Peter MokoenaTelkom Unlimited Off-Peak LTE bundle is a prepaid plan that delivers uncapped data during specific hours at a fraction of the cost of traditional unlimited packages.
This article takes a deep dive into Telkom’s Unlimited Off-Peak LTE plan, exploring its structure, benefits, limitations, and how it compares to other Telkom offerings. Whether you’re a student, freelancer, or budget-conscious household, this plan might be the perfect fit for your digital needs.
What Is Telkom’s Unlimited Off-Peak LTE Plan?
Telkom’s Unlimited Off-Peak LTE bundle is a prepaid uncapped data package designed for users who primarily use the internet during the day. Unlike traditional 24/7 unlimited plans, this bundle restricts usage to a specific time window—from midnight (00:00) to 19:00 daily—allowing Telkom to offer it at a significantly lower price.
Key Features
- Price: R229 to R249 (once-off, valid for 31 days)
- Usage Window: 00:00 to 19:00 daily
- Speed Tiers (Fair Usage Policy):
- First 250 GB at 10 Mbps
- Next 50 GB at 4 Mbps
- Thereafter, unlimited data at 2 Mbps for the remainder of the month
- Network: Telkom LTE / LTE-A
- Tariff Plan Required: SmartBroadband Wireless Prepaid
This bundle is available without a contract, making it ideal for users who prefer flexibility and control over their spending.
Who Is This Plan For?
The Unlimited Off-Peak LTE bundle is best suited for:
- Remote workers who operate during standard business hours
- Students attending online classes or studying during the day
- Content creators who upload and edit during daylight hours
- Households with daytime internet needs and limited evening usage
- Budget-conscious users who want uncapped data without paying premium prices
If your internet usage aligns with the 00:00–19:00 window, this plan offers exceptional value.
Understanding the Time Window
The term “off-peak” in Telkom’s context refers to the hours between midnight and 7 PM. This window covers:
- Early morning hours (ideal for downloads, updates, and backups)
- Daytime productivity (work-from-home, online learning, browsing)
- Streaming and entertainment (music, video, social media)
However, if you frequently use the internet after 7 PM—for gaming, streaming, or social media—you’ll need to supplement this plan with additional data bundles or switch to a 24/7 plan.
Speed Breakdown: Fair Usage Policy Explained
Telkom’s Unlimited Off-Peak LTE plan includes a Fair Usage Policy (FUP) to ensure equitable access across its network. Here’s how it works:
| Data Usage | Speed | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| First 250 GB | 10 Mbps | Smooth streaming, video calls, browsing |
| Next 50 GB | 4 Mbps | Moderate streaming, slower downloads |
| Unlimited thereafter | 2 Mbps | Basic browsing, messaging, low-res video |
Once you exceed 300 GB in a month, your speed is throttled to 2 Mbps. While this is sufficient for basic tasks, it may not support HD streaming or large downloads efficiently.
Cost Comparison: Off-Peak vs. Other Telkom Plans
Let’s compare Telkom’s Unlimited Off-Peak LTE bundle to other popular Telkom offerings:
| Plan | Price | Time Window | Speed | Contract |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unlimited Off-Peak | R229–R249 | 00:00–19:00 | 10 Mbps → 4 Mbps → 2 Mbps | Prepaid |
| Unlimited All-Hours | R849 | 24/7 | Same speed tiers | Prepaid |
| Uncapped LTE (Contract) | R899 | 24/7 | No strict FUP disclosed | 24-month |
| 180 GB LTE Bundle | R469 | Anytime + Night Surfer | Capped | 24-month |
Value Analysis
- Unlimited Off-Peak: Best value for daytime users; lowest cost for uncapped data.
- Unlimited All-Hours: Ideal for heavy users who need round-the-clock access.
- Contract LTE: Suitable for long-term users who prefer fixed monthly billing.
- Capped Bundles: Good for predictable usage but less flexible.
Where to Buy the Unlimited Off-Peak Bundle
You can purchase the Unlimited Off-Peak LTE bundle from:
- Telkom’s official website
- Telkom mobile app (SmartBroadband Wireless Prepaid section)
- Smartcall’s store on Bobshop
- Select Telkom retail outlets and partner stores
Ensure your SIM is on the SmartBroadband Wireless Prepaid tariff plan before activating the bundle.
Compatible Devices
To use this bundle, you’ll need a compatible LTE router or MiFi device. Telkom recommends:
- Huawei B315 / B525 / B535
- ZTE MF286
- TP-Link LTE routers
These devices support Telkom’s LTE bands and offer stable connectivity for multiple users.
Use Case Scenarios
Let’s explore how different users can benefit from the Unlimited Off-Peak LTE plan:
Remote Worker
Sarah works from home as a graphic designer. Her workday runs from 8 AM to 5 PM, and she uses cloud storage, video conferencing, and design tools. With the Unlimited Off-Peak bundle, she enjoys fast speeds during her work hours without worrying about data limits.
Student
Thabo is a university student attending online lectures and submitting assignments. He schedules his downloads and research during the day and uses messaging apps in the evening. The bundle fits his budget and academic schedule perfectly.
Family
The Nkosi family uses the internet for browsing, streaming music, and online banking during the day. They occasionally stream movies at night, which they supplement with a small capped bundle. The Unlimited Off-Peak plan covers 90% of their needs affordably.
Tips to Maximize Your Off-Peak Bundle
To get the most out of Telkom’s Unlimited Off-Peak LTE plan, consider these strategies:
- Schedule Downloads: Use download managers to queue large files for early morning hours.
- Automate Updates: Set your devices to update software and apps between midnight and 7 AM.
- Stream Smart: Watch videos during the day and download content for offline viewing at night.
- Monitor Usage: Use router dashboards or apps to track your data consumption.
- Combine Bundles: Add a small capped bundle for evening use if needed.
Limitations to Consider
While the Unlimited Off-Peak LTE plan offers great value, it’s not without limitations:
- Time Restriction: No data access after 19:00 unless supplemented.
- Speed Throttling: Speeds reduce after 300 GB usage.
- Network Coverage: Performance depends on Telkom LTE coverage in your area.
- Device Compatibility: Not all routers support Telkom’s LTE bands.
Before committing, check your area’s LTE coverage and ensure your router is compatible.
Alternatives to Consider
If the Off-Peak bundle doesn’t suit your lifestyle, here are some alternatives:
- Telkom Unlimited All-Hours Prepaid: R849/month for 24/7 uncapped data
- Rain Unlimited 5G: Competitive pricing with no time restrictions
- MTN Fixed LTE: Capped bundles with high-speed access
- Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH): If available, fiber offers consistent speeds and unlimited access
Each option has its pros and cons depending on your location, budget, and usage habits.
Closing
For users who primarily use the internet during the day, Telkom’s Unlimited Off-Peak LTE bundle is one of the most cost-effective solutions on the market. At under R250 per month, it delivers uncapped data, decent speeds, and flexibility without locking you into a contract.
It’s not ideal for night owls or gamers who need evening access, but for remote workers, students, and daytime households, it’s a smart way to stay connected without breaking the bank.