Unlimited Data Deals in South Africa – What You’re Really Paying For (And What to Do Instead)

Unlimited data sounds ideal — until throttling, fair use policies, and slow speeds hit. This guide unpacks what you're really paying for and why Fibre + VoIP might be the smarter, more cost-effective choice for better business communication in South Africa.

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Val Reeves
4 Jul 2025
2 min

“Unlimited data” sounds like a dream, right?

No more topping up, no more “you’ve used 80% of your monthly data” warnings, and no more awkward video calls that freeze mid-sentence.

But here’s the truth nobody’s putting in the fine print:

Not all unlimited data deals are actually unlimited — and they’re almost never the most efficient way to communicate if you run a business, work remotely, or make lots of calls.

In this guide, we’ll break down what “unlimited” really means, compare the top unlimited data plans in South Africa, and show you a smarter way to stay connected — with VoIP from Voys.

What Does “Unlimited” Really Mean?

Spoiler: it usually doesn’t mean truly unlimited.

Most mobile data providers in SA use the term “unlimited” to mean:

  • No strict caps (but…)
  • Throttling after a certain amount of usage
  • Speed drops during “peak” hours
  • Fair Usage Policies (FUPs) hidden in the fine print

So yes — it’s unlimited… until it isn’t.

Let’s look at a few well-known options:

1. Vodacom Unlimited Data Plan

  • Often bundled with LTE router
  • Speeds drop after high usage
  • ~R599–R899/month depending on network

2. MTN Uncapped LTE

  • Advertised as “uncapped,” but speeds shaped after 150GB
  • Heavy throttling during busy times
  • Requires MTN-compatible router

3. Telkom LTE Unlimited

  • FUP kicks in after ~200GB
  • Speed goes from “stream Netflix” to “open emails slowly”
  • More affordable entry-level plans

Is Unlimited Data the Best Option for Calls?

Not really.

If your main goal is to:

  • Make professional calls
  • Run a remote business
  • Host or join video meetings
  • Stay connected without mobile dropouts

Then a mobile-only data deal isn’t going to cut it long term.

Why?
Because voice traffic needs stability, not just data volume. And throttled LTE + FUP = dropped calls and frustrating delays.

The Smarter Alternative: Fibre + VoIP

Instead of relying on a mobile network’s interpretation of “unlimited,” consider this:

  1. Get a reliable fibre or fixed LTE deal (uncapped, no FUP)
  2. Add VoIP from Voys for crystal-clear, business-grade calling

This combo gives you:

  • Stable, high-speed internet
  • Professional calling tools (local numbers, voicemail-to-email, call forwarding)
  • Predictable monthly costs
  • The freedom to work or run a business from anywhere

Fibre + VoIP vs Unlimited Mobile Data

Who Should Consider Fibre + VoIP Instead?

  • Remote workers tired of dropped calls
  • Small business owners using personal mobile numbers
  • Freelancers or creatives hosting virtual meetings
  • Anyone running a team from home
  • People burned by “unlimited” promises that don’t deliver

Bonus: It’s Usually Cheaper

Many “unlimited” mobile packages run between R599–R899/month.

Meanwhile, you can:

  • Get fibre or LTE for ±R499/month
  • Add Voys VoIP
  • And enjoy a more powerful, stable, and scalable setup

No throttling. No fine print. No nonsense.

Want Real Unlimited Communication?

If you’re comparing unlimited data deals, it’s worth asking:

Do I want more data — or do I want better communication?

Because the truth is, smart connectivity isn’t about how much data you have. It’s about how effectively you use it.

With Voys VoIP + stable fibre or LTE, you’ll:

  • Sound more professional
  • Pay less over time
  • Get a setup that actually grows with your needs

Ready to Communicate Smarter?

Ditch the throttling. Skip the sneaky fair use policies.
Combine your fibre or LTE plan with VoIP from Voys and start calling like it’s 2050.

Learn more about VoIP in South Africa