If you’re collecting or trading Telegram NFT gifts, you’ve probably seen something called Telegram Stars. They’re used for payments inside Telegram — especially in giveaways and the built-in secondary market.
Here’s everything you need to know about Stars: how to use them, where to get them, and how to avoid losing money on fees.
What Are Telegram Stars?
Telegram Stars are a built-in virtual currency used inside Telegram mini-apps. Think of them as Telegram's version of in-app credits — like App Store coins or Steam Wallet funds.
They’re not crypto, not on-chain, and they live entirely inside Telegram.
You can’t send Stars between users. They can only be used inside specific apps like:
- Buying Telegram gifts from other users
- Joining paid giveaways
- Participating in in-app reward mechanics
Where Are Stars Used?
The two most common places you’ll see Stars in action:
1. Telegram’s Secondary Gift Market
When you sell an upgraded gift in Telegram’s internal resale system (without using third-party bots), the buyer pays in Stars. You, the seller, receive Stars too — and can only spend them within Telegram.
The fee? A full 20%, which makes this the most expensive gift-selling option.
Still, it’s very beginner-friendly — no wallets or tokens needed.
2. Giveaways and Bots
Some bots let you spend Stars to join paid raffles or community promotions. In most cases, these bots burn the Stars, or reward you with a gift or a bonus entry.
How to Buy Telegram Stars
You can buy Stars directly inside Telegram using in-app purchases:
- Tap “Buy Stars” in a mini-app that accepts them
- Choose an amount
- Pay through your device’s app store (Apple/Google)
Stars can’t be bought with crypto — only with fiat through your phone.
Want to save money? Look for trusted vendors or peer communities that offer discounted Stars in exchange for crypto or TON.
Pros and Cons of Using Stars
Pros:
- Instant, built-in Telegram experience
- No need for a wallet or tokens
- Works smoothly for first-time users
Cons:
- Limited use outside of Telegram
- You can’t withdraw them
- 20% commission on all internal trades
- Can be hard to acquire cheaply
Should You Use Stars?
If you’re just starting out or gifting within your friend group — Stars are fine.
But if you’re planning to trade more seriously, or want to avoid fees, you’re better off using external marketplaces that accept TON or USDT.
These platforms offer:
- Lower commissions (as low as 0–10%)
- Crypto support
- Advanced tools for trading and tracking
FAQ: Telegram Stars
Can I withdraw Stars or convert them to TON?
No. Stars are locked to your Telegram account and can only be used within supported apps.
Can I send Stars to someone else?
No. Telegram does not allow transferring Stars between users.
Are Stars refundable?
If you request a refund through your app store, it may revoke access to apps where you spent those Stars. Use with care.
Where can I spend Stars besides gifts?
Some bots let you enter paid giveaways or unlock exclusive content. But usage is still limited overall.
What’s better — Stars or TON?
For serious trading or gifting, TON is more flexible and works across many apps. Stars are easier for new users but come with higher fees.
That’s it — now you know what Telegram Stars are, and how they fit into the Telegram gift economy.
More guides soon — including how to upgrade gifts and use affiliate bots.