Whether you need data for browsing, social media, work, or streaming, how to convert Telkom airtime to data gives you quick, flexible, and hassle-free connectivity.
In this comprehensive guide, we walk through every working method to convert Telkom airtime to data, explain current bundle options, highlight troubleshooting tips, and provide insider strategies to maximize value. This article is designed to be the most detailed and updated resource available.
Requirements Before Converting Telkom Airtime to Data
Before converting your Telkom airtime, ensure:
- You have a Telkom prepaid SIM card.
- You have sufficient airtime balance.
- Your SIM is RICA-registered.
- Your device supports mobile data.
- You have network coverage in your area.
Meeting these requirements ensures a smooth conversion process.
What Does Converting Telkom Airtime to Data Mean?
Converting airtime to data simply means using your prepaid airtime balance to purchase internet data bundles. Instead of making voice calls or sending SMS, the airtime value is exchanged for megabytes or gigabytes of data. This process allows Telkom prepaid users to stay online without needing additional payment methods.
This feature is especially useful when:
- You urgently need data but only have airtime.
- You prefer prepaid services.
How To Convert Telkom Airtime To Data
As a Telkom customer, you can convert your Telkom airtime to data. This can be achieved in simple steps that can be completed within a few seconds.
If you want to convert Telkom airtime to data, just pick up your phone and dial the code,
*180#. This will open a dialog box for you and the dialog box contains the available data bundles that you can get. Proceed to choose the bundle you want and follow the prompts.
Before you can get a specific bundle, make sure you have enough airtime. For instance, you can go for a data bundle worth R5 while your available airtime is R3.
The above step is how to convert Telkom airtime to data.
Method 1: Convert Telkom Airtime to Data via USSD
The fastest and most commonly used method is via USSD code.
Steps:
- Dial
*180#from your Telkom SIM. - Select “Buy Data Bundles”.
- Choose your preferred data bundle size.
- Confirm the purchase.
- The bundle cost is deducted from your airtime balance.
- You receive a confirmation SMS instantly.
Method 2: Convert Telkom Airtime to Data Using the Telkom App
For smartphone users, the Telkom App provides a modern and visual experience.
Steps:
- Download the Telkom App from Google Play or Apple App Store.
- Log in with your Telkom number.
- Tap “Buy Bundles”.
- Select a data bundle.
- Choose airtime as payment.
- Confirm your purchase.
Method 3: Convert Airtime to Data via Telkom Website
If you prefer desktop access:
- Visit the official Telkom website.
- Log into your Telkom account.
- Navigate to Data Bundles.
- Select a bundle.
- Pay using available airtime balance.
This option is ideal for users managing multiple Telkom numbers.
How To Get Telkom Airtime
This section of the article will tackle how to get Telkom airtime. Getting airtime on Telkom means purchasing airtime.
You can purchase airtime on Telkom through several means, however, the most traditional way is buying through a voucher or recharge card.
These vouchers and recharge cards can be purchased from several shops. All you have to do is to get one of these vouchers. After getting the recharge, scratch to reveal the voucher number. Just dial *188* the voucher number# to recharge the airtime.
How Do You Buy Telkom Data With Airtime?
One of the ways to buy data on Telkom is by using your airtime. This is actually a straightforward approach to buying airtime on Telkom because it can be done within a few seconds with a few clicks.
To buy Telkom data with airtime, pick up your phone and dial *180#. All the available data bundles will be listed for you to see and from the list, you can choose the data bundle that you want to purchase.
You would be required to follow the steps to complete the transaction so you can enjoy your browsing experience.
How Do I Buy LTE Data With Airtime On Telkom?
Buying LTE data with airtime on Telkom can be done through the Telkom app. The first thing you have to do if you want to buy LTE data with airtime on Telkom is to install the Telkom app and create an account.
Once you get this sorted out, log in and go to ‘Accounts’ and choose ‘Buy’. You have to option to scroll through the available data bundles and make your choice. You have to make it a point to choose the bundle type (LTE/LTE-A) and settle on the amount you want to buy.
