Existing 2degrees line needs credit
Choose the 2degrees top-up and an NZD value. The product adds Prepay credit; it does not choose a Monthly or 14-day plan.
Open 2degrees top-up →International mobile guide
Mobile top-up, data bundle or eSIM: which one do you need?
Choose a mobile top-up when an existing prepaid line needs flexible account credit. Choose a data bundle only when the product names its allowance and duration. Choose an eSIM when a compatible device needs a separate connectivity option, often for travel.
Choose by the result you need
| Situation | Choose | What changes | Critical check |
|---|---|---|---|
| The recipient already has a prepaid SIM and needs flexible value. | Mobile top-up | Adds credit to the named operator account. | Match the recipient country and exact operator. Credit does not promise a particular data allowance. |
| The recipient needs a stated amount of data, minutes or service time. | Named data bundle | Adds the allowance and validity stated by that specific product. | Do not infer a bundle from a generic top-up label. Read the stated allowance, period and renewal rules. |
| A traveller needs another data option and has a compatible device. | eSIM | Provides a digital connectivity profile or plan rather than credit for an existing line. | Check device support, destination coverage, activation timing and the provider’s current plan terms. |
Three catalogue examples with different outcomes
Existing Jio line needs credit
Use the Jio India listing only when Jio is the recipient’s operator. The INR value is account credit unless a product explicitly describes a bundle.
Open Jio top-up →Traveller needs a separate data option
An Airalo eSIM is a different product from Globe or Smart account credit. Check the device and the provider’s destination coverage before choosing the eSIM.
Open the eSIM listing →Questions that resolve the choice
- Does the recipient already have a working SIM and know the exact operator?
- Do they need general account credit, or a bundle with a named allowance and duration?
- If considering an eSIM, is the device compatible and is the required destination covered?
- Which local currency and amount belong to the selected product?
Common buying questions
Can a mobile top-up be used on any operator?
No. Operator credit belongs to the named mobile service. A Globe top-up is not a Smart top-up, and a 2degrees top-up is not Spark credit.
Is an eSIM automatically better for travel?
No. It is useful only when the device is compatible and the provider’s plan covers the destination and dates. A local top-up may be the better choice for someone already using a prepaid line there.
What should I choose if the required data amount is known?
Choose a product that explicitly names the data allowance and validity. A generic account-credit top-up leaves that later purchase to the recipient.