Peter MokoenaOne of its standout product offerings of Telkom is the 80GB SIM-only data deal for just R199 per month. For many South Africans—students, remote workers, families, and small business owners—this plan offers a lifeline to reliable internet access without breaking the bank.
This article dives deep into the details of the Telkom 80GB deal, explores who it’s best suited for, compares it to other Telkom packages, and offers practical advice on how to make the most of it.
What Is the Telkom 80GB SIM-Only Deal?
Telkom’s 80GB SIM-only deal is a contract-based mobile data plan that provides users with a total of 80GB of data per month for R199. It’s structured as follows:
- 40GB Anytime Data: Usable 24/7 for browsing, streaming, social media, emails, and downloads.
- 40GB Night Surfer Data: Usable between 11 PM and 7 AM, ideal for night owls and those who download large files or stream late at night.
The deal is available on a 24-month contract, meaning you commit to paying R199 per month for two years. It’s a SIM-only plan, so it doesn’t come with a device—you’ll need to use it with your own phone, tablet, or LTE router.
Why This Deal Stands Out
In a market where data prices can be steep and bundles often expire quickly, Telkom’s offer is refreshingly generous. Here’s why it’s gaining attention:
High Data Volume at Low Cost
At R199 for 80GB, you’re paying less than R2.50 per GB, which is significantly cheaper than most prepaid bundles or top-ups from other networks.
Dual-Time Data Structure
The split between anytime and night data allows users to manage their usage more efficiently. Night Surfer Data is perfect for:
- Streaming Netflix or YouTube after hours
- Downloading large files like software updates or movies
- Running backups or cloud syncs overnight
No Device Lock-In
Because it’s SIM-only, you’re free to use the data in any compatible device. This flexibility makes it ideal for:
- LTE routers in shared households
- Tablets for remote learning
- Dual-SIM smartphones
Who Is This Deal Best For?
Let’s break down the types of users who would benefit most from this plan.
Students
Whether you’re attending university or studying online, data is essential. The 40GB Night Surfer allocation is perfect for late-night research, video lectures, and group chats. Plus, the low monthly cost fits a student budget.
Remote Workers
Working from home requires stable internet for Zoom calls, emails, and cloud-based tools. The 40GB anytime data ensures you stay connected during work hours, while the night data can be used for updates and backups.
Families
In households with multiple users, data gets consumed quickly. This plan can be used in an LTE router to share internet across devices. Parents can use the daytime data for work, while kids stream or game at night.
Small Business Owners
Entrepreneurs running online businesses or managing social media accounts need affordable data. This plan supports daily operations without the need for expensive fiber or uncapped contracts.
Comparing Telkom’s SIM-Only Data Deals
Telkom offers several SIM-only data packages. Here’s how the 80GB deal stacks up against others:
| Plan | Monthly Cost | Anytime Data | Night Surfer Data | Contract Term |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 80GB Deal | R199 | 40GB | 40GB | 24 months |
| 120GB Deal | R299 | 60GB | 60GB | 24 months |
| 180GB Deal | R399 | 90GB | 90GB | 24 months |
| Prepaid Bundles | Varies | Lower volumes | Often expires quickly | No contract |
The 80GB deal offers the best value per rand, especially for users who don’t need massive data volumes but still want consistent access.
How to Use This Deal Effectively
To get the most out of your Telkom 80GB plan, consider these tips:
Use an LTE Router
If you’re using the SIM in a router, you can share the connection across multiple devices. This is ideal for families or small offices.
Schedule Night-Time Downloads
Take advantage of the Night Surfer Data by scheduling downloads, updates, or backups between 11 PM and 7 AM. Apps like Internet Download Manager or built-in OS schedulers can help automate this.
Monitor Your Usage
Use Telkom’s app or USSD codes to check your data balance regularly. This helps avoid unexpected top-ups or throttling.
Consider Add-Ons
Telkom offers a 100GB Night Surfer Add-On for R49/month. If you’re a heavy night-time user, this add-on boosts your data without affecting your anytime balance.
How to Sign Up
You can get the Telkom 80GB deal through several channels:
- Telkom Website: Visit telkom.co.za and navigate to SIM-only deals.
- Retail Stores: Telkom outlets across South Africa can assist with contracts and SIM activation.
- Online Resellers: Platforms like South African Things offer easy sign-up and delivery.
You’ll need to provide:
- A valid South African ID
- Proof of residence
- Bank details for debit order setup
The Bigger Picture: Telkom’s Role in Bridging the Digital Divide
Telkom’s aggressive pricing strategy isn’t just about winning market share—it’s part of a broader effort to make internet access more inclusive. In a country where millions still rely on mobile data as their primary connection to the internet, affordable plans like this one are essential.
By offering high-volume data at low prices, Telkom is helping:
- Students access online education
- Job seekers apply for opportunities
- Entrepreneurs run digital businesses
- Families stay connected
This deal is more than just a bargain—it’s a tool for empowerment.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a reliable, affordable, and flexible data plan, Telkom’s 80GB SIM-only deal is hard to beat. For R199/month, you get enough data to cover most daily needs, plus a generous night-time allocation that rewards smart usage habits.
It’s ideal for:
- Users who don’t want to commit to expensive fiber
- Households sharing a single internet connection
- Students and remote workers on a budget
And with optional add-ons and no device lock-in, it’s one of the most user-friendly plans on the market.
Bonus Tip: Pair It With These Tools
To maximize your experience, consider pairing your Telkom SIM with:
- TP-Link LTE Router: Affordable and reliable for home use
- Data Usage Apps: Track your consumption and avoid overages
- Streaming Services with Offline Mode: Download content during night hours to watch later