Follow the prompts and when it gets to the payment part, choose ‘Pay with Airtime’ in order to buy your LTE data with your airtime.
After this step, you are at liberty to enjoy your browsing experience without any hitches or glitches.
How To Convert Telkom Points To Data
Telkom points can be converted to data and if you want to do this, just dial *126#. You will be required to select an option so if you are interested in converting the points to data, choose option 1 (Get Freedom Data Bundle).
Can I Buy Data With My Free Telkom Airtime?
On Telkom, customers are given some bonus airtime, and although you use your bonus airtime to do a whole, one thing you cannot do is buy data with it.
How To Buy Telkom Data With Airtime For Another Number
In order to buy Telkom data with airtime for another number, simply dial *180# and choose the bundle that your wish to buy. You must proceed to follow the prompts.
On the payment page, choose ‘Use Airtime” as your mode of payment.
How To Buy Telkom Data On Telkom Self-Service Portal
The self-service portal is another available option to buy Telkom data. To buy data using the self-service app, do the following;
Go to the self-service portal and this can be done via https://customerportal.telkomsa.net/portal/overview/
Proceed to log into the platform, select load data, and follow the prompts to get sorted
How To Purchase Telkom Data On Mobile Banking APPS
Buying Telkom data on mobile banking apps is possible and to do this, do the following;
- You can purchase Telkom data through mobile banking apps, but you must first download and install your bank’s mobile app on your phone.
- After installing the app, create an account and log into it.
- Once logged in, you will see a list of services; locate and select ‘Buy Airtime.’
- A list of mobile networks will be displayed, and all you have to do is find and select Telkom.
- Next, enter the number on which you want the bundle to appear.
- Choose the bundle you want to purchase.
- Verify the transaction by entering your PIN.
- Once the authentication is complete, click the send button.
How To Buy Telkom Data On Telkom APP
The Telkom app can be used to buy Telkom data. Once you have the app installed on your phone, log in by entering your username and password. Go to accounts then click on the ‘buy’ tab. Follow the prompts to buy the data bundle that you wish to buy.
Prices Of Telkom Data
The prices of Telkom data vary greatly and this is dependent on several factors. Some prices of Telkom data are;
75MB per hour at R5 100MB at R10
150MB at R10.10
200MB at R19
500MB at R29
1GB at R49
250MB at R15
500MB at R25
1GB at R40
2GB at R70
3GB at R100
75MB at R5
100MB at R8
250MB at R12
500MB at R18
1GB at R35
2GB at R60
Can You Reverse Data Back to Airtime?
No. Once airtime is converted to data, the process cannot be reversed. Therefore, always choose your bundle carefully before confirming.
Is Converting Telkom Airtime to Data Safe?
Yes. All conversion methods occur within Telkom’s official systems, making transactions secure and instant. Avoid third-party sites promising conversions, as they may be fraudulent.
Why Telkom Airtime-to-Data Conversion Is Popular
- No need for bank cards.
- Instant internet access.
- Works nationwide.
- User-friendly options.
- Competitive data pricing.
These advantages make Telkom a preferred choice for prepaid users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert airtime to data on any phone?
Yes. USSD conversion works on all phones.
How long does the data last?
Depends on the bundle selected (daily, weekly, monthly).
Will unused data roll over?
Telkom allows rollover on selected monthly bundles if renewed before expiry.
Can I buy data for another Telkom number?
Yes, via the Telkom App or website.
Conclusion
Converting Telkom airtime to data is quick, secure, and flexible. Whether using USSD, the Telkom App, or the official website, every option allows users to stay connected effortlessly. By choosing the right bundle and monitoring usage, you can enjoy uninterrupted browsing, streaming, and communication without wasting airtime.
This guide provides every essential detail needed to complete the process confidently, making it the most comprehensive reference for Telkom prepaid users in South Africa.


