliable connectivity, and the freedom of a SIM that serves you, not the phone company